Frenchman's Rock
Highlights
- Explore the historic Frenchman's Rock, inscribed by Baudin's crew in 1803, revealing Australia's rich maritime heritage.
- Admire the stunning coastal views from nearby lookouts, enhancing your appreciation of this significant landmark.
- Discover the inscription detailing Baudin's expedition, connecting you to Australia's early exploration history.
- Savour the natural beauty of Penneshaw, where history and stunning landscapes meet in a unique coastal experience.
The rock, named Frenchman’s Rock, was inscribed by the members of Nicolas Baudin’s crew on the ship Le Geographe in 1803 on their expedition to map the coast of New Holland (now Australia).
They stopped at the bay to collect meat and fresh water. Baudin and his crew stayed for 3 weeks and during that time, he mapped the island and collected many flora and fauna specimens.
Baudin and his men announced their arrival to the island by inscribing the rock. The inscription reads: “Expedition de decourverte par le commandant Baudin sur le Geographe 1803”. The English translation is “Expedition of discovery by Captain Baudin in the Geographe 1803”.
Images and Video
Accreditations
- SA – Tourism Kangaroo Island
Features
Tags
This business does not currently offer accessible facilities.
Plan more around this area
Brown Beach, SA Brown Beach Camp Ground
The camping ground is situated adjacent Brown Beach, a secluded area adjoining the Hog Bay Road.
Brown Beach, SA Walcowrie
Relax in luxury at Walcowrie, a premium beachfront holiday home on Kangaroo Island. Enjoy stunning ocean views, modern amenities, and peaceful coastal living.
Browns Beach, SA One KI
Experience exclusive luxury at One KI, a hosted private holiday home on Kangaroo Island. Enjoy all-inclusive stays, gourmet dining, and breathtaking coastal seclusion.
Antechamber Bay, SA Antechamber Bay Campground
Camp by the coast at Antechamber Bay Campground — a peaceful spot on Kangaroo Island offering beach access, bushland surrounds, and tranquil river views.
Antechamber Bay, SA Unyoked – Lyra
Unyoked Lyra looks out to an immense seascape on 4km of secluded beach on one of Australia's most unique wilderness environments.
Antechamber Bay, SA Unyoked – Xanthe
Unyoked Xanthe offers an unforgettable view where bush and waves collide. Overlooking 4km of secluded beach of Kangaroo Island.
Penneshaw, SA Fat Beagle Coffee Shop
Fat Beagle Coffee Shop is a family-friendly and pet-friendly cafe in the heart of Penneshaw, offering a good vibes, great coffee and casual dining.
Penneshaw, SA Millie Mae's Pantry
Millie Mae's Pantry has been created to celebrate the wonderful food and beverages of Kangaroo Island. Serving delicious breakfast and lunch daily.
Penneshaw, SA Fire and Smoke KI
New retro decor family friendly restaurant straight off the ferry opposite the ocean. Home style meals with exceptional pricing.
Penneshaw, SA Hog Bay Saloon
Good food, good wine, good friends, good times! Hog Bay Saloon offers a fantastic range of wine and beers along with Kangaroo Island Oysters, SA
Penneshaw, SA The Kiosk Penneshaw
Welcome to “The Kiosk” in Penneshaw – a white-washed, laidback, coastal-friendly take on informal dining with great coffee and delicious food.
Penneshaw, SA Penneshaw Pub
The Penneshaw Hotel on Kangaroo Island has commanding and uninterrupted views over Backstairs Passage with absolute water frontage from a cliff-top.
