While dreaming of a relaxing coastal holiday, I also kept wondering if a 6-year-old can do the popular Wineglass Bay lookout track. Researching things to do in Swansea or Tasmania in general can quickly spiral into FOMO, as pretty much every location, every hike looks picture-perfect. Finally, after many iterations, I came up with a plan, balancing a relaxing holiday with a kid with just enough adventure to keep things interesting.
After spending 3 amazing nights in Hobart, we headed towards Swansea to spend 2 nights by the east coast.
Hobart – 3 nights in Hobart | Huon to Bruny Island
The landscape from Hobart to Swansea is a stunning showcase of Tasmania’s geographical diversity. One moment, you are winding through quaint towns nestled in emerald-green valleys, and the next, you’re crossing tidal rivers or navigating roads that hug the seaside, offering sweeping views of shimmering turquoise water. It’s an ever-changing landscape that makes the journey memorable.
We stopped at Orford Beach, where my son promptly took off his shoes and jumped into the water. The view of Maria Island against the peaceful blue backdrop isn’t something I get to witness every day. It mutes every single chaotic thought in my head. Maria Island is a national park and is a short ferry ride away from the neighboring town of Triabunna.
After eventually coaxing my son back to the car, we finally made our way to Swansea.
Our hotel was right by the seaside, near the Jetty at The Great Oyster Bay. Waking up to that view was an absolute dream. I spent two nights sitting outside our room, wrapped in thick blankets, staring up at the vast, clear sky, hoping to wish upon a shooting star.
Great Oyster Bay – Swansea
One of my favourite photos from our stay in Swansea
Watching sunset with my son – although it was quite chilly, we managed to walk on the Jetty at sunset.
Loontitetermairrelehoiner (pronounced Loon-ti-te-mair-re-le-hoiner) Walking Track
2-hour circuit walk designated as one of Tasmania’s “60 Great Short Walks” and also known as the 2nd longest geographical place name in Australia. This is a great option for those looking for an easy walking track with excellent Bay views. You can also enjoy learning about local history and coastal flora. Read more about its history – Loontitetermairrelehoiner
Since I was staying nearby, I spotted this track on the map while looking for cafes and was immediately fascinated by the name. While my husband and son rested back at the room, I stepped out in the evening to explore.
It is an easy walk, though there are some rugged, slippery spots where you need to tread carefully. Looking out toward The Hazards, the Freycinet Peninsula, and Schouten Island, the trail provided exactly the quiet, relaxing escape I was looking for on holiday. I started from the jetty at Great Oyster Bay and walked towards Schouten beach. In the calm of a quiet coastal town evening, I immersed myself in the sound of the crashing waves and the beautiful seascape spread before me.
Swansea to Wineglass Bay Road Trip – Freycinet National Park
The drive from Swansea to Wineglass Bay is about 45 minutes, taking us through the ancient mountainous terrain. We caught glimpses of the impossibly blue and turquoise Tasman Sea. All visitors are required to have a valid National Parks Pass. Daily pass costs about $47.70 AUD per vehicle (covers up to 8 people) – Ideal if you plan to visit Freycinet for a day. Since we were also planning to hike in Cradle Mountain, a 2-month pass was more reasonable for us as it costs $95.50 AUD. You can find more info on the park website.
Freycinet has a fascinating history. The peninsula was the traditional land of the Toorernomairremener people, a band of the Oyster Bay Tribe, consisting of about 600 – 700 people. For over 30,000 years, they moved seasonally between the coast and the inland tiers. More aboriginal history – here
The Hazards
Wineglass Bay Lookout Hike with a 6-year-old
Time: 1 – 1.5 hours, Approx: 400 steps one way, Difficulty: Grade 3 stone and timber path with steep ascent
It was a dream of mine to complete one of Tasmania’s most stunning and iconic hikes with my 6-year-old son. Armed with plenty of snacks, chocolates, and frequent water breaks, we successfully conquered the steep trail in about two hours.The hike starts flat, but we soon encountered steep stairs all the way to the lookout point. This hike is definitely a heart-pumper, but as long as one has a moderate fitness level, it is completely achievable.
We stopped at many spots that provided gorgeous views of Coles Bay. The turquoise water looked so calming, shimmering in the bright sunlight. The hike was busier than last time, and it was so motivating to see people of all ages – from kids to the elderly.
Fueled by Doritos and chocolate balls, we finally reached the saddle. This lookout point sits perfectly between Mount Amos and Mount Mayson, and I was surprised to find a new boardwalk built for proper access. The wild wind blew across the deck as we walked along, admiring the mind-blowing panoramic view of the iconic curve of the white sand. The striking blue hues of the sea, engulfed by ancient mountains – it was a sight to behold.
While many visitors think that Wineglass Bay derives its name from the unique shape of the beach, in fact, the name has a much darker history. In the 19th century, the bay was a major shore-based whaling station. When whales were harvested and processed in the bay, the water would frequently turn red with blood, resembling a glass filled with red wine.
The bay is surrounded by a range of mountains called The Hazards, whose peaks are made of pink-tinted granite and are said to give a rosy glow at sunset. Unfortunately, I didn’t stay long enough to witness that.
There is no road access to the beach. The only way to reach the pristine white shore is to hike for another 45 minutes from the Wineglass Bay Lookout point, which is a good 1000-steps descent. And unless you plan to do the Hazards Beach circuit, it is 1000 steps ascent back to the car park. Since I was hiking with my son, I skipped going to the beach this time. But I absolutely enjoyed my hike when I was here in 2017 – Wineglass Bay Beach.
Cape Tourville Track
Distance – 600m circuit, Pram friendly, Grade 1 Easy walk
After completing the Wineglass bay hike, we drove towards Cape Tourville within Freycinet National Park. The weather was lovely and sunny, but extremely windy. Since the walk was only 600m, I decided to step out and explore the track while my family stayed tucked inside away from the wild gusts. The whole track is a hardened path, with a well-maintained elevated boardwalk hugging the cliff. I gasped as I turned a corner and saw the 360-degree panoramic view of the coastline open up before me.
The wind was strong here, whipping across my face – and my heart skipped a beat as I stared out at the vast ocean and the dizzying drop below. I couldn’t believe that I was witnessing this paradise on Earth.
Look at these stunning vistas!!
Cape Tourville Lighthouse
The lighthouse you see today is actually a fully automated electric light.
I walked further towards the lighthouse before taking a quick pram-friendly route back to the car park.
On our way back to the Swansea motel, we stopped at The Pondering Frog Cafe. It was a lucky find, as it was the only spot we found open during the public holiday. After filling our tummies, we took a stroll around the cafe grounds. The cafe also featured a playground for kids and some gorgeous lilies in bloom.
We spent a relaxing evening at the motel, enjoying a beautiful sunset over the quiet coastal town. The next day, we checked out and drove towards Cradle Mountain.
Related Post: Epic 11-Day road trip in Tasmania | Travel Itinerary
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