West Coast Tasmania

West Coast Tasmania

Tasmania’s west coast beckons adventurers with its untamed wilderness, rich history, and captivating landscapes. From rugged mountains to ancient rainforests, this region offers a glimpse into Australia’s last true wilderness frontier. Despite its remote location, the West Coast of Tasmania is easily accessible, promising travelers an unforgettable journey filled with exploration and discovery.

Discovering Wilderness Wonders

At the heart of Tasmania’s west coast lies the Wilderness World Heritage Area, a sprawling expanse of rugged terrain, pristine rainforests, and untouched wilderness. Journey deep into the heart of this wilderness paradise, where towering mountains, ancient forests, and expansive heathlands await exploration. Despite its remoteness, the West Coast Tasmania offers top-notch accommodation and dining options, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience for all travelers.

Exploring Convict Heritage

The west coast is steeped in convict history, with reminders of Tasmania’s tumultuous past scattered throughout the region. One such site is Lake Pedder, whose flooding sparked conflict between forestry workers and environmentalists. Visitors can gain insight into this historic protest and its significance by exploring the landscapes that inspired it.

Sarah Island, nestled within Macquarie Harbour on Tasmania’s west coast, holds a significant place in Australian history as one of the country’s harshest penal colonies. During the early 19th century, Sarah Island served as a remote outpost for convicts, where harsh conditions and isolation were the norm. Despite its picturesque setting amidst rugged wilderness, the island bore witness to unimaginable hardships endured by its inhabitants. Today, visitors can explore the remains of Sarah Island, gaining insight into Tasmania’s convict past through guided tours and interpretive displays. The stories of resilience and survival that echo through the ruins offer a sobering glimpse into Australia’s colonial era, making Sarah Island a poignant and thought-provoking destination for those seeking to delve into the nation’s history. Sarah Island is just as interesting as Port Arthur, yet so different tit is well worth the visit.

Strahan and Queenstown: Gateways to Adventure

Set out from the coastal town of Strahan, a gateway to Tasmania’s west coast wilderness. Nestled on the shores of Macquarie Harbour, Strahan offers access to some of the region’s most iconic attractions, including Sarah Island, a former penal colony known for its harsh conditions.

Embark on a boat cruise from Strahan, venturing into the World Heritage Wilderness to explore pristine temperate rainforests along the Gordon River. For a unique journey through history, hop aboard the West Coast Wilderness Railway, tracing a historic 35km track between Queenstown and Strahan aboard a heritage steam train.

Mining History and Natural Beauty

The inland towns of Queenstown, Zeehan, Tullah, and Rosebery are steeped in mining history, with remnants of Tasmania’s rich industrial heritage still visible today. Queenstown, in particular, boasts a unique “moonscape” landscape, a testament to its rugged mining past. Visitors can explore underground mines, visit local museums, and marvel at the region’s natural beauty, including pristine lakes, rivers, and ancient forests.

Adventure Awaits

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a chance to reconnect with nature, Tasmania’s west coast offers something for everyone. From boat cruises through pristine wilderness to heritage steam train journeys and underground mine tours, the possibilities for exploration are endless. So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and embark on an unforgettable journey through Tasmania’s untamed west coast wilderness.

The West Coast of Tasmania is the gateway to Tasmania’s Wilderness World Heritage Area, its rugged mountains, ancient rain forests, and heath make Tasmania’s west one of Australia’s last true wilderness frontiers. Yet, despite its remoteness, it’s easy and safe to visit and travellers can still enjoy the best of Tasmania’s quality accommodation and fine dining.