.png)
Tasmania, often referred to as the "Island of Inspiration," is a dream destination for road trip enthusiasts. With its pristine wilderness, rugged coastlines, and breathtaking landscapes, it's no wonder why travelers flock to this Australian gem. One of the must-visit destinations in Tasmania is the Freycinet Peninsula, a place of unparalleled natural beauty. In this blog post, we'll guide you on a journey to explore Freycinet by campervan, perfect for travelers seeking road trip adventures in Tasmania.
Planning Your Road Trip to Freycinet
Before you hit the road, thorough planning is essential. Consider factors such as the best time to visit, your budget, and the duration of your trip. Start by researching the weather conditions in Tasmania, as they can be quite unpredictable. Most road trips to Freycinet are best enjoyed from late spring to early autumn when the weather is mild.
This said, we've enjoyed a few winter gems this year with bright windless days so you need a bit of luck too. The beauty of coming over winter is that the road is yours and so is Freycinet along the other Tasmanian wonders on your way.
Freycinet National Park Highlights & Hikes
Freycinet National Park is the crown jewel of the Freycinet Peninsula. Nestled along the east coast of Tasmania, the Freycinet Peninsula is a captivating destination offering a diverse range of activities for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. At the heart of this pristine wilderness lies Wineglass Bay, an iconic landmark known for its breathtaking views and crystal-clear waters. It is home to some of Tasmania's most iconic hikes too. With its dramatic pink granite mountains, secluded bays, and white-sand beaches, it’s a paradise for nature lovers. Whether you’re seeking a short walk with breathtaking views or an all-day adventure, here are some of the best hikes to explore in Freycinet.
1. Wineglass Bay Lookout
Distance: 3 km return
Duration: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
One of Tasmania’s most photographed views, the Wineglass Bay Lookout offers sweeping vistas of the crescent-shaped bay below. The hike starts from the Wineglass Bay car park and ascends through bushland and granite rocks to a lookout that overlooks the shimmering white sands and turquoise waters. This is a must-do for anyone visiting Freycinet, and the payoff is well worth the climb. Alternative: For those who prefer to skip the hike, local boat operators offer a fantastic way to reach the stunning Wineglass Bay area by sea. These guided tours provide a comfortable and scenic alternative, allowing you to experience the beauty of Freycinet’s coastline without breaking a sweat. As you cruise along the crystal-clear waters, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the pink granite cliffs, spot marine wildlife like dolphins and seals, and hear fascinating insights from knowledgeable skippers.
Pro Tip: If you have more time, continue the trek down to Wineglass Bay itself for a refreshing dip or a relaxing beach picnic. This adds another 2.5 km to your journey.
2. Hazards Beach Circuit
Distance: 11 km loop
Duration: 4-5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
This hike combines the famous Wineglass Bay with the lesser-known Hazards Beach, giving you the best of Freycinet in one full loop. Starting with the climb to Wineglass Bay Lookout, you’ll descend onto the beach, then continue across the isthmus to Hazards Beach on the western side. The return journey takes you along the coastline, offering stunning views of Great Oyster Bay and the Hazards mountain range.
Ideal For: Those who want a taste of both Freycinet’s beaches and bushland.
3. Mt Amos
Distance: 4 km return
Duration: 3 hours
Difficulty: Difficult
If you’re after a challenge and some of the most spectacular panoramic views in Tasmania, Mt Amos is for you. The trail is steep and requires rock scrambling, but the summit rewards you with unbeatable views over Wineglass Bay, the Freycinet Peninsula, and the surrounding coastline. This is a hike for those who are fit, adventurous, and not afraid of heights!
Important Note: The track can be slippery when wet, so it’s best to tackle this hike on a dry day.
4. The Hazards Beach Short Walk
Distance: 6 km return
Duration: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
For a more leisurely option, this walk takes you through coastal bushland and past the beautiful shores of Hazards Beach. It’s a flat and easy trail, making it perfect for families or those looking for a relaxed stroll. The trail follows the edge of Great Oyster Bay, offering scenic views and opportunities for birdwatching along the way.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s less crowded than Wineglass Bay and offers tranquility, with the gentle sound of waves in the background.
