Discover #TheDale
If you follow me on Instagram you may have noticed some beautiful scenery shots with the #TheDale, a lot of people asked about these locations and now I can finally reveal them. Last weekend a group of photographers and bloggers were invited by Jarrad Seng and the City of Armadale to discover #TheDale from a different perspective.
Living North of the River I had never really ventured into the City of Armadale – except to visit Araluen Botanical Park. I loved the concept around #TheDale and the opportunity it brought to allow people let go of their preconceived ideas of the suburb, by exploring so many beautiful locations. Needless to say I was blown away by all the places we went to and I hope you enjoy them.
Driving up to Armadale I had already spotted what I thought were cherry blossoms and knew it was going to be a very beautiful and photogenic day. Arriving at the Raeburn Orchards was an absolute dream, rows upon rows of trees were adorned in delicate candy pink and cotton white flowers. Jarrad managed to capture a few shots of me amid the flowers, and I will cherish these photos for the rest of my life! Other than the stunning scenery you can buy fresh fruit and other local products from the grocer, and be sure to taste their fresh apple juice – it is a serious thirst quencher!
Although Araluen is famous for its tulips – and being my favourite flower I come here every year specifically for them, all the times I have gone I have failed to uncover many of the other hidden gems in the park. Araluen was our first stops for the day and the early wake up call meant we had the park to ourselves four about an hour. A few of my favourite things that I discovered – other than the tulips, were the secret pathways, the coloured canopy of flowering trees and the nooks of ground and trees covered in ivy which created the most magical and enchanting atmosphere – how stunning is the sneaky shot Jane from Jane Ashley Photography took of me?
The Elizabethan Village was one of the most unexpected and probably my favourite location for the day. Nestled in the hills surrounded by luscious vegetation and built in 16th century style, I felt like I had been transported back in time. The village was built by Leo Fowler and his vision “was to bring Shakespears’ birthplace to Western Australia.” The Elizabethan Village features a pub which is absolutely fantastic and reminds me so much of the taverns in Oxford, it has the most charming little chapel and up the pathway you can have a peak at the private residences also in 16th century style with the most beautiful gardens. I think I had the quote of the day, saying “I could definitely get married here.” I am so glad I got to discover this gem and I can’t wait to go back again!
I hope I have inspired you to discover #TheDale, I would love your recommendations on any other locations you might think I would like.
Xx Nadine