We felt we had covered the towns south of Devonport quite well, so now we decided to head west along the coast. We had seen some of these towns briefly with John, but thought they could do with another more detailed visit.

First stop was Penguin again, but there was another town called Ulverstone on the way. So we stopped there, had a quick look, and decided to continue onto Penguin via the scenic coast road. Well, it was certainly scenic, but quite narrow and winding as well.

On revisiting Penguin, we found there really was not much else to it than the first time. Another photo with the big penguin, another look at the shops, and another talk with the tourist info people. Again we were told that there were lots of good things to see and do half an hour south of here, but, no, nothing much in town.

While we were there though, a freight train came past along the coastal railway line, and stopped at the historic station. George was fascinated.

We decided to head back to Ulverstone, via the highway this time - had enough of winding scenic roads. As we entered the town from the other direction we noticed the stunning harbor area with a graceful bridge arching over the river, and elegant restaurants on the waterfront. Had coffee in one of them - really nice.

We then went on and had a look at the town. This is more of a service town than the usual quaint little villages we had seen so much of. But in the middle of town we ran into a local couple from Shearwater that George had met several times on his morning walks on the beach. They told us about a place they had just discovered - a tearoom hidden behind an unassuming door just next to the pub. Once inside, you were transported to an elegant establishment from the 1800s with dim lighting, antique furniture, fine china and delicate crystal. Faye would love this place.

We then headed off to look at the beach, and found that they hired out pedal buggies which we could ride up and down the beachside park. A bit of fun, and a good work out to boot.