5. Freycinet Peninsula Circuit
Distance: 27 km loop
Duration: 2-3 days
Difficulty: Hard
For experienced hikers, the Freycinet Peninsula Circuit is an unforgettable multi-day trek that takes you through the heart of the national park. Starting at the Wineglass Bay car park, the circuit leads you through forests, around granite peaks, and along rugged coastlines. You’ll pass iconic spots like Wineglass Bay, Cooks Beach, and Bryans Beach while camping under the stars in secluded coves. It’s a true wilderness adventure, offering the chance to immerse yourself in Freycinet’s diverse landscapes.
Tip: Make sure you’re well-prepared with camping gear, food, and water, as this hike takes you deep into the park’s remote areas.
Spot wildlife in Freycinet National Park
Freycinet National Park is not only famous for its stunning landscapes and turquoise waters but also for its rich and diverse wildlife. Nestled along Tasmania’s east coast, this pristine natural wonder offers visitors the chance to encounter a variety of animals, many of which are native to the island. Whether you’re hiking through the bush, camping under the stars, or enjoying a peaceful morning on the beach, Freycinet’s wildlife is never far away.
1. Bennetts Wallabies
These gentle marsupials are a common sight throughout Freycinet, particularly at dawn and dusk when they are most active. Bennetts wallabies, a smaller relative of kangaroos, are often spotted hopping along the walking trails or grazing near campgrounds. They are curious creatures and may even come close if you remain quiet and still.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for wallaby joeys peeking out from their mothers’ pouches—a heartwarming sight that’s common during the breeding season.
2. Wombats
Freycinet is home to the sturdy and lovable wombat, a nocturnal marsupial known for its burrowing habits. Though they are harder to spot due to their nighttime activity, you might get lucky and see one foraging for food or ambling through the bush. Wombats are slow-moving but powerful animals, often leaving behind distinctive cube-shaped droppings as evidence of their presence.
Best Time to Spot: Early morning or late evening when they emerge from their burrows.
3. Tasmanian Pademelons
Another small marsupial native to Tasmania, the pademelon can be seen darting through the underbrush in Freycinet. They resemble small, short-tailed kangaroos and are typically shy, but with patience and a keen eye, you can catch glimpses of them among the ferns and foliage.
4. Echidnas
These spiny anteaters are one of Australia’s most unique creatures, and Freycinet is a great place to spot them. Echidnas can often be seen foraging for ants and termites along the trails, their noses probing the soil in search of food. Their spiky appearance makes them easy to recognize, and they’re surprisingly docile, often curling into a ball if they feel threatened.
Interesting Fact: Echidnas are one of only two egg-laying mammals in the world, the other being the platypus.
5. Birdlife
Freycinet is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with a wide array of species inhabiting the park. Some of the most commonly seen birds include:
White-bellied Sea Eagles: Often spotted soaring high above the coast, these majestic birds of prey hunt fish and other small animals along the shoreline.
Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos: Their distinctive calls can be heard echoing through the forests, and they are often seen perched in the tall eucalyptus trees.
Fairy Penguins: These adorable little penguins come ashore at dusk, particularly in the more secluded coastal areas around the park.
The park’s diverse ecosystems—ranging from coastal heathlands to wet forests—provide a variety of habitats for these and many other bird species. Birdwatching is especially rewarding at sunrise and sunset when the park is alive with activity.
Marine Life
Freycinet’s marine environment is just as vibrant as its land-based wildlife. The waters around the park teem with marine animals, and if you take a boat or kayak along the coast, you might be lucky enough to spot some of these creatures.
Dolphins: Playful pods of dolphins can often be seen frolicking in the waters around Wineglass Bay and Great Oyster Bay. They are a common sight for boat tours and kayakers.
Seals: Australian fur seals haul out on rocky islands off the coast, basking in the sun or swimming in the clear waters. They’re curious and may approach boats or kayakers.
Whales: During the migration season (from May to November), humpback and southern right whales pass through the waters off Freycinet. If you’re visiting during this time, keep an eye on the horizon for the telltale signs of a whale breach or spout.
Explore Freycinet by Water: Paddleboarding, Kayaking, and Local Gear Rentals
For those seeking water-based adventures, kayaking and paddleboarding along the coast offer a unique way to experience the beauty of the peninsula. If you're interested, we provide these options as add-ons when booking one of our vans.
