3rd February 2008

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3rd February 2008
Today we were booked on the Real Journeys boat Friendship to sail up Milton Sound at 10.00 am. Unfortunately the weather was a bit overcast as we set out from Te Anau at 8.30. The journey only took 1 and half hours as there were not many coaches about that early. We got to Milton in time for coffee and some pictures before we boarded the boat. The Sound looked brooding and impressive in the flat light. The trip took about 2 hours and took us right out to the Tasman Sea. It was a bit chilly on the way out with the wind against us. The mountains come right down to the sea and there is snow on the top of some. A truly magnificent sight.
After we got back, we went back through the tunnel and stopped at the Holyford valley and did a 3 hour walk up to Lake Marian. The native beech forest was real Tolkein country. very green and mossy. The tree ferns make everything glow green. I'm sure I found the tree roots covering the dragon's lair. He was definitely down there guarding the treasure. And maybe I got a shot of Bilbo Baggins struggling up the path! Considering Tolkien never saw the NZ forests they are so perfect for the Shire and Middle Earth.
When we finally reached Lake Marian it was well worth the climb. The Lake was very blue and calm and mirrored the snow covered mountains in the background. We sat there for a while resting and admiring the view before heading back down the track and then back to the motel. We decided to visit the same restaurant as last night as it was so good.
Back to Queenstown tomorrow to catch up with washing and stock up with food before setting off to Mt Cook, this time to approach the mountains from the other side.

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Comments

[Sue Elias]

Brooding Sound
What a wonderful photograph. Well, they are all great, but I particularly like this one. It sounds as though your trip really is one of a life time, and I am really jealous!

[amy]

there has got a be a winner there
Wow mum i think you have captured some winning photos there, the sights are truely amazing......

[Corrie]

Hobbit alert!
I KNEW you'd find a hobbit if you hung around in the South Island long enough :) Beautiful photos, I almost think NZ bush is better in this kind of weather.. more moody?