Heavy overcast skies greeted us when we woke for the first day of the Three Capes Walk. We repacked our bag and backpacks, taking only those things we needed for the walk and leaving behind everything else. Breakfast in our hotel was a leisurely affair as we took advantage of the choices on offer before hitting the trail.
Checkout was a simple process. We left our larger bag with the hotel and will be reunited with it on our return from the walk. The bus to take us, first to the Hobart meeting point then on to the start of the walk, arrived as expected at around 9:15am.
The initial meeting with our fellow walkers was within the confines of the former IXL jam factory that has now been converted into a boutique hotel. Introductions started the briefing session, with the majority of walkers from either Sydney or Melbourne. Most were from a similar demographic – affluent middle class with adult children. The oldest would be in their 70s, the youngest in their late 40s.
Our three guides introduced themselves. All were probably younger than our boys, and all had varying degrees of outdoor education qualifications. One was born and grew up in and around Newcastle in NSW. Another was from Mordialloc; the third was a local Tasmanian from Launceston.
Backpacks, waterproof (sort of) jackets and pack liners were provided for those who, unlike us, didn’t have their own. Everyone was given a lunchbox (plus fork) and a ‘keep cup’ to hang on to for the duration of the walk. “Only those people returning their fork at the end of the walk will be allowed on the return bus to Hobart” announced the lead guide.
After briefing we climbed aboard the bus for the trip east to the Tasman Peninsula. Light misty rain was falling as we headed off in the bus. We passed a constant stream of passengers alighting from the most recent cruise ship to arrive overnight in Hobart.
[wpvideo pQMMj0NM ]The rain became progressively heavier and more persistent as the journey unfolded. A comfort stop at Dunalley broke up the journey – most of us just sheltered under cover around a BBQ, in a park beside a canal that was once a shortcut for boats on their journey to Hobart.
The next (and final) stop in the bus was at a cove to the north of Port Arthur. Backpacks were unloaded and lunch was taken under the shelter of a large tree. A short walk to a nearby jetty had us boarding an open tender for the journey across the inlet (in steady rain).
The tender was run (bow first) up on the beach at Denman Cove. A small walkway was lowered onto the sand and we were on our way in steady rain. A short stop at the start of the walk was required to convey some simple instructions regarding “calls of nature” while walking. We were introduced to “Doug” and “Jean” – Doug the hand spade for digging 20cm deep holes and Jean the hygienic hand sanitizer.
The walk progressed through undulating timbered hills, following the contours along the coast opposite Port Arthur to the west. Heavy rain was our constant companion. Fortunately the temperature was quite mild, making it reasonably comfortable for walking.
We stopped briefly at a sheltered cove for a geology lesson on the rocks of the area before continuing on our way, passing the impressive public huts before finishing up at our equally impressive digs for the night. The eco lodge has only been operating since September and has a very new smell about it.
We have hung wet gear in the drying room and changed into dry clothes. Warming drinks have been followed by pre-dinner drinks and nibbles. The weather may be improving, but it has plenty of room for further improvement yet.
The guides did a great job of preparing a tasty lamb tagine served on a bed of ancient grains. This was followed by a panacotta with berry jus and gingerbread crumb, all helped along with excellent local wines. Daylight is fading and people are drifting away to their rooms. Breakfast will be served from 7:00am and we will be back on the track by 9:00am.
Everyone is hoping for drier conditions tomorrow.