South Bruny National Park
South Bruny National Park lies at the southern tip of Bruny Island off the southeast coast of Tasmania. The park encompasses all of the coastline and some of the hinterland between Fluted Cape and the southern part of Great Taylors Bay.
South Bruny National Park was gazetted in 1997 mainly for its wonderful coastal scenery. Much of the coast is comprised of towering cliffs, muttonbird rookeries, gardens of kelp seaweed and long sandy beaches. In some areas the park extends several kilometres back from the coastline, where lush rainforest may be found containing several endemic plant species (plants unique to Tasmania). The popularity of South Bruny National Park as a tourist destination is enhanced by its abundant birdlife, coastal heathland and its prominent place in the history of Tasmania.
The park offers plenty of opportunities for walking, from the short stroll to the remains of an old whaling station at Grass Point, to the more demanding Labillardiere Peninsula circuit.
Adventure Bay and Jetty
Beach provide safe, sheltered areas for swimming, while Cloudy Bay is a popular
spot for experienced surfers.
Short Walks
Grass Point - 1.5 hours return.
This walk commences
at the Adventure Bay entrance to the park. Parking is
available at the end of Adventure Bay road. Start the walk
by walking along the short beach next to the carpark
and then turn left onto a track. The track is well formed,
suitable for families, keeps close to the coast and is
mainly flat.
Fluted Cape - 2.5 hours return.
Follow the Grass
Point track to the open grassland at Penguin Island. The
circular route can be taken by following the Fluted Cape
circuit sign. The track climbs steeply, staying close to the
coastal cliffs providing spectacular views of Fluted Cape
and the more distant Tasman Peninsula. Sea eagles may
be seen. Follow the signs to begin a gradual descent,
returning to Adventure Bay. This walk should not be
attempted by young unescorted children.
Day Walks
East Cloudy Head - 4 hours return.
Park at the end
of Cloudy Bay Road and walk to the southern end of the
beach. Turn inland along Imlays Creek. The walk follows an
old 4WD track with a number of quite steep ascents and
descents. Once you reach the headland you can return
the way you came.
Labillardiere Peninsula Circuit - 5.5 to 6.5 hours
return.
The track starts at the Jetty Beach campground
and does a circuit around the peninsula. From Mt Bleak
you will gain a view of Partridge Island, which protects
one of the largest populations of the endangered fortyspotted pardalote.
The track descends to Hopwood and
Butlers Beaches and finishes at Jetty Beach.
Walkers Guide to Labillardiere Peninsula Circuit
More Information
For more information about the South Bruny National Park, visit the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Servicewebsite
Information taken from South Bruny National Park Factsheet, courtesy Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service, available here. Photos courtesy of Tourism Tasmania.
