Te Puna Pai B & B, local tourism, South Gippsland Tourism

Facilities

Wilsons Promontory National Park

The most southerly part of the Australian mainland, has 130 kilometres of outstanding coastal scenery backed by spectacular granite ranges. Wildflowers are evident in late winter and spring. In this relatively small tongue of land are tall forests, fern gullies, heath lands and salt marshes, providing habitats for a wide variety of wildlife and birds. Wallabies, kangaroos, wombats, possums and emus are common. Crimson rosellas, wattle birds and lorikeets are often seen at the camping and picnic areas, and are very tame.

There are over 80 kilometres of marked walking tracks in the park, ranging from easy strolls on flat ground to strenuous overnight, and longer, hikes. Swimming and surfing are also popular.

BUNURONG MARINE AND COASTAL PARK

17km of rugged sandstone cliffs, rocky headlands, sandy coves, rock pinnacles and rock pools situated between Cape Paterson and Inverloch. Stop at one of the several cliff top car parks to properly appreciate the views and to inhale the clean, salt tinged air. Or you can explore the park on foot by exploring the bays and coves via the constructed beach access which is available at several points. The broad rock platforms and underwater reefs support a remarkable range of habitats along the extensive coastline.

PHILLIP ISLAND

An oasis of nature and tranquility. With stunning beaches, dramatic scenery, historic walks and a diverse wildlife including penguins, fur seals, koalas and mutton birds, Phillip Island is 25 minutes from Te Puna Wai. Visit the world famous Penguin Parade, the elevated viewing platforms of the Koala Conservation Centre, the Seal Rocks Sea Life Centre and many other attractions that abound. With its wineries, historic Churhill Island, cafes, cruises, Grand Prix Circuit and Visitor Centre, Maze 'N Things, the walking tracks at Cape Woolamai , fishing, horse riding and golf, there is plenty of variety for an enjoyable day at the Island.

GEORGE BASS COASTAL WALK 7km walk follows a strip of public land on the cliff top from Kilcunda towards Punchbowl and San Remo, providing exhilarating views for most of the way. It takes about 2 hours to complete one way and there is a good track, well signposted and gentle grades. Reasonable fitness required.. Shorter sections of the trail can be enjoyed by all. Southern Right whales are often seen close to shore during their winter migration to the north.

The historical trestle bridge at Kilcunda is now part of the Anderson to Wonthaggi Rail Trail, a spectacular 14km walking trail along the southern coastline.

GRAND RIDGE ROAD - one of Gippsland and Victoria's great tourist drives. For 132km it snakes its way along the ridge of the Strzelecki Ranges, providing striking views across emerald farmland to the LaTrobe Valley in the north to Bass Strait in the south. For much of the journey the motorist is engulfed within a forest of ferns and under towering trees, regularly emerging into the sunlight to absorb yet another sweeping valley view.

There are 2 major parks on the road - Tarra-Bulga National Park and Mt Worth State Park together with several walks and trails.

BASS COAST ART TOUR

A number of local artists have opened their studios to you and your friends to form the Bass Coast Art Tour. Ranging from painters to wood turners, furniture makers and potters, there is a vast array of unique art available to view and purchase. Check for further details and opening times with your local information centre.

FOOD AND WINE

Easy access to numerous boutique cool climate wineries and the many casual eateries showcasing local food, including tempting stocks of local 'take home' treats for your picnic baskets ....also great for gifts. Regional wine and beer are also available at many of the cafes.There are now about 20 wimeries in South Gippsland and most have cellar door tasting and sales.

Contact local information centres for further details

The region is reknowned for its quality primary produce - premium beef and lamb, fish, rich creamy milk and cheeses and a wide variety of vegetables. A farmers market is held from November to April at Koonwarra where many local producers sell there fresh picked produce.

CAPE LIPTRAP - Enjoy the splendid beaches at Sandy Point and Waratah Bay, walk to the historic lime kilns along the cliff tops from Walkerville North or view them from above at the carpark at Walkerville South. Spectacular views of Wilsons Promontory and islands, Waratah Bay and Shallow Inlet. Drive down to Cape Liptrap lighthouse then on to Foster via Fish Creek and see the lookout at Mt Nicoll. Picnic spots and barbecues available at most stops.

SHALLOW INLET Renowned for sailboarding and regular attempts are made at sailboard speed records. One of the few places in Victoria where cars are permitted to drive on the beach.

SANDY POINT A beautiful surf beach and a township with more houses than Foster but only a small permanent population. There is a store and cafe here. In summer there are horse rides along the beach and a mini golf course.

AGNES FALLS

Victoria’s highest falls at 59 metres, water falls into a deep fern gorge and is spectacular after heavy rains. Short walk from carpark for viewing. Picnic tables, wood fireplaces and toilets available. Fish for trout, eels, and blackfish in the quiet river above the falls.

WALKERVILLE One of the oldest townships in Victoria, it was developed to produce lime. The remains of the old lime kilns set into the cliffs can still be seen. Boats can be launched from the beach. Walk along the cliffs between Walkerville North and South. Picnic tables and electric barbecue available.