Highland Lakes Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food scene, where to stay, and more in Highland Lakes, Tasmania.


Highland Lakes is a breathtaking destination in Western Tasmania, Australia, that offers mesmerizing views of the Great Lakes and the surrounding mountains. It attracts thousands of visitors every year who come to experience Tasmania’s natural beauty and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. This comprehensive guide will help you explore and make the most of your trip to Highland Lakes.

Introduction to Highland Lakes

Highland Lakes is a scenic highland plateau located in central western Tasmania, covering 68,000 hectares, and comprising more than 50 lakes and tarns. The plateau is famous for its trout-fishing, water sports, and wilderness adventure activities, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Highland Lakes is easily accessible by car from Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, and is a great stopping point for those exploring the nearby Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park.

List of Places to Visit in Highland Lakes

There are many places to visit in Highland Lakes that cater to the interests of different types of travelers. Here are some of the must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tasmanian Pioneer Memorial Museum: This museum showcases the history of the pioneers that settled Tasmania and is situated in the small town of Bothwell, on the edge of the Highland Lakes region.

Natural Attractions of Highland Lakes: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Great Lakes: The Highland Lakes plateau is home to over 50 lakes, offering a wealth of fly-fishing and scenic exploration opportunities.
  • Central Plateau Conservation Area: The Central Plateau Conservation Area is a protected wilderness area in Tasmania that covers over 100,000 hectares of the central highlands. It’s home to several walking tracks, including the Overland Track.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Highland Lakes

Highland Lakes offers miles of hiking and biking trails, ranging from beginner-friendly paths to challenging multi-day treks. Here are some popular hiking and biking trails to explore:

  • The Walls of Jerusalem National Park: It’s a protected wilderness area that features some of the most iconic hiking trails in Tasmania. The area provides excellent hiking opportunities with trails ranging from easy-graded hikes lasting an hour or two to multi-day walks of up to a week.
  • Lake St Clair: Take a hike around Lake St Clair for amazing views and to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Best Things to Do in Highland Lakes: Activities and Tours

There are many activities and tours on offer in Highland Lakes that will provide unforgettable experiences. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  • Fishing: Highland Lakes is famous for trout fishing, so be sure to pack your gear and spend a day fishing.
  • Camping: Highland Lakes has plenty of camping options, including traditional campsites, caravan parks, cabins, and more. If you’re looking for an authentic camping experience, check out the main caravan parks or book one of the many cabins available around the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Highland Lakes

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in Highland Lakes:

Day Activity
1 Arrive at Highland Lakes and settle in at your accommodations.
2 Go fishing or take a relaxing walk around the Great Lakes.
3 Explore the Central Plateau Conservation Area.
4 Go camping and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
5 Hire a bike and take a ride around Lake St Clair.
6 Take a tour through Tasmania’s glassblowing community near Highland Lakes.
7 Depart Highland Lakes for your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Highland Lakes

Highland Lakes has a thriving food and drink scene that is worth exploring. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tasmanian salmon: this dish is a must-have for any seafood lover. It’s delectable and freshly caught in Tasmania’s rivers and around its coastline.

Local Beverages

  • Tasmanian wines: Highland Lakes is home to some of the best vineyards in Tasmania, producing award-winning wines.

Where to Stay in Highland Lakes: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options to choose from in Highland Lakes, catering to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  • Lake St. Clair Lodge: This picturesque lodge is situated at the foothills of Mount Olympus and offers comfortable rooms and cabins.
  • Eskaleen Lodge: This modern resort-style lodge provides a wide range of activities, including guided fishing tours and nature walks.

What to Buy in Highland Lakes: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

No trip to Highland Lakes is complete without bringing back some unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some items you should consider purchasing:

  • Handcrafted woodwork: Carpenters and woodworkers in Highland Lakes create beautiful handcrafted items.
  • Local honey and preserves: Tasmania is known for its honey and fruit preserves, and Highland Lakes is a great place to sample and purchase them.

Local Culture and Customs of Highland Lakes

Highland Lakes has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. Here are some local cultural observances in Highland Lakes:

  • The history of the pioneers: Tasmania was founded by pioneers, and the Highland Lakes region is a significant place in the area’s history.

Best Time to Visit Highland Lakes

Highland Lakes is a year-round destination, but the best times to visit for outdoor activities are during the summer months (December to February). During this time, the weather is mild, and the highlands are alive with wildflowers and other vegetation. Winter (June to August) is excellent for skiing and other snow activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Highland Lakes

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

Do:

  • Respect nature and wildlife.
  • Carry out any rubbish you take with you.

Don’t:

  • Leave any food or rubbish lying around.

Safety and Health

Safety in Highland Lakes

Highland Lakes is a safe destination, but visitors should be prepared for sudden changes in the weather. It’s always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before heading into the wilderness.

Health in Highland Lakes

Tasmania has an excellent healthcare system, and emergency services are available in Highland Lakes.

Getting to Highland Lakes: Transportation Options and Logistics

Highland Lakes is easily accessible by car from Hobart (3 hours) or Launceston (2.5 hours). If you prefer public transportation, buses and trains run daily from both major cities. The closest airport is in Launceston, from which you can hire a car or take a bus to Highland Lakes.

Airports Near Highland Lakes

  • Launceston Airport (LST): This airport is approximately 120 km from Highland Lakes.

Bus Stations Near Highland Lakes

  • Launceston Bus Station: Regular bus services run from Launceston to Highland Lakes.

Other Options

  • Car hire: Car hire is available at both Hobart and Launceston airports, which provides you with more flexibility.

How to Get Around in Highland Lakes

The best way to get around Highland Lakes is by car. However, some hiking and biking trails are accessible by foot or bike.

Where to Go Next from Highland Lakes: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many nearby destinations and excursions you can take from Highland Lakes, some of which include:

  • Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park: This stunning national park is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in Tasmania.
  • Strahan: This charming village is situated on Tasmania’s west coast and is the gateway to the World Heritage-listed Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park.

Conclusion

Highland Lakes is a stunning destination that offers a wealth of outdoor activities, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. This guide should provide you with all of the information you need to plan a memorable trip to this highland paradise. Don’t forget to respect the environment and wildlife while exploring the area, and we hope you enjoy your stay in this magical corner of Tasmania.

Pine Lagoon in Central Plateau Conservation Area Pine Lagoon in Central Plateau Conservation Area Pine Lake Pine Lake