Derwent Bridge

Derwent Bridge is a remote hamlet on the edge of Tasmania's World Heritage Wilderness Area, best known as the gateway to the stunning Lake St Clair and the iconic Walls of Jerusalem National Park. This tiny settlement offers a true escape into nature, where the air is crisp and the night sky blazes with stars. With its handful of accommodations and a legendary pub, it's a perfect base for hikers, anglers, and anyone craving solitude in the wild.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake St Clair – Australia's deepest lake, offering crystal-clear waters, scenic walks, and boat cruises. Don't miss the short walk to the lake's edge for a jaw-dropping view.
• Walls of Jerusalem National Park – A pristine alpine wilderness with dramatic dolerite peaks, ancient pencil pines, and hiking trails like the popular Trappers Hut walk.
• Derwent Bridge Hotel – A classic outback pub with a roaring fire, hearty meals, and a lively atmosphere – a must-stop for travellers on the Lyell Highway.
• St Clair Lagoon – A serene spot for birdwatching and photography, especially at sunrise when the mist lifts off the water.
• Fishing and kayaking – The Derwent River and surrounding lakes are renowned for brown trout; hire a kayak to explore the quieter inlets.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for at least two full days to appreciate the area properly. Spend one day exploring Lake St Clair (including the short walks and a cruise) and another day driving into the Walls of Jerusalem for a half-day hike or a full-day trek. If you're an avid hiker, consider three days to tackle longer trails like the Overland Track (which ends at Lake St Clair).

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Queenstown – A historic mining town with a stark lunar landscape, about an hour's drive west on the Lyell Highway.
• Strahan – A charming harbour town on Macquarie Harbour, offering Gordon River cruises and the famous West Coast Wilderness Railway (90 minutes west).
• Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park – The northern section of the same park, accessible via a scenic drive and offering the famous Dove Lake walk (two hours north).
• Hobart – Tasmania's capital, with MONA, Salamanca Market, and Mount Wellington, is a 2.5-hour drive east.
• Launceston – The northern hub, with Cataract Gorge and Tamar Valley wineries, about two hours north-east.

Please check official sources for current details.