Western Tasmania Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally beautiful Western Tasmania with our comprehensive travel guide. Find out the best places to visit, hiking routes, must-try dishes, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Western Tasmania

Located in the heart of Tasmania, Western Tasmania is a region known for its culturally rich cities, ancient rainforests, rugged mountains, and breathtaking coastlines. The region offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and history, making it an ideal destination for all kinds of travelers.

From exploring the culturally significant attractions to indulging in outdoor adventures, Western Tasmania offers something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you on a journey through Western Tasmania, pointing out the must-visit places, best hiking routes, local culture, food, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Western Tasmania

Western Tasmania is a vast region with an abundance of scenic locations, hiking routes, and historical places. Here’s a list of places you should not miss during your visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Queenstown Heritage and Arts Precinct: Queenstown is a historically significant town known for its mining heritage and cultural art precinct. Visit the museum to learn about the mining history and explore art galleries with works from local artists.
  • Zeehan Museum: Explore the mining history of Western Tasmania at Zeehan museum, which houses a vast collection of minerals, mining equipment, and photographs.
  • Strahan: A charming town located on the west coast of Tasmania, Strahan offers a glimpse into the early colonial days of Australia. Visit the playhouse theater, which was once a jail, and wander around the historic buildings.

Natural Attractions of Western Tasmania: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake St. Clair National Park: Located in the heart of Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage area, Lake St. Clair National Park is home to Australia’s deepest lake and offers an array of hiking routes, boating tours, and photography locations.
  • Gordon River Cruise: A Gordon River Cruise is a must-do when visiting Western Tasmania. Explore the wilderness, rainforests, and soak in the beauty of Tasmania’s rugged western coast.
  • Cradle Mountain: Nestled in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park, Cradle Mountain offers a great location for hiking and exploring the mountain terrain.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Western Tasmania

Western Tasmania is a hiker’s paradise, with a vast network of walking trails and tracks for all levels of fitness. Here are some of the best routes for hiking and biking:

  • Cradle Mountain Summit Walk: A challenging route for experienced hikers that offers panoramic views of the mountain range and the surrounding landscape.
  • Queenstown Heritage Walk: A gentle walk through the historic town of Queenstown with lots of photo opportunities.
  • West Coast Wilderness Rail Trail: A scenic bike ride along the west coast of Tasmania, starting from Queenstown and finishing at Strahan.

Best Things to Do in Western Tasmania: Activities and Tours

Western Tasmania has something for everyone, from scenic drives to adventurous tours. Here are some of the best things to do in Western Tasmania:

  • Gordon River Cruise: Explore the wilderness, rainforests, and soak in the beauty of Tasmania’s rugged western coast.
  • West Coast Wilderness Railway: Take a ride on the historic steam railway and journey through the rugged west coast of Tasmania.
  • Tarkine Wilderness Walks: A guided tour through the ancient rainforest of Tarkine, where you can spot unique flora and fauna and learn about the cultural significance of the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Western Tasmania

Here’s a week-long itinerary for exploring Western Tasmania:

Day Destination
Day 1 Hobart to Strahan, along the west coast of Tasmania
Day 2 Gordon River Cruise and visit the Strahan playhouse theater
Day 3 Visit Queenstown and explore the mining heritage and cultural art precinct
Day 4 Cradle Mountain summit walk and Lake St. Clair National Park
Day 5 Zeehan museum and coastal drive along western Tasmania
Day 6 Tarkine Wilderness Walks
Day 7 Return to Hobart via scenic drive along the coastline

Food and Drink Scene of Western Tasmania

Western Tasmania offers a unique food and drink scene, showcasing local produce and seafood. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Huon Salmon: Renowned for its distinctive flavor, aroma, and texture. Huon salmon is often smoked and served in gourmet restaurants across Tasmania.
  • Wallaby and Venison meat: Local game meat that is delicious and has much less fat than domestic meat.
  • Abalone: A prized seafood delicacy found in the Tasmanian coastlines.

