Freycinet National Park is one of Tasmania’s most iconic destinations, a blend of dramatic coastal scenery, pristine beaches, and rugged mountain landscapes. We visit this incredible park for one day on each of Under Down Under’s guided multiday tours around Tasmania, providing a deeper and more meaningful experience through the provision of plentiful interpretation ranging from palawa and European history of the region, to local flora and fauna.
Located on the island’s east coast about 2.5 drive hours from Hobart, Freycinet offers visitors unforgettable views and diverse hiking trails, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers. Whether you’re after scenic lookouts, beach strolls, or challenging hikes, Freycinet promises to be a highlight of your tour of Tasmania.
The National Park was Born
Recognising the unique beauty and ecological significance of the area, the Tasmanian government declared Freycinet Peninsula a national park in 1916, alongside Mount Field National Park. These were the first national parks in Tasmania.
Honeymoon Bay: A Hidden Gem
Generally we start our Freycinet experience at Honeymoon Bay. Tucked away from the crowds, Honeymoon Bay offers a quiet, tranquil setting. The calm waters, surrounded by granite boulders and the towering Hazards mountains, make it perfect for swimming or simply enjoying the beauty of nature.
Wineglass Bay Lookout & Beach: The Crown Jewel of Freycinet
Arguably the park’s most famous attraction, Wineglass Bay, is known for its crescent-shaped, powder-white beach and turquoise waters.
To reach the Wineglass Bay Lookout, a 45-minute uphill walk rewards you with breathtaking views of the bay below, framed by the surrounding mountains. The lookout is perfect for photos and taking in the natural beauty of the area. If you’re up for a more challenging trek, continue down to Wineglass Bay Beach. The hike down takes about 30 minutes. The majority of our small groups choose to walk to the Lookout and head to the beach, and once you’re on the sand, the effort is well worth it. The beach is often quiet, providing a peaceful escape to relax, swim, or have a picnic.
Mount Amos: A Rewarding Challenge
For adventurers seeking a more strenuous hike, Mount Amos is the challenge to take on. Part of the Hazards Range, this steep, rocky trail is not for the faint-hearted but offers unparalleled panoramic views over Wineglass Bay and the surrounding coastline. The climb takes around 2 to 3 hours and involves rock scrambling, so it’s best for experienced hikers with a good fitness level. The walk is also very weather dependent and should not be attempted if the rock is wet due to safety reasons. However, when the conditions are right, the sense of accomplishment and the stunning scenery at the top make it one of the best experiences in Freycinet.
Cape Tourville: A Coastal Panorama
Cape Tourville offers an easy walk with breathtaking coastal views. The Cape Tourville Lighthouse is the perfect vantage point for admiring the rugged coastline and the endless blue ocean. The well-maintained boardwalk leads around the cape, providing photo opportunities and a chance to spot wildlife, such as dolphins, seals, or even migrating whales during the season. The trail is short and accessible and there’s a terrific infographic showing the different sizes of whales at the start of the trail.
Some guests who have less mobility and do not wish to attempt the walk to Wineglass will still thoroughly enjoy Freycinet. Guests love having a coffee, glass of wine, or meal at Freycinet Lodge with its wonderous views while other guests are out walking, and are still able to experience Honeymoon Bay and Cape Tourville Lighthouse.
Our day in Freycinet is always a busy one, but there’s time for relaxation too. For sure, experiencing this National Park will be nestled with your favourite Tasmanian memories.
Visit Under Down Under’s website for bookings and to check availability on our multiday tours of Tasmania.