Highlights

This little tourist spot just an hour’s drive from Hobart is a photographer’s dream come true. A natural wonder, it’s named for the tiled-like appearance of the rocks along the water. This geological phenomena is a sight to behold for nature enthusiasts and visitors who enjoy the the unique aspects of the Tassie wilderness. In addition to the rocks themselves, the Tasmanian crabs and other wildlife living in the crevices of the rocks are sure to delight the curiosity of animal lovers.

A view of the rocks can be seen after a short walk from the car park. However, if time allows for it, it’s worth a trip down several sets of steps to appreciate the rocks and and the surrounding areas close up.

The pavement is near the small town of Eaglehawk Neck, which is considered the hub for many attractions of the Tasman Peninsula, such as the Port Arthur Historic Site. It is a 1 hr. drive south of Hobart and a popular region for tourists to visit. Image thanks to: Tourism Tasmania & Andrew McIntosh.

The tiled rocks are a stunning sight formed mostly of siltstone that formed about 300 million years ago. Essentially, the rocks were fractured by the movement of the Earth and resulted in what is called jointing. Jointing itself is not incredibly uncommon, but the presence of salt crystals and consistent erosion by the Tasman Sea’s waves and sediment deepened the pattern to give it its startling appearance.

This natural phenomenon is only found in a few places on Earth where rocks have fractured into polygonal blocks and appear just like man-made tiles.

The pavement takes two forms; 

Depressions known as ‘pan’ formations occurring when saltwater wears away the centre portion of the stone into pools. The opposite effect is known as a ‘loaf’ formation when the edges of the stone are worn away, leaving a rounded crown resembling rising bread. 

Activities

• Photography

Facilities

• No facilities available at this site.