200 km south east of Melbourne. Once upon a time, this promontory was joined to Tasmania, and provided the land bridge for the first Aborigines who inhabited that island. Nowadays, the promontory marks the southernmost point of the Australian mainland, and is renowned for its rocky coastline, fine beaches and miles of excellent walking trails. Inland, the mountains rise to over 750 m. It is impossible to exaggerate the beauty of some of the scenery and remote beaches here, and not for nothing is the national park which occupies this peninsula the most popular in Australia. Fortunately, it is large enough to absorb its many visitors without being seriously spoiled.
   The main information centre is at Tidal River, or visit www.visitpromcountry.com.au, halfway down the west coast. Many of the best walks (both long and short) start from here.