CRIKEY DAY FIFTY

A day of two halves. After in house coffee we set off to explore the conservation area of Flat Top Hill and the Butcher Dam and reservoir lake. Its about 8km south of Alex. We have passed it many times and noticing how popular it is, I have been intrigued. It is a very dramatic rocky landscape where gold mining took place and then a dam built and reservoir/lake formed to feed water into Alex. The water is now used for irrigation. A point of interest is that a hotel is under the lake and when the water level gets low the chimneys can be seen. Actually as you will see in the photos the water level is pretty low now. There are several walking tracks of various lengths among the sculptural schist rock. I love the diversity of the rocky shapes and its such a contrast to the beautiful lush green countryside of Southland or the gorgeous native bush, waterfalls and bird life of the Catlins area that we have enjoyed. The track we took was about an hour and a bit in length including lots of stopping and a short diversion to climb to a high point for a long range view of Alexander. After the walk we found a spot to park by the lake and took a break to eat lunch and rest before tackling the next adventure. It has been a fantastic day weather wise and we feel very spoilt. Part two to come. BTW Driver is wearing so many hats now that I will revert to calling him by name. 😊Read more