Many moons ago when the Watson’s and the Miskin’s each decided to buy a caravan and become grey nomads we thought Tasmania would be a great place to be in February to beat the heat. So we planned to join up in Devonport and go exploring for 3 weeks.

What we didn’t plan on was the terrible bush fires that are still raging in Tasmania. The extent of the fires will impact where we can safely go as many roads are closed and also what we can now see and do. However we are here for a fun holiday and to learn about being grey nomads.

I suppose I had better introduce ourselves for those new to this blog. The Watsons, consisting of David and Collette, have been enjoying retirement for about a year and joined the Miskins, consisting of Alan and Linda, for the wedding of their daughter in Canada last year.

Alan and Linda met us early Tuesday morning after a night sail from Melbourne to Devonport. Due to the strict quarantine laws in Tasmania the first order of business was a shop up. This completed we set out for Arthur River. The original plan was to explore the Huon Valley but as the entire valley seemed to be on fire we felt it best to stay in the north.

The drive along the north west coast is magnificent, very lush and green pastures going all the way to Bass Straight. At Wynyard we introduced Alan and Linda to the delights of a Tasmanian Scallop Pie and vowed to continue the search for the ‘perfect scallop pie’.

Arthur River is on the extreme west coast, an awful long way from much else. Past Smithton the road gets very ordinary and the landscape windswept and flat. I was starting to wonder if it was going to be worth while.

Two new rigs at the Arthur River Cabin and Van Park. Very Cozy.

The town of Arthur River is underwhelming at best. There is a shop and a pub and a few caravan parks. There are a lot of houses. The bridge across the River leaves about 150mm clearance each side for the caravans.

But we have never seen anything like the Edge of the World.

The Arthur River meets the west coast at an incredibly rugged and beautiful coastline where the 6 metre waves break far out to sea. Driftwood from the annual floods in the river scatter the coastline in a natural phenomena going back centuries. The colours in the rocks are brilliant orange. You really feel like you are standing on the Edge of the World.

It was hard to leave this captivating coastline but we eventually dragged ourselves away to drive up to Marrawa and Alice Beach. Here the coast is a lot calmer but still majestic. A brief wade in the water decided that any further requires a thick wetsuit.

The Tasmanian Devil is now listed as endangered. Prevalent in this area, we are constantly reminded as we drive to watch out for them. Nothing for the not endangered wallabies.

Tomorrow a river cruise, highly recommended and anticipated.