Explore the Tasman Peninsula. Get outside and start now!
Eaglehawk Neck and the Tasman Peninsula offer outdoor adventures, coastal vistas, and geological wonders near Lufra Hotel. As the "gateway to the Tasman Peninsula," our location connects mainland Tasmania via a slender isthmus. This setting allows guests to explore all that Tasmania offers. Locally known as "the Neck," the isthmus spans 400 meters and showcases striking geological formations.
Tessellated Pavement
The rocks on the Tessellated Pavement were fractured by the movement of the Earth and resulted in what is called jointing. Jointing itself is not incredibly uncommon, but the presence of salt crystals and consistent erosion by the Tasman Sea's waves and sediment deepened the pattern to give it its startling appearance. Tessellated pavement is extremely rare. This natural phenomenon is only found in a few places on Earth where rocks have fractured into polygonal blocks and appear just like man-made tiles.
The Blowhole, Tasman’s Arch, & Devil’s Kitchen
A geological feature is formed by powerful wave erosion. Inside, waves push water through a tunnel. Accessible at Blowhole Road's easternmost point.
Tasman's Arch is an enlarged tunnel-like natural arch. It stretches from the coast along closely spaced cracks. The roof at the landward end has collapsed, preventing it from becoming a blowhole.
Devil's Kitchen is a 60-meter deep formation, created similarly to Tasman's Arch. If the arch were to collapse, it would form a land feature like Devil's Kitchen.
Birdwatchers Delight
From Lufra Hotel, foot paths lead to the rock platform of Tessellated Pavement, and to the sandy beach of Pirates Bay. The Arthur Highway passes behind it some distance away, and Pirates Bay Drive (the old highway, now a local access road) winds along in front of the Lufra.
This wide variety of habitat provides excellent bird watching opportunities on a walk of around 3 or 4 kms, with something like 70 species occurring along suggested routes. Birds will vary according to the season.
Pre-organised Pelagic birding trips leave from Pirates Bay. Species vary depending on season and weather, yet it is always a fantastic day out on the continental shelf with a great selection that could include several species of tiny storm-petrels skipping from wave to wave, albatrosses, giant-petrels, petrels, prions and shearwaters
Historical Settlement
The Officers’ Quarters, built in 1832, is believed to be the oldest military building in Australia. The settlement also included a military barracks, store, guard house, jetty, sentry box, semaphore, and the infamous
dogline.
A tethered line of fierce dogs kept constant watch for escaped convicts attempting to flee the peninsula by crossing the narrow isthmus. back in the day. Martin Cash, the infamous bushranger, successfully passed the barrier by simply detouring out to sea.
Pirates Bay Walk, Lufra Cove, Clyde’s Island
The Pirates Bay walk from the Hotel is a scenic 5k stroll along the beach to the Jetties and Blow Hole. You can also see Lufra Cove and Clyde's Island from the hotel. From the Tessellated Pavements, a short walk through Lufra Cove leads to the cliffs and a chance to cross to the Island.
Waterfall Bay
Embark on an unforgettable three-hour adventure through the untamed wilderness, tracing the stunning coastline from Port Arthur to Eaglehawk Neck in southern Tasmania. Marvel at the majestic sea cliffs that reach for the sky, while being enchanted by the mesmerizing sight of waterfalls cascading down, intricate rock formations, mystical archways, and mysterious deep-sea caves. All of this awe-inspiring beauty is nestled within the sanctuary of Tasman National Park, home to a myriad of diverse wildlife, including playful seals, majestic migrating whales, and graceful seabirds.
Diving
This area offers a remarkable array of top-notch scuba diving spots, showcasing the renowned Waterfall Bay caves, the captivating SS "Nord" shipwreck teeming with massive fish schools, magnificent Giant Kelp forests, and peculiar Weedy Seadragons. These sites cater to divers of all skill levels, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Game Fishing
Eaglehawk Neck and the Pirates Bay area have earned a prestigious reputation for their exceptional game and tuna fishing opportunities. With a range of skilled charter operators, fishing charters cater to both small and large groups, ensuring a professional experience.
Shipstern Bluff
If you're in search of daring waves and world-class surfing, look no further than Shipstern Bluff. This spot is renowned within the surfing community as one of the most untamed and treacherous locations on the planet.
Tasman Island Cruises
Experience unforgettable three-hour wilderness cruises along the breathtaking coastline from Port Arthur to Eaglehawk Neck in southern Tasmania. Journey beneath towering sea cliffs, captivated by cascading waterfalls, rock formations, archways, and deep-sea caves. This awe-inspiring coastline is nestled within Tasman National Park, a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including seals, migrating whales, and seabirds.
Three Capes Track
The magnificent four-day Three Capes Track wilderness walk, approved by Lonely Planet, is conveniently located in this area, offering daily departures from the historic Port Arthur Site. Lufra presents itself as the perfect choice for accommodation before and/or after the walk, boasting a variety of options ranging from luxurious 4-star Spa Apartments to comfortable 3.5-star waterview hotel rooms.
Port Arthur Historic Site
Situated on the picturesque Tasman Peninsula in the southeastern part of Tasmania, this captivating destination stands as one of Australia's most significant heritage sites and popular tourist attractions. Offering an unparalleled and indispensable experience for all those who venture to this area.