Family Adventure in Freycinet National Park

First Impressions: Freycinet National Park
Our family adventure in Freycinet National Park has officially begun, and what a start it has been! Leaving Toronto behind, the crisp Tasmanian air felt like a refreshing welcome. Today was all about setting the stage for our 15-day exploration of this stunning region. We’ve already been captivated by the landscapes, and I can’t wait to share every moment with you.

After landing in Hobart and making the scenic drive to Freycinet Lodge, Sophie was practically bouncing with excitement. David, ever the navigator, ensured we arrived smoothly, pointing out the rolling hills and picturesque views along the way. The lodge itself is nestled beautifully within the park, offering a seamless blend of comfort and immersion in nature. Checking in was a breeze, and the friendly staff made us feel right at home. It's these little touches that make traveling as a family so much more enjoyable.


Discover breathtaking vistas and tranquil retreats at Freycinet Lodge, nestled in the heart of Tasmania's stunning Freycinet National Park.

Our first stop was the Freycinet National Park Visitor Centre. It’s always a good idea to get oriented and learn about the area we’re visiting. The center provided a wealth of information about the park’s history, flora, and fauna. Sophie was particularly fascinated by the displays about local wildlife, and David, with his architectural eye, appreciated the design of the center itself. We learned about the park's rich Aboriginal heritage and the importance of preserving this natural wonderland.


Explore Freycinet National Park Visitor Centre: Your gateway to Tasmania's breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and adventure.

The first day lays the foundation for an unforgettable journey, filled with discoveries and shared moments.

Next on the agenda was the iconic Wineglass Bay Lookout. The walk up was a bit steep, but Sophie, with her boundless energy, practically skipped ahead. The trail wound through coastal woodland, and the views of Coles Bay and the surrounding granite peaks were already breathtaking. We took our time, enjoying the fresh air and the scent of eucalyptus. Reaching the lookout, we were rewarded with the panoramic view of Wineglass Bay. The crystal-clear turquoise waters and the white sandy beach curving against the pink granite Hazards mountains were simply stunning. It’s a view that truly lives up to its reputation. I made sure to capture plenty of photos, though no picture could truly do it justice.


Experience breathtaking views at Wineglass Bay Lookout, a must-visit scenic spot in Freycinet National Park, Tasmania.

For lunch, we decided to indulge in some local flavors at the Freycinet Marine Farm. This was a culinary experience I had been eagerly anticipating. We sat on the deck, enjoying the sunshine and the sea breeze, as we savored freshly shucked oysters and succulent mussels. Sophie, surprisingly, enjoyed some chips while David and I relished the seafood with a glass of local white wine. The farm-to-table freshness was undeniable, and it was a perfect way to appreciate the region's bounty.


Discover the freshest seafood delights at Freycinet Marine Farm - where Tasmania's ocean meets culinary excellence.

After our delightful lunch, we made a quick stop at the Iluka General Store. We needed to pick up a few essentials, and I realized I had forgotten to pack insect repellent – a rookie mistake! Luckily, the store had everything we needed. It was also a great opportunity to experience a bit of local charm. The store was bustling with both tourists and residents, and the friendly staff were happy to offer advice and recommendations. We also grabbed some extra SD cards for my camera, because you can never have too many when you're surrounded by such beauty.


Discover Iluka General Store in Coles Bay, your one-stop destination for groceries and fuel in the heart of Tasmania's stunning coast.

As the day drew to a close, we treated ourselves to dinner at The Bay Restaurant back at Freycinet Lodge. The restaurant boasts magnificent views of Great Oyster Bay, and the ambiance was both elegant and inviting. We enjoyed a delicious meal featuring fresh, local produce, including some of the best seafood Tasmania has to offer. Sophie opted for a kid-friendly option, while David and I savored the contemporary Australian cuisine. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Freycinet, savoring the flavors of the region while reflecting on the beauty we had experienced.


Experience exquisite Tasmanian cuisine at The Bay Restaurant in Freycinet National Park—where every meal offers stunning views and local flavors.

Reflecting on the day, I am reminded of how lucky we are to be able to experience such incredible places as a family. It is so important to disconnect from our busy lives back in Toronto, and reconnect with nature and each other. The fresh air, stunning views and delicious food have already worked their magic. Sophie is fast asleep, dreaming of her adventures, and David and I are enjoying a quiet moment on our cabin's balcony, listening to the sounds of the bush.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to hike the Wineglass Bay Track & Hazards Beach Track. We also intend to visit the Cape Tourville Lighthouse and Lookout. I am looking forward to more breathtaking views and exploring the rugged coastline. I am hoping to spot some whales from the lighthouse! We will be having breakfast at Richardson's Bistro, lunch at Geographe Restaurant and Espresso Bar, and dinner at Iluka Tavern. I am also keen to check out Hazard's Bar & Lounge for a nightcap.

Freycinet National Park has already exceeded my expectations, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. I hope you’ll continue to follow along on our journey!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention, there seems to be a local multi-sport event happening in Coles Bay, the Freycinet Challenge. I saw some posters at the visitor center. It sounds intense, with trail running, kayaking, mountain biking, and road cycling. Maybe next time I'll train and participate!

The weather today was moderately chilly with some wind. The temperature averaged around 12°C (54°F). There was a very low chance of rain, and the sun shone for over 11 hours. The sunrise was at 6:19 AM, and the sunset was at 7:28 PM. The humidity was around 73%.

This trip to Tasmania and Freycinet National Park is proving to be exactly the kind of adventure our family needs. More to come tomorrow!