Family Visit: Spikey Bridge and Spikey Beach

20070129 Spikey Bridge and Beach

While Dad, Nonie and Arvid were with us, we decided to see some of the local attractions, just minutes away from Swansea. Before getting into our adventures, I should link to Dad's blog which has some of his pictures from their trip [using web albums, I might add].

First up, was Kate's Berry Farm, where we get her very popular mingled berry jam, which we serve at breakfast and with scones (raspberry, blackberry and strawberry). We had a fantastic morning tea, and everyone tried something different from the menu.

Next stop was Spiky Bridge, built in the early 1840s around the same time as Schouten House. The origin of the bridge is described as:

It is popularly thought that this bridge was built after Edward Shaw (of 'Redbanks') gave Major de Gillern Superintendent of Rocky Hills station, a ride home one night after a game of piquet. Shaw drove is gig through the gully at full gallop so as to impress upon the Major the need for more road works. Needless to say, the ride was very unpleasant and the bridge was erected shortly afterwards.

Nobody knows why the spikes were incorporated into the design by the convict labourers.

From there, we crossed the road to Spiky Beach one of a number of small named beaches south of town, each with their own unique features and personalities. Spiky Beach is actually two small coves, the first sandy and open. The second (where the bulk of the photos come from) is very private, sheltered and littered with beautiful shells and rock pools. We spent over an hour there, exploring, talking and relaxing.