River Walk

River Walk

River Walk

River Walk

The River Walk , running uphill from behind the house, is a delightful stroll alongside a fast stream through native and imported species. This was originally the main entrance to what was then known as Holly Mount Lodge, back in the early days of the Blennerhassett era (1837). At that time it was named the Long Drive.

After exiting the Bamboo Glade and turning left towards the newly installed pond (2008), you will see a stand of the massive Giant Rhubarb,Gunnera manicata, which never fails to impress. Continue on from here to the start of the River Walk.

Some of the southern ferns here are spectacular in their health, with the vigour of their new growth most noticable when the unfurling croziers appear – a testament to the suitability of the local conditions. Some of the larger fronds are over 10 feet from tip to trunk. Dotted among the almost ubiquitous Dicksonia antarctica, particularly on the right-hand side of the pathway, are some wonderful examples of ferns from the Americas, Blechnum and Lophosoria, now currently acclimatising well to their new home.

At the top of the River Walk, there is a newly installed trail will take you back on another route, The Cliff Walk.

Footnote: Walkers will note that there is large physical evidence along the river walk of the storm of late January 2010 where a large number of the Abies grandis fell, mainly across the river.