Exploring Bodhinyana Buddhist Monastery and Serpentine Dam

 There is an unexpected serene haven in the Western Australian bush called Bodhinyana Buddhist Monastery. The Monastery is located unexpectedly close to Mandurah and offers a peaceful escape for those seeking solace and spiritual tranquility.  

Our journey to Bodhinyana Monastery began with a scenic drive through the Australian countryside, with tall trees and native wildlife providing a picturesque backdrop. Upon arrival we drove through an entrance gate into a gentle and quiet sanctuary, which had an instantly calming effect.  

The bushland had almost non obtrusive pathways and staircases made of natural rock weaving between the trees.  All the buildings blended harmoniously with the natural surroundings. The air was filled with a sense of peace and mindfulness, as monks went about their daily tasks peacefully.  

After bidding farewell to Bodhinyana Monastery we set off for a nearby café overlooking the Serpentine Dam. The café, The Bistro by the Dam, has some construction at the moment but not in the cafe itself.  We took a seat on the sheltered verandah and were able to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the dam.  

We were served a delicious brunch served with freshly brewed coffee. The view from the cafe inspired a profound sense of gratitude for the natural beauty that surrounded us. 

In a world filled with noise and distractions, these hidden gems offer a gentle reminder to slow down, reconnect with nature, and nourish your soul.

Links : 

https://bswa.org/location/bodhinyana-monastery/

https://bistrobythedam.com.au/

Jarrahdale and the Serpentine Dam

Australia is known for its breathtaking landscapes, and Western Australia, in particular, offers a plethora of natural wonders waiting to be explored. What better way to experience this beauty than with a road trip? 

Today we went on a journey to Jarrahdale, Western Australia, and we took along Chewie, a Maltese Shitzu pup.  Before embarking on  the road trip with Chewie we made sure to have the essentials to make him safe and comfortable in the car.  We securely fastened him in the car and also packed items like food, toys, a leash, and waste bags. 

We started the adventure driving to Jarrahdale, a charming historic town in a pristine Jarrah forest. The town was established in the late 1800s as Western Australia’s  first major timber milling operation.  We took a casual stroll through the serene Jarrah forests to a cafe called Jarrahdale Local PO Cafe.  We asked if Chewie was welcome to sit with us on the floor at the outside tables and were told that he could.

The quaint cafes allowed us to enjoy a delicious lunch in a natural setting. We had tasty ham and cheese toasties on ciabatta bread and fresh fluffy scones served with jam and cream.  The coffee was very good and served in large mugs.  

Following our  lovely lunch, we continued  our journey to Serpentine Dam, a short drive from Jarrahdale.  The dam is a favorite spot among locals and visitors alike for its tranquil waters and lush surroundings. It opened in 1961 and is a major water supply for Perth.  We had a leisurely walk above the dam's edge, capturing the stunning views.

With the day winding down, we made our way back to Mandurah, and stopped at one of the waterfront cafes, Tods, to enjoy a cup of coffee while watching the holidaying crowds and the water.  Many cafes in Mandurah are dog-friendly, and this one was no exception.  

 

Blossoms and an Historical Journey Back in Time

 

As the calendar flips to September, we decided this weeks road trip would take advantage of the enchantment  of spring in the air. It's that time of the year when nature, in all its glory, unveils a breathtaking spectacle at the Blossom Festival at S&R Orchards. 

We discovered that for three weeks only, the gates to this hidden paradise open to the public, offering an opportunity to revel in the magical blooms of flowering fruit trees.  We savored the sweet scent of fresh air, and captured Instagram-worthy moments amongst the blossoms.

Located in Walliston, Western Australia, S&R Orchards, transforms into a wonderland in September.  As you pass through the gates, a burst of color and fragrance welcomes you. Rows upon rows of flowering fruit trees, stretch out before your eyes, creating a magical landscape to explore.  

Petals of pink, white and shades in between adorn the trees.  

This enchanting sight is a gateway into a world of beauty and wonder.

We also found that S&R Orchards provided the perfect backdrop for gorgeous photography amongst the flowering trees and within all the alluring crafted little areas hidden within the orchard. 

It was really lovely to see families on blankets spread amongst the orchard picnicking. We grabbed a coffee at the cafe bar in the orchard before heading to lunch at a close by destination.  

We decided to have lunch at the Elizabethan Village in the village pub called Last Drop Elizabethan.  It is a hidden gem that offers a unique journey back in time.

The Elizabethan Village is a meticulously recreated 16th-century English village, in glorious Tudor style. In the hills of Western Australia.  The tavern, adorned with heavy low wooden roof beams and authentic windows of small segments of glass held together with strips of lead all exuded a warm and welcoming ambiance. 

We were comfortably seated at a rustic wooden booth for lunch. 

