South West, Tasmania
Best months:
May to September

South West, Tasmania

Tasmania, Australia
LAST UPDATED 20/06/2008
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introduction

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NASA: Map of Tasmanian Tribes at the time of first European contact, 19 January 2006

South West Cape is a cape located at the south-west corner of Tasmania.

It lies on the eastern corner of the Southwest National Park, which is approximately 140 kilometres south of Hobart in Tasmania, and about 65 kilometres west and a little north of South East Cape.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

surfing

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John O'Neil: Malaleuca Airstrip, Southwest Wilderness, Tasmania; 2005

The south west wilderness area is largly accessible only by foot, sea or air. A number of closely guarded gems dot the coastline with many more awaiting discovery - leave only footprints as this is part of the Tasmanian wilderness World Heritage Area.

The main source of power here is the endless passage of S to SW swell rolling out of the Antartic. The west coast is directly in the firing line of the roaring 40's and whilst it is rarely flat it is often out of control. Weeks of onshore winds in the summer are a problem. Fortunately the sheltered bays and points of the other coasts offer reasonably uncrowded reprieve and often a very good wave in such conditions. Unlike many cold water surf destinations, you can surf in Tasmania all year round.

where to stay

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Deny King's reflection; John O'Neill; 09.04.2005

A campervan is a great way to see Tasmania and is very popular, the rental prices here are generally a bit cheaper than the mainland and it gives you freedom to make the most of your time here and take in as much as possible.

If you prefer a more fixed abode then the city of Hobart has all ranges of accommodation on offer from backers style hostels based around shared facilites and dorm type rooms right up to high end hotels for the traveller wishing to splurge. Out of the capital city you'll find a full range of rural cottages and farmstays in the country and a range of camping grounds, hotels and motels in most of the smaller towns and villages.

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