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TASMANIA unlock the secrets...

Your complete touring guide to Australia’s Natural State

Explore our island What do you need to know to start your planning? The climate, the facts, our history, and our islands - it’s all here. Tasmania is Australia’s only island state. It is a heart-shaped island of lush green valleys, uncrowded towns and villages and still undeveloped coastlines. It is one of the world’s most mountainous islands and while our peaks do not tower to great heights, they are unique in their serrated profile. Our geology reflects our connection millions of years ago to Antarctica, and we are one of the few places in the world where ancient dolorite rocks dominates the landscape. Our climate is mild and our rainfall regular. The Roaring Forty winds that travel across our island bring with them the cleanest air in the world. But in less than 300 kilometres the weather patterns change dramatically. On the west coast the average rainfall is around three metres a year, while on the east coast it’s less than 20 centimetres. So we invite you to come to the edge of the world and explore our island and meet our residents. It will be an experience you will always remember. Hobart and Southern region

East Coast Launceston, Tamar Valley & North Coast North-West Coast

Western Wildnerness

Photography by Ian Rolfe

2

C

Contents About Tasmania

4

History and Heritage

4

Plants and Animals

5

Climate

6

Hobart and Southern Region

7

Must See and Do

10 - 13

Accommodation

15 - 16

East Coast

19

Must See and Do

20 - 21

Accommodation

22 - 23

Launceston, Tamar Valley & North Coast

25

Must See and Do

28 - 29

Accommodation

30- 31

North-West Coast

35

Must See and Do

36 - 39

Accommodation

40 - 41

Western Wilderness and Cradle Mountain

43

Must See and Do

44 - 47

Accommodation

48 - 49

3

About Tasmania In Tasmania, you will discover a land where the world’s cleanest air revives you, where World Heritage wilderness and history is a short drive from your accomodation and where you can savour fine food and wine right at its source. Here you can experience the tranquility of a white crescent beach, lapped by turquoise seas. Cruise along a coastlines of towering sea cliffs, sculpted over millenia by the Southern Ocean and Tasman Sea. Immerise yourself in exquisite wilderness - ancient rainforests so precious they have been preserved for all time, sweeping alpine meadows, mighty rivers and craggy mountains. Gaze at a night sky woven with countless stars, and in winter, watch the colours of the Aurora Australis swirl above you. Tasmania is a sensory delight. Indulge yourself with our fresh seafood - Tasmanian Atlantic Salmon, plump salty oysters, and the delicate flavours of abalone and crayfish. Enjoy the company of friends over a glass of fine cool climate wine and a platter of full-bodied Tasmanian cheeses or taste the southern sun in sweet berry fruits, crisp apples and juicy stone fruit.

History and Heritage Tasmanian stories live and breathe in our historic sites, arts and culture. The people and events that left their mark on our Island are with us today. You can see their imprint wherever you travel. Tasmania has a strong and lively arts and culture scene. The more relaxed pace of life, lack of pretension, and energetic and connected art scene has attracted writers, artists and performers. While we may have less than three per cent of Australia’s population, we are home to nine per cent of its artists. Our culture is enriched by our Aboriginal heritage and European, Asian and African immigrants.

4

Plants and Animals Tasmania’s isolation from mainland Australia has ensured the survival of many plants, animals and birds that are rare, or even extinct, elsewhere in the country. Visitors are often surprised at how accessible Tasmania’s native wildlife is. In many areas on even a short bushwalk you can come across a pademelon, wombat or wallaby. If you are lucky you will see the one of our most endangered birds, the 40-spotted pardalote - Maria and Bruny islands are their preferred environments. Of the many birds that make Tasmania their home 12 are endemic. Many of the animals are nocturnal, so your best chance of spotting one is in the evening. Because many of the animals are active at night, we ask all visitors to take particular care when driving at dusk or after dark. Tasmania’s asmania’s Sealife Tasmania’s marine animals are among its most impressive wildlife, ranging from magnificent southern right whales surging past our east coast to delicate sea dragons drifting near forests of giant kelp. You can cruise beside some of the highest sea cliffs in the southern hemisphere in search of seals, dolphins and albatrosses. But even many easily accessible beaches offer up their secrets at dusk, as little penguins waddle in from the ocean beneath clouds of shearwaters returning to their burrows. Because our oceans are still clean “forests” of giant kelp - the fastest growing plant in the world - are found off the east coast; perfect for diving. Tasmania’s asmania’s Rare Plants Tasmania is home to living dinosaurs – plants that date back to the Gondwana super-continent more than 95 million years ago – and trees so tall they appear to touch the sky. Trees such as Huon, Celery Top and King Billy pine are found nowhere else in the world.

5

Climate Tasmania’s Seasons Tasmania has four distinct seasons. The warmest months are December, January, February and March. Autumn has still sunny days and riotous colours as 200 yearold oaks, elms, birches and our own native beech, turn from gold to red in preparation for winter. Winter runs from May through August. However, because we sit in the Southern Ocean, the world’s weather engine, and our climate can vary greatly - on any given day. The average maximum daily summer temperatures sit between 17 and 23 degrees Celsius (62 and 73 degrees Fahrenheit) and winter daily between 3 and 11 degrees Celcius (37 and 51 degrees Fahrenheit). Our location below the 40th parallel means our summer evenings have long languid twilights. Rainfall varies dramatically across the Island. Hobart, with an average of 626 millimetres (24 inches) is Australia’s second-driest capital city (after Adelaide). While on the west coast an annual average of 2,400 mm (95 inches) ensures the rainforest thrives. The minimal artificial light in Tasmania’s night sky means it is an exceptional location for viewing one of the wonders of the cosmos, the magnificent Aurora Australis. What to wear in Tasmania Like the rest of Australia we have an informal and relaxed style of dressing. Smart, casual street wear is acceptable for most restaurants and evening events. Remember, as Scottish comedian Billy Connolly said, ‘There’s no such thing as bad weather. There’s only bad clothing’. So no matter when you come bring a warm jacket and a rain jacket. If you are coming in the cooler months, it’s best to bring clothing you can layer because even the winter sun is quite warm.

6

Hobart and Southern region 7

Hobart Map

Botanical Gardens Designer Makers Tasmania Kangaroo Bluff Historic Site Ronsy Historic Centre Rosny Lookout Runnymede Historic Home Tasmanian Cricket Museum

8

A B C D E F G

Hobart City Centre Map

Police Headquarters Post Office RACT Royal Hobart Hospital Service Tasmania State Library & Allport Museum Visitor Information Centre Tasmanian Redline Coaches Town Hal Village Cinema Centre YHA Office

A B C D E F G H I

Hobart Botanical Gardens

Hobart With the River Derwent at its heart and Mount Wellington rising above it, in Hobart the tranquility of a city from a bygone era coexists with the vibrancy of a pocket-sized modern metropolis. Hobart’s European beginnings are evident everywhere, from quaint settlers’ cottages to the lofty porches of colonial mansions. Once bustling with whalers and entrepreneurs, 19th-century sandstone warehouses now serve as dockside cafes, artist’s studios and restaurants, where you can enjoy excellent cuisine and fine wines. Discover Australia’s history in the nearby Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, enjoy classical and modern music in a variety of venues, or go to the theatre, in this city of festivals. Hobart is a place of fishing boats, fish punts at the docks, and coffee under the sunumbrellas where the famous Salamanca Market is held every Saturday. Take a harbour cruise past square-rigged yachts, or drive to the summit of Mount Wellington for a bird’s eye view of the intricate pattern of islands and estuaries that reach out to the sea beyond.

