Tasmania's North West Coast

Stretching from the wild surf beaches of the west to the calm waters of Bass Strait, Tasmania's North West Coast is a region of dramatic contrasts. Here, temperate rainforest meets rugged coastline, and small towns exude a quiet, creative energy. It's a paradise for nature lovers, foodies, and anyone seeking a slower pace of life. The air smells of eucalyptus and salt, and Cradle Mountain looms in the distance, promising epic hikes.

Highlights & What to See

• Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park: One of Tasmania's most iconic wilderness areas, offering world-class day walks like the Dove Lake Circuit and multi-day treks on the Overland Track.
• Stanley & The Nut: A historic fishing village dominated by a striking volcanic plug. Take the chairlift or walk up The Nut for panoramic views over Bass Strait.
• Wineglass Bay & Freycinet National Park: Though technically on the east coast, it's a must-do detour for its pink granite peaks and pristine crescent beach.
• Tarkine Wilderness: Australia's largest temperate rainforest, home to ancient myrtle trees, platypus, and the wild Arthur River. Join a guided tour or explore the Tarkine Drive.
• Burnie & the Makers' Workshop: A hub for local artisans, with papermaking, leatherworking, and a fantastic regional museum showcasing the area's industrial heritage.
• Penguin & the Dial Range: Spot little penguins at dusk on the beach and hike in the Dial Range for views over farmland and coast.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly experience the North West Coast's diversity, allocate at least 4–5 days. Spend two days around Cradle Mountain for hiking and wildlife, then drive west to Stanley and the Tarkine, allowing a full day each. Factor in a relaxing afternoon in Burnie or Penguin. If you're short on time, a whirlwind 2-day itinerary could cover Cradle Mountain and Stanley, but you'll miss the rainforests and artisan towns. The region is best explored by car, with winding roads that reward a slow pace.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Launceston & the Tamar Valley: A 90-minute drive east, offering wineries, the Cataract Gorge, and the historic town of Evandale.
• Hobart & the Huon Valley: A 4-hour drive south, with MONA, Mount Wellington, and the apple orchards of the Huon.
• Devonport & the Spirit of Tasmania: The port town where the ferry from Melbourne arrives; explore the nearby Don River Railway and Mersey Bluff.
• King Island: A short flight from Burnie, famed for its cheese, beef, and rugged lighthouse-studded coastline.
• West Coast Wilderness Railway: A historic steam train journey from Strahan through rainforest, easily combined with a stop in Queenstown.

Please check official sources for current details.