Backyard Tourist: Visiting Lake Ainsworth, Lennox Head

From metres away this picturesque lake looks just like any other. But as you step closer, you’ll notice the colour of the water change from yellow to blue — and many colours in between.

Lake Ainsworth, Lennox Head. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

FROM metres away this picturesque lake looks just like any other.

A deep, blue almost black body of water with light grey sands, native gums surrounding the edges and further fringed with bulrush reeds, complete with their fluffy seeds.

But if you step closer, you’ll notice the colour of its water isn’t clear — it’s yellow or orange or red or purple or blue — or whatever colour you can imagine really.

Lake Ainsworth. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

Yep, Lake Ainsworth looks like a rainbow lake on its edges thanks to tannins leaching into the water from the surrounding tea-tree plants.

The lake, located at Lennox Head, just a 1.5 hour drive from the Coast, is also said to have healing benefits thanks to this special water.

So pretty! Picture: Amanda Robbemond

While it is well known throughout the shire, it wasn’t too crowded during a weekday visit on a Friday though I expect the visit would have been even more relaxing with fewer people around.

You’ll find a few small trails along the edge of the lake to explore if you have a bit of extra time, and there are barbecue facilities and tables to enjoy your lunch.

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There’s also ample green space to set up a picnic blanket, with some shady trees around the place too. You’ll find swimming in the lake is a very relaxing experience.

No waves to deal with and no salt water. The water is soft and the temperature perfect. If it’s slightly too hot outside, it’s perfect when you immerse yourself into the water.

And even if you accidentally dip your head underwater, it’s only going to be good for your hair.

That’s what I call a win.

DISCOVER

The view to Lennox Head.

Hang around Lennox Head for a little while and you’ll understand why everyone is so relaxed.

This little coastal town has everything you need, including homes right on the beach front.

Yeah, I’d be thinking about retiring here — that’s how pretty it is.

But in the mean time, it’s a cute spot to spend a few hours grabbing a bite to eat and meandering along the shopping strip.

Luckily the main drag is right along the beach, so it’s easy to walk one way up, and then the opposite side down.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE … DO

Lake Ainsworth, Lennox Head. Horse ride. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

IF you’re keen on a little extra-something during your Lake Ainsworth visit, I recommend taking a beach ride.

Pegasus Park will meet you at the entrance to Seven Mile Beach from the Lennox Head access point, just a short drive past Lake Ainsworth.

After you’re fitted with your helmet and your stirrups are adjusted, just relax with your new-found four-legged friend.

The park caters to all abilities, so if you’re totally new to riding they can lead you around the beach ride.

The park owners are friendly, chatty and take photos and videos during the ride. So just relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

EAT AND DRINK

Byron Bay Beach cafe.

On your way back up from Lennox Head, take a quick detour into Byron Bay.

The area has so many great restaurants it’s hard to pick one, but let’s stop at Beach Byron Bay for today.

The restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch and then again for dinner.

Expect a classy feed with ingredients from local producers and farmers.

Examples from their lunch and dinner menu include fettuccine with chargrilled calamari or smoked eggplant casconcelli with goatcurd and pistachio.

For breakfast there’s grilled Byron Bay halloumi with poached eggs or oat waffles with cardamom ricotta and strawberries.