Smithton

Departing from the cozy confines of the Yolla Tavern, our spirits were high, nourished by the previous night's feast of sumptuous pizza. With nostalgia guiding us, we retraced the familiar paths first trodden upon our initial arrival in Tasmania. This journey, however, was graced with the delightful company of Grammy and Fran, their van meandering along with us through the scenic tapestry of the landscape.

Our adventure began anew at Stanley, beneath the towering shadow of the Nut—an ancient volcanic relic that rises majestically from the earth. While Grammy chose the serene ascent via chairlift, we embarked once again on the challenging Zig Zag Track, our ascent marked by the rhythm of our steady breaths. At the summit, time seemed to stand still as we reunited, basking in the shared triumph over the rugged climb.

Circling the plateau, the four of us were enveloped by the sheer magnitude of the vista, an endless expanse that stretched to the horizon. The same views that had captivated our hearts months before now unfolded before Grammy and Fran, sparking in their eyes a reflection of our initial wonder. Our descent led us on a brief detour past Highfield Estate, its stately presence whispering tales of its past role in the nascent days of Tasmanian governance.

Our path then steered us towards Tall Timbers RV stop in Smithton, a site that echoed with the memories of our past visit. The quiet of the off-season enveloped us, the campsite's vast emptiness punctuated only by the presence of another solitary traveler. Under the vast Tasmanian sky, we settled in, the anticipation of the morrow's explorations lulling us into a peaceful rest.

With the dawn came a shroud of clouds, setting a dramatic stage as we ventured forth to reveal to Grammy the mystic allure of the Arthur River and the Edge of the World lookout. A stop at Marrawah Inn infused warmth into our bodies, fortifying us against the day's stark contrasts of gusting winds and pelting rain—elements that seemed fittingly apocalyptic at the world's edge.

Our exploration continued to Couta Rocks, though we bypassed the demanding Tarkine loop, mindful of Grammy's limitations. Yet, fortune smiled upon us at Trowutta Arch, an enigmatic geological marvel born from the union of two ancient sinkholes. Here, Grammy and Fran could partake in the walk, and together, we stood in awe at the archway, its formidable beauty a poignant reminder of nature’s enduring artistry.

As twilight descended, we returned to the solitude of Smithton's campsite. Our hearts were full, having woven Grammy into the vibrant fabric of our Tasmanian saga, each shared experience enriching the collective tapestry of our journey, forever immortalised in the echoes of this wild, enchanting island.Read more