Historic Walhalla Weekend Escape - Hostess Round Up - Shani Vanderburg

Walhalla proved a lovely surprise to our group of ladies, most of whom had not yet discovered this gem of a village famous for its gold-mining history, located in a narrow valley in East Gippsland. Whilst the significant gold-mining heritage of the region is perhaps the main drawcard, our group of sisters also enjoyed the overall quaint atmosphere of the town and the delicious meals we were treated to at the Wally Pub and at our overnight accommodation the Star Hotel.  On the way to Walhalla, we made a morning tea stop at another charming town, Yarragon, characterized by welcoming cafes and browse-worthy shops. 

Our Saturday afternoon activity was a guided tour through Walhalla's Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine. Quite incredible how far into the mine we could venture to see what life was like for the miners and to learn that this was actually one of the world's richest gold mines during the late 1800's. We were also shown part of the still existing Cohen's line of reef. Considering the town is now home to about 20 residents, it was amazing to learn that it once had a population of over 4800 people. 

After the tour, we walked back through the village, some roaming to the ice-cream shop and to take a further look at the village, others relaxed in the small courtyard of our hotel, taking the time to enjoy conversation together.

After our yummy two-course dinner, 4 brave members of our group joined the Ghost Tour which despite being 2 hours long was fascinating especially as our guide's ancestors had grown up in Walhalla. He regaled us with colourful, sad and tragic stories that provided us with insight into Walhalla's past. 

On Sunday, after a stroll through the unique historic cemetery, we enjoyed a ride on the narrow gauge Goldfield's Railway to Thomson Station and back. Indeed a scenic hour of open-air train travel... great fun. The route home was via Blue Rock Lake with lunch at an Irish Pub. Nice to return a different way to Melbourne.

We all agreed it was a terrific weekend both educational and social, made all the better by a wonderful, friendly and inclusive group of women. On such a lovely tour, it was great to welcome ladies for whom it was their first Sisterhood experience.