Are you looking for a unique and unforgettable destination for your next holiday? Do you want to experience the beauty and adventure of Tasmania’s wild and rugged West Coast? If so, then Strahan is the perfect place for you!
Strahan is a charming and historic town that serves as the gateway to the West Coast Wilderness World Heritage Area. It is surrounded by stunning natural attractions, such as Macquarie Harbour, Hells Gates, Gordon River, Franklin River, Sarah Island, and Huon Pine forests. It also offers a range of exciting and diverse activities, such as cruises, railways, walks, drives, museums, and more.
In this article, you will find everything you need to know about Strahan and the West Coast, including how to get there, when to go, where to stay, and what to do. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, a history buff, or a culture vulture, you will find something to suit your interests and preferences in Strahan and the West Coast.
So, what are you waiting for? Read on and discover why Strahan and the West Coast are the ultimate destinations for your Tasmania holiday!
How to Get to Strahan
Getting to Strahan is part of the fun, as you will enjoy some of the most scenic and diverse routes in Tasmania. You have several options to choose from, depending on your budget, time, and convenience.
By car:
Driving to Strahan is the most flexible and convenient way to reach the town, as you can stop and explore the many attractions along the way. You can rent a car from Hobart, Launceston, or Devonport, and follow the well-signposted roads to Strahan. The drive from Hobart takes about 4 hours, from Launceston about 3.5 hours, and from Devonport about 2.5 hours. Some of the highlights of the drive include Cradle Mountain, Lake St Clair, Queenstown, and the Lyell Highway.
By bus:
Taking a bus to Strahan is a cheaper and more eco-friendly option, but it also takes longer and has less flexibility. You can catch a bus from Hobart, Launceston, or Devonport, and enjoy the views from the window. The bus from Hobart takes about 6 hours, from Launceston about 5 hours, and from Devonport about 4 hours. You can book your tickets online or at the bus stations, and check the timetables and fares on the Tassielink website.
By train:
Taking a train to Strahan is a rare and nostalgic option, as you will travel on the historic West Coast Wilderness Railway. You can board the train from Queenstown, which is about an hour’s drive from Strahan, and experience the engineering marvels and natural wonders of the railway. The train takes about 4 hours, and runs on selected days and seasons. You can book your tickets online or at the railway stations, and check the timetables and fares on the West Coast Wilderness Railway website.
By plane:
Flying to Strahan is the fastest and most convenient option, but also the most expensive and least scenic. You can fly from Hobart, Launceston, or Devonport, and land at the Strahan Airport, which is about 10 minutes’ drive from the town centre. The flight takes about an hour, and runs on selected days and seasons. You can book your tickets online or at the airport, and check the timetables and fares on the Par Avion website.
Best Time to Visit Strahan and the West Coast
Strahan and the West Coast have a temperate maritime climate, which means they have mild and wet weather throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 9°C in winter to 17°C in summer, and the average rainfall is about 2000 mm per year. The weather can change quickly and unpredictably, so you should always be prepared for all conditions.
The best time to visit Strahan and the West Coast depends on what you want to see and do, and how you want to experience the region. Here are some pros and cons of visiting in different seasons:
Summer (December to February): Summer is the peak season for tourism in Strahan and the West Coast, as it is the warmest and driest time of the year. You can enjoy the long days and sunny skies, and take advantage of the many outdoor activities and events. However, summer is also the busiest and most expensive time of the year, so you should expect crowds, queues, and higher prices. You should also book your accommodation and tours well in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly.
Autumn (March to May): Autumn is a great time to visit Strahan and the West Coast, as it is the most colourful and scenic time of the year. You can admire the changing foliage and the golden light, and experience the crisp and clear air. Autumn is also a quieter and cheaper time of the year, so you can enjoy more space and savings. However, autumn is also the start of the wetter and cooler weather, so you should pack some warm and waterproof clothing, and check the weather forecast before you go.
Winter (June to August): Winter is the off-season for tourism in Strahan and the West Coast, as it is the coldest and wettest time of the year. You can experience the wild and rugged beauty of the region, and cozy up by the fire in your accommodation. Winter is also the best time to see the snow-capped mountains and the southern lights, and enjoy some winter festivals and events. However, winter is also the most challenging and limited time of the year, as some attractions and activities may be closed or cancelled due to the weather. You should also be careful of the icy roads and the shorter days, and dress warmly and appropriately.
Spring (September to November): Spring is a lovely time to visit Strahan and the West Coast, as it is the most fresh and vibrant time of the year. You can witness the blooming of the flowers and the wildlife, and feel the energy and optimism of the season. Spring is also a moderate and affordable time of the year, as it is not too hot or cold, and not too busy or quiet. However, spring is also the most unpredictable and variable time of the year, as the weather can change from sunny to rainy in a matter of minutes. You should also be aware of the allergies and insects, and pack some layers and repellents.
Where to Stay in Strahan and the West Coast
Strahan and the West Coast offer a variety of accommodation options to suit your needs and preferences. Whether you are looking for luxury, comfort, convenience, or budget, you will find something to match your taste and style. Here are some of the types and examples of accommodation available in Strahan and the West Coast:
Hotels:
Hotels are the most common and popular type of accommodation in Strahan and the West Coast, as they provide a high level of service, quality, and amenities. You can choose from a range of hotels, from boutique to chain, and from 3-star to 5-star. Some of the best hotels in Strahan and the West Coast are:
Strahan Village: Strahan Village is a 4-star hotel that offers a range of rooms and cottages, with views of the harbour or the hill. It also features a restaurant, a bar, a cafe, a gift shop, and a tour desk. It is located in the heart of Strahan, within walking distance of the main attractions and activities.
Franklin Manor: Franklin Manor is a 4-star hotel that offers a range of rooms and suites, with views of the garden or the bay. It also features a lounge, a library, a terrace, and a breakfast room. It is located in a historic building, surrounded by a beautiful garden, and close to the town centre.
Cradle Mountain Hotel: Cradle Mountain Hotel is a 4-star hotel that offers a range of rooms and suites, with views of the forest or the mountain. It also features a restaurant, a bar, a spa, a gallery, and a wildlife park. It is located in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, within easy access of the main attractions and activities.
Motels:
Motels are a cheaper and more basic type of accommodation in Strahan and the West Coast, as they provide a low level of service, quality, and amenities. You can choose from a few motels, mostly located along the main roads and highways. Some of the best motels in Strahan and the West Coast are:
Motel Strahan: Motel Strahan is a 3-star motel that offers a range of rooms and apartments, with views of the garden or the pool. It also features a restaurant, a bar, a pool, a playground, and a laundry. It is located on the outskirts of Strahan, within driving distance of the main attractions and activities.
West Coaster Motel: West Coaster Motel is a 3-star motel that offers a range of rooms and suites, with views of the town or the hills. It also features a restaurant, a bar, a pool, a sauna, and a conference centre. It is located in the centre of Queenstown, within walking distance of the main attractions and activities.
Tullah Lakeside Lodge: Tullah Lakeside Lodge is a 3-star motel that offers a range of rooms and cabins, with views of the lake or the forest. It also features a restaurant, a bar, a cafe, a lounge, and a jetty. It is located on the shores of Lake Rosebery, within driving distance of the main attractions and activities.
Cottages and Apartments:
Cottages and apartments are a cozy and comfortable type of accommodation in Strahan and the West Coast, as they provide a home away from home experience. You can choose from a range of cottages and apartments, from rustic to modern, and from studio to family-sized. Some of the best cottages and apartments in Strahan and the West Coast are:
Aloft Boutique Accommodation: Aloft Boutique Accommodation is a 4-star accommodation that offers a range of cottages and apartments, with views of the garden or the harbour. It also features a terrace, a barbecue, and a laundry. It is located in a quiet and convenient area, within walking distance of the main attractions and activities.
Ormiston House: Ormiston House is a 4-star accommodation that offers a range of cottages and apartments, with views of the garden or the bay. It also features a lounge, a dining room, a library, and a garden. It is located in a historic and elegant building, within driving distance of the main attractions and activities.
Cradle Mountain Highlanders Cottages: Cradle Mountain Highlanders Cottages is a 3.5-star accommodation that offers a range of cottages and cabins, with views of the forest or the mountain. It also features a fireplace, a spa bath, and a kitchenette. It is located in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, within easy access of the main attractions and activities.
Caravan and Holiday Parks:
Caravan and holiday parks are a budget and fun type of accommodation in Strahan and the West Coast, as they provide a camping and social experience. You can choose from a range of caravan and holiday parks, from basic to deluxe, and from tent sites to cabins. Some of the best caravan and holiday parks in Strahan and the West Coast are:
Strahan Holiday Park: Strahan Holiday Park is a 3-star accommodation that offers a range of sites and cabins, with views of the garden or the harbour. It also features a camp kitchen, a laundry, a playground, and a tour desk. It is located in the centre of Strahan, within walking distance of the main attractions and activities.
Zeehan Caravan Park: Zeehan Caravan Park is a 3-star accommodation that offers a range of sites and cabins, with views of the town or the hills. It also features a camp kitchen, a laundry, a barbecue, and a museum. It is located in the centre of Zeehan, within walking distance of the main attractions and activities.
Discovery Parks - Cradle Mountain: Discovery Parks - Cradle Mountain is a 3-star accommodation that offers a range of sites and cabins, with views of the forest or the mountain. It also features a camp kitchen, a laundry, a barbecue, and a shop. It is located in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, within easy access of the main attractions and activities.
Top Things to Do in Strahan and the West Coast
Strahan and the West Coast are full of amazing and diverse things to do, that will make your holiday memorable and enjoyable. You can choose from a range of activities and attractions, from relaxing to adventurous, and from cultural to natural. Here are some of the top things to do in Strahan and the West Coast:
Cruises:
Cruises are one of the most popular and iconic things to do in Strahan and the West Coast, as they allow you to explore the stunning and pristine waterways of the region. You can choose from a range of cruises, from half-day to full-day, and from scenic to historic. Some of the best cruises in Strahan and the West Coast are:
Gordon River Cruise: Gordon River Cruise is a 6-hour cruise that takes you along the majestic Gordon River, which is part of the World Heritage Area. You will see the ancient Huon Pine forests, the tranquil reflections, the Hells Gates, and the Sarah Island. You will also enjoy a buffet lunch, a guided walk, and a commentary.
World Heritage Cruises: World Heritage Cruises is a 5.5-hour cruise that takes you along the spectacular Macquarie Harbour, which is the second largest natural harbour in Australia. You will see the rugged coastline, the Hells Gates, the Gordon River, and the Sarah Island. You will also enjoy a buffet lunch, a guided walk, and a commentary.
Franklin River Rafting: Franklin River Rafting is a 10-day cruise that takes you along the wild and remote Franklin River, which is part of the World Heritage Area. You will see the rapids, the waterfalls, the gorges, and the wildlife. You will also enjoy a camping experience, a gourmet food, and a professional guide.
Railways:
Railways are another popular and iconic thing to do in Strahan and the West Coast, as they allow you to experience the history and engineering of the region. You can choose from a range of railways, from half-day to full-day, and from heritage to wilderness. Some of the best railways in Strahan and the West Coast are:
West Coast Wilderness Railway: West Coast Wilderness Railway is a 4-hour railway that takes you along the historic railway line that was built in the 1890s to transport copper from Queenstown to Strahan. You will see the steep gradients, the tight curves, the bridges, and the rainforest. You will also enjoy a steam train ride, a stop at a mining town, and a commentary.
Abt Railway: Abt Railway is a 5-hour railway that takes you along the scenic railway line that was built in the 1900s to connect Queenstown to Burnie. You will see the mountain views, the river valleys, the waterfalls, and the wildlife. You will also enjoy a diesel train ride, a stop at a heritage station, and a commentary.
Ida Bay Railway: Ida Bay Railway is a 2-hour railway that takes you along the southernmost railway line in Australia, which was built in the 1920s to transport limestone from Ida Bay to Deep Hole. You will see the coastal scenery, the beaches, the lagoons, and the cemetery. You will also enjoy a diesel train ride, a stop at a historic site, and a commentary.
Walks and Drives:
Walks and drives are another great way to enjoy the beauty and diversity of Strahan and the West Coast, as they allow you to discover the hidden gems and scenic spots of the region. You can choose from a range of walks and drives, from short to long, and from easy to hard. Some of the best walks and drives in Strahan and the West Coast are:
Ocean Beach: Ocean Beach is a 6-km walk or drive that takes you along the longest beach in Tasmania, which stretches for 40 km from Macquarie Heads to Trial Harbour. You will see the waves, the sand dunes, the sunsets, and the wildlife. You will also enjoy a picnic, a swim, or a surf at the beach.
Hogarth Falls: Hogarth Falls is a 2-km walk that takes you through the lush rainforest of the People’s Park, which is a reserve of native plants and animals. You will see the ferns, the flowers, the birds, and the waterfall. You will also enjoy a relaxing and refreshing break at the falls.
Montezuma Falls: Montezuma Falls is a 10-km walk or drive that takes you through the dense forest of the West Coast Range, which is a remnant of the mining and logging era. You will see the bridges, the tunnels, the relics, and the waterfall. You will also enjoy a thrilling and spectacular walk across the suspension bridge at the falls.
Museums and Galleries:
Museums and galleries are another interesting and educational thing to do in Strahan and the West Coast, as they allow you to learn more about the history and culture of the region. You can choose from a range of museums and galleries, from small to large, and from local to national. Some of the best museums and galleries in Strahan and the West Coast are:
Morrisons Huon Pine Sawmill: Morrisons Huon Pine Sawmill is a museum and gallery that showcases the history and craftsmanship of the Huon Pine industry, which is one of the oldest and most valuable industries in Tasmania. You will see the sawmill, the workshop, the showroom, and the products. You will also enjoy a demonstration, a tour, and a souvenir at the sawmill.
West Coast Heritage Centre: West Coast Heritage Centre is a museum and gallery that showcases the history and heritage of the West Coast region, which is one of the most diverse and dynamic regions in Tasmania. You will see the exhibits, the artefacts, the photos, and the stories. You will also enjoy a visit to the Zeehan School of Mines and Metallurgy, the Gaiety Theatre, and the Pioneer Cemetery at the centre.
Cradle Mountain Wilderness Gallery: Cradle Mountain Wilderness Gallery is a museum and gallery that showcases the art and nature of the Cradle Mountain region, which is one of the most beautiful and inspiring regions in Tasmania. You will see the artworks, the sculptures, the installations, and the gardens. You will also enjoy a visit to the cafe, the shop, and the wildlife park at the gallery.
Nature and Outdoors
Nature and Outdoors in Strahan and the West Coast Strahan and the West Coast are blessed with some of the most stunning and diverse natural attractions and landscapes in Tasmania, and even in the world. You can immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of nature, and enjoy the fresh and clean air, water, and earth. Here are some of the nature and outdoors in Strahan and the West Coast:