Wrest Point Casino

View from Mt Wellington

10

Must ust See and do: Take

in superb views of Hobart from Mt Wellington, Mt Nelson Signal Station and Rosny Hill, just across the Tasman Bridge Admire

the Georgian cottages of Battery Point- stroll around Arthur’s Circus, where Hobart’s oldest houses stand. On

the waterfront, visit Salamanca Place where the 1830’s sandstone warehouses are home to galleries, artists’ studios, shops, restaurants and cafe’s. Hobart’s famous Salamanca Market on Saturday is also a must see. Stroll through our parks and gardens - St David’s Park and the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, with its amazing Subantartic House. Taste Hobart - tour Cascade Brewery, Lark Distillery and Cadbury Choclate Factory. Visit the Female Factory Historic Site, the Penitentiary Chapel Historic Site and Runnymede. Browse the many antique shop, art and craft galleries and second-hand bookstores. Discover Hobart’s fine heritage buildings step out on a Hobart Historic Walk, lap up an Historic Pub Tour and climb the Shot Tower at Taroona. Visit our Museums - Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery; Transport, Maritime and Allport museums; and Narryna Heritage Museum.

Sailing each weekend and during the week for private charters The Lady Nelson sails majestically up and down the River Derwent to the joy and delight of her passengers who are offered the opportunityto enjoy a tall ship sailing experience and are able to help set sails, take a turn at the helm or just enjoy the feel of a traditional sailing ship at sea. The Lady Nelson

11

Southern region The Convict Trail Travel into Tasmania’s history - from the village of Richmond, where Georgian cottages echo the past; to Eaglehawk Neck, where savage dogs once guarded the narrow isthmus against escaping convicts; and on to Port Arthur, one of Australia’s most important historic sites. The Convict Trail is a four-day journey that takes you from the historic village of Richmond through the Coal River Valley home of some of Tasmania’s best cool climate wineries, on to Port Arthur Historic Site, stopping in to see Tasmanian devils, panoramic views and rock formations. You will have the time to explore Tasman National Park, scuba dive if that is your passion or take a boat ride beside 300-metre (900-foot) sea cliffs. The idea is to slow down and take in this strange and poignant tale of human suffering in a place of such singular beauty. A day at Port Arthur includes a tour to Point Puer (the boys’ prison), the Saltmines and even a ghost tour. The Huon Trail This is a trail through rich fertile valleys, waterways, forests and mighty rivers. Many of the island’s gourmet food growers and producers live and work in this region. Vineyards also abound and in the sparkling waterways, Atlantic salmon farms can be seen. You can walk high in the canopy of riverside rainforest on the awesome Tahune AirWalk, take the car ferry across to Bruny Island’s inspiring coastal landscapes, explore the underground wonders of richly decorated dolomite caves and bathe in the thermal pool at Hastings Caves.

Port Arthur Historic Site on the Tasman Peninsula is Australia’s most intact and evocative convict site. Port Arthur is one of Australia’s great tourism destinations. The Historic Site has over 30 buildings, ruins and restored period homes set in 40 hectares of landscaped grounds. Allow plenty of time to fully experience all that Port Arthur has to offer. Port Arthur Historic Site

12

Must ust See and do: The Convict Trail

Must ust See and do: The Huon Trail

Cruise from Hobart docks to Port Arthur on the state-of-the-art catamaran, MV Marana.

Leave Hobart along the Channel Highway and climb the Shot Tower at Taroona - all 318 steps.

Give yourself at least half a day at the Port Arthur Historic Site, Australia’s most significant convict site - enjoy the interactive Lottery of Life at the interpretation centre, museum, guided walking tour, restored building, beautiful gardens and graceful English trees.

Experience the Bruny Island Charters eco-cruise from Adventure Bay to South Bruny to see seal colonies, dolphins, whales, sea birds and amazing rock formations.

Sea natural wonders - Tessellated Pavement, Blowhole, Devil’s Kitchen, Pirates Bay Lookout and Tasman Arch; Tasman National Park, Palmers Lookout and Remarkable Cave near Port Arthur. South if Sorell, pick your own seasonal fruits and choose some delicious local preserves at the Sorell Fruit Farm. Marvel at the incredible collection of artefacts in Copping’s Colonial and Convict Exhibition, 24km south of Sorell. Visit Richmond, with Australia’s oldest preserved colonial convict gaol, bridge and Catholic church; antique shops, art and craft galleries and charming tea rooms.

Discover our apple-growing heritage at the Apple and Heritage museum at Grove, near Huonville. Visit the Forest & Heritage Centre in Geeveston and its displays, interpretation, specialty timbers and quality woodcraft. Drive south to Cockle Creek and take the exhilarating four-hour return walk to South Cape Bay. Fly from Cambridge near Hobart to land at Melaleuca, deep in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Visit the Stonehouse Garden at Grove, Inveraw Native Garden at Margate, the Magnus Garden at Woodbridge, Morella Gardens and Hiba Gardens on Bruny Island and Jackson’s Daffodil Farm at Geeveston.

Richmond Bridge

11 13

The Henry Jones Art Hotel

Where to Stay The Henry Jones Art Hotel 25 Hunter Street Hobart

Innkeepers Lenna of Hobart Cnr Salamanca Pl & Runnymede St Battery Point, Hobart

Hobart’s remarkable Henry Jones Art Hotel continues to attract national and international recognition for its imaginative and stunning combination of industrial elements with the ultra modern.

Stately Lenna - a modern hotel combined with a beautifully preserved colonial mansion.

Suites have European-style stainless steel and translucent glass bathrooms to die for. Deluxe spa suites feature elliptical spa baths for the ultimate soaking experience. Most suites have harbour views. Others overlook the stunning glass atrium that reveals glimpses of the old jam factory interior.

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The adjacent guest accomodation wing comprises fifty spacious ensuite rooms including five King Suites, with most rooms offering pleasant views of the harbour, gardens, city or Mt Wellington. Situated right in the heart of historic Sullivan’s Cove, Lenna is adjacent to fashionable Salamanca Place and a leisurely few minutes walk to the waterfront and city centre.

