Wilsons Prom, VICTORIA
Airing Date: Dec 27th, 2004
Established in 1898, Wilson's Promontory National Park is three and a half hours from Melbourne. It's part of a peninsula that forms the southernmost area of the Australian mainland, and stretches for 130 kilometres. The park covers 49 000 hectares, so if you'd like some guidance on the best way explore it, join up with Hiking Plus.
Hiking Plus offer a range of hiking trips including a four day hiking package. The four day trip starts with a boat cruise to the base of Wilsons Promontory, past the lighthouse at the southernmost tip. From here you can see a tiny part of Tasmania way off in the distance. You'll also get to see plenty of seals playing in and out of the water along the coastline.
You can disembark at various places, but from Refuge Cove it's about a 17 kilometre hike up to the lighthouse where you'll stay the night. It's best to get an early night, because the next day you could be walking another 18 kilometres. Even if your legs get a bit tired, it's well worth it when you check out the views. The scenery is varied all the way with stunning coastlines, dense shrub and even patches of rainforest.
During the walk you'll spend two nights at the Eight Acres Guesthouse in Foster, one night at the Lighthouse Cottages and a night at Refuge Cove. Hiking Plus organises your food for the whole trip so you don't have to worry about it. They also offer a wide range of hikes to suit your needs and cater to your level of fitness.
These vary from day hikes to overnight stays at Snake Island, which is the largest sand island in Australia. The duration of the walks can vary, depending on your level of fitness. For a real treat, pamper yourself with a massage at the Eight Acres Guesthouse - after all that walking, you've earned it.
The facts
A four day package with Hiking Plus starts from $950 a person - normally priced at $1200. Includes accommodation, cruise with massage and all meals. This offer is valid until 30 June, 2005. Other hiking packages available year round.
Hiking Plus
Tel: 1300 138 312
Suggested reading material: Lonely Planet
Prices correct at 27/12/04
