Underrated Tasmanian attractions
Cradle Mountain. Port Arthur. Wineglass Bay.
They’re all world-famous sites. And rightly so.
But, if you didn’t know it already, this state has so many gems that are equally stunning.
Here are just some of myriad top attractions to tick off your Tassie bucket list.
Goats Bluff, South Arm Peninsula
This area is simply spectacular. The bluff features an extensive section of vibrant, gigantic sandstone rock that instantly captivates. And you’ll want to keep the camera handy for the sensational views that are revealed from a dedicated lookout. The ancient creation splits two rugged beaches that are popular with experienced surfers.
Where: 30km southeast of Hobart.
Stay at: BIG4 Hobart Airport Tourist Park.
Evercreech Forest Reserve
Here, a gathering of the world's tallest white gums is hidden in plain sight, some extending a staggering 90m high. An easy looping stroll provides different perspectives of these towering trunks while a longer walk leads to enchanting Evercreech Falls. Magnificent.
Where: 35km west of St Helens.
Stay at: BIG4 St Helens Holiday Park or Tasman Holiday Parks - St Helens.
Friendly Beaches, Freycinet National Park
Freycinet requires no introduction, thanks in part to postcard-perfect Wineglass Bay. But this strip is equally deserving of attention. Located within the northern section of the park, Friendly Beaches is a sparkling white sand wonder that overlooks irresistible turquoise waters mere metres from a nearby park.
Where: 20km north of Coles Bay.
Stay at: BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet Holiday Park.
La Villa Wines, Spreyton
Found on the fringes of Devonport, the sprawling boutique vineyard and its grand winery wouldn’t look out of place in Italy. That’s no coincidence, as its owners once lived in the European country, and their winery is inspired by the famous Emilia-Romagna region. Sample tasty premium wines that are very much Tasmanian.
Where: 25km southeast of Ulverstone
Stay at: BIG4 Ulverstone Holiday Park.
Lake Burbury
While this is an artificial reservoir, evidence of Mother Nature’s splendor lurks ominously. The lake is surrounded by the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and flanked by stunning peaks, making it the perfect place to bask in beauty and tranquility. And just for good measure, it’s a trout fishing hotspot.
Where: 65km east of Strahan.
Stay at: BIG4 Strahan Holiday Retreat.
Tamar Island Wetlands, Launceston
Encircled by the Tamar River on Launceston’s outskirts, this serene island is home to beautiful wetlands that attract a raft of birdlife and native animals. An access-friendly boardwalk gifts prime views of the winged wonders and the river. At its entrance, an interpretation centre reveals the site’s cultural and natural values.
Where: 8km northwest of Launceston.
Stay at: BIG4 Launceston Holiday Park or BIG4 Kelso Sands Holiday and Native Wildlife Park.
Little Blue Lake
This totally Insta-worthy attraction boasts incredibly vivid aqua waters surrounded by colourful rocks and backdropped by forest. The lake and its vibrant tones are a throwback to the area’s mining past and while it all looks pretty, swimming is not recommended in these waters. The lake is accessed just metres off the main road between Derby and Gladstone.
Where: 60km northwest of St Helens.
Stay at: BIG4 St Helens Holiday Park or Tasman Holiday Parks - St Helens.
Maria Island
An absolute stunner, Maria Island combines eye-popping sights with a rich past. The amazing colours of the Painted Cliffs are among the visual highlights, ably backed by brilliant beaches, coastal vistas, and glimpses of wildlife that include wombats, wallabies, and Tasmanian devils. The island’s penal settlement history is captured at the well-preserved Darlington Probation Station.
Access: By passenger ferry from Triabunna, 85km northeast of Hobart.
Trowutta Arch
A collapsed cave formed this striking geological wonder, planted amid lush rainforest in the state’s northwest. It neighbours a cenote, or sinkhole, with dead-still, algae-covered water that adds more charm and mystique to these gorgeous surrounds. Better yet, the arch is reached via a short walk from the adjoining car park.
Where: 185km east of Ulverstone.
Mt Roland
This craggy 1233m-tall feature creates an imposing sight, protruding far above the gorgeous rural surrounds. While impressive to gaze at from ground level, the perspective is even more majestic from the top. A 4-6hr return climb gifts summit views that take in Bass Strait, Cradle Mountain, and much more.
Where: 60km south of Ulverstone,
Stay at: BIG4 Ulverstone Holiday Park.
BIG4 parks in Tasmania
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