Innkeepers Lenna of Hobart

Luxury Lu uxury Old Apartment Hotel The Th he Woolstore Henry Jones Art Hotel 1 Macquarie Street 25 5 Hunter Street, Hobart Hobart

Quset Savoy 38 Elizabeth Street Hobart

Ho Hobart’s obart’s remarkable Henry y Jones Art Hotel H continues to attract national and Renowned for spacious rooms StateA truly unrivalled property located international int ternational recognition forand its imaginative imaginative and stunning combination of friendly hospitality, Hobart’s multi-award in the heart of all that Hobart has to industrial ind dustrial elements with the ultra modern. winning Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel has builthave a reputation among business Suites Su uites and leisure travellers as one of Australia’s most welcoming and relaxing inner-city hotels. Featuring a unique mix of Hotel rooms and Apartments, the decor is contemporary, appointment stylish and rooms functional and immaculately presented. All rooms are fully serviced and Apartment style accommodation is self-contained, with lounge, dining and laundry facilties.

offer - only metres to the city’s historic and vibrant waterfront and Salamanca Place which abound with restaurants, cafe’s, galleries and shopping and even closer to the increasingly cosmopolitan CBD.

Luxuriously appointed Studios and Executive Suites feature kitchenettes or full kitchens, queen size beds, spa baths and mini bars. Quest Savoy is ideal for leisure travellers or business executives who enjoy the personal yet professional ambiance only acheived in smaller properties.

15

Dining The Ball and Chain Grill 87 Salamanca Place, Hobart The Ball and Chain Restaurant is situated in the heart of historic Salamanca Place. A popular, modern eating house, specialising in steaks, local seafood and game dishes, all cooked on an authentic charcoal grill. The restaurants fine cuisine, casual atmosphere and reputation for excellence appeal to both locals and tourists alike. Mures Upper Deck Victoria, Hobart The famous Hobart Waterfront, Mures, and Superb Seafood go together beautifully,much of the fresh fish is prepared just to your liking, and is caught by Mures Fishing boats! Enjoy this quality seafood with lunch or dinner at Mures Upper Deck. Maldini Italian Cafe Restaurant 47 Salamanca Place, Hobart Maldini Café Restaurant is a fine-dining Italian restaurant, situated in an historic stone-fronted warehouse on Hobart’s famed Salamanca esplanade. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner – seven days a week – Maldini also serves fine espresso coffees and a full range of drinks throughout the day.

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Shopping The main department stores are located in a small area in the city centre and include major chains like Myer as well as many smaller boutique shops. However most visitors to Tasmania are attracted by thriving arts and craft industry with many talented artisans producing works in wood, metal and wool. Many fine galleries can be found especially in Salamanca Place including Aspect Design, Handmark Gallery and the Wilderness Society Shop. Look out for works by local artists especially of the wonderful local scenery. Salamanca Market Enjoy the sights, sounds, flavours, action and colour of Australia’s best outdoor market - proudly operated by Hobart City Council -every Saturday from 8.30am to 3.00pm at Hobart’s Salamanca Place. Set between graceful plane trees and the mellow sandstone facades of historic warehouses, Hobart’s famous market at Salamanca Place attracts thousands of locals and visitors, every Saturday of the year. Salamanca Market highlights fine Tasmanian art & craft including hand-worked glass, innovative design in Tasmanian timbers, stylish clothing, and bold ceramics.

Salamanca Market runs every Saturday of the year. With hundreds of food, craft and gift stalls of Tasmanian produce and wares, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for

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Essential Information Airport Airpo rt Hobart International Airport is 28km east of the city at Sorrell. Most flights from Hobart are to Melbourne but there are some direct flights to Brisbane and Sydney. The Airporter shuttle bus operates from airport to the city. Public Pu blic Transport The ‘Metro’ operated by Metropolitan Tasmania runs a bus system from downtown Hobart to the surrounding suburbs daily from 6am to midnight. Day passes available from $5 and single tickets from $2 depending on distance). Taxi Ta xi It is easy to phone for a taxi, hire one or flag down in the street. City Cabs Ph: 131 008 Taxi Combined Ph: 132 227 Post Po st Post Offices are located throughout the city. Stamps are also available from newsagents. The main Post Office is at the corner of Elizabeth and Macquarie Streets. Telephone Tel ephone Country code: +61 Area code: 03

Look for the

sign

Our visitor information Centres in Hobart and Surrounds are located in: Hobart Hobart Airport Geeveston Huonville Kettering Oatlands Port Arthur

20 Davey Street, Hobart Car Rental Terminal Church Street, Geeveston Esplanade, Huonville 81 Ferry Road, Kettering 85 High Street, Oatlands Port Arthur Historic Site

03 6230 8233 03 6248 4733 03 6297 1821 03 6264 1838 03 6267 4494 03 6254 1212 03 6251 2371

There you will find friendly and knowledgable staff, ready to help you explore Hobart and the Southern Region of Tasmania

18

East Coast 19

East Coast Beach

East Coast With long white beaches away from the crowds and seas of intense aqua, Tasmania’s east coast offers a completely different Australian beach experience. Our mild climate and pristine secluded beaches means our coastline is perfect for walking, kayaking, diving, sea cruises and relaxing. At the end of each day you can relax at an award-winning eco-lodge or tranquil beach house and indulge in the freshest seafood. Whether they are fishermen, wine makers or walking-guides, you will hear a different life story from friendly locals whose values are shaped by the rhythms of nature, and the stunning beauty of the east coast. At its northern extremity is Flinders Island, where you can hunt for the Killiecrankie ‘diamond’, or dive into a world of giant crabs and crays. At Mount William National Park, in Tasmania’s north east, Forester kangaroos acknowledge visitors with casual indifference. Heading south, around the Bay of Fires, the sea is aqua and deserted shell-strewn beaches stretch for kilometres of silica sand. House-sized granite boulders reddened by lichens, are polished smooth by waves that thump and sigh as they crumple onto the shore. Just before the small fishing town of Bicheno, is the Douglas-Apsley National Park, a landscape of rugged river gorges, waterfalls, and gently flowing rivers. Nearby, occupying a whole peninsula, is spectacular Freycinet National Park, with Coles Bay at its entrance overlooking crystal-clear Oyster Bay, an ideal place for diving, snorkelling, kayaking, boating and fishing. The park is dominated by the pink granite of the Hazards Mountains and best known for the perfect curve of Wineglass Bay. Enjoy superb seafood of cray, scallops, oysters, salmon, and berries in Swansea, before the journey south and the first sight of Maria Island. The whole island is a national park, free of vehicles. It is a refuge for Forester kangaroos, wallabies and the round small pademelons. You can stay in the tiny settlement of Darlington, watch the Cape Barren Geese or any of the 130 resident bird species, and relax as you learn of the Aboriginal, convict and settler histories.

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Must ust See and do: Near Orford, walk the clifftop track from East Shelley to Spring Beach for superb sea and island views. Take a ferry to Maria Island National Park for camping, walks and wildlife, costal cliffs and beaches. Discover Maria Island’s Fossil Cliffs and Painted Cliffs or climb Bishop and Clerk. Explore Darlington, where colonial and convict buildings date from 1825. Hire

a bike at Triabunna to explore Maria Island’s many trails.

