Which coastal walk to choose?
Australia has some of the most incredible coastlines in the world. The scenery is exceptional from the inviting azure blues of the waters washing up against the vast colours of white sand wash to dark red tones of towering jagged cliff tops. The sand surrounding the coastline varies from golden to the white powder like sand that slips through your fingers.
With an abundance of picturesque spots along the coastline it is the perfect place for activities, relaxation, picnic lunches whilst admiring the water views, exploring the fringing rainforests and spotting the local flora and fauna.
To discover some of Australia’s best coastlines, the below seven magnificent coastal walks stand out.
BIBBULMUN TRACK, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Stretching over 1,000 kilometres from the outskirts of Perth to Albany on the south west, the Bibbulmun Track is one of the world’s greatest long distance trail. A highlight of the trail is the section along the magnificent southern coastline from Albany to Denmark. The rugged coastal scenery and wildflowers on this section of the track are considered some of the best along the trail. April to May and September to November as the best times to walk the track, especially around October for the wildflowers,
Situated on the Great Southern Coast is the popular tourist village of Denmark, boasting a biodiversity hotspot and a long history with timber milling. During your time on the trail you will walk along steep sections and along pristine beaches whilst admiring the geological wonders, mountain ranges, animal life, rainforests and national parks.
Just a little off the Bibbulmun Track is a unique boardwalk underneath the wind farm at Albany. Gazing at the large towering turbines along the Southern Ocean is an experience.
To take on the Bibbulmun Track, join the 7-day trek. Click here for more information.
CAPE TO CAPE IN LUXURY, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Explore Western Australia’s stunning west coast from Perth to the southern-western point of the continent Cape Leeuwin. The peninsular is where the Great South Ocean meets the Indian Ocean.
The Cape to Cape Track is 135 kilometres in length along the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge with magnificent sweeping clifftops and spectacular beaches. Between the two lighthouses of Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin you will find rugged headlands, caves to explore and a floral display of seasonal wildflowers.
The Margaret River region is internationally renowned for its wine, local produce and surfing and is positioned in the middle of the Cape to Cape Track.
Venturing on the Cape to Cape Track, why not indulge in a luxury trek with an itinerary showcasing fresh local produce and wines from the region, whilst staying in a luxurious accommodation. The 8 day Cape to Cape Luxury journey will fulfil.
TWELVE APOSTLES WALK, VICTORIA
The iconic Twelve Apostles is a must to do list sightseeing activity for any visitor to Victoria, though most drive past it with short stops at lookouts. To truly marvel at the dramatic coastal terrain and take in the unique limestone towering rocks join a coastal trek.
These rock stacks were created by the rough Southern Ocean waves crashing against the soft rock. Caves were formed over millions of years and eventually developed into arches. Erosion caused the aches to crash into the ocean to form unique shaped short stack towers 45 metres high. Famous stacks include the London Bridge, its middle dropped into the ocean and Loch Ard Gorge with its narrow opening. The variation of light on the limestone icons are striking upon sunrise and sunset though are best in full sun as they shine a sandy yellow colour.
Flying over these masterpieces is another great opportunity to admire nature’s creation. Along these majestic rocks, the coastline slithers with rainforests to explore. Join The Twelve Apostles Walk over 4 days discovering this spectacular coastline.
South East of Tasmania is the historic Three Capes Track and Tasman Peninsula. It winds its way for 45 kilometres through eucalyptus forests, historic sites and the highest dramatic seas cliffs in Australia. The Three Capes Walk and Tasman Peninsular venture includes a walk to Cape Raoul and Cape Hauy. Starting with a visit of the Port Arthur Historic site where you will discover the 19th Century penal settlement. Remnants of the Convict Church remains within the penitentiary.
Cruise the Tasman Peninsula and explore deep sea caves, spot wildlife from whales, fur seals, dolphins and rare sea-eagles. Observe the majestic rugged clifftops, the highest and harshest in the Southern Hemisphere. For more information on the Three Capes Walk and Tasman Peninsula 3 day adventure click here.
If you're after a wilderness experience, then Bruny Island ticks all the boxes. To access the island which is made up of two islands with an isthmus, a vehicle ferry departs from Kettering taking 20 minutes to cross. It’s lovely crossing the D'Entrecasteaux Channel.
Bruny Island is a great escape for a short 3-day adventure and located a 40-minute drive from Hobart. A great way to explore the island is by bicycle where you can ride to oyster bars, berry farms and taste local produce along the way. Board the award-winning cruise for the Bruny Island wildlife spotting of fur seals and fairy penguins. Spot the white wallaby and birdwatching whilst walking through the rainforests or delve into the Southern Hemisphere’s largest dolomite cave, Hastings Cave.
For the best 360° panoramic views of Bruny Island’s coast head to Truganini Lookout accessed by the boardwalk in between the two islands known as “The Neck”. Book your next long weekend.
One of Tasmania’s iconic regions is the Bay of Fires with its orange lichen overed granite boulders and white sandy beaches. Centuries ago mariners would sail past and thought they saw spotted fires on the mainland though it was the giant rocks with their bright orange façade, hence the name chosen Bay of Fires.
The bay is a conservation area surrounded by inlets, rocky gullies and secluded beaches, great for swimming, surfing and walking along the white sand whilst admiring the view. With a rich marine life, divers and game fishing is enjoy on the offshore reef.
The Great Walks of Australia features the Bay of Fires in its collection. The signature 4 day Bay of Fires Lodge Walk discovers the bay commencing from Mt William National Park in the north-east and winding its exploration through woodland and the spectacular coastline. Paddle down the Ansons River to spot birdlife and venture into the shell caves along the way. Sample fresh Tasmanian local produce including cheese, wine, fish and fruits. Stay in the architecturally designed and award-winning Bay of Fires Lodge and reminisce each day’s highlight of exploring the stunning Bay of Fires.
MARIA ISLAND WALK, TASMANIA
Another Great Walks of Australia is the 4 days Maria Island Walk. A World Heritage national park, Maria Island is off the East Coast of Tasmania. The island is tranquil with no vehicles, only two rangers residing, beautiful beaches, sparkling waters, eucalypt rainforests and abundance of marine and wildlife. The island is described as “Noah’s Ark’ for its rare Tasmanian animals including the Tasmanian Devils, wombats, kangaroos, wallabies and birdlife.
During your time on Maria Island, endeavour on a soft adventure through an open forest, woodland and discover the historic convict settlement. Rock hop over boulders to the Fossil Cliffs to spot fossils captured in the former limestone quarry and take in the inviting views of Freycinet Peninsula and Schouten Island.
After the day’s walking adventure, head to the comfort of an 1880’s colonial house to relax and enjoy the delicious Tasmanian food and wine. After dinner, step outside to gaze the millions of stars.