Freycinet and the East Coast

From the most adventurous to the novice caris most probably the jewel of this coastal drive.
hire traveller, Tasmania has everything that wouldKnown as one of the most spectacular regions of
suit the most unique tastes. From ruggedTasmania, and undoubtedly in Australia, it is worth
mountains to lavender farms and historical villages,the drive from Hobart or Launceston. If you are
there is so much to see in every part of thisdriving with Freycinet in mind, it is quicker to leave
unique state. The east coast of Tasmania is nofrom Launceston, but both directions will reward
exception. It is nothing like the west, with prettyyou with stunning attractions.
coastal towns, scenic drives and beautiful waters.There are guided walks available through the
North from Hobart, the Tasman Peninsula isPeninsula as well as rock climbing, but most
known more these days for the famous Porttourists head for Coles or Wineglass Bay.
Arthur. Although this humble town has goneWineglass Bay is aptly named because it is shaped
through shaky times it has recovered to oncelike a wineglass, and is one of the prettiest
again become a popular tourist destination. Stormbeaches you could find, with crystal blue waters
Bay Guest House is a popular bed and breakfastand pure white sand, it is a lovely place to picnic
if you are looking to stay for a few days, and isand enjoy the pristine views. Sea kayaking is also
found overlooking White Beach.popular here, as the bay is flat and peaceful, and
Driving towards the centre of the East Coastthere are so many places to explore.
brings you to amazing scenery, and with a myriadOne of the best places to stay is Coles Bay
of activities available, such as cruising, diving,which is situated on the edge of Freycinet National
surfing, horse riding, fishing, bushwalking, or justPark, and is a great base for venturing out to the
enjoying the wine and foods available, you will beparks, bays, beaches and lagoons. Self contained
relaxed in no time.cottages are popular, such as Coles Bay retreat
One of the first of these beach towns is Orford,which overlooks the bay and mountains. If youre
also known as the gateway to the East Coast.lucky you may even see the whales which are
Great for fishing and swimming, especially atmigrate through these waters.
Spring Beach, and another popular day trip is toNorth from the peninsula is the fishing town of
catch the ferry to the mountainous Maria Island.Bicheno. Known for its great beaches and diving, it
Being a national park there are plenty of nativealso has great lookouts. The Freycinet Lookout
birds and wildlife, with a variety of spectacularhas great views of the peninsula and surrounds,
walks to choose from. The convict town ofand also Whalers Lookout gives you some great
Darlington, located on the island, is also rich inphotographic opportunities. There is a 3km walk
history and worth a visit.along the foreshore, which takes you to an
Further north, the lovely town of Swansea has aamazing blowhole. There are also fairy penguins
number of interesting attractions especially for thetours, deep sea fishing trips and the East Coasts
family. Kates Berry Farm has local fruit and iceAnimal Park is home to thefamous Tasmanian
creams, and the Wool centre is educational and adevil which will captivate the children.
lot of fun. With great fishing in Great Oyster BayThe entire east coast is appealing in its own right,
and majestic views of the ocean, there are boatbut Freycinet National Park has a unique beauty
tours available to see more of Freycinet Nationalfor many reasons, maybe just for the sheer
park.beauty of perfect blue water against deep green
To drive the East Coast from the Bay of Firestrees and vegetation along the sandy shoreline.
through to Maria Island you will be covering overWith amazing coastal views and beautiful beaches,
200 kilometres. However, the Freycinet Peninsulait is worth a long stay in this stretch of paradise.