Follow

the scenic coastal road northward. and the Spiky Bridge built in 1841.

Visit Gumleaves for some family fun,

Take a boat charter from Triabunna, Coles Bay, Bicheno or St Helens for fishing, diving or marine life observation. Call in to savour the delicious fruit and home-made ice cream at Kate’s Berry Farm, just south of Swansea. Stroll around historic Swansea with its well preserved colonial buildings, churches and guesthouses. Visit the Swansea Bark Mill and Wine and Wool Centre. Walk, climb or camp in Freycinet National Park. Take the two-hour return walk to Wineglass Bay, photograph the pink and grey granite rocks of The Hazards, or venture to sea by kayak on a half-day or full-day guided coastal paddle. Meet Tasmanian devils, wombats and birdlife at the East Coast Natureworld, Bicheno, and see little penguins on an evening Bicheno Penguin Tour. Pause for a pancake at the top of Elephant Pass, between Chain of Lagoons and St Marys, or take the coast road from Chain of Lagoons to Falmouth. Visit The Gardens and the the Bay of Fires Coastal Reserves near Binalong Bay internationally-acclaimed beaches, blue-green sea, fishing, bushwalking, wildflowers and wildlife.

Wineglass Bay

21

Where to Stay Piermont Retreat 12990 Tasman Highway Swansea

Freycinet Lodge Freycinet National Park Coles Bay

Piermont Retreat is the finest example of Tasmania’s cottage-style accommodation, boasting 15 beautiful cottages built from local stone and local timbers.

Set in secluded coastal bushland at the feet of the pink and grey granite peaks of The Hazards, within the border of the acclaimed Freycinet National Park on Tasmania’s East Coast, Freycinet Lodge is an award-winning, world class wilderness resort.

Situated on pristine coastline overlooking Freycinet National Park, the beautiful 93 hectare retreat provides visitors with ample surroundings in which to relax. Private beaches offer the rare opportunity to witness whales (seasonal) and dolphins cruising off the coast.

There’s a variety of accommodation options, including comfortable family cabins, cosy one room spa cabins and elegant deluxe and premier cabins with spas. This accommodation is part of the Pure Tasmania experience, a benchmark in quality Tasmanian hospitality.

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Luxury Lu uxury Diamond Island Oceanview Apartments The Th he Henry Jones Art Hotel 69 Tasman Highway 25 5 Hunter Street, Hobart Bicheno

Tidal Waters Resort Cnr Cameron & Quail Streets St Helens

Ho Hobart’s obart’s remarkable Henry y Jones Art Hotel continues to attract national and Diamond Islandrecognition is a unique self-catering, Tidaland Waters Resortcombination St Helens, sur-of international int ternational for its imaginative stunning 4 star accommodation adjacent to a rounded by three hectares of scenic industrial ind dustrial elements with the ultra modern. penguin rookery.

Suites Su uites have

This is a thoroughly modern resort - spas, tennis court, swimming pool, wireless broadband and the celebrated ‘Facets’ restaurant. Each night the penguins emerge from the ocean on the way to their nests. Out on the sand spit, flocks of terns and oystercatchers congregate at low tide to look for their pickings. Diamond Island is close to Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay.

lagoons and gardens, boasts the definitive Tasmanian East Coast waterfront setting.

The resort features 60 elegant guest rooms on two floors, each with ensuite bathroom and private balcony highlighting exquisite garden or water views. Our King Spa rooms overlook Georges Bay and offer the added luxury of your own private spa. Our restaurant, The Pelican, showcases Asian and European cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, local seafood and the finest Tasmanian produce in the region.

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East Coast Activities and Tours Freycinet Sea Cruises Join Rastus the dolpin-spotting dog and his passionate crew as you are taken where no walk can. Explore the absolute serenity of the Freycinet Peninsula on Tasmania’s East Coast and let this magical journey of a lifetime revitalise your sense. Locally-owned and operated, this cruise has a dedicated team to help you collect official data of selected wildlife for Tasmania’s Nature Conservation Branch, making this an essential part of the experience. Binoculars are provided and nature does the rest. Humpback, southern right and orca whales; dolphins, seals, white bellied sea eagles, albatross and prolific birdlife are frequently sighted and recorded. Freycinet Sea Cruises has experienced guides and offers two cruises and walk option to ensure you leave Freycinet with a salt-of-the-earth experience like no other. The Full Wineglass Cruise - S Scenery, cenery, Wildlife, Icon If you think Tasmania is beautiful, just wait until you explore the rugged Freycinet Peninsula with its dramatic sea caves and pink granite cliffs plunging into the Tasman Sea. Unique in beauty and rich in wildlife, this fully-guided morning cruise will interpret a timeline of multicultrual history and leave you mesmerised. Taste freshly shucked oysters still dripping from the sea, along with Tasmania’s finest champagne and cheeses at anchor in Wineglass Bay. Beach to Bush Cruise & Walk - Freycinet in a Day Walking shoes, swimmers and a camera are all you need to make this natural experience a highlight of your Tasmanian adventure. Cruise one way to Wineglass Bay with your personal guide, soak up the magnificent surroundings, have a swim and enjoy a gourmet lunch before you walk the Hazards for a world-class view of Wineglass Bay and beyond. With an indigenous flavour, this fully-guided cruise and walk will leave you with more than a taste of what Freycinet has to offer. All cruises subject to weather conditions. Booking recommended to avoid disappointment. (Cruise does not operate on Christmas Day, contact us for winter timetable). Ph: (03) 6257 0355

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Launceston, Tamar Valley and North Coast

Launceston Map

Launceston City Centre Map

General Hospital Library (Northern Regional) Police Headquarters Post Office RACT Visitor Information Centre Tasmanian Redline Coaches Town Hall Yorktown Square (shopping centre)

A B C D E F G

Launceston Harbour at Night

Launceston Launceston, the centre of northern Tasmania, is situated at the head of the beautiful Tamar Valley, Tasmania’s most productive wine region. The city blends history, scenery, creativity, adventure and entertainment. Launceston is a city of contrasts - it’s a short stroll from graceful Victorian-era facades to the rushing rapids of the Cataract Gorge. It’s a cultural city - the innovative Inveresk Cultural Precinct is a national showpiece. Launceston is renowned for its fine food, great entertainment and award-winning bistros and restaurants. Enjoy all the region’s attractions as you make Launceston your base to discover northern Tasmania.

Cataract Gorge

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Must ust See and do: From

the Launceston Travel & Information Centre, stroll to restaurants and cafes along the Old Launceston Seaport. Take a ferry to Maria Island National Park for camping, walks and wildlife, costal cliffs and beaches. Discover Maria Island’s Fossil Cliffs and Painted Cliffs or climb Bishop and Clerk. Explore Darlington, where colonial and convict buildings date from 1825. Follow the riverbank boardwalk to the Cataract Gorge Reserve and Cliff Grounds along the Kings Bridge-Cataract Walk. The Basin chairlift is the longest single span chairlift in the world. Get

high in the Cataract Gorge - join a guided rock-climbing and abseiling group.

