Tasmania - Australia 2004 - page 634

A Lakeside Fishing Lodge
Tasmania's extensive hydroelectric schemes have created many new lakes,
all seeded with some of the biggest wild brown and rainbow trout in the
world. At London Lakes Lodge , it's all about low-key, high-action
trout fishing; guides—one to every two people—take guests out on area
lakes, rivers, and streams, offering personal tips and lessons. The lodge
caters to just 10 guests in 5 simple twin-bedded rooms, each with an en-
suite bathroom; the chef here produces marvelous food. Such personalized
attention doesn't come cheap; prices start at A$693 (US$451) with guide,
A$495 (US$322) without guide, including meals, tackle, rods, clothing, and
transportation. Prebooking is mandatory; contact Post Office, Bronte Park,
TAS 7140 ( & 03/6289 1159; fax [phone]; www.londonlakes.com.au).
Note: The lodge is so exclusive that the owners won't even post a road sign
to tell you where it is; it's off the first dirt track after the Bronte Park turnoff
on the road from Strahan to Hobart. The lodge is closed May through July.

Moments

LAKE ST. CLAIR
Australia's deepest natural freshwater lake is a narrow, 15km (9 1 ⁄ 3 -mile) long water-
way, enclosed within the Cradle Mountain—Lake St. Clair National Park. On the
lake's southern edge is Cynthia Bay, site of an informative ranger station where
you must register if you're attempting the Overland Track from this end, as well as
a restaurant, cabin accommodations, and a backpackers' hostel (the latter operated
by Lakeside St. Clair at & 03/6289 1137 ). National park rangers run several
tours between Boxing Day and the end of February, including spotlighting tours
and guided walks around the area. Call for details at & 03/6289 1172.