From the lookout, the Wineglass Bay Track descends slowly to the sparkling blue waters and white sands of the beach. A walk to the south end of the beach takes about 20-30 minutes, and is rewarded by a striking view across Wineglass Bay to The Hazards. Return to the carpark via the lookout, total time is about 2-3 hours.
Location: Freycinet National Park
Distance: 3 kilometres return
Grade: 3 (some bushwalking experience recommended for steep grades and rough bus steps)
Distance from: Hobart - 197 km, Launceston - 179 km, Devonport - 260 km
This popular trail takes you to one of the most stunning views in all of Tasmania. Wineglass Bay's sensual shape and breathtakingly blue water has a white sandy beach exclamation point. It's simply not to be missed. But, to actually see the wineglass shape of the bay, you'll have to hike a bit to get to this elevated lookout.
Despite the ascent, this trail is suitable for just about everyone. You'll have to bring plenty of water and wear a bit of sunscreen, as the hike is mostly exposed, hot and dry. The track is well-worn and takes you over compact granite to some steps that are suitable for most. There are signs everywhere and you'll likely encounter plenty of people so there is no risk of getting lost. It's a great walk for the whole family and the entire trail should take you no more than 1.5 hours.
Turn south onto C302 off the A3 highway to enter Freycinet National Park. You'll have to pay an entrance fee but there's only one road through the park and the Wineglass Bay Lookout carpark is well signposted.
The drive from Launceston is quickest at 2 hours and 22 minutes over 179 kilometres. Hobart is 2 hours and 42 minutes away sitting 197 kilometres to the south. Devonport is 260 kilometres away and that drive should take you a little more than 3 hours. The Wineglass Bay Lookout and Freycinet National Park hike is fairly equidistant from Tasmania's biggest cities, making its beauty accessible for everyone.
Featured Day Tours:
Freycinet National Park is a popular tourist destination with plenty of facilities. You'll find toilets at the trailhead and picnic facilities near the carpark. You can load up on groceries and supplies in nearby Coles Bay.
Granite
Dolerite is a rock unique to Australia and makes up much of the Tasmanian island. But this short hike will take you over granite which is fairly rare in the Natural State. Granite is responsible for many of the stunning geological formations that you'll see in Freycinet National Park and explains why this swath of protected land looks a little bit different than most other areas of Tasmania. Be sure to thank the granite underfoot for the beauty you'll witness on your walk.
Pets are not allowed in Freycinet National Park.
The steepness at the end of the track may make this walk difficult for those with health or mobility issues.
Make sure to apply sunscreen and pack plenty of water as most of the hike is exposed, hot and dry, especially during summer months.
Be sure to supervise children at the lookout as there are hazardous cliffs and steep rocky drop-offs.