Discover

art, history and culture at the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, housed at Inveresk and at Royal Park. At Royal Park visit the Planetarium. Inveresk’s art gallery showcases fine art and decorative collections from colonial to contemporary times. Admire craft and contemporary furniture at the Design Centre, home of the Tasmanian Wood Design Collection. Visit

1842 Gallery for furniture and decorative arts.

Visit the Boag’s Centre for Beer Lovers for tours and tastings of Tasmania’s ‘other sparkling’. See one of the nation’s best presentations of classic and historic automobiles at the National Automobile Museum. Take a double-decker bus or coach tram tour of the city to see graceful buildings and fine churches. Enjoy

a Tamar River cruise on the luxury Tamar Odyssey or Lady Launceston.

Follow

wines.

the Tamar Valley Wine Route to taste the region’s superb cool-climate

Tour the Waverley Woollen Mills, established in 1874 and the oldest textile mill in Australia still operating from its original site. At

Trevallyn be challenged by cable hand gliding.

Be

pampered with an indulgent dip in the hot pools and spas at the Aquarius Roman Baths. Tour

north to the Grubb Shaft Gold and Heritage Museum at Beaconsfield.

Visit

Launceston’s colony of Japanese macaque monkeys in their City Park home.

Explore Launceston on foot - join a heritage walk or take a ghost tour at dusk through the city’s history with a professional theatrical guide.

29 25

Where to Stay Colonial on Elizabeth 31 Elizabeth Street Launceston

Quest Launceston 16 Paterson Street Launceston

Built in 1846, this Georgian style building originally housed Australia’s oldest private school - the Launceston Church Grammar School.

A magnificent restoration of the historic ‘Murray Building’ houses Quest Launceston. Ideally located in the hart of the city’s CBD and a short stroll from everything Launceston has to offer.

In 1972 the property was converted to a quality hotel which today blends old fashioned hospitality with modern facilities. Accommodation choices range from cosy ensuite rooms, deluxe suites, studios or our heritage spa suite. A central location (just three minutes walk to the city centre), free off-street parking and close proximity to local attractions make The Colonial on Elizabeth your ideal choice when staying in Launceston. The warm and friendly atmosphere of the popular Three Steps on George Cafe Wine Bar is a dining experience not to be missed. The Colonial on Elizabeth Boutique Hotel is Launceston’s most stylish boutique hotel.

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This stylish, central and spacious property comprises of studios with excellent kitchenettes and 1 and 2 bedroom apartments all with full kitchens, laundries and spacious living and dining areas. Additional facilites include - non smoking building, in-house movies, cable news service, DVD & CD players, business centre, hi-speed broadband, and room chargeback facilities to a number of local cafes and restaurants.

Luxury Lu uxury Th The he Henry Jones Art Hotel 25 5 Hunter Street, Hobart Hatherley House

Mercure Hotel Launceston 43 High Street 3 Earl Street Hobart’s Ho obart’ss remarkable Henry Jones Art Hotel obart continues to attract national and Launceston Launceston

intternational recognition for its imaginative and stunning combination of international industrial ind dustrial elements withbuilt theinultra modern. Historic Hatherley House, 1830, Mercure Hotel Launceston is in the heart

was voted one of the best 80 new hotels Suites Su uites haveby Conde Nast Traveller in the world 2003. This gracious, contemporary HIP Hotel is a refined world where rare and ancient tapestries and works of fine art are juxtaposed against a minimalist white backdrop. All suites have king-size or twin beds, exotic silk covers and ottomans, and the latest in European bathroom design and fittings in glass and stainless steel. Choose a luxury room or, for something more special, a superior suite with an oversize spa or free-standing elliptical two-person bath. Hatherley’s gardens, like an English parkland, evoke a feeling of sheer expanse. A garden for all seasons, superb in spring, summer, autumn and winer is a delight year-round.

of the city and is famous for its friendly staff, outstanding service and range of facilites.

The spacious and well-equipped rooms offer all the elements of comfort, providing the perfect base to rest your head after a full day of shopping. Room choices include Standard, Superior and Privelage each with modern décor with rich, earthy tones. Superior rooms offer practical writing desks with easy access to broadband data points. Located on the first floor, ‘Snappers’ restaurant is open for breakfast and dinner. Specialising in modern cuisine, ‘Snappers’ is renowned for serving Launceston’s finest food and is certain to tempt the tastebuds.

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Dining Fee and Me 190 Charles Street, Launceston Top rated Tasmanian Restaurant with innovative menu served in elegant surroundings. Degustation menu a speciality Stillwater 135 George Street, Launceston Stylish restaurant serving modern Australian cuisine, seasonal menu and impeccable service. Tasmanian wines a feature. Mud Bar and Restaurant Pepper’s Seaport Hotel, Seaport Boulevard, Launceston Located within the Pepper’s Seaport Hotel, the Mud Bar is a popular watering hole before moving on to the excellent Italian influenced food in the dining room. Hallams Waterfront 13 Park Street, Launceston Relaxed location overlooking the River Tamar, this popular restaurant specialises in seafood. Takeaway has great fish and chips.

Bars and Nightlife Royal on George 90 George Street, Launceston A try the vodka cocktails in the bar in the vault of an old bank building or listen to the bands upstairs. Irish Murphey’s 211 Brisbane Street Street,, Launceston Typical Irish Pub with all the usual signs of Ireland, but a great watering hole.

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Shopping The main The main shopping area of Launceston is concentrated in a smallish area centred on George Street and in nearby Yorktown Mall where the major department stores and fashion boutiques are located. The Brisbane Street pedestrian mall is home to the major retail chains. However, most visitors to Tasmania are attracted by the excellent arts and crafts and the Design Centre in City Park has many lovely locally produced goods for sale using Tasmanian wood, woollen wear, pottery and glass. For some beautiful Tasmanian furniture pass by The Furniture Works on Cimitiere Street. The Sheep’s Back has many woollen products and the Umbrella Shop has a wide selection of gifts. For those with a sweet tooth try the Swiss Chocolatier at 82 George Street. For jewellery, Jale Pearls has a gallery displaying freshwater and saltwater pearls with prices to suit all budgets. Yorktown Square, off George Street has a mixture of speciality shops and there is also a market here on Sundays.

Visit The Tasmanian Chocolate Studio in Launceston for a sumptuous choice of chocolates, all hand made. A must for chocoholics!

