Family Adventure in Freycinet National Park

A Day of Heights and Tastes

Today was a day of conquering fears and indulging in the local flavors of Freycinet. After eleven days of exploring this beautiful region with David and Sophie, I felt a surge of excitement mixed with a touch of apprehension as we planned our ascent of Mount Amos. It was a challenge I knew would reward us with breathtaking views, and I was eager to experience it with my family.

Our day began, as many have on this trip, with a delightful breakfast at Freycinet Lodge. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the sight of the morning sun filtering through the trees set the perfect tone for our adventurous day. Sophie was particularly excited, chattering about the 'big mountain' we were about to climb.


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

Our first stop was Cooks Beach. A picturesque location within Freycinet National Park, renowned for its white sand. The tranquil beauty of the beach was a welcome sight. The serene atmosphere made it a perfect spot for Sophie to stretch her legs and collect seashells before our big hike.


Discover Cooks Beach in Tasmania: a secluded paradise for serene escapes, coastal walks, and nature lovers within Freycinet National Park.

Then it was time for the main event: Mount Amos. The trailhead was buzzing with fellow hikers, all eager to take on the challenge. As we started our ascent, the initial dirt path quickly transformed into a steep, rocky scramble. I must admit, there were moments when I questioned my sanity. The smooth granite rocks, while offering a unique hiking experience, demanded careful footing and a good grip. David, ever the supportive husband, offered a steady hand, while Sophie, surprisingly agile, scampered ahead like a little mountain goat.

Sometimes, the most challenging paths lead to the most rewarding views.

The climb was strenuous, and I found myself relying on the stunted trees clinging to the rock face for support. There were a few sections where we were practically climbing on all fours, squeezing through narrow crevices and hoisting ourselves onto large boulders. But with each upward step, the views became more and more spectacular. Honeymoon Bay and Coles Bay stretched out before us, their beauty amplified by the height we were gaining.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, we reached the summit. The panoramic views were simply breathtaking. Wineglass Bay, with its pristine white sand and turquoise waters, lay before us in all its glory. The Hazards mountains stood proudly in the background, their pink granite peaks adding a touch of drama to the scene. We spent a good while at the top, soaking in the beauty and snapping photos to capture the moment. Sophie was ecstatic, proudly declaring that she had conquered the 'big mountain'.

The descent, as many experienced hikers warned, was even more challenging than the ascent. We took our time, carefully navigating the slippery rocks and helping Sophie along the way. There were a few instances where we had to slide down on our bottoms, much to Sophie's amusement. I was grateful for my hiking boots, which provided the necessary grip and ankle support.

After our exhilarating hike, we were famished. We drove to Melshell Oyster Shack, a charming little spot known for its fresh oysters. The location, near Yellow Sandbanks, was picturesque. We sat by the riverbank at Moulting Lagoon, enjoying the freshest oysters I've ever tasted. David and I savored the natural oysters, while Sophie, surprisingly, enjoyed a few as well. She declared them 'salty and yummy'. It was a delightful culinary experience, made even better by the beautiful surroundings.


Discover fresh oysters and stunning coastal views at Melshell Oyster Shack in Dolphin Sands, Tasmania – a seafood lover's paradise.

Our final stop for the day was Iluka Tavern in Coles Bay. Set against the backdrop of Great Oyster Bay, the tavern exuded a relaxed coastal vibe. We settled in for a hearty dinner, reminiscing about our Mount Amos adventure. David opted for a classic fish and chips, while I chose a gourmet burger. Sophie, of course, went for the kids' menu, devouring her chicken nuggets with gusto. The tavern was warm and inviting, and the friendly staff made us feel right at home.


Discover Iluka Tavern in Coles Bay - A perfect blend of Australian cuisine and breathtaking coastal views await you.

Before heading back to Freycinet Lodge, we made a quick stop at Granite Freycinet, a local shop known for its coffee and sweets. Although we were quite full from dinner, we couldn't resist grabbing a couple of pastries for the road. The shop had a cozy atmosphere, and I could see why it was a favorite among locals.


Discover the perfect blend of culinary delight and breathtaking views at Granite Freycinet, your go-to cafe in Coles Bay, Tasmania.

As we drove back, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the Freycinet Peninsula. Sophie, exhausted from her day of adventure, fell asleep in the back seat. David and I exchanged a contented glance, knowing that we had created another unforgettable memory on our family adventure. Tomorrow, we plan to explore The Hazards and Cooks Hut, eager to discover more of Freycinet's natural beauty.

I'm also hoping to stop by Mount Paul Lounge for a drink in the evening. After a long day of hiking, a relaxing drink sounds like the perfect way to unwind.

Today was a reminder that the best travel experiences are often the ones that challenge us, both physically and mentally. And, of course, that good food and good company are essential ingredients for any successful adventure. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these moments with my family, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.