Wilsons Promontory Refuge Cove is a 34.5km, grade 4 hike located in the Wilsons Promontory National Park, Victoria. The hike should take around 2-3 days to complete.
Hike overview
This Wilsons Promontory Refuge Cove hike visits a stunning, secluded beach situated on the eastern side of the Prom accessible via walking track from Sealers Cove to the north or Little Waterloo Bay to the south. The track between Sealers Cove and Refuge Cove offers many great views. Refuge Cove campsite, located at the southern end of the cove, is surrounded by lush vegetation and is within close proximity to the water.
The Refuge Cove hike in Wilsons Promontory is a stunning hike that takes you through diverse landscapes, from dry eucalypt forest to wet gullies and coastal cliffs. The hike offers breathtaking views of the coastline, including Five Mile Beach and Norman Island, and ends at a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and white sand.
The hike is rated as a Grade 4 hike, which means it is moderately challenging and requires a good level of fitness. There are some steep rocky sections and uneven surfaces, so you will need to be sure-footed.
If you are planning to camp overnight, you will need to book a campsite in advance. There are also basic camping facilities available at Sealers Cove and Refuge Cove, including water supply and toilets.
With a little planning and preparation, the Refuge Cove hike is a great way to experience the stunning beauty of Wilsons Promontory National Park.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 340 m
Min elevation: 6 m
Total climbing: 2082 m
Total descent: -2082 m
Trail features
- Gravel Path
- Sandy Trail
- Beach & Coastal
- Scenic Viewpoints
- Untreated Water
- Overnight Campsites
Tips
- Advanced booking is required for hikers and recreational boat users staying in camping areas.
- The Cove is a safe anchorage for vessels.
- Help protect this unique place by not tying stern lines to vegetation.
- Untreated creek water is available, please treat before consuming.
- Toilets are provided in the camping area.
Trail location
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Getting there
Wilsons Promontory National Park is approximately three hours drive from Melbourne. Follow the Monash Freeway (M1) to join the South Gippsland Freeway (M420/A440) to Meeniyan. Take the Meeniyan- Promontory Road (C444) to the Wilsons Promontory Entrance. Tidal River Visitor Centre is 30km south of the park entrance. There is no fuel at Tidal River. The closest fuel outlet is at Yanakie.
About the region
Welcome to Wilsons Prom, the southernmost tip of mainland Australia. Walk remote coastal bushland trails and swim at pristine beaches dominated by granite tors. Camp in comfort at family-friendly Tidal River or hike to a more secluded campsite. Either way, the local wombats, kangaroos and emus are waiting to meet you.
Swim at Norman Beach - just a few minutes' walk from Tidal River Campground, or go snorkelling for a unique underwater view of Victoria's largest marine national park. Bring the family and camp in comfort at Tidal River. Choose from powered or unpowered sites or stay in roofed accommodation.
Scale the granite peaks of Mount Bishop or Mount Oberon for panoramic views, or enjoy an overnight hike in The Prom. In the north there's a remote and rugged wilderness to explore, while the south is home to the historic Wilsons Promontory Lightstation and Sealers Cove.
Feel the sand between your toes at some of the more secluded beaches of Wilsons Prom, from Cotters Beach to Whisky Bay and Fairy Cove. Check out Big Drift, an impressive inland sand dune system, one of the Prom's well kept secrets. You can book a free all-terrain wheelchair, TrailRider or beach wheelchair to explore the great outdoors at Wilsons Promontory National Park.
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.
0 Reviews on “Wilsons Promontory Refuge Cove (34.5km)”
This is such a beautiful hike. I’d highly recommend hiking in, staying two nights and hiking out.