Local Beverages

  • Tasmanian Whiskey: Tasmania has a thriving whiskey industry, producing some of the best single malt whiskeys globally.
  • Local Beers: Boags and Cascade are two iconic beer brands from Tasmania that are worth trying.

Where to Stay in Western Tasmania: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Western Tasmania offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are our top picks:

  • Strahan Village: Located in the heart of Strahan, Strahan Village offers luxury accommodation with waterfront views and a range of facilities, including a restaurant, spa, and bar.
  • Queenstown Motor Lodge: The Queenstown Motor Lodge offers budget-friendly accommodation with excellent service and a central location for exploring the town.
  • Cradle Mountain Hotel: Nestled in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park, this hotel offers stunning views of the mountain range and luxurious accommodation.

What to Buy in Western Tasmania: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Western Tasmania is known for its unique souvenirs and local products, which make excellent gifts for loved ones. Here are some of the top products to bring home from Western Tasmania:

  • Huon Pine Products: Huon Pine is a highly valued timber in Australia, commonly used in furniture and other woodcrafts.
  • Tasmanian Whiskey: Tasmania has established a reputation for producing the world’s best single malt whiskeys, so grab a bottle while you are there.
  • Leather Goods: Tasmania has a thriving leather industry, producing high-quality products such as gloves, belts, and wallets.

Local Culture and Customs of Western Tasmania

The local culture of Western Tasmania has been shaped by its mining history, natural beauty and Indigenous culture. Most of the tourist attractions have a cultural significance attached to it, making it an opportunity for visitors to learn about the local culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Western Tasmania

The best time to visit Western Tasmania is between December and February, which is the Australian summer season. During this time, the weather is mild, and the daylight hours are longer, offering more time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Western Tasmania

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Western Tasmania:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Follow the local travel guidelines while hiking and exploring the wilderness.
  • Carry adequate supplies while hiking and dress appropriately.

Don’t:

  • Litter or cause damage to natural or cultural sites.
  • Disturb wildlife or plants.
  • Ignore warning signs and guidelines.

Safety and Health

Safety in Western Tasmania

Western Tasmania is safe for visitors, but it is essential to keep in mind the following:

  • Avoid going off designated hiking trails, particularly in wilderness areas.
  • Always carry adequate supplies and check weather conditions before starting a hike.
  • Keep an eye out for unpredictable weather patterns, which can change quickly.

Health in Western Tasmania

There are no specific health issues to be aware of when traveling to Western Tasmania. Still, it is advisable to carry adequate health insurance and consult a doctor and take necessary precautions if you have a pre-existing medical condition.

Getting to Western Tasmania: Transportation Options and Logistics

Western Tasmania is accessible by various modes of transportation, including air, bus, and car.

Airports Near Western Tasmania

  • Hobart International Airport - The main airport of Tasmania located in Hobart.
  • Launceston Airport - The second-largest airport located in Northern Tasmania.

Bus Stations Near Western Tasmania

  • Redline Coaches - Provides bus connections from Launceston and Ulverstone to Queenstown.

Other Options

  • Renting a car is the most convenient and flexible way to explore the region.

How to Get Around in Western Tasmania

The best way to get around Western Tasmania is by car, which allows you to explore the region at your own pace. There are car rental services available at airports and cities across the region.

Where to Go Next from Western Tasmania: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Western Tasmania is close to several popular destinations in Tasmania, making it an ideal place to start or end your Tasmanian journey:

  • Hobart: Tasmania’s capital city offers a blend of history, natural beauty, and urban culture.
  • Port Arthur: A UNESCO world heritage site located on the Tasman Peninsula, known for its former convict settlement.
  • Launceston: The second-largest city in Tasmania, offering a blend of history, outdoor activities, and urban culture.

Conclusion

Western Tasmania is a culturally rich and naturally beautiful destination that offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. From hiking through ancient forests to exploring historic mining towns, Western Tasmania offers a unique experience that is worth exploring.



    Burnie
    Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
    Deloraine
    Devonport
    Highland Lakes
    Ouse
    Rosebery
    Stanley
    Tullah
    Wynyard
    Zeehan