Strahan

Perched on the edge of Macquarie Harbour on Tasmania's rugged west coast, Strahan is a historic port town that feels like the last outpost before the wild. Its remote location, dramatic landscapes, and convict-era heritage make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. The air smells of eucalyptus and salt, and the quiet streets hum with the stories of Huon pine loggers and salmon farmers.

Highlights & What to See

• Gordon River Cruise – A must-do boat trip that glides past ancient rainforest, mirrored reflections, and the notorious Sarah Island penal settlement. The Huon pine forests are otherworldly.
• Sarah Island – Take a guided tour of this brutal convict settlement, where you'll hear tales of escapes, shipbuilding, and the harsh realities of 19th-century colonial life.
• Hogarth Falls – A short, easy walk through myrtle and sassafras forest leads to a pretty cascade. Perfect for a morning leg-stretch.
• West Coast Wilderness Railway – Ride a vintage steam train through rainforest and over steep trestle bridges, connecting Strahan with Queenstown. A nostalgic journey through mining history.
• Ocean Beach – A wild, 30-kilometre stretch of sand where the Southern Ocean roars. Great for sunset walks, but heed the warning signs – the surf is treacherous.
• Play in the Harbour – Kayak or stand-up paddleboard on Macquarie Harbour's calm waters, or join a fishing charter for trout and salmon.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two full days and one night is the sweet spot for Strahan. Day one: arrive, take the Gordon River cruise (half-day) and explore Sarah Island. Day two: ride the Wilderness Railway to Queenstown and back, then walk to Hogarth Falls before dinner. If you have a third day, add a visit to nearby Ocean Beach or a kayak outing. Strahan is compact, so you can cover the essentials without rushing.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Queenstown – Just 40 minutes inland via the Wilderness Railway or road, this historic mining town has a lunar-like landscape and fascinating mining heritage.
• Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park – A short drive north, with walks to Nelson Falls and Donaghys Hill lookout. Part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
• Lake St Clair – Australia's deepest lake, about 1.5 hours east. Great for bushwalking, fishing, and the start of the Overland Track.
• Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park – About 2.5 hours northeast, this iconic park offers world-class hiking, including the Dove Lake Circuit and Marion's Lookout.
• Tarkine Rainforest – Head north along the coast to explore the largest temperate rainforest in Australia, with walks to the Arthur River and the Edge of the World.

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