Alternatively, you can explore local hire businesses like Freycinet Paddleboards, run by Raj who’s been in the area for over 10 years. They offer a wide range of gear, including stand-up paddleboards, surfboards, snorkeling equipment, and even fishing kits, with delivery to Coles Bay and Bicheno.
Food and Supplies
Wine enthusiasts can explore local wineries in the nearby Tamar Valley, but we recommend to stock up on supplies in Hobart before hitting the road, there are a couple of local grocery shops in the nearby town of Coles Bay, however these tend to be a little pricier than elsewhere. You can also enjoy delicious seafood at local restaurants and food stalls along the way. But don't worry, we've done the hard work and spotted a few little gems along the way for you.
Melshell Oyster Shack
A visit to Melshell Oyster Shack is essential for oyster enthusiasts. Here, you can delve into the world of oyster farming while relishing the freshest oysters right at the farm. With waterfront seating and a welcoming team, your visit promises to be a memorable experience.
Devil's Corner Cellar Door
A renowned spot for wine enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike, this destination offers a unique experience. Set amidst a thoughtfully arranged assembly of timber-clad shipping containers, it invites you to unwind with a glass of wine in hand while treating your eyes to panoramic vistas of vineyards, the striking Freycinet Peninsula, and the serene Moulting Lagoon.
The Ice Creamery Coles Bay
Indulge in a selection of 24 Tasmanian-made ice cream flavors, relish the freshest fish and chips, and choose from an extensive array of both hot and cold beverages. All of this comes with the backdrop of sweeping panoramic views that encompass the majestic Hazards mountains of the Freycinet Peninsula.
Renting a Campervan in Freycinet
To embark on a campervan adventure, you'll need the perfect vehicle. Tasmania offers numerous rental options, including campervans and motorhomes. Make sure to book your van well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Tasmania offers a variety of campervans and motorhomes to suit different budgets and travel preferences. These include:
Budget Campervans: Basic, no-frills campervans suitable for travelers on a tighter budget.
Mid-Range Campervans: Equipped with more amenities and comfort features, these are ideal for a comfortable road trip.
Luxury Motorhomes: For those seeking a high-end experience with all the modern amenities and conveniences.
At Tasvanlife we focus on the latest category, offering you vans fully equipped and capable staying off grid for several days so you can immerse yourself fully into nature. lutruwita offers you all the modern comfort you could ever hope for when on the road. More generally, when renting a campervan, consider the features that matter most to you:
Sleeping Capacity: Campervans can typically accommodate 2 to 6 people, so choose one that suits the size of your travel group.
Kitchen Facilities: Some campervans come with a fully equipped kitchen, including a refrigerator, stove, and cooking utensils.
Bathroom Facilities: Larger motorhomes often have a private bathroom, while smaller campervans may have access to shared facilities.
Entertainment: Look for entertainment options such as a games, books or sporting equipment if that's important to you.
Size and Maneuverability: Consider the size of the campervan in relation to your comfort level with driving a larger vehicle.
Camping Spots
Freycinet National Park offers some of the most scenic and tranquil campsites in Tasmania, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The main camping area within the park is located at Richardsons Beach, Honeymoon Bay, and Ranger Creek, offering beachfront sites with stunning views of the Hazards mountain range.
These spots provide easy access to the park’s hiking trails and are perfect for those looking to wake up to the sound of the ocean. For a more secluded experience, the nearby Friendly Beaches offer camping just outside the park, with unspoiled views and fewer crowds. Whether you prefer a coastal escape or a bush setting, Freycinet’s campgrounds deliver a perfect blend of natural beauty and serenity for your van adventures.
A road trip adventure in a van through the stunning landscapes of Tasmania's Freycinet Peninsula is a bucket-list experience for travelers seeking natural beauty and outdoor exploration. Plan your trip meticulously, immerse yourself in nature, and make unforgettable memories as you explore this pristine corner of Australia. Remember, road trips are about the journey, so take your time to soak in the beauty of Freycinet and make the most of your van adventure in Tasmania. Happy travels!
Commentaires