Launceston’s Shopping Precint 33

Essential Information Airport Airpo rt Launceston Airport is located at Western Junction, 16km south of the city. A shuttle bus operates from airport to city centre for $14 and takes about half an hour. A taxi ride is about $30 - $35.00 Public Pu blic Transport Adequate bus service operated by Metro from city centre to suburbs and runs per half hour from Monday - Friday, but services limited in evening and on Sundays. Day pass available for $4.40. Taxi Ta xi It is easy to phone for a taxi, hire one or flag down in the street. Central Cabs Ph: 131 008 Taxi Combined Ph: 132 227 Post Po st Post Offices are located throughout the city. Stamps are also available from newsagents. The main Post Office is at 68 Cameron Street. Telephone Tel ephone Country code: +61 Area code: 03

Look for the

sign

Our visitor information Centres in Launceston are located in: Launceston

12-16 St John Street

1800 651 827

Great Western Tiers

98-100 Emu Bay Road, Deloraine

03 6362 3471

Tamar

Main Road, Exeter

1800 637 989

George Town

Main Road, George Town

03 6382 1700

Scottsdale

96 King Street, Scottsdale

03 6352 6520

Ross

Church Street, Ross

03 6381 5466

There you will find friendly and knowledgable staff, ready to help you explore Launceston

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North-West Coast

Rural Devonport

Devonport Rich farming country surrounds the city and as a rural hub it retains that refreshing small town feel: pleasantly friendly, and with just the right amount of slowness to let you know your holiday has begun. You couldn’t ask for a better setting for a pocket-sized city than Devonport. Arranged about the mouth of the Mersey River and along the shores of Bass Strait, it’s the kind of place where there is always a whiff of fresh sea air and inspiring water views. Rich farming country surrounds the city and as a rural hub it retains that refreshing small town feel: pleasantly friendly, and with just the right amount of slowness to let you know your holiday has begun. Devonport is a great place to stroll. Riverside parkland leads to protected swimming beaches, only a few minutes from the CBD; and it’s a short walk to Mersey Bluff Lighthouse for magnificent, Bass Strait views. The city is home to the Spirit of Tasmania I and II, the ships that are Tasmania’s sea bridge to the rest of Australia. Wander the waterfront in the evening, and you may see one of these huge red-andwhite painted ships make its dramatic departure for the mainland, dwarfing everything in town. Mornings are always a flurry of activity on the docks, when the overnight ship comes in. First port of call post-crossing is traditionally one of Devonport’s cooked breakfasts: pull up a seat at a dockside café or bakery. Devonport has some unusual life-size collections that are a slice of out-of-theordinary Tasmania. There are vintage trains, top Tasmanian art, a maritime history treasure trove and the home of Australia’s only Tasmanian prime minister to discover. Best of all, these diverse collections are manned by people who are truly passionate about what they do - and bursting with stories on their piece of island eclecticism.

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Must ust See and do: Step back in time at Home Hill, the Devonport home of Australia’s only Tasmanian-born Prime Minister, Joseph Lyons. Discover the region’s rich-seagoing past in the Devonport Maritime Museum. Visit

the Devonport Regional Gallery in the CBD to enjoy a range of contemporary artworks. See unique Aboriginal rock engravings at the Bludd, where the Tiagarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre depicts Aboriginal life through dioramas. There are up-to-the-minute interactive exhibits at the Imaginarium Science Centre - enjoyment for all the family. Shop for fresh local farm produce at the colourful Devonport Farmers’ Market, every second and fourth Sunday morning. Explore the beaches and waterways of Port Sorrell. Take a coastal walk in the Narawntapu National Park. In Latrobe, stock up on some of Tasmania’s finest handmade chocolates at the House of Anvers. Take the Cream of Tasmania tour - visit the House of Anvers in Latrobe, Ashgrove Cheese and Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm. Sample a sweet treat at the Honey Farm at Chudleigh. Enjoy a glass of wine from one of the nearby awardwinning vineyards - Ghost Rock Vineyard or Barringwood Park. Visit

the Tasmanian Arboretum just south of Devonport. Specimens of trees and shrubs include Tasmanian native species and plants from around the world. Admire the murals in Sheffield and then enjoy a lakeside picnic on the sunny banks of Lake Barrington. Head inland and underground at the Gunns Plains Caves - sea spectacular limestone formations and the habitat of the world’s biggest freshwater lobster. Encounter native wildlife, birdlife and farm animals at the Wings Wildlife Park, Gunns Plains. Take a short walk to the spectacular steep-sided gorge of the Leven Canyon.

Devonport Lighthouse

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The Nut

The North-West Nature Trail This journey along Tasmania’s richly-varied northern coastline stretches from he abundant wildlife of Narawntapu National Park to the wild and remote Tarkine region of the far North West Coast. Along the way, discover penguin rookeries, cruise to a seal colony, spot platypus in the forest streams and sample delicious fresh produce from working farms. At Dismal Swamp, slide deep into a sunken blackwood forest. In historic Stanley, take a trip to the summit of the Nut. Everywhere along the trail, enjoy friendly local welcomes The north west has Tasmania’s most prosperous farming lands and is increasingly becoming a must-see tourist destination. The rich soils are ideal for vegetable growing, dairy products, prime beef, honey, wine and fresh fruits. The patchwork countryside, reminiscent of England, has earned itself a clean, green image due to a reliable rainfall, lack of heavy industry and the geographical isolation from the rest of Australia.

Tulips at Table Cape

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Must ust See and do: Discover

the beautiful beaches of the Port Sorrel region.

Walk

the beaches, spot the wildlife and enjoy the coastal landscapes of the Narawntapu National Park, 19km off the Frankford Highway, east of Latrobe. Admire the displays in the Devonport Gallery and Arts Centre and visit the Maritime Museum. Take a ride on the Don River Railway - visit the fascinating railway museum at the Don Railway terminus. Drop a line from the Ulverstone wharf of cast for a trout in the upper reaches of the Leven River. Drive

the coast road between Ulverstone and Penguin for spectacular scenic views from gardens to the sea. Detour

south to the spectacular Leven Canyon, with its forested gorge, short walks and sweeping views. Head

south to discover the underground wonders of the Gunns Plains Caves - take a guided tour to see decorated caves and the habitat of the giant freshwater lobster.

Sample

The historic fishing village of Stanley nestles snugly beneath The Nut.

fine fresh produce at the Burnie Farmers’ Market, on the first and third Saturday of every month.

Drive

to the summit of the breathtaking Table Cape, visit the lighthouse and see tulip fields ablaze with flowers.

Enjoy the peace and beauty of the local beaches at Boat Harbour and Sisters Beach - swim, stroll or snorkel. Take

a spectacular coastal walk through wildflowers at Rocky Cape National Park.

Visit

Highfield Historical House (1828) near Stanley, former headquarters of the Van Diemen’s Land Company. South from Smithton, stroll or take a the giant slide down to the remarkable Dismal Swamp, with its interactive displays highlighting the region’s forest heritage. Catch a wild west wave at a Marrawah surf beach - gaze out to sea across the longest unbroken stretch of water on the planet, thousands of kilometres to South America. Join

a river cruise on the Arthur River to see sea eagles and tall riverbank forests.

