Freycinet National Park

Australia’s oldest national park is also home to some of its most stunning natural assets. Visit on a day trip from Launceston or Hobart; full-day itineraries typically include a hike to the Wineglass Bay lookout, as well as stops at towns such as Orford, Triabunna, and Coles Bay. To experience more of Tasmania’s wonders, opt for a multi-day tour, which usually includes the national park, along with Cradle Mountain, Mount Field National Park, Montezuma Falls, and a Tasmanian Devil animal sanctuary.

If you’re looking for adventure, tackle the 19-mile (30-kilometer) Freycinet Peninsula Circuit, a 3- to 4-day bush trek along rainforest trails and sandy beaches—you might even spot dolphins and wombats.

• Freycinet National Park is a must-visit for adventure seekers, outdoor enthusiasts, and photographers.
• Remember to bring swimming gear in the summer, and warm layers in the winter, as the average daytime temperature dips to 53°F (12°C).
• Don’t forget your camera for a photo op at the Wineglass Bay lookout.
• Day tours typically last 12 hours, so prepare for a long day.
• The boardwalk at Cape Tourville is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible.

Freycinet National Park is about a 2.5-hour drive from both Hobart and Launceston via the A3 Tasman Highway; Coles Bay is the nearest township. For convenience, join a guided tour with round-trip transportation.

Thanks to its mild climate, the national park is a year-round destination, though crowds peak between December and February. The Hazards are at their most photogenic around sunrise or sunset, while the blues of Wineglass Bay tend to be brightest around midday.

This Tasmanian national park is a top bird-watching destination in the region. Spot white-bellied sea eagles gliding over the water or Australasian gannets diving for fish. Venture into the forested areas to see spinebills and honeyeaters, or to hear large groups of cockatoos.