Bay Of Fires

Bay Of Fires

by | Jul 29, 2024 | Locations, Tasmania

Exploring
Bay of Fires

Tasmania

Traveling to the Bay of Fires as a family offers a truly unforgettable experience. Immersing you in one of Australia’s premier nature regions. With exceptional beaches, river systems, forests, waterfalls, and mountains, this area is a haven for nature lovers. We stayed at the Tasman Caravan Park in St Helens, which proved to be a fantastic base for all our adventures in the region.

Discovering The Gardens

Our journey began with a visit to The Gardens, the northernmost part of the Bay of Fires. This remote wilderness meets a stunning coastline, offering pristine beaches and captivating walks. The untouched beauty of this area made it a highlight of our trip, and we highly recommend spending time exploring its natural wonders.

Beach Bliss at Binalong Bay

Next, we headed to Binalong Bay, a charming small town with unreal beaches perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The crystal-clear waters and white sandy shores provided a picturesque setting for a family day out. The kids loved splashing in the waves, and we enjoyed the serene ambiance of this coastal gem.

The Fascinating Little Blue Lake

Located at South Mount Cameron, Little Blue Lake is a geological marvel worth visiting. The lake’s hyper blue color is due to abnormal mineral levels, creating a mesmerizing sight. Although swimming is not advised, the fun walk around half the lake provided plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to marvel at its unique beauty.

Mountain Biking in Derby

For a change of pace, we visited Derby, a small town dedicated to mountain biking. With several world-class trails, driving into town felt like stepping into a mountain biking movie. We also indulged in a visit to the floating sauna, a truly exceptional and unique experience that left us refreshed and rejuvenated.

Culinary Delights and Natural Wonders

No trip to the Bay of Fires is complete without a visit to the Pub in the Paddock and Pyengana Dairy Company. The pub, one of Australia’s oldest, served exceptional food, and the dairy company offered live cow milking presentations and some of the most incredible ice cream we’ve ever tasted. Just up the road, St Columba Falls, one of Tasmania’s premier waterfalls, provided a spectacular sight. Ella found a small water hole near the falls for a refreshing dip.

Surfing and Sand Dunes

Beerbarrel Beach was a great spot for a surf, and Ella caught a couple of waves in the afternoon. However, be mindful of the tricky currents. We also visited Peron Dunes, an exceptional spot for the kids to slide down on bodyboards and have fun running around the massive dune system right on the beach.

Surf Village Vibes at Beaumaris Beach

Our adventure continued to Beaumaris Beach, a little surf village where we spent fun mornings chatting with locals and watching surfers. The open beach, with its left break off a small headland, provided an exciting surfing experience.

Navigating St Mary’s Pass

On our way to St Helens, we drove through St Mary’s and down St Mary’s Pass. After our experience with Bulli Pass, we were initially apprehensive, but we found this pass manageable if you take your time. Set your brakes right and enjoy the scenic drive without too much fret.

Traveling to the Bay of Fires as a family was a remarkable experience filled with adventure, natural beauty, and memorable moments. We can’t wait to return and explore even more of this incredible region.

Great Ocean Road

Great Ocean Road

by | Jul 28, 2024 | Locations, Victoria

Exploring the
Great Ocean Road

Victoria

Traveling to the Great Ocean Road as a family is an experience filled with breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and unforgettable memories. Stretching along the southeastern coast of Australia, this iconic drive offers a wealth of activities and attractions that cater to all ages. Our family embarked on this journey, relishing the sights and sounds of this spectacular region.

Where to Stay

Finding the perfect accommodation is essential when exploring the Great Ocean Road. We chose to stay at the NRMA Park Port Campbell after spending a week in Torquay. Torquay served as an excellent base for exploring the eastern section of the road up to Lorne. From Port Campbell, we were perfectly positioned to enjoy the western half of this magnificent drive.

Lorne, Marengo, and Port Campbell are just a few of the fantastic spots worth spending a few nights. Each town has its unique charm and offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and adventure.

Must-See Attractions

No trip along the Great Ocean Road would be complete without visiting its most famous landmarks. The Twelve Apostles, Gibson Steps, and London Bridge are truly awe-inspiring. Despite the crowds, these sites are a must-see. Although Loch Ard Gorge was closed during our visit, the other attractions more than made up for this disappointment.

An unexpected gem we discovered was Marcus Point. This secluded spot was magic, providing a tranquil escape from the busier tourist areas. We enjoyed exploring the coastline here, taking in the stunning views.

Unique Experiences

Timboon is a delightful town that should not be missed. We spent a lovely afternoon indulging in Timboon Ice Cream and wandering through the town’s charming streets. Another highlight was the Bay of Martyrs, where Ella braved the cold for a refreshing swim in a picturesque setting.

Our adventure also took us to the Redwood Otways, a breathtaking forest that left us in awe. The towering trees and serene atmosphere made it a highlight of our trip. While in the area, we visited Hopetoun Falls. Although swimming is not allowed, the walk to the falls is well worth it for the stunning views.

