Family Adventure in Freycinet National Park

A Day of Highs and Lows

Today was a day of embracing the adventurous spirit that Freycinet National Park so readily inspires. From scaling Mount Freycinet to enjoying the serene beauty of Coles Bay, every moment felt like a postcard come to life. It’s days like these that remind me why we chose to escape the Toronto bustle and immerse ourselves in nature's embrace.

Our morning began, as usual, with a delightful breakfast at Freycinet Lodge. The spread was impressive, fueling us up for the day’s adventures. After breakfast, we set off towards Coles Bay Conservation Area. The drive itself was scenic, offering glimpses of the stunning coastline that makes this part of Tasmania so special. Coles Bay Conservation Area is truly magical, with its breathtaking views and picturesque landscapes. The ever-changing colors of the Hazards mountains and granite formations captivated us. Sophie was particularly excited, pointing out every kangaroo and wallaby she spotted along the way.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Coles Bay Conservation Area, a natural haven in Tasmania perfect for adventure and relaxation.
We spent a good portion of the morning exploring the area. Coles Bay is known as the gateway to Freycinet National Park, offering calm turquoise waters and lovely beaches, perfect for a family holiday. We took a leisurely walk along one of the trails, soaking in the beauty of the surroundings. The trails here cater to different fitness levels, which was great as we wanted something manageable for Sophie.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Next on our agenda was Mount Freycinet. I knew this would be the most challenging part of the day, but the promise of panoramic views was too tempting to resist. The climb to the summit of Mount Freycinet is known to be steep and occasionally difficult, with some exposed rock sections. Leaving our large packs behind, we started our ascent. David, ever the supportive husband, kept Sophie entertained with stories and encouragement, while I focused on navigating the more challenging sections of the trail. The track is only 1.5km but gains nearly 300 meters of elevation.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and adventurous trails of Mount Freycinet, a stunning mountain peak in Tasmania's natural paradise.
The climb was indeed strenuous, with boulder scrambles and steep inclines. There were orange trail markers that helped to guide us. Finally, after a solid effort, we reached the summit. And oh, the views! They were absolutely worth every drop of sweat. From the top, we had unparalleled views of Hazards Beach, Mount Graham, the rugged southern coastline, and of course, Wineglass Bay. It was a moment of pure awe, standing there with my family, feeling on top of the world. I could see why it is considered the highest and most encompassing view within the national park. Sophie was thrilled, declaring it the best hike ever.

After descending from Mount Freycinet, our appetites were calling. We drove to Iluka Tavern for lunch. This relaxed coastal tavern had a laid-back deck, perfect for watching the boats bob on the tide. The menu celebrated the region’s bounty, with an emphasis on seafood. We ordered some fish and chips, along with a gourmet burger for David. Sophie enjoyed her meal, and the atmosphere was just what we needed after our challenging hike.


Discover Iluka Tavern in Coles Bay - A perfect blend of Australian cuisine and breathtaking coastal views await you.
In the late afternoon, we decided to unwind at Hazard's Bar & Lounge. Situated within Freycinet Lodge, it offered spectacular views over Great Oyster Bay. Sipping on a glass of Tasmanian wine, we relaxed by the open fire, sharing stories of our day. Hazard's Bar & Lounge had a welcoming atmosphere, and it was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on our adventures. Sophie enjoyed a special mocktail, feeling very grown-up.


Experience the best of Tasmanian hospitality at Hazard's Bar & Lounge, where stunning views meet exquisite local flavors in a cozy setting.
For dinner, we opted for Richardson's Bistro, also located within Freycinet Lodge. This casual bistro offered stunning views of Richardson's Beach, and we enjoyed fresh local delights. I chose a seafood dish, while David went for one of their lodge burgers. The bistro had a relaxed atmosphere, and it was a great way to end our day. Unfortunately, Richardson's Bistro closes for the winter season from May 9th, but luckily it was still open for us to enjoy.


Discover Richardson's Bistro in Freycinet National Park - where local flavors meet stunning Tasmanian landscapes.
As the day drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had shared. Freycinet National Park had once again delivered a day of unforgettable memories. From the challenging hike up Mount Freycinet to the relaxed moments at Hazard's Bar & Lounge, every moment was special.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we’re planning to explore the Freycinet Experience Walk and the historic Spiky Bridge. The Freycinet Experience Walk will hopefully offer more breathtaking views, and the Spiky Bridge will add a touch of history to our adventure. We also plan to have breakfast at Mount Paul Lounge, lunch at Edge of the Bay Resort, and dinner at The Bay Restaurant. And maybe a little shopping at Coles Bay Convenience - General Store And Post Office.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a mental note to buy more SD cards for the camera. I’m constantly running out of space with all the photos and videos I’m taking! And maybe some insect repellent too, I was definitely bitten a few times today.

Goodnight from Freycinet National Park!