Children’s Forest

A secret garden has grown into a forest for children!
This is such a great place, the idea behind it is inspiring while walking through the forest and reading up on its’ history my hope for the future was rekindled (something that is all too often stamped by cigarette butts and littered beaches.) The Children’s Forest is a large area of land just down from the Whiteman village that has been set up as a community based conservation initiative. There are 11 stages of the forest, each accessed by walking tracks unveiling an informative and inspiring aspect of the forest, it’s ecology and sustainability. There is so much to get out of this place, with the mosaic-​ed monuments, plaques and activities, huts, tyres, tunnels and more– if you are like me than one day will not satisfy your desire to maximise the experience. To continue this work, there is an option for parents to purchase a membership ($ 35 per annum) for their children, which is commemorated with a personalised tile (situated at one of two designated locations in the forest.) As well as instilling a sense of respect and appreciation for the environment in your child, all proceeds go back into sustaining this initiative and others run by the governing body: «Men of the trees.»
The idea behind this forest came from proud parents wanting to establish a place for their children, where the births could be commemorated and the trees could grow with their children– as a legacy to pass on and enjoy. This dream became a reality in 2001 and over a decade later the forest and its’ ethos are thriving.
Mussel Pool road runs along one side of the forest and a cycle path runs down the other allowing easy access from either direction of the park and worth the journey as this forest is nothing short of enchanting.