Norfolk Island is a destination few of us have visited, and it's our loss, writes Phil Hawkes

IT'S surprising that so few Australians have been to Norfolk Island.

Norfolk Island

IT'S surprising that so few Australians have been to Norfolk Island. Perhaps they haven't heard of its natural attractions, its pine clad hills and valleys, clean pure air and its place in Australia's history.

Maybe we've all been beguiled by the lure of exotic destinations such as Bali, Thailand and Fiji. Or, it may be that Norfolk Island is so close, just over two hours from the Australian mainland, that we've relegated it to the bottom of our bucket list.

That would be a pity.

It is hard to think of a more pleasant destination for "getting away from it all", which seems to be a common mantra these days whether you're working or retired.

Norfolk Island offers life in the slow lane, where a week can end up feeling like a month.

There are no theme parks, multi-storey malls and car parks, freeways, traffic lights, speed traps and parking meters.

And no road rage; if you don't wave nicely to passing cars you're considered a bit unfriendly.

The old Government House on Norfolk Island.

It may sound contradictory, but actually there is plenty to do if you have a mind to. Here are a few suggestions:

• Walk one of the coastal trails with magnificent views of bays, seascapes and cliffs … you can do it alone with a map, or with an organised group. Some tours include breakfast at scenic vantage points.

• Take a half day tour of the historic site of Kingston, with its convict built, carefully restored structures and cemetery dating back to 1788 … note that this was Australia's second settlement, just six weeks after Sydney.

• Visit the Cyclorama exhibition which portrays the history of the island and the original settlers with an impressive 360 degree mural; or see the Norfolk Island Museum with its superb photographic exhibits.

• Browse the small shops, galleries and markets selling crafts and duty free items … and happily there are several good cafés serving local coffee.

• Enjoy a "progressive dinner" in the homes of some of Norfolk's residents … a good opportunity to chat with the locals; try a traditional dinner in a Colonial house within the Kingston precinct; or sample a legendary Norfolk Fish Fry at a number of locations.

• Get dressed as a convict (costume supplied) for an hilarious dinner, show and dancing at the Paradise Hotel.

• Take a farm and agriculture tour or visit the island's many private gardens.

• Go swimming and snorkelling at beautiful Emily Bay; take a picnic lunch.

• Fishing, diving and sea kayaking can also easily be arranged.

Norfolk Island

There are many other tour ideas available from Baunti Escapes and Pinetree Tours.

It's probably well known that Norfolk Island people are the proud descendants of the county mutineers who settled first on remote Pitcairn Island, then were offered resettlement on Norfolk in 1856.

Today, you'll meet their families with names like Christian, Quintal and Nobbs who still speak a mixture of English and Tahitian, plus a few unnamed dialects. Challenging, to say the least.

You might also be lucky enough to run into Colleen McCullough, a long term resident; or occasional visitor Helen Reddy whose charming house is open to tourists on regular excursions.

Norfolk Island is unique. It should be on everyone's list for at least one visit.

As for me, I'm planning to return for a longer time, to linger longer among the pines that give this place its special aura … and to look through a fascinating window into our convict past.

GO

Air New Zealand operates regular flights from Brisbane and Sydney. Packages from operators such as Trade Travel are good value and rental cars are cheap, from $19 per day.

airnewzealand.com.au

PLAY

A good time to visit Norfolk is during Christmas in July - next year they'll be performances by Colleen Hewett, Johnny Young, and Normie Rowe plus a special lunch and afternoon with acclaimed author Colleen McCullough.

Or plan for mid December 2014 when the annual Jazz Festival will shake the pine trees with an impressive line-up of local and mainland musicians.

STAY

There's a wide range of hotels, motels, B & Bs and guesthouses. The Paradise Hotel has a fine restaurant and bar, and a good-sized swimming pool.

paradisehotelnorfolk.com

ONLINE

tradetravel.com.au

norfolkisland.com.au

worldofbounty.com

pinetreetours.com

Norfolk Island