The Tasman Peninsula

The three days we spent on the Tasman Peninsula were wonderful. We indulged ourselves with more relaxed tourist outings, including some more alcohol tourism, and fewer hard core hikes. I think that we're still exhausted from climbing Mt. Amos First up were visits to a triumverate of amazing rock formations: the Tasman Arch, Devil's Kitchen and Remarkable Cave. After that it was off to gin tasting at McHenry's Distillery. Day 2 was spent at Port Arthur reflecting on theories about crime and punishment, while enjoying the photographic opportunities afforded by decaying buildings set in a beautiful landscape. On the third day we hiked to Cape Raoul and its organ pipe like rock structures. No land between the Cape and Antarctica. It was a reasonably hard walk because there was quite a bit of climbing at the start of the walk, although the track has been beautifully maintained. A lot of effort seems to be put into maintaining the tracks on the most propular day walks in Tasmania's national parks. It is very impressive but quite a contrast to walking over tree roots and down creek beds on the Overland Track. We think they have got the balance right though. Really make the day walks very accessible, while retaining the Overland Track as a more rugged, wilderness experience.

White Beach

Looking across towards Nubeena

Blow Hole

Devil's Kitchen

Port Arthur Penal Colony

Prisoners were punished with severe isolation; even the church stalls kept prisoners completely isolated

The Cape Raoul walk

At the end of this promentory you can see a white patch at the base of the stone. The photo below zooms in to reveal seals sunning themselves.