Exploring Tasmania’s Western Wilds This School Holidays
A road trip exploring Tasmania’s remote west coast definitely deserves a place on your exploration list. Off the beaten track, this is an iconic journey for the adventurous. It’s not called the Western Wilds for nothing.
An untamed expanse of wilderness makes up the Tasmanian World Heritage Area. It covers almost 25% of the entire state. Think ancient forests, towering waterfalls and pristine rivers. It’s an explorer’s paradise.
Keen to whet your appetite and spark the adventurous spirit in your offspring these school holidays? These 10 ‘must dos’ are just the start.
- Cruise the Gordon River
Departing from the township of Strahan, an award-winning boat trip is the best way to immerse yourself deep in the western wilderness. You’ll take in Hell’s Gates, stop to stroll through the forest at Heritage Landing and also step ashore at Sarah Island – the harshest convict settlement in the country. - Be entertained
Australia’s longest running play is performed in Strahan at 5.30pm each day. ‘The Ship that never was’ is fun for the whole family, telling the hilarious story of the last dramatic escape from nearby Sarah Island. - Cruise at Corinna
Venture to the remote mining settlement of Corinna for more river magic. There are a variety of cruises on offer – think picture perfect reflections and ancient Huon Pines kneeling along the riverbank. Eagles ae often soaring overhead. A trip down to Lovers Falls in the mist is one to truly treasure. - Queenstown
The largest town on the west coast, Queenstown is known for its iconic moonscape – hills devoid of trees. Once one of the richest mining towns in the world, Queenstown now sits quietly with its collection of museums, lookouts and galleries. The locals are usually happy to point you in the direction of the town’s hidden gems. - West Coast Wilderness Railway
Step back in time and enjoy a steam train journey into the past. This is a 35km trip through the rainforest between Strahan and Queenstown. - Walk, walk, walk
The west coast is littered with breathtaking walking tracks. With such an abundance of waterfalls and lookouts to choose from, you can’t go wrong. Just be sure to check the weather forecast and be prepared. There is a reason why the rainforest thrives here. - The Spray Tunnel
Now little more than a ghost town, Zeehan was once the 3rd biggest township in Tasmania. Just out of the town you’ll uncover just the spot for an epic photo. Walk the length of this well-maintained mining tunnel in darkness and dream of what was once the ‘Silver City’. - Trial Harbour
This tiny coastal town was once a thriving port. The coast is rough, rugged and simply spectacular. Hardcore Tassie surfers regularly make the pilgrimage here, but be careful if you join them – the Roaring Forties make it rough and rips abound. - Henty sand dunes
The most expansive series of dunes in Tassie. Extending approximately 15km along the coast, these are a true sandboarding dream. Take the kids – this desert within a rainforest will wear them out for the day.
- Steal away in luxury
They may be remote, but boutique Airbnb’s thrive here. Luxury, adventure and romance collide at The Post Office Waratah and Captain’s Rest in Strahan.
Amanda @thewildesmith