Off-Grid Camping

For those seeking a more rustic experience, Johanna Beach offers a fantastic off-grid camping option. This spot holds special memories for us, especially when I had the chance to photograph world-renowned surfer John-John Florence here. It remains one of my favorite surf photography moments.

Memories of Marengo

Reflecting on our previous trip in 2017, we fondly remember our stay at the Marengo Family Caravan Park. Nestled on the headland, it provided a stunning backdrop for our Great Ocean Road adventure.

Travel Tips

Traveling the Great Ocean Road as a family requires some preparation, especially if you’re towing a caravan. The road is incredibly beautiful but also narrow and busy, so take care while driving. Despite the challenges, the journey is worth every moment for the unforgettable experiences and memories you’ll create.

All things considered, traveling to the Great Ocean Road as a family is an adventure that combines natural beauty, exciting activities, and quality time together. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this trip promises something special for everyone.

Fleurieu Peninsula

Fleurieu Peninsula

by | Jul 26, 2024 | Locations, South Australia

Exploring
Longford

Tasmania

The Fleurieu Peninsula is a magical area, perfect for a family getaway. With raw beaches, national parks, wineries, cute coastal towns, and lots to do, it was easy to spend ten days based in Victor Harbour. Traveling to the Fleurieu Peninsula as a family allowed us to experience the stunning landscapes and diverse activities that this region offers.

Staying at NRMA Victor Harbour Beachfront Holiday Park

We chose the NRMA Victor Harbour Beachfront Holiday Park for our stay on the Fleurieu Peninsula. It had everything you could want as a family and more. The park boasts water slides, a pool, a jumping pillow, a TV room, and plenty of other amenities to keep everyone entertained. The location was perfect, allowing us to explore the peninsula easily.

Exploring Granite Island

One of our first adventures was walking over to Granite Island. It’s an unreal spot, featuring a café and plenty of trails to explore. The island offers beautiful views and a chance to see some local wildlife. The kids enjoyed the walk, and we all loved the fresh air and scenic surroundings.

Fun at Horseshoe Bay

Horseshoe Bay is a beautiful, protected beach with a playground and a café. It was an excellent spot for a family day out. The kids had a blast at the playground, and we enjoyed a leisurely coffee while watching them play. The beach itself is perfect for a swim, making it a favorite spot during our trip.

Surfing at Middleton Point

Middleton Point is a classic surf beach, working slightly like a point break. The cold waters were a bit much for Ella, but I managed to catch a few waves in the mornings alongside some brave locals. The beach has a rugged charm, and it was a great place to soak up the local surf culture.

The Scenic Drive to Cape Jervis

The drive from Victor Harbour to Cape Jervis and back was a highlight of our trip. We explored remote and wild beaches, some of which looked incredible for surfing under the right conditions. Cape Jervis is a small town where the ferry departs for Kangaroo Island. We also visited Morgan’s Beach, drove on the beach, played in the dunes, and Ella had a swim. The landscape along this drive is truly breathtaking.

Relaxing in Rapid Bay

Rapid Bay is a beautiful little town we would love to stay in next time. With an unpowered park right on the beach, it’s protected from southerly and westerly winds. The area is ideal for relaxing, swimming, fishing, and boating. It’s a hidden gem on the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Treats in Normanville

A visit to the bakery in Normanville provided us with some very good treats for lunch. The town has a relaxed fishing village vibe, and we enjoyed walking around and soaking in the atmosphere. It’s a quaint stop that added to the charm of our trip.

Enjoying Down the Rabbit Hole Winery and Restaurant

Down the Rabbit Hole Winery and Restaurant was bustling with activity when we visited. Ella tasted some wines, the kids played in the play area, and we had a fantastic time. It’s definitely a spot to add to the return list, with a great ambiance and delicious offerings.

Victor Harbour Essentials

Victor Harbour is a great town, providing opportunities to stock up on supplies, shop at Kmart, get some 4WD gear, and prepare for adventures around South Australia. It served as an excellent base for our travels on the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Traveling to the Fleurieu Peninsula as a family was a delightful experience, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. From exploring islands and surf spots to enjoying local treats and scenic drives, the Fleurieu Peninsula has something for everyone.

Longford

Longford

by | Jul 23, 2024 | Locations, Tasmania

Exploring
Longford

Tasmania

Traveling to Longford as a family offered us an exceptional opportunity to explore the heart of Tasmania. This quaint, historic town, just 20 minutes south of Launceston, became our perfect base for our adventures in central Tasmania. We stayed at the picturesque Longford Riverside Caravan Park, nestled on the banks of the Macquarie River. The park provided great facilities and friendly staff, making our stay pleasant and comfortable.

Launceston: The Hub of Convenience

Launceston, being so close, was our go-to city for all our needs. Whether it was stocking up on supplies, getting a car service, or indulging in fast food, Launceston had it all. The city also boasts a variety of attractions that kept the kids entertained. From interactive museums to beautiful parks, there was no shortage of activities to fill our days.

