Stanley to Arthur River, Tasmania

Monday 29th April 2019
Today we decided on a new plan of attack. We both woke early so headed out to walk to The Nut at 7.30am. It was a very steep 430m ascent followed by a 2km circuit of the top. The views were spectacular and the walk at the top very pleasant. The ascent was tough but ok. There was a chairlift option that I assume opens a bit later. It’s slogan is “Why walk if you can ride”. Reason  I would reply “$11 an adult each way is quite expensive for a very short ride”, unless you are unable to walk I would suggest saving your money the walk up was ok.

We then walked around town and saw the old style buildings. Then headed after breakfast to Highfield Historic House. After exploring the house and it’s surrounding buildings we headed off to Smithton. Then on to Green Point Beach, Nettley Bay and finally arriving at Arthur River for the night. We drove through amazing green pastures, cattle and sheep country, to some lovely beaches albeit a bit windy today. The weather started out beautiful for our walk to The Nut but then resumed its on again, off again rain and wind. We are still having a great time. Unfortunately the Dismal Swamp Adventure  with 100m slippery dip to a sinkhole was closed so we didn’t have that decision to make today. Staying back in the tent again now but we are just trying to find campgrounds with a camp kitchen so we can cook inside.

Tomorrow’s adventure is still undecided but only time will reveal this one.

Highfield House can be regarded as the ‘birthplace’ of European settlement in Tasmania’s north-west. Built from 1832-35 as a residence for Edward Curr, chief agent of the Van Diemen’s Land Company, the house represents an important part of Tasmanian historic heritage. The history of the north-west region of Tasmania is inextricably bound up with the story of the Van Diemen’s Land Company; indeed, there are very few places in the region that have been unmarked by its presence.
Link to history of the house – https://www.parks.tas.gov.au/index.aspx?base=2652