Family Adventure in Freycinet National Park

A Day of Freycinet Wonders

Today was a day of embracing the raw beauty of Freycinet National Park. From conquering rocky peaks to savoring the freshest seafood, every moment was a testament to Tasmania's stunning landscapes. It’s days like these that remind me why we travel – to challenge ourselves, connect with nature, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Our day began with an early start at Freycinet Lodge, where we prepped for our adventures. After a quick check of our gear, David, Sophie and I headed out, eager to tackle The Hazards. But first, breakfast! We decided to start our day at Geographe Restaurant and Espresso Bar.


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

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air as we stepped inside the Geographe Restaurant and Espresso Bar. Located with serene views of Coles Bay, it was the perfect way to kick off our day. I ordered a flat white, while David opted for a long black. Sophie, of course, wanted a hot chocolate. Along with our drinks, we shared a plate of their famous Belgian waffles, topped with fresh fruit and maple syrup. The waffles were a delightful mix of crispy and fluffy, and Sophie devoured her portion with gusto. Fueled up and ready, we set off towards The Hazards.


Experience exquisite local cuisine with stunning coastal views at Geographe Restaurant & Espresso Bar in Coles Bay, Tasmania.

The Hazards are a striking range of pink granite mountains that dominate the Freycinet skyline. Known for their challenging hikes and rewarding views, they were our main goal for the morning. We chose a route that would take us closer to Wineglass Bay, hoping to capture some postcard-worthy photos. The weather was perfect – a crisp, clear day with just a hint of a breeze. As we started our ascent, Sophie was in high spirits, eager to explore every nook and cranny along the trail.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of The Hazards in Tasmania, where stunning peaks and pristine beaches await outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The initial part of the hike was relatively gentle, winding through bushland. But it soon became steeper, with rocky sections that required a bit of scrambling. I was grateful for my hiking boots, which provided excellent grip on the uneven terrain. David, ever the supportive husband, kept a close eye on Sophie, helping her navigate the trickier parts of the trail. I felt a surge of pride watching Sophie tackle the rocks with determination, her little legs carrying her higher and higher. She truly is a little Swiss mountain goat, just like her Mama!

As we climbed, the views became increasingly spectacular. The turquoise waters of Coles Bay sparkled in the sunlight, and the surrounding forests stretched out like a green carpet. We paused frequently to catch our breath and take photos, each vantage point offering a unique perspective of the landscape. Sophie, armed with her binoculars, was on the lookout for wildlife, spotting several colourful birds flitting through the trees. I was glad we remembered to bring those. It's the little things that make Sophie's day!

The final ascent to the Wineglass Bay lookout was the most challenging, with steep granite rocks that demanded careful footing. But the effort was more than worth it. As we reached the top, we were greeted by the iconic vista of Wineglass Bay – a perfect crescent of white sand fringed by crystal-clear water. The Hazards framed the scene majestically, their pink granite slopes contrasting beautifully with the azure sea.

“Sometimes, the most scenic roads in life are the detours you didn't mean to take.”

We spent a good while at the lookout, simply soaking in the view. Sophie was fascinated by the shape of the bay, declaring it looked like a giant smile. David, ever the pragmatist, pointed out the geological formations and explained how the bay was formed. I, meanwhile, was content to simply admire the beauty, feeling a sense of peace and gratitude wash over me.

After descending from The Hazards, our stomachs were rumbling, signaling it was time for lunch. We had heard great things about the Freycinet Marine Farm, so we decided to head there for a seafood feast.


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

Located a short drive from Coles Bay, the Freycinet Marine Farm is a working oyster and mussel farm that also boasts a fantastic restaurant. As we arrived, we were greeted by the briny scent of the sea and the sight of oyster beds stretching out into the distance. We grabbed a table on the outdoor deck, overlooking the water, and perused the menu.

The choices were overwhelming, with a variety of fresh oysters, mussels, and other seafood delicacies on offer. I opted for the oyster tasting plate, eager to sample the different flavors and styles. David chose the grilled scallops, while Sophie, surprisingly, wanted to try the fish and chips.

When our food arrived, it was a feast for the senses. The oysters were incredibly fresh, each with its own distinct flavour profile. From the creamy, briny taste of the natural oysters to the tangy zing of the Kilpatrick, every bite was a delight. David's scallops were perfectly seared, tender and succulent. Sophie, meanwhile, happily munched on her fish and chips, declaring it the best she had ever tasted.

After lunch, we decided to take a stroll along Cooks Beach towards Cooks Hut. The hut is a historic building with parts dating back to 1859 and was built by graziers. The hut is now managed by the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service and is available for emergency use. We explored the hut and the surrounding area, imagining what life must have been like for the early settlers.


Explore Freycinet's history at Cooks Hut, a rustic landmark offering a glimpse into Tasmania's past within a stunning coastal landscape.

The hut was lovely and the views from the beach were amazing. Sophie loved running around and exploring. We spent a little over an hour here before deciding to head back to Freycinet Lodge to freshen up before dinner.

As evening approached, we made our way to The Bay Restaurant for dinner. Nestled within Freycinet Lodge, this elegant restaurant boasts stunning views of Tasmania's east coast. We were seated at a table with panoramic views of the bay, the Hazards silhouetted against the setting sun.


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

The menu at The Bay Restaurant is a celebration of local Tasmanian produce, with a focus on fresh seafood. I started with the seafood chowder, a creamy, flavourful soup brimming with chunks of fish, scallops, and prawns. David chose the grilled octopus, while Sophie, feeling adventurous, opted for the salmon.

For my main course, I couldn't resist the lobster, a local specialty. The lobster was cooked to perfection, its sweet, delicate flesh melting in my mouth. David thoroughly enjoyed his octopus and Sophie was very happy with her salmon. The service was impeccable, the staff attentive and knowledgeable, making us feel truly pampered.

To end our day, we decided to visit Mount Paul Lounge. This cozy bar offers a wide selection of Tasmanian wines, beers, and spirits, as well as stunning views of the night sky. David and I enjoyed a glass of local Pinot Noir, while Sophie sipped on a sparkling apple juice. We chatted about our adventures of the day, relishing the peace and quiet of the evening.


Discover the exquisite dining experience at Mount Paul Lounge, nestled in Freycinet National Park, offering stunning views and a taste of Tasmania.

As we sat there, watching the stars twinkle above, I felt a deep sense of contentment. Today had been a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and culinary delights, a true celebration of Freycinet's wonders. I am so glad that we could share this day as a family.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Whalers Lookout Scenic Reserve and Friendly Beaches. I can't wait to see what other treasures Freycinet has in store for us. Perhaps we will pack a picnic to enjoy on Friendly Beaches.

What a wonderful day. I'm off to bed now!