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Where to Stay Quality Hotel Gateway 16 Fenton Street Devonport

Edgewater 4 Thomas Street Devonport

The Quality Hotel Gateway Devonport offers a wide selection of contemporary accommodations and is centrally located in the heart of Devonport’s CBD.

Located next to the Spirit of Tasmania Terminal, Edgewater is a complete accommodation complex. It is situated in a quiet residential area on Devonport’s Eastern shore and has undergone extensive renovation.

The Quality Hotel Gateway is one of the largest hotels in the northwest. We are also at the gateway to the Cradle region, a six-minute drive to Spirit of Tasmania terminal, a 10-minute drive to the Devonport Airport, one-hour drive to Launceston, and Hobart is an easy three-hour drive south. The hotel offers 88 guest rooms, including 64 standard rooms, 22 deluxe spa rooms and 2 junior suite deluxe spa rooms. Additional property features includes free newspaper, parking, 8 in-house movie channels, and express check out.

40 36 36

Edgewater offers contemporary, 3-4 star accommodation with king size bed, private ensuite, Austar, air-conditioning, and complimentary tea and coffee making facilities in all suites. Waterfront rooms overlook the Mersey River, and Terrace rooms are spacious and indulgent. For the ultimate luxury, spoil yourself in a spa suite! Edgewater’s bistro is open for breakfast and dinner, and serves great value meals. There is also a Sports bar, Lounge Bar and bottle shop on site.

Luxury Lu uxury @ VDL Stanley The Th he Henry Jones Art Hotel 16 Wharf Road 25 5 Hunter Street, Hobart Stanley

Glencoe Rural Retreat 1468 Sheffield ain Road Barrington

Ho Hobart’s obart’s remarkable Henry y Jones Art Hotel continues to attract national and Contemporary sophistication has found An intimate, comfortable guest house, international int ternational recognition for its imaginative and stunning combination of its place, in the middle of Stanley. Walk offering you relaxing country views from industrial ind dustrial elements with the ultra modern. through the doors and into the Living Room of the VDL Stanley, where they’ve Suites Su uites have broken down the walls of conventional lobby design. Enjoy warm drinks in the evening by the fire and soak up the atmosphere.

@ VDL Stanley is private boutique waterfront accommodation for the discerning traveller. So escape, experience, and enjoy. @ VDL Stanley has delivered the ‘WOW factor’ through delivering the unexpected. Bridging the gap between old and new, Tasmania’s famous landmark the Van Diemen’s Land Company Store has undergone renovations and has emerged as the stylish @ VDL Stanley.

the comfort of your bed! Glencoe Rural Retreat is located in the heart of the Cradle Mountain and Lakes District in Northern Tasmania.

Your Hosts, Remi & Ginette Bancal welcome you to a unique holiday experience! This recently refurbished Glencoe Rural Retreat in classic French country style, also boasts a Tea Room which will be open to external guests, serving light lunches and afternoon tea. For the in-house guests, you will be able to try Remi’s delicious rustic French fare for dinner. All bedrooms with individual ensuites, separate guest lounge with small library, warm fires in Winter & cool fresh rooms in Summer

41 37 3 7

North-West Coast Activities and Tours World Heritage Cruises Join Rastus the dolpin-spotting dog and his passionate crew as you are taken where no walk can. Explore the absolute serenity of the Freycinet Peninsula on Tasmania’s East Coast and let this magical journey of a lifetime revitalise your sense. Locally-owned and operated, this cruise has a dedicated team to help you collect official data of selected wildlife for Tasmania’s Nature Conservation Branch, making this an essential part of the experience. Binoculars are provided and nature does the rest. Humpback, southern right and orca whales; dolphins, seals, white bellied sea eagles, albatross and prolific birdlife are frequently sighted and recorded. Freycinet Sea Cruises has experienced guides and offers two cruises and walk option to ensure you leave Freycinet with a salt-of-the-earth experience like no other. Gordon River Cruises Walking shoes, swimmers and a camera are all you need to make this natural experience a highlight of your Tasmanian adventure. Cruise one way to Wineglass Bay with your personal guide, soak up the magnificent surroundings, have a swim and enjoy a gourmet lunch before you walk the Hazards for a world-class view of Wineglass Bay and beyond. With an indigenous flavour, this fully-guided cruise and walk will leave you with more than a taste of what Freycinet has to offer. All cruises subject to weather conditions. Booking recommended to avoid disappointment. (Cruise does not operate on Christmas Day, contact us for winter timetable). Ph: (03) 6257 0355

42

Western Wilderness and Cradle Mountain 23

Western Wilderness Railway

Western Wildnerness This is where you travel to see some of the most significant World Heritage Areas on earth and the iconic sight of Cradle Mountain reflected in Dove Lake. It’s a place of ancient Gondwana landscapes, dense forests, wild rivers that tumble through steep gorges and wide deep lakes. As you head into Queenstown, you enter another world and the road spirals for more than 90 bends down into what remains of the world’s richest gold and copper mine. When you reach Strahan, on Macquarie Harbour, you can take an exhilarating cruise to the wide ancient Gordon River; travel by narrow gauge railway across the mountain range; fly in to land on the Gordon River to search out a thousand-year-old Huon pine; or just relax and indulge in great food and wine. You can explore the area by four-wheel-drive, jet boat, kayak or sail the rivers and waterways and walk the long expanse of Ocean Beach. You are on the edge; from here – more than 11,000 kilometres (6,800 miles) west - is South America. From Queenstown drive north along the Western Explorer, an unsealed highway, that takes you to the world’s largest remaining stretch of temperate rainforest - the Tarkine. When you reach the lower reaches of the Pieman River you board a simple vehicular barge across the River. The little town of Corinna is the perfect place to stay to explore this area. In Zeehan, once a wealthy silver town, stop for a while and explore the West Coast Pioneers Memorial Museum where you can learn of the town’s rollicking mining past. Further north are the tiny historic towns of Rosebery and Tullah that once housed hundreds of miners but are now quiet and peaceful. Look out for Montezuma Falls our tallest waterfall, near Rosebery. The jagged peaks of Cradle Mountain marks the boundary of this wild and ancient area. If you are approaching the Western Wilderness from there you will pass through Mole Creek with its nearby caves.

44

Must ust See and do: Cruise Enjoy

the Pieman River from Corinna on the restored launch MV Arcadia.

escorted trail riding through bushland and on the lake shores at Tullah.

At Williamsford near Rosebery, walk along the old railway embankment to Montezuma Falls, the highest waterfalls in Tasmania. Guided tours are available. Allow a couple of hours at the fascinating West Coast Pioneer Meseum at Zeehan - it has an extensive range of artefacts and displays, including one of the world’s finest collections of rare minerals and crystals. Try

your hand at fly fishing in one of the West Coast lakes.

