Peterborough - Halladale Walking Track
The Halladale Walking Track is a spectacular clifftop walk through coastal heathland between Peterborough and the Bay of Martyrs. Parks Victoria also refers to it as the Peterborough Walk.
The track begins near Peterborough Golf Course and follows the coastline past secluded beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs and numerous ocean lookouts. Halladale Point marks the location of the historic Falls of Halladale shipwreck.
The coastal scenery changes continuously along the route, with views across Worm Bay, Massacre Bay and the offshore rock stacks of the Bay of Martyrs. Wildflowers brighten the heathland during spring.
Wildlife may include wallabies, Southern Brown Bandicoots, Short-beaked Echidnas and Rufous Bristlebirds. Southern Right Whales are sometimes seen offshore between May and October.
Walk Details:
- Distance: Approximately 4 km return
- Time: Approximately 1 hour
- Route: Return along the same track
- Grade: Easy to moderate
- Surface: Compacted gravel with some uneven and potentially slippery sections
- Start: Near Peterborough Golf Course
- Turnaround point: Bay of Martyrs car park
Falls of Halladale Shipwreck:
Halladale Point overlooks the site where the four-masted sailing ship Falls of Halladale was wrecked on 14 November 1908.
The ship struck a reef after approaching the coastline in dense fog. All 29 crew members safely abandoned the vessel, but the ship remained stranded with its sails set and attracted large crowds before eventually breaking apart.
The protected wreck lies approximately 300 metres offshore in water between three and 15 metres deep. Interpretive information along the walk explains the shipwreck and local maritime history.
Things to See:
- Halladale Point
- Falls of Halladale shipwreck site
- Worm Bay
- Massacre Bay
- Bay of Martyrs
- Limestone cliffs and offshore rock stacks
- Coastal heathland and seasonal wildflowers
- Ocean and whale-watching viewpoints
- Native birds and wildlife
Facilities:
- Car parking near both ends of the walk
- Coastal lookouts
- Interpretive signs
- Limited seating
- Beach access from selected points
- Public toilets available in Peterborough township
Accessibility:
The main track has sections of compacted gravel and is generally firm, but it is not a fully accessible trail. Uneven surfaces, exposed sections and beach-access steps may be difficult for visitors with limited mobility.
Access for Dogs:
Dogs are permitted on the Halladale Walking Track but must remain on a leash.
Dogs are not permitted on Bay of Martyrs beach. Observe signs because access restrictions may apply around nesting Hooded Plovers and other sensitive wildlife areas.
Safety:
The route follows an exposed coastline with unstable cliffs, steep drops, strong winds and rapidly changing weather. Remain on the designated track and behind barriers, and keep children away from cliff edges.
The small beaches are unpatrolled and are not recommended for swimming because of rough surf, deep water, reefs and strong currents.
Be alert for snakes during warmer weather. Beach access may also be affected by high tides and large waves.
Restrictions:
No bicycles, vehicles, camping, fires, generators, horses, firearms or drones without a permit.
Opening Hours:
The walking track is generally accessible at all times, but walking during daylight hours is strongly recommended.
Check the official Parks Victoria Peterborough Walk page for current warnings, changed conditions and closures before visiting.
Location
Cnr Macs Street and Hamilton Street, Peterborough 3270 View Map
