Spectacular Schouten Island
The rarely visited island off an island is the wild and rugged gemstone in the Freycinet Peninsula’s crown... and we’ll take you there!
When folks consider the Freycinet National Park, most picture Wineglass Bay. This iconic bay is certainly stunning but the Peninsula has so much more to offer for those with the time, inclination, and some local knowledge.
Just off the very tip of the Freycinet Peninsula lies the rugged yet beautiful Schouten Island. Named by Abel Tasman in 1642 after a council member of the Dutch East India Trading Company, Joost Schouten, this island is only accessible by boat (or a long swim) making it one of the most remote and pristine environments in the Freycinet Peninsula. This little island gem has crystal clear blue waters, an abundance of sea life, and even a remote mountaintop. Our guides are always eager to take you for an inaugural trip ocean dip, a hike up Bear Hill for incredible aerial views, or assist you in trying your luck fishing for a tasty flathead.
This island is not only rich in sand, surf, and sea but also has a fascinating European history. Throughout the past several centuries many have tried to gather the wealth of the island… sealers, whalers, miners, graziers and more. The sealers and whalers used this island as a base for their operations with five different stations operating in the early 1800’s. Clear views from the stunning granite cliffs were perfect for spotting the whales on their bi-annual migrations north and south. Careful for the edge though...lest you end up like Mr. Mason (we’ll leave you hanging on that one… our guides’ fantastic storytelling is of course included in every trip)! Mining booms and busts ensued with coal, tin, pink Freycinet Peninsula granite (some of the rarest in the world), even gold being hunted in the Island’s depths. As you relax on a newly formed beach, you’ll be astounded at the hardiness/foolhardiness of all prospectors for having a go in such a harsh remote location.
Luckily this remote haven for marine birds and delightful fauna is now protected and part of the stunning Freycinet National Park. A coastal hikers dream, you’ll likely have it all to yourself and the 11th biggest Island off an island will not disappoint!
Words: Nature Guide, Daniel Moss / Image: Nature Guide, Luke Brokensha