Breathe deep in Freycinet National Park & Wineglass Bay

USTRALIA // You might think this bay, a silvery crescent of sand hugging a shimmering lagoon, is named for its shape, or the fact that it's an excellent place to lounge with a glass of vino. But Wineglass Bay owes its title to something far less pleasant. In the early 1800s this corner of eastern Tasmania's Freycinet Peninsula was home to a whaling station, and the blood of the slaughtered whales turned the water as red as Cabernet. Today the exquisite bay is part of Freycinet National Park, a land of pink granite mountains, fragrant eucalyptus forests and sunsets like melted gold. Kayak in the tropical-coloured (but cold!) water, scramble over lichen-covered rock formations and watch white- bellied sea eagles swoop over feldspar cliffs.

 

What is special about Wineglass Bay?

Wineglass Bay is part of the Freycinet Peninsula, an outcrop of wild, pristine coast land on Tasmania's east coast. Encompassed within the Freycinet National Park, it is considered one of the top ten beaches in the world.

What is Freycinet National Park known for?

Freycinet has global appeal – it is iconic, memorable and breathtaking. The park is best known for the stunning beauty of Wineglass Bay - its crystal-clear waters and curvaceous white beach is one of Tasmania's most celebrated views. Beyond Wineglass Bay, there's plenty more to uncover at Freycinet.

Is Freycinet National Park free?

Entry fees are applicable to Freycinet National Park. Fees range from $40.00 per vehicle a day to yearly fees of $90.00 for an annual all parks vehicle pass. For day visits there are electric barbecues, picnic tables, water and toilets located at Honeymoon Bay and Ranger Creek .

How much is a pass to Freycinet National Park?

Daily Pass – valid for up to 24 hours (excludes Cradle Mountain) costs 24 AUD per vehicle (up to 8 people) or 12 AUD per person. Holiday Pass – valid for up to 8 weeks, includes Cradle Mountain and costs 60 AUD per vehicle (up to 8 people) or 30 AUD per person. Kids under 5 years old can enter for free.

Why is it called Wineglass Bay?

In the early 1800s, there were whalers and sealers working and living in the area. The whalers would set out in small boats from the shore to chase and harpoon passing whales, before towing them back to shore to be butchered. Whenever this happened, the bay would turn red with blood, like red wine in a glass.