The experience begins with salty wind in your hair – a boat cruise across to Denman’s Cove. It’s then onward to Crescent Bay Lodge, sitting loftily with views across to Cape Raoul.
Day two includes summiting Arthurs Peak (keep an eye out for sea eagles), making our way to Cape Pillar Lodge, home for the next two nights. Perhaps a massage or relaxing bath while dinner is being prepared? Your pick for day three – an adventure through silver gum forest out to Cape Pillar and the infamous Blade or lazing the day away at the lodge. We must say, the views out to Tasman Island from the Blade are something else.
Those with plenty of kilometres left in the legs can take a side trip on the final day out to Cape Hauy while others can choose a direct route to Fortescue Bay. From here, we’ll take you back to Hobart where we’ll raise a glass to our four days well spent!
Day 1: Hobart - Crescent Lodge (approx 2 hours walking)
At the start of your walk you will be picked up from MACq01 between 9:00am - 9:10am, followed by the Old Woolstore between 9:05am - 9:15am. Or if you prefer, make your own way down to the walkers base (164 Murray Street, Hobart) at 9:30am. On arrival, you will meet your guides and have a briefing.
Upon arrival at Stewarts Bay we will make our way down to the jetty where a private boat will be waiting to depart for our short trip across to Denman’s Cove at 1:15pm. Cruising with views back to Port Arthur, aside from the possible seal and dolphin spotting, some of the highest dolerite cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere come into view, an indication of the drama to come.
In Denman’s Cove we’ll fuel you with local produce for lunch, in preparation for a gentle walk through coastal woodland to the rocky refuge of Surveyors Cove. At this point, if the Southern Ocean begs, head for a dip before a gradual incline up to the lodge.
Crescent Lodge is perched high, with far stretching views across Crescent Bay to Cape Raoul, with guest rooms spilling into the gully. Settle in with a warm shower as your guides-come-chefs prepare a three-course feast of local fare. Post dinner, take your Tassie pinot to a quiet deck for your own private sunset.
Day 2: Crescent Lodge - Cape Pillar Lodge (approx 5 hours walking)
Wake to the silence of Crescent Lodge and wander down to the stunning dining room for a hearty breakfast to start the day. From here, head due south with views across Safety Cove and Maingon Bay to Bruny Island. Climbing Arthurs Peak, 300 metres above sea level, is worth the oceanic vista. In these parts, White Bellied Sea Eagles soar in the thermal currents, so be sure to look skyward. Lunch isn’t far away, an easy downhill descent to south-facing cliffs where pelagic seabirds are plenty - albatross, petrels and gannets. Here, there’s nothing between you and Antarctica.
Following lunch, skirt the edge of Tornado Ridge before heading south toward Cape Pillar Lodge, your base for the next two nights. Your pace might quicken in the knowledge there is a massage, facial or relaxation bath on offer at Cape Pillar Lodge.
Day 3: Cape Pillar Lodge return (approx 6 hours walking - optional)
This is the most adventurous day of your journey. Today you’ll walk through silver gum forest (Eucalyptus Tenuiramis), a species endemic to the area, out to the highest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere. There’s little wonder Cape Pillar has been afforded other names – Hurricane Heath and Desolation Gully. A side trip to The Blade is a must, with staggering views across to Tasman Island.
Lunch is served at Chasm Lookout – with Tasman Island’s weathered lighthouse in sight. It’s then a direct return journey home to Cape Pillar Lodge where the relaxation pavilion, three-course goodness and ocean views await. By now, walking strangers might just have become firm friends. Unlace the boots, read a book with sea breeze in your toes.
Those with a penchant for pampering can forego today’s walk and spend the day at Cape Pillar Lodge. Enjoy one of our relaxing treatments ranging from 30 to 60 minutes and immerse yourself in the enchanting surrounds.
Day 4: Cape Pillar Lodge - Fortescue Bay (approx 6 hours walking - Cape Hauy side trip optional)
Time to farewell Cape Pillar's safe forest haven. From here you’ll cross Retakunna Creek (local indigenous dialect for creaking trees) en route to a patch of rainforest. Breathe it in – lush mosses, ferns and vibrant greens. Next mission is the peninsula’s highest peak, Mount Fortescue, climbing some 490 metres above sea level.Enjoy lunch with leafy-framed ocean views overlooking The Monument.
Take the side trip and enjoy the majesty of Cape Hauy - or simply remain with the group for a final cliff-walk descent onto the cool white sands of Fortescue Bay. This is your chance to drop the pack and sink your toes in pristine sands or perhaps take a celebratory dive into the crystal clear waves.We will then travel back to Hobart (approximately 5.45pm) via the airport (approximately 5.30pm).We will finish in Hobart with a glass of celebratory bubbles.
Departs daily from Hobart
All prices are quoted per person twin share and are on a seasonal basis.
Signature Three Capes Track:
Long Weekend Three Capes Track:
Call our local travel team on 1300 414 198 to book your guided walking holiday!
The groups have exclusive use of the only private Lodge accommodation along the track. Our lodges are architecturally designed to sit lightly within the environment with stunning views. The Lodges do not forego creature comforts with plenty of lounge areas and a dedicated relaxation area at Cape Pillar Lodge.
GRADE:
FITNESS LEVEL:
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
DEPARTS:
MEETING POINT:
PASSENGER NUMBERS:
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT:
Want to find an alternative? Search for another holiday here or contact us.