My favourite part of my holiday in Tasmania was being outside, nearly all day, every day. The Autumn weather was spectacular with unabashed sunlight, crisp, cool mornings and deliciously warm afternoons. Evenings were for bundling in sweaters and blankets, but during the day it was sandals and sundresses, with only a pashmina handy to wrap around my shoulders when the wind picked up.

I spent as much time outdoors as I could, basking in the stunning natural beauty to be found at nearly every turn.

My favourite place was the beach. It’s always the beach. From rocky and wild with sheer cliffs to vast stretches of soft white sand, the beaches in Tasmania are exquisite.

This one was just down the coast from Swansea and looked out across the bay to the soaring peaks of Freycinet National Park.

Apart from a lone walker south of us, we had the entire beach to ourselves.

We each ambled away at our leisure, Shirley heading one way, me another, grateful that we’re both just as happy on our own as in each other’s company.

I stood in the water a while, letting the cold, clear waves lap at my legs, wetting the hem of my sundress. The sand felt so good underfoot. Each step like a massage, easing away the stress and pressure of everyday life.

This beach held a treasure trove of shells, polished stones, and sea glass, and I loved sorting through the cracked and broken pieces, finding a few to take home with me.

I walked and walked, letting the wind toss my hair about, filling my lungs with salt-tinged air, feeling the sun burnishing my skin with what would surely be the last bit of colour before the onslaught of winter.

I clambered up into the dunes and sat among the sea grass, running my hands over it’s spiny edges, watching it dance in the wind off the water.

I’d seen this piece of driftwood from afar when we first arrived, but when I approached from a different angle I was astounded to see it transform from an old bit of wood into a gnarled stag or seahorse. Wonderful.

Of all the lovely things I’d experienced thus far in Tasmania, spending an afternoon on this beach was the most precious. My spirits revived here. My body awoke as if from a deep sleep. And I felt connected to the world again, ready to explore this beautiful island with renewed courage and excitement.

Soon our growling tummies reminded us that we’d better get back on the road and find some lunch. There were still gardens to explore, a berry farm to visit, and so many more beaches to stop and swoon over before we arrived at our new home near Hobart.

So up the dunes we went, turning often to sigh happily over all the gorgeousness, until the ocean disappeared and we were back on the road.

I’m so thankful for video and pictures that let me revisit this place whenever I need it.

Do you have a favourite beach you like to visit? xo