Freycinet, pronounced Frey-cin-ey, is an absolutely stunning national park. We stayed one week in the national park campground, and although the amenities were basic, the surroundings and views were easily five stars. On one side of our tent was a long white sandy bay with clear blue water, and on the other side, the dramatic pink granite peaks of the Hazards Ranges. Totally breath-taking.
Sunset at our camp beach (Richardsons Beach)
To see some of the more remote spots, we decided to do the multi-day “Peninsula Circuit” hike. This involved leaving our “base camp” where we have our big tent with comfy beds set up, carrying a smaller tent, sleeping bags , food, water and camera gear along steep tracks and endless beaches, pitching the tent over-night, then repeating.
Cook Beach, Freycinet Circuit multi-day hike
This was not only a first multi-day hike for me, but I’m not even a good hiker generally. I’m sort of clumsy, trip easily, am prone to insect bites, burn in the sun, and It’s been a while since I’ve done any cardio training. So this was totally out of my comfort zone. I was slow and in pain most of the way. Scott was able to skip up the hills like a mountain goat, which made me feel even slower! Although it sounds like I’m complaining, the hike was worthwhile to see the scenery of Freycinet alone – such beautiful beaches including the iconic Wineglass Bay. Plus I now have a sense of achievement to go with my sore muscles.
Just to add to the excitement of my first multi-day hike, it turns out we chose the most active time for tiger snakes, one of the most venomous snakes in the world. After seeing two snakes, one of them not far from our tent, we were cautious about where we stepped or sat. Thankfully the snakes seemed to be just as cautious as us, and slid away to hide in the bush. It was great to see these amazing animals…. from a safe distance!
We were happy to arrive back at base camp after our adventure, in time to enjoy a great sunset over the Hazards Ranges. The pink and orange tones of the landscape become even more intense with a good sunset, so we set up our cameras to capture it as best we could.
Sunset at Honeymoon Bay
Dramatic afternoon at Coles Bay
Our next stop is Tasman Peninsula to dive Eagle Hawk Neck, which we are pretty excited about!