Blogs from Freycinet, Tasmania, Australia, Oceania

Although Melbourne is a wonderful city, and more European than most places in Australia, we did not actually spend much time there. Following our visit to Healesville, the next day we went to the Mornington Peninsula (more on that later) and the the following day visited the Museum and then flew to Hobart, Tasmania. For some reason, even more than the rest of Australia, Tasmania has always seemed a particularly exotic destination to me. Not sure if it is the prison background, or the sordid aboriginal history, or the Tasmanian devils of cartoons, or perhaps the far southernly location, but Tasmania has always seemed the stuff of dreams. As it turns out, it is indeed that in some ways. With only two days to spend in Tassie, we elected to focus on two things: the beauty ... read more

After we replaced the alternator on the bus (the first of three major service / repair tasks which would continue each month until March), we had two trips up the East Coast during January. Mayfield was packed, with people, tents and vehicles looking like sardines in a tin so we just couldn't stay there. We continued on and parked on the side of the road. We had a great view (all to ourselves) of Great Oyster Bay until these two young Brits stopped to chat. We gave them directions down to the beach and heard of their plans travelling Australia. They were lovely to chat to. The next day we drove up to Freycinet and climbed the Wineglass Bay track to the lookout. As we were walking back down to the bus, we met the two ... read more

Saffire connects with its environment to generate an authentic, enriching, rejuvenating and uplifting experience. Distinct in its design, exclusive in its features and set apart by its approach to tailored, one-on-one experiences and service, Saffire’s approach is not constrained by traditional five-star ratings and standards, but instead sets a bold new direction for holidays and accommodation in Australia. Dedicated to providing quality, memorable service; unforgettable experiences; indulgent and self-selected dining options; inspiring accommodation spaces and an overall sense of wellbeing and relaxation, Saffire will change the way you feel about taking time out, and about day-to-day living. Saffire is boutique not only in its size, with just 20 accommodation suites, but in its approach to making your well-deserved break last a lifetime. All of our suites are luxuriously appointed,... read more

Today we rented a car (don't rent from Budget, they're awful) and firstly, drove it up Mount Wellington. I hadn't driven for over a year but I was surprised at how naturally it came back! So naturally in fact that I kept trying to change gear in an automatic! The views all the way up the mountain were amazing although admittedly, I only really saw them in my wing mirror. When we arrived at the top, we could see for absolute miles. The city, the water, the harbours, the roads, the beaches. Well, this was definitely worth it! We parked up, got out of the car and were nearly blown away! I'd never felt wind as strong as that before, it actually moved me! And it was freezing. We took a stroll up to the summit ... read more

DAY 121 Like yesterday the weather today is beautiful, we are up, ready and out by 10.30. I had l had helped Keith the guy over the way connect his Pajero up to his little van, then he towed it away sweet as a nut. Today we are going to Wine Glass Bay, dropping in to the visitors centre first to get a map of all the walks. Caroline was particularly interested in Wine glass bay as she had had a recommendation from a friend, who has been here that it was a must do. We were unsure of why it was called wine glass bay, but were soon to find out. The Visitor’s Centre today was busy with people, it is a bank holiday weekend so it seems that all of Tasmania plus lots of ... read more