A short guide to the lighthouse walk in Freycinet National Park in Tasmania. Experience breathtaking coastal views and abundant wildlife at this unique lookout spot.
It’s a shame that Cape Tourville is often overshadowed by many of the other more popular walks in Freycinet. While all are equally astonishing, visiting the Cape Tourville Lighthouse on the easternmost cape of Freycinet is a must for any visitor due to its easy accessibility and wildlife spotting.
Below, I’ll outline everything you need to know about the quick and easy Cape Tourville Lighthouse and lookout walk.
How to Get to the Lighthouse Walk
Cape Tourville is located approximately 7.8 km from Coles Bay within Freycinet National Park.
To get here, head towards the Visitor Centre on Freycinet Drive and turn left onto Cape Tourville Road. Continue for just over 5 km on this winding road with steep sections.
All of these roads are sealed and we managed to get here without any problems in our big LWB van.
There is a large car park right at the start of the short track with adequate space for large vehicles and even caravans.
Google Maps Pin: "Cape Tourville Road"
Car Rentals in Tasmania
Unfortunately, the cost of bringing your own car on the Spirit of Tasmania has skyrocketed in recent years. Now, it is usually cheaper to rent a car on arrival. I recommend using DiscoverCars in Tasmania to compare rates for different vehicles across dealerships.
(Rentals are limited in Tasmania so it's a good idea to book in advance).
History of Cape Tourville Lighthouse
While the automated lighthouse at Cape Tourville is relatively modern (1971), this region of the Tasmanian east coast has a long colonial history. The Cape was named after French Admiral Comte de Tourville, during the French exploration of the peninsula in 1802.
Long before that, Indigenous Tasmanian Aboriginals shared a deep connection with the land. They lived, hunted, fished, and conducted ceremonies and gatherings throughout the Freycinet Peninsula. Evidence including middens dates Indigenous occupation back at least 40,000 years.
Today, the Cape Tourville lighthouse serves as a navigation beacon but is better known for its great lookout and short board-walked track.
My Experience on the Cape Tourville Lighthouse and Lookout Walk
- Hiking Distance: 600 m loop
- Duration: 15-20 minutes
- Elevation: Flat
- Difficulty: Very easy
The Cape Tourville lighthouse and lookout loop is a very easy, mostly flat loop walk on a raised boardwalk. It is suitable for anyone and is wheelchair accessible.
The views from the lookout include a glimpse of Wineglass Bay, the amazing Hazards (Mount Amos), the southern Freycinet Peninsula, Mount Freycinet, as well as a rocky outcrop abundant with seals known as "The Nuggets".
Make sure to keep an eye out on the sea as whales, dolphins, eagles, seals, and many other coastal animals are frequently spotted here. There is a pair of fixed binoculars at the viewpoint for The Nuggets.
If you look closely, you might be able to spot some seals basking on the rocks.
There are a few lookout points with plenty of signs and information plaques detailing history and wildlife information along the track.
Before you know it you'll find yourself at the lookout. It offers incredible views and is a great place to have a BYO coffee and relax whilst you try and spot the wildlife!
We spent some time here watching a yacht passing by and spotted some seals relaxing on the rocks.
Where to Stay Near Coles Bay For Walks in Freycinet
My top 3 choices for places to stay before enjoying the walks in Freycinet National Park.
1. Picnic Island Luxury
Ever wanted to stay on a private island? What better place to do so than on Picnic Island, a beautiful island gem just off Coles Bay. Visitors will have the entire island to themselves with rustic waterfront cabins and a fully-equipped kitchen and living area.
2. Freycinet Lodge Mid-Range
Located in a waterfront location within Freycinet National Park, it offers luxury cabin-style accommodation, two restaurants, and a bar. You’ll also get a buffet breakfast included. This is one of the best-located spots to begin your Freycinet National Park walks.
3. Eagle Peaks Budget
This is a unit-style accommodation option featuring a dining and seating area, a fully-equipped kitchen, and great scenery at your doorstep. It has good WiFi and free private parking near Coles Bay.
Did you enjoy this quick guide to visiting the Cape Tourville Lighthouse and lookout?
If so, make sure to check out some of my many other guides for more Tassie travel inspiration!
- 65 Epic Things to Do in Tasmania - My ultimate guide to exploring Tassie, complete with must-visit icons & hidden gems.
- Hikes in Tasmania - Discover 40+ of Tassie's best hiking trails, including short walks and long overnight treks!
- Waterfalls in Tasmania - A guide to 25+ of Tasmania's best waterfalls!
- Where to Stay in Tasmania - The ultimate accommodation guide to help your stops and places to stay.
- Best Tours & Experiences in Tasmania - This years' roundup of my favourite bookable tours & experiences across Tassie!