Beyond the beach

Leaving Williamstown Beach, I headed back to the pier passing through the Botanic Gardens opened in the 1860s. Most of the trees were unnamed, but walking between the avenue of palms and by giant Moreton Bay fig trees created a peaceful end to my hour long hike.

Queensland’s oldest?

Just before entering Cleveland spit, is the Grand View Hotel, perched above the low lying spit. This is Queensland’s oldest licensed pub built in the 1850s. With a wide veranda upstairs and a cool breeze off the bay, it’s tempting to try the bed and breakfast offered.

Almost surrounded by sea

It’s not only Brisbane’s over thirty degree summers that has everyone reach for a cool drink, but the soaring humidity. That was why Cleveland was another coastal location my parents flocked to during summer.

Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens

The Botanic Gardens are on the southern side of the Yarra River, before crossing into the heart of the city. In the distance, Melbourne’s highest buildings peek over the trees but the city is soon forgotten with paths weaving through giant trees.