The menu at the Last Drop Elizabethan Tavern is a delightful blend of traditional English fare and modern flavors. We opted for Lizzie’s Steak Sanga ( steak sandwich for non Aussies !) and were not disappointed.  The combination of immersive historical surroundings and hearty delicious food made for a delightful afternoon chatting in the enchanting pub.  

Links : 

S&R Orchards : https://www.srorchard.com/

Last Drop Elizabeth : https://www.lastdropelizabethan.com/

Donnybrook, Western Australia

Greetings, fellow travellers! Today, we took a delightful day trip from the picturesque coastal town of Mandurah to the charming countryside gem, Donnybrook. 

We were able to experience  local delights, historical landmarks, and delicious culinary experiences.

We started with morning tea at The Crooked Carrot, Myalup.  As we arrived at this quirky café, we were greeted by a colorful and vibrant atmosphere. All manner of machinery decorates the grounds, including a yellow plane.  The scent of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods wafted through the air, enticing us to indulge. With a variety of pastries, cakes, and artisanal coffees on offer, it was the perfect pitstop to start our day.  We decided on Carrot Cake and gluten free Persian Orange Cake and it was beautiful .  The cafe is  pet and family friendly with a wonderful playground and many interesting decorative areas throughout the gardens.  The Melbourne Trams are a highlight within the grounds.  

Continuing our drive, we reached the historic town of Donnybrook. It  is set amidst rolling hills and lush orchards.  Donnybrook boasts an interesting history dating back to the 19th century. Once a hub of the timber and fruit industries, the town has retained its old-world charm while embracing modern-day amenities.

The highlight of our Donnybrook visit was the awe-inspiring old Oak Tree standing proudly in the heart of the town. Estimated to be over 100 years old, this majestic tree has witnessed generations come and go, making it a true living testament to the passage of time.  No one knows who planted the Oak tree but it wasn’t uncommon for settlers to plant trees that reminded them of their distant homes.  This Oak most likely dates back to 1893 when the railway was constructed and Donnybrook was declared a town. 

Before  lunch, we took a leisurely stroll around Donnybrook, exploring its quaint main street and historic buildings. The town exudes a sense of tranquility and nostalgia. 

Ready to eat  we headed to the PARK Donnybrook for a delectable lunch.  This unique dining destination seamlessly blends nature and culinary excellence.  The menu offered a tantalizing array of dishes, from gourmet salads to extravagant toasties catering to a range of palates. The tranquil ambiance and friendly staff made our dining experience all the more enjoyable.

As we wrapped up our day trip, we couldn't help but reflect on the seamless blend of history, nature, and culinary delights that Donnybrook offered. From the ancient Oak Tree to the modern culinary haven, this town truly captivated our hearts.

So, if you're seeking a day trip filled with alluring history, delightful culinary experiences, and a touch of rural charm, don't miss the opportunity to venture  to Donnybrook. Until next time, fellow travellers—happy exploring!

Links : 

The Crooked Carrot : https://crookedcarrot.com.au/

PARK Donnybrook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100065857221330

Donnybrook: https://donnybrookwa.com.au/

 

Henley Brook, Western Australia

 

There's a certain magic in road trips – the wind in your hair, the open road ahead, and the promise of new experiences around every corner. This sentiment was perfectly captured this week when we embarked on an unforgettable journey from Mandurah to Upper Swan, Henley Brook in Perth, Western Australia. 

As we set out we had no idea that we were about to uncover hidden historical gems and indulge in delectable culinary delights.

Our first stop once we arrived in the idyllic Swan Valley area was a charming morning tea at a local treasure, The House of Honey and The Sticky Spoon Cafe. This quaint cafe is known for serving delightful treats infused with the natural sweetness of honey. Our morning tea consisted of a delicious Devonshire tea with a delectable honey treat to trickle atop the scones. The coffee was lush and creamy and the venue was pet friendly with many lovely areas to sit and enjoy the morning.  The venue also has an amazing shop with all manner of honey and bee related wares, including honey ice cream and mead.  

With cameras in hand, we then made our way to All Saints Church, the oldest Church in Western Australia. This historical gem, standing as a testament to the passage of time, is steeped in stories that date back to the early colonial days.  We took a rather somber walk through the colonial graveyard and around the church grounds trying to imagine what it must have been like for early settlers in the area.  

Next stop was lunch at Belgian restaurant, The Abbey, a charming restaurant that provided the perfect ambiance for a leisurely lunch. We had steak sandwiches and peppermint tea before we were joined by a friend for more tea and a joyful afternoon chatting. 

 All Saints Church, Western Australia 

              Lunch at The Abbey 

Links :

The House of Honey and The Sticky Spoon Cafe : https://www.thehouseofhoney.com.au/

The Abbey Swan Valley : https://www.the-abbey.com.au/site/