High Tea 2019
24 November 2019 / Words: Chrissie Zaremba. Photos: Senia Gaunson
On Saturday 16th November 15 cars met at Mt Keira Lookout. After the smoke haze that we had endured during the week, it was a refreshingly pleasant “lookout” with interesting light effects. The coffee van was at hand for those in need of a caffeine fix and a group photo was taken before we set off.
The weather at this stage, was looking doubtful so not everyone had their top down.
The trip, led by Hella and Mark Underwood and co-organised by Phil Reid, was on its way. We left Mt Keira Lookout at just after 9.30 a.m. and drove via the Hume Highway through to Yerrinbool- meaning ‘Wood Duck’ who knew that? We followed some interesting curvy roads, over a very pretty one - way bridge and made our way to the park in Mittagong. Morning tea was at the Roses Café. It was difficult to choose with all the yummy delicacies on offer!
At 11.30 we headed towards Berrima on to the Wombeyan Caves Road and then left onto the Old Hume Highway. Again we drove past some spectacular scenery. The weather was on our side and we all enjoyed top- down touring. We meandered along the roads through Exeter onwards to turn left towards Moss Vale, passing Fitzroy Falls on the left with Morton National Park on our right. We went through Robertson (– why does the temperature always drop when you get there?), and arrived at our destination - The Castle.
We were met by three more club cars and had a group photo taken in front of the Castle.
We went inside to be greeted by our hosts. What a place! The scenic surrounds outside were topped by an exquisite interior. It was like taking a step back in time to your Grandma’s house. Tables were laid out for us with crisp white table cloths and napkins. Dainty, tasty sandwiches and hot scones with jam and cream, yum, yum! There was as much tea and coffee as you could drink, all served to us as though we were royalty with the pianola playing in the background. In fact the only thing that marred the event was that the Queen herself was unavailable. Unfortunately one of her Corgis was sick!
Some of us were lucky to have a guided tour of the upstairs rooms (where they cater for B & B). The attention to detail was amazing. The one room was called the Scottish suite, the other the French suite. Each room with ensuite including perfectly restored roll top baths. What a treat. The men were intrigued by the cars in the garage.
Thank you Mark, Hella and Phil for organising a very interesting run and a wonderful gastronomic and entertaining day. A good time was had by all.
