Ross Travel Guide (Eastern Tasmania/Tasmania/Australia/Oceania)

Introduction to Ross

Ross is a charming little town in Eastern Tasmania, Australia. Located at the junction of the Macquarie and the South Esk Rivers, it is known for its rich history, scenic views, and outdoor adventures. With its warm hospitality, friendly locals, and peaceful atmosphere, Ross makes for a perfect holiday destination for both solo travelers and families.

List of Places to Visit in Ross

Ross boasts of a number of popular attractions that reflect its rich history and natural beauty. Here are some of the must-visit places in Ross.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Ross Bridge: A sandstone bridge built in 1836, it is the third-oldest bridge in Australia and a significant historic monument.
Ross Female Factory Historic Site: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is an old women’s prison where female convicts were once held. It is a fascinating glimpse into the convict history of Australia.
Tasmanian Wool Centre: A must-visit for those interested in the wool industry and the history of wool in Australia.

Natural Attractions of Ross: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

St Andrew’s Church: Known for its beautiful carvings, especially the exceptional woodwork of the staircase and the pulpit.
Ross Village Bakery: Famous for its delectable baked products, including the famous Ross cream bun.
Village Green: A perfect spot for relaxing and enjoying the picturesque views of Ross and its surroundings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ross

Ross offers some of the most scenic hiking and biking routes, taking one through its historic landmarks and beautiful landscapes. Some of the popular hiking/biking routes in Ross include the Ross Heritage Trail and the Macquarie River Trail.

Best Things to Do in Ross: Activities and Tours

Apart from the scenic beauty and mesmerizing views, Ross offers some great activities and tours that cater to everyone’s interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Ross.

Heritage Walk: A self-guided heritage walk through the town, taking visitors through the picturesque streets lined with sandstone buildings and historic landmarks.
Fly Fishing Tours: For those who love fishing, Ross offers some of the best fly fishing spots in the world.
Wine Tasting Tours: Ross is known for its excellent wines, and there are several wineries in the area that offer wine tasting tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ross

For those planning to spend a week in Ross, here’s a suggested itinerary that covers most of the town’s popular attractions and activities.

Day	Activity
Day 1	Explore the town’s historic attractions, including the Ross Bridge, the Female Factory, and the St Andrew’s Church.
Day 2	Go fishing in the trout-rich Macquarie River.
Day 3	Take a wine tasting tour of the local wineries.
Day 4	Go hiking on the Ross Heritage Trail.
Day 5	Visit the Wool Centre and learn about the history of wool in Australia.
Day 6	Spend some time relaxing on the Village Green and exploring the town’s shops and galleries.
Day 7	Take a scenic drive through the beautiful countryside surrounding Ross.

Food and Drink Scene of Ross

Foodies can indulge in some of the most delicious traditional Australian dishes in Ross, along with excellent wines, fresh seafood, and quirky local brews. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages when in Ross.

Must-Try Dishes

Ross Cream Bun: A sweet, light-as-a-feather dough filled with freshly whipped cream and raspberry jam.
Tasmanian Oysters: Fresh, plump oysters harvested in the local area.
Wallaby Pie: A unique twist on the classic Australian meat pie, made with lean, tender wallaby meat.

Local Beverages

Tasmanian Beer: Try the local brews produced by several craft breweries in the area.
Tasmanian Wine: Tasmania produces some of the best wines in the world, and Ross has some excellent wineries to explore.

Where to Stay in Ross: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ross offers a range of accommodation options for all budgets and preferences. From luxurious hotels to affordable hostels, here are some of the best places to stay in Ross.

Ross Motel: A comfortable and affordable motel located in the center of town.
The Man O’ Ross Hotel: A historic hotel offering cozy and comfortable rooms with authentic Australian decor.
Ross B&B: A charming bed and breakfast with beautiful gardens and comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in Ross: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Ross is known for its unique local products and souvenirs, which make for the perfect gifts for friends and family. Here are some of the best things to buy in Ross.

Tasmanian Woolens: Purchase a variety of woolen products such as sweaters, socks, and scarves.
Handmade Craft Items: Explore the markets and galleries for a range of handmade products such as jewelry, ceramics, and paintings.

Local Culture and Customs of Ross

Like the rest of Tasmania, Ross has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of indigenous, European, and Asian influences. The locals love their wildlife, and visitors can often spot some unique species of plants and animals in the area.

Best Time to Visit Ross

The best time to visit Ross is from December to February, when the weather is pleasant with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. The town also hosts several festivals and events during this period, such as the Ross Food and Wine Festival and the Ross Annual Fair.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ross

Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Ross:

Do:

Respect the local culture and customs.
Explore the local markets and shops.
Try the local food and drinks.

Don’t:

Litter or damage the surrounding environment.
Disrespect the local laws and customs.
Be loud or disrespectful in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ross

Ross is a safe town to visit, with very low crime rates. However, visitors should take precautions against sunburn, dehydration, and insect bites. It is always a good idea to carry sunblock, a hat, and a water bottle when spending time outdoors.

Health in Ross

Ross has a small medical center, which provides basic health services to the local community. Visitors should be sure to carry any necessary prescription medications with them and make sure they have travel health insurance.

Getting to Ross: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ross is well-connected to other parts of Tasmania and Australia. Here are some transportation options to get to Ross.

Airports Near Ross

Launceston Airport: Located around 70km from Ross, Launceston Airport is the closest airport to the town.

Bus Stations Near Ross

Tassielink: Tassielink offers daily bus services to and from Hobart, Launceston, and other major towns in Tasmania.

Other Options

Car Rentals: Visitors can rent a car from several car rental agencies at Launceston Airport or in Hobart and drive to Ross.

How to Get Around in Ross

Ross is a small town, and most of its attractions can be easily explored on foot or by bike. Visitors can also rent a car or hire a taxi to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Ross: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions that visitors to Ross can explore.

Launceston: Tasmania’s second-largest city, it is known for its beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and vibrant food scene.
Freycinet National Park: A beautiful national park famous for its stunning pink granite mountain ranges and sparkling turquoise waters.
Strahan: A charming port town that is the gateway to the famous Gordon River Cruise.

Conclusion

Ross is a hidden gem in Eastern Tasmania, with its rich history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. Visitors can explore the town’s historic landmarks, indulge in delicious local food and drinks, and experience some of the best outdoor adventures Tasmania has to offer. Plan your trip to Ross with this comprehensive travel guide, and enjoy the perfect getaway to one of the most beautiful towns in Australia.

Ross Image Gallery

Female Factory in Ross

Ross Bridge