Discovering the Top Attractions of Strahan: A Guide to Tasmania’s Charming Coastal Town

Are you planning a trip to Tasmania? If yes, then make sure to add Strahan to your itinerary. A charming coastal town that sits on the edge of the wild Tasmanian wilderness, Strahan is a popular tourist destination with a rich and fascinating history. There are plenty of sightseeing attractions to explore in Strahan, including spectacular natural landscapes, historic sites, and cultural landmarks. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the top things to see and do in Strahan.

1. Gordon River Cruise

One of the most popular attractions in Strahan is the Gordon River Cruise. The cruise takes visitors on a breathtaking journey through the heart of Tasmania’s World Heritage wilderness. You’ll explore ancient rainforests, rugged mountains, and stunning waterways, while learning about the area’s unique flora and fauna. The Gordon River Cruise also includes a visit to Sarah Island, a former penal colony that played a significant role in Tasmania’s early history. This award-winning cruise is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Strahan.

2. Hogarth Falls

Located just a short distance from Strahan’s town center, Hogarth Falls is a picturesque waterfall that’s worth a visit. The trail to the falls is an easy walk and takes you through a stunning rainforest filled with Myrtle Beech trees, ferns, and streams. The falls themselves are a picturesque sight, with water cascading down over a rocky cliff face into a calm pool below. Make sure to bring your camera along to capture the beauty of Hogarth Falls.

3. West Coast Wilderness Railway

For a unique and unforgettable experience, hop aboard the West Coast Wilderness Railway. The railway is a restored steam train that takes passengers on a journey through Tasmania’s rugged west coast. The journey takes you through the pristine rainforests, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The train also stops at historic towns and villages, giving visitors a glimpse into Tasmania’s colorful past.

4. Ocean Beach

If you’re looking for a pristine natural beach, then head to Ocean Beach. This six-kilometer-long stretch of sand is the perfect place to relax, sunbathe, and swim. With its crystal-clear water and white sand, Ocean Beach is a paradise for beach enthusiasts. You can also take a stroll along the beach and explore the rugged sand dunes that border it.

5. Sarah Island

An important part of Tasmania’s history, Sarah Island is a former penal colony that operated from 1822 to 1833. Today, the site is a fascinating open-air museum, where visitors can learn about the harsh conditions that the convicts lived under. Guided tours take place regularly, and you can explore the ruins of the colony’s buildings, including the infamous solitary confinement cells.

6. Risby Cove

For a taste of Strahan’s seafood cuisine, head to Risby Cove. This waterfront restaurant offers spectacular views of the harbor and serves up some of the freshest seafood in Tasmania. The menu features classic dishes like fish and chips, as well as more elaborate options like grilled scallops and lobster tails. Make sure to try some of the local beer and wine to round out your meal.

Conclusion

From the stunning natural beauty of the Gordon River to the fascinating history of Sarah Island, Strahan is a town that’s filled with amazing sightseeing attractions. Whether you’re interested in Tasmania’s history, its wildlife, or its natural beauty, there’s something for everyone in Strahan. Make sure to add these top attractions to your itinerary to experience the best that this charming coastal town has to offer.

Discovering the Top Attractions of Strahan: A Guide to Tasmania’s Charming Coastal Town

Strahan, Tasmania is a small, charming coastal town located in the western part of the island. With its rich history, picturesque scenery, and unique attractions, it is a popular destination for tourists visiting Tasmania. Here is an insider’s guide to Strahan, including local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

One of the main attractions in Strahan is the Gordon River Cruise. This 6-hour cruise takes guests through the scenic Gordon River, offering stunning views of the surrounding wilderness and rainforest. The cruise also includes a stop at the Sarah Island penal settlement, where visitors can learn about its history and take a guided tour.

Another popular tourist spot is the West Coast Wilderness Railway. This historic railway takes visitors on a journey through Tasmania’s rugged wilderness, offering breathtaking views of the landscape. The railway also takes passengers past the Dubbil Barril railway station, which is home to the world’s only surviving Rack and Pinion turntable.

For nature lovers, Strahan boasts the beautiful Ocean Beach, which is a great spot for surfing, swimming, and relaxing. The area also offers various hiking and walking trails, including the Huon Pine Walk and the Hogarth Falls Walk.

Dining Spots

Strahan has a handful of great dining spots, each offering unique cuisine and a cozy atmosphere. One of the town’s most popular dining spots is Risby Cove, which offers a range of seafood dishes and exquisite local wines. Other great options include Bushman’s Bar & Cafe, Hamer’s Hotel, and Bread & Butter Cafe.

Cultural Experiences

Strahan is rich in Australian history, and there are several cultural experiences that visitors should not miss. One popular attraction is the Strahan Visitor Centre, where visitors can learn about the town’s history and heritage. There is also the Strahan Artisans Workshop, featuring local artists and craftsmen.

For a unique cultural experience, visitors can attend a play at the local theatre, The People’s Park Theatre. The theatre is housed in a historic building and also offers guided tours.

Local History

Strahan has a fascinating local history that visitors can explore through various historic sites and museums. Sarah Island, which was once a penal settlement for convicts, is a must-visit spot for anyone interested in Australian history. There are also several museums in the town, including the West Coast Heritage Centre, which features exhibits on the area’s mining and railway history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For visitors looking for unique experiences, Strahan has several options that are off the beaten path. One such option is the Bonnet Island Experience, a guided tour to a local bird sanctuary and lighthouse. Visitors can also take a scenic flight over the Gordon River and surrounding wilderness.

For those looking to get in touch with nature, camping is a great option. There are several campsites in the area, including Macquarie Heads Camping Ground and Strahan Beach Tourist Park.

In conclusion, Strahan is a charming coastal town that offers visitors a range of attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the town’s rich history, or immerse yourself in nature, Strahan has something to offer everyone.