Walk,

drive or cycle from Zeehan through the abandoned railway tunnel on the way to the Spray Mine. Cruise across Macquarie Harbour to see the mirrored reflections on the lower reaches of the mighty Gordon River - or land higher on the way to the Spray Mine. See Australia’s longest-running theatrical performace, The Ship That Never Was, at the West Coast Visitor Information and Booking Centre, Strahan. Cruise to Sarah Island and view the infamous Hells Gates at the mouth of Macquarie Harbour. Ride West Coast Wilderness Railway, cutting through the rainforest gorge of the King River, linking Strahan and Queenstown. Take Try

a fishing charter on Macquarie Harbour - bring home your dinner.

a helicopter or plane tour deep into the West Coast Wilderness.

Take a stroll on the awesome Ocean Beach near Strahan - be there on a summer evening when shearwaters return to their burrows in the dunes. Visit Strahan’s Huon Pine Gallery and production shops - sea woodturners and artists at work. Relive

the colourful history of

Queenstown at the Gallery Museum. Take

the short walk to Spion

Kopf Lookout for fantastic views of Queenstown and the famous gravel football oval.

Visit Greg Duncan’s hand carved ‘The Wall’ at Derwent Bride. This monumental art project is a work in progress is open to the public. When completed, the wall will be 100 metres in lenth.

45

Cradle Mountain

Cradle Country Touring Route This route crosses a large range of inspiring landscapes, from the picturesque agricultural hinterland of the fertile North West Coast to the famous craggy profile of Cradle Mountain at the northern edge of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. The sheer magnificence of Cradle Mountain inspired Austrian-born Gustav Weindorfer to build a chalet of King Billy pine here in 1912 and work tirelessly for a decade to have the area declared a national park “for the people for all time”. His dream was realised in 1922, and today a quarter of all visitors to the state travel here to share his vision. Take one of the many short walks through the ever-changing vegetation of the shores and mountainside to gain a full appreciation of the magic of this area. Perhaps the most distinctive flora of the area are the pandani and the fagus – the former for its paradoxical palm-like appearance, the latter for its status as Australia’s only deciduous tree. Fagus, also know as deciduous beech (Nothofagus gunnii), is endemic to Tasmania and has a magnificent autumn display, ranging through gold to deep red from late April to May. Stroll from cascading rivers to dense, old-growth rainforest in just 20 minutes on the Enchanted Walk, or take most of the day to tackle the summit. The history of the Weindorfers’ devotion to Cradle Mountain and their successful efforts to ensure its preservation as a national park is told in Weindorfer’s Chalet, just off the road to Dove Lake. If you have your heart set on the Overland Track, you don’t have to do it all yourself. Guided walks are available, some staying in catered huts along the way.

46

Must ust See and do: Latrobe

is the home of woodchopping and the scene of the world’s first chopping competition - spend time in the Australian Axeman’s Hall of Fame. Tempt your taste buds in Latrobe’s House of Anvers, home of gourmet truffles and chocolates. Explore Latrobe’s fine antique shops. browsing experience.

Visit Reliquaire, for a unique shopping and

On the Latrobe Landcare walk, keep your eyes peeled for a wild platypus in the river. Just south of Latrobe, call in to Railton, where trees have been transformed into topiary artworks. View the life-size murals in Sheffield, where the history of the region is painted on the town’s buildings. Get lost in the world’s biggest maze at Tazmazia - believe it or not, you’ll find it at Lower Crackpot, near Lake Barrington. Take a picnic and a bottle of local wine to the shores of the beautiful Lake Barrington, site of Tasmania’s world-class international rowing course. Enjoy

the whimsical and creative letterboxes that line the country roads of Wilmot - pause in the town at the nation’s first Coles store, home of a retailing empire.

See

the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area from the air on a spectacular scenic flight across lakes and peaks from Cradle Valley, Devonport and Wynyard.

Enjoy

one of the many wonderful short walks in Cradle Valley - circumnavigate Dove Lake or climb to the serene summit of Cradle Mountain.

Drop

in at Waldheim, the ‘forest home’ or Cradle Valley conservation pioneer Gustav Weindorfer.

Experience

the walk of a lifetime on the multi-day expedition of the Overland Track, southward through World Heritage wilderness to Lake St Clair.

Lake St Clair

47

Where to Stay Tullah Lakeside Chalet Farell Street Tullah

Gordon Gateway The Esplanade Strahan

Located between Cradle Mountain and Strahan, Tullah Lakeside Chalet is perfectly located for exploring the highlights of Tasmania’s West Coast. It also boasts a fantastic setting on the shores of Lake Rosebery, surrounded by spectacular mountains.

A room with a view guaranteed! Gordon Gateway meets your needs with luxury and family accommodation enabling you to experience all the Western Wilderness has to offer.

Features include tour information desk, lakeside dining and BBQ facilities, cosy log fires throughout the lodge, conference and function facilities. Adventure activities include bushwalking and hiking, horse riding, fishing tours and lake cruises. Premium rooms are spacious with recent refurbishment, both Premium and Standard rooms include colour TV.

48

Relax and take in the 180 degree views of Strahan and Macquarie Harbour cruise boats, sea planes, helicopter flights, yachting and town activities. Refresh with a ten minute water edge stroll to Strahan’s restaurants and shops. Rejuvinate as you melt into our luxuriously comfy pillow top beds and fine linen. Self-catering studio units are available, whilst other options include two bedroom chalets, executive suites and a spacious penthouse.

Luxury Lu uxury Cradle Mountain Wilderness The Th he Henry Jones Art HotelVillage Cradle Mountain Road 25 5 Hunter Street, Hobart Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain Chateau Cradle Mountain Road Cradle Mountain

Ho Hobart’s obart’s remarkable Henry y Jones Art Hotel continues to attract national and Cradle Mountain Wildernessfor Village is Cradle Mountain Chateau is situated international int ternational recognition its imaginative and stunning combination of in nestled in a secluded bush setting in the alpine woodland at the northern end of industrial ind dustrial elements with the ultra modern. Cradle Valley on the edge of the World Heritage listed Cradle Mountain and Suites Su uites have Lake St Clair National Park.

The village has 12 premium spa cottages offering luxury accommodation in an elegant contemporary style. The private, cosy, self-contained one and two bedroom cottages have fully equipped kitchens, private balconys and parking at the front door, premium cottages have their own BBQ’s or mix with other guests at the communal BBQ’s. When you step out onto your private balcony you may come face to face with a wallaby, wombat, pademelon, possum, currawong or enjoy a relaxing walk through temperate bush.

Cradle Mountain - Lake St. Clair National Park - a comfortable two hour drive from Launceston or 1.25 hours from Devonport. The Chateau is located on Cradle Mountain Road, the gateway to the West Coast and Strahan Village, and just a five minute drive to World Heritage listed national park. The Chateau offers 60 hotel style rooms under one roof, split into two wings. All rooms feature tea and coffee making facilities, heating, electric blankets, television and telephone facilities. 24 hour room service and guest laundry is also available.

49

Tasmania

www.discovertasmania.com

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