Torndirrup National Park
Torndirrup National Park is a coastal reserve located 10 km south of Albany across Princess Royal Harbour. The area was one of the first in the State to be gazetted as a national park in 1918, though it was not named until 1969 and acquired its first resident ranger in 1973. Torndirrup was the name of the Aboriginal clan that lived on the peninsula and to the west of what is now Albany.
Torndirrup National Park is well known for the unique features that have been created by the sea on the natural rock formations. The Southern Ocean has sculpted a Natural Bridge in the coastal granites and formed The Gap, where the waves rush in and out with tremendous ferocity. The Blowholes, a crack line in the granite, ‘blows’ air and occasionally spray. The noise is quite impressive. Windswept coastal heaths give way to massive granite outcrops, sheer cliffs and steep sandy slopes and dunes.
Walking, sightseeing, photography, fishing, and rock climbing are all popular activities in the park. Whales are frequently seen from the cliffs, particularly during winter, and a nearby whaling museum at the old whaling station makes a fascinating visit. There is well signposted road access via Frenchman Bay Road and sealed roads lead to all major features.