The Tadpole Cove Circuit offers a glimpse into Kangaroo Island's past alongside stunning coastal scenery. This short and easy (grade 1) 760-meter loop trail, taking approximately 35 minutes to complete, is located within Cape Gantheaume Conservation Park, South Australia. The walk commences at an old threshing floor, a remnant of the area's agricultural history during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Threshing floors were used to separate grain from chaff after harvest. Adjacent to the threshing floor lie the ruins of a small hut, likely used by farmers for temporary shelter during threshing operations.
Continuing along the trail, you'll reach a lookout point offering panoramic views of Tadpole Cove, named for its distinctive rock formation in the center. This cove is a beautiful example of Kangaroo Island's rugged coastline. Interestingly, Kangaroo Island boasts several preserved threshing floors, including the one on the Tadpole Cove Walk and two on the Ironstone Hill Hike near Penneshaw. These structures stand as testaments to the island's agricultural heritage and are rare finds within South Australia.
Old Threshing Floors
Scattered throughout Kangaroo Island, including examples along the Tadpole Cove Walk and the Ironstone Hill Hike near Penneshaw (which boasts two!), lie remnants of the island's agricultural past: threshing floors. These significant historical sites are relatively rare in South Australia. A threshing floor was a large, open-air circular platform with a base typically constructed of stone. Upright stones often lined its perimeter to contain the grain during the threshing process. To separate the kernels from the stalks, farmers would spread sheaves of grain across the floor. Then, horses would be walked around the threshing floor, often pulling a heavy board to trample and break down the stalks, releasing the precious grain. After threshing, the mixture of broken stalks and loose grain would be tossed into the air using a winnowing fork or fan. Wind would then carry away the chaff, leaving behind the heavier grain which would fall at the winnower's feet. The winnowed grain could then be further cleaned by sieving. Notably, a large central stone often marked the spot where the person overseeing the horses would stand.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA
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Total distance: 766 m
Max elevation: 27 m
Min elevation: 17 m
Total climbing: 24 m
Total descent: -24 m
Getting to the trailhead: Cape Gantheaume Conservation Park.
Reaching Cape Gantheaume Conservation Park requires a journey to Kangaroo Island. From mainland South Australia, travelers can board the SeaLink vehicle and passenger ferry which operates daily (excluding Christmas Day) between Cape Jervis (a two-hour drive south of Adelaide) and Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island. The ferry ride takes approximately 45 minutes to cover the 16-kilometer distance. Once on Kangaroo Island, the park itself is located 40 kilometers southwest of Kingscote. Access varies depending on your desired destination within the park. Murray Lagoon can be reached via Birchmore Road, while the coastal section, including D’Estrees Bay, is accessible through Elsegood Road or D’Estrees Bay Road. The trailhead for this hike can be accessed near the Old Threshing Floors on D’Estrees Bay Road.
Closest towns to this walk: Cummins, Currency Creek, Elliston, Eyre, Goolwa, Kingscote, Meningie, Middleton, Milang, Parndana, Penneshaw, Penong, Port Elliot, Port Lincoln, Streaky Bay, Tailem Bend, Tumby Bay Langhorne Creek, Victor Harbor Ceduna, Vivonne Bay Coffin Bay, Wellington East, Wudinna American River
Encompassing vast wilderness areas, Kangaroo Island's largest lagoon, and stunning coastal scenery, Cape Gantheaume Conservation Park and adjoining Wilderness Protection Area form a spectacular natural reserve on the island's south coast. This expansive area of pristine coastline is a vital contributor to biodiversity. It provides a continuous block of vegetation that connects to Seal Bay Conservation Park, creating a critical corridor and habitat for a range of rare and threatened species.
The park offers diverse walking opportunities. Experienced hikers can tackle the unmarked Cape Gantheaume Coastal Trek. Established trails wind around Murray Lagoon, an important wetland habitat for abundant birdlife (though be aware of potential winter flooding). D'Estrees Bay boasts beautiful beaches perfect for relaxation, and holds historical significance linked to the island's early whaling industry. Large deposits of seagrass washed ashore along these beaches are a testament to the extensive seagrass meadows flourishing beneath the bay's shallow, sunlit waters, made possible by the low wave energy. It's important to note that dogs are not permitted within the park.
The bay itself was named in 1803 by French explorer Nicolas Baudin in honor of Jacques D'Estrees (1660-1737), a French author, military leader, and government official.
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Grade 1 (All-abilities) -Â Perfect for Families and Beginners: Grade 1 on the
AWTGS represents the easiest walking tracks, perfect for families with young children or those new to bushwalking. No prior experience is required. These gentle walks feature a flat, even surface with no steps or steep sections. They are suitable for wheelchair users with assistance due to the even terrain. The total distance of a Grade 1 walk is typically no greater than 5 kilometers, making them a comfortable and manageable option for all ages and fitness levels.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
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