It was decided this morning to go for a quick day trip as opposed to spending ALL day indoors due to the heat, mid 30's (about 90 F I think) by the afternoon. So while it was cool in morning it wasn't going to stay that way. Given that we live on the Eastern side of Melbourne the Dandenong ranges aren't that far.
We left just before 9 am, without a firm plan in place, other than to head to hills, as they are usually a few degrees cooler as well. It did dawn on me that heading to Lilydale wouldn't take us to the area I was initially thinking. Oh well Healesville here we come, one good thing about Healesville besides the Sanctuary, the maze, and the bakery, is that there is a very nice children's playground just outside of the town center.
As you can see, plenty of shade, and we had it to ourselves at about 9:30 am. The little man used to only be interested in the swings, this however has changed, he now also likes the slide, and must run from one to other in order to maximise time on both.
After about 40 minutes spent at the playground, time to keep moving. We decided to head up to Mt Donna Buang, the roads were not busy which was good, only one issue. The Road to Mt Donna Buang was closed, no pre-notice or signage until you are far too close to the summit. Grumble, grumble, quick u-turn and a change of plans, now headed to Marysville for lunch and then straight home.
The bakery in Marysville I am sad to say seems to have gone off the boil, it is still a good country town bakery, just not exceptional like it used to be. Maybe there are new owners or staff, not sure. It just isn't as good as I remember. After a pie for lunch, back in the car and straight home, arrived home about 2:30 pm.