The Majestic Liffy Falls

A highlight of our trip was visiting Liffy Falls, about an hour’s drive from Longford. The journey itself was breathtaking, showcasing the best of central Tasmania’s landscapes. Liffy Falls is undoubtedly one of Australia’s premier waterfall systems. Ella, our adventure-loving daughter, braved the freezing waters for a swim, though the rest of us were content to admire the falls from the sidelines.

Delightful Longford Berries

Our visit to Longford Berries was another family favorite. This charming berry-picking spot offered incredible ice cream and strawberry gin tasting, much to the delight of both the kids and adults. The small playground kept the little ones busy while we enjoyed the warm hospitality of the owners. It was a perfect blend of relaxation and fun, making it a memorable stop on our journey.

The Scenic Great Lake

We dedicated half a day to exploring Great Lake, a trip that involved a lot of driving and sightseeing. Situated in the middle of Tasmania, this area is known for its cooler temperatures. Even in summer, it was quite chilly, but the stunning scenery made it worthwhile. The vast, serene lake and its surrounding landscapes were a testament to Tasmania’s natural beauty.

Discovering Honeycomb Caves

Our adventure took an unexpected turn when we stumbled upon Honeycomb Caves near Mole Creek. While the famous Mole Creek caves require booking and come with a fee, Honeycomb Caves offered a free and flexible alternative. This off-grid camping area featured a fascinating underground creek system that we could explore. Ella, ever the brave soul, took a dip in the frigid 8-degree water, adding to her collection of daring swims.

Easy Access to Longford

Driving to Longford was a breeze, thanks to the almost entirely dual-lane highway. This ease of access made our travels smooth and stress-free, allowing us to focus on enjoying our time together as a family.

Traveling to Longford as a family was a delightful experience filled with stunning landscapes, charming local spots, and plenty of adventure. From the historic town’s hospitality to the natural wonders of central Tasmania, every moment was a cherished memory.

Stanley

Stanley

by | Jul 23, 2024 | Locations, Tasmania

Exploring
Stanley

Tasmania

Nestled on the North West coast of Tasmania, Stanley is the largest town in the region, boasting historic charm and serving as a hub for surrounding fishing villages. With its scenic landscapes and quaint atmosphere, Traveling to Stanley as a family offers a perfect getaway for families seeking adventure and relaxation.

Getting to Stanley

Traveling to Stanley as a family will most likely include either traveling west from Devonport or Launceston. This route takes you through several major towns where you can stock up on essentials before reaching Stanley. Alternatively, you might come from the south, passing through towns like Strahan, Queenstown, or Zeehan. Having previously driven this route in a small campervan, we decided against taking our caravan due to the challenging roads.

Our journey from Gowrie Park to Stanley involved backtracking to Devonport before heading along the coast. The initial part of the drive was narrow and winding, but after Devonport, the road transformed into a major highway, making the drive as easy as it gets in Tasmania.

A Delightful Stop at Tuckers Beach Strawberry Farm

On our way to Stanley, we stopped for lunch at Tuckers Beach Strawberry Farm. This place was a highlight of our trip. With incredible food, a great play area for the kids, and the opportunity to pick your own strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries, it was a perfect family stop. The kids loved exploring the farm and tasting the fresh berries straight from the vine.

Accommodation at Big 4 Stanley

We stayed at the Big 4 Stanley for our four-day visit. It was one of the few parks where you didn’t have to pay for showers, a small but appreciated detail. The facilities were excellent, and the staff were friendly and accommodating, making our stay comfortable and enjoyable.

Exploring Stanley

Walking The Nut

One of the must-do activities in Stanley is trekking The Nut, a volcanic plug that stands out as one of Australia’s most unique landmarks. The walk up and around The Nut is a fun couple of kilometers, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. We tackled it on a particularly windy day, but it seems that windy conditions are more common than calm ones in this region.

Surfing at Godfrey’s Beach

Ella managed to squeeze in a surf session at Godfrey’s Beach on a day when the winds were offshore and the waves were clean. This iconic spot provided an unforgettable surfing experience, even if it was brief.

Dinner at Hursey Seafoods

Mel and Gary kindly took care of the kids one evening, allowing us to enjoy a date night at Hursey Seafoods. The seafood was exceptional, and we had a wonderful time dining in this charming restaurant, making it one of the memorable highlights of our trip.

Greenpoint Beach

We also took a drive to Greenpoint Beach, about an hour away, to check the surf. Although the wind wasn’t favorable that day, the raw beauty of this remote beach was evident. It’s renowned for being a great surfing spot, and we could easily see its potential.

National Park Drives

Stanley is surrounded by accessible nature reserves and national parks. We took the time to explore some of Australia’s most remote forests, immersing ourselves in the tranquility and beauty of the natural environment.

Traveling to Stanley as a family provided us with a mix of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. From trekking up The Nut to enjoying fresh seafood, Stanley offered something for everyone. If you’re planning a family trip, Stanley should definitely be on your list.