Three Capes Track

The Three Capes Track opened in 2015 as a deliberately designed experience rather than a traditional bush track: a boat from Port Arthur drops walkers at Denmans Cove, and from there the route runs along the clifftops of the Tasman Peninsula over three to four days, staying in architect-designed huts with bunks, gas cooking, mattresses and rainwater. The track surface is largely constructed, with steps, boardwalk and sculptural seats at viewpoints. It reaches Cape Pillar, where the cliffs drop three hundred metres, and Cape Hauy, before finishing at Fortescue Bay. Numbers are capped at forty-eight starters a day and bookings open months ahead.

What you actually see

• Cape Pillar - the dolerite cliffs and the Blade viewpoint.
• Cape Hauy - the final cape with the Totem Pole visible below.
• The huts - designed accommodation with bunks, kitchens and decks.
• The constructed track - boardwalk, steps and installed seating at viewpoints.

When to go

October to April; the track operates year-round but winter walking is cold, wet and windy on fully exposed clifftops. Bookings open well in advance and sell out for peak dates. Numbers are capped daily.

Honest expectations

The walk must be booked as a package and cannot be done casually or camped along. It is expensive compared with free tracks. Its engineered nature disappoints walkers wanting wilderness. Weather on the capes can be severe even in summer.

Nearby

Port Arthur is the departure point; Fortescue Bay is the finish.