Arrowtown

I have just been away again. I know, I know, but with my

 GKB this time. We just arrived home this afternoon

 and I wanted to join Amy and friends for Five on Friday

 so here are a few photos of Arrowtown which is where 

we stopped for lunch on the way back yesterday. It is at a high altitude, up in the mountains, and so of course is very 

cold in winter with usually a lot of snow.

It is a pretty little town but very oriented to tourism

 and the mighty dollar, unfortunately

The main street and commercial centre

Arrowtown is built on the bank of

 the Arrow River and was a goldrush town.

Down a level to the carpark and back of buildings

There are a lot of new buildings going up on the outskirts but the main centre is mainly original with modern businesses in them.

Some of the original cottages

Unfortunately too, traffic is allowed to drive up

 the main street, it was built for bullock teams

 and carts, not today's modern vehicles.

winter foliage across the river

There was a large Chinese community here during 

the goldrush and there is the remains of their living 

quarters and accommodations along the river 

bank from where the lowest level of the carpark now is.

looking over the lower carpark to the Arrow River

We never went yesterday but have visited before and it is very primitive and basic. Caves, or bivouacs dug out from under tree roots.  Or very basic shelters built from whatever 

was available. It's hard to imagine living in this way.

Very hardy men. You have to admire their diligence 

and dedication to their families in China.

I'm also joining Deb for 

Friday Foto Friends 

Diana