The Forest of Tranquility - Ourimbah, NSW

Despite having lived on the Central Coast for half a dozen years, previously I had not ventured to the Forest of Tranquility.

Located at Ourimbah on the Central Coast of New South Wales, the Forest of Tranquility was established in 1985.

Although many of the facilities have not been updated recently, the rainforest retains a natural feel and provides a quiet sanctuary for bush walkers.

A number of pergolas are available for hire for group functions, which apparently can cater for up to 300 people, although I am not sure how the 2 toilets would cope if these pergolas were at full capacity.

Leeches were also a major problem on the walk; with them dropping from overhanging branches and climbing up from the leaf litter on the ground onto shoes before making their way to any available flesh.

I took my (senior citizen) mother with me. Although the trail wasn't excessively difficult, it did present some challenges for Mum, despite her being quite fit, primarily because of recent rain making some of the stepping rocks a little slippery.  The addition of a few judiciously placed hand rails might be helpful.

All this being said, nature lovers should not be deterred. Allow a couple of hours to fully appreciate this unique Sydney rainforest, pack a pair of sturdy shoes and a bottle of water and go for it!

I believe the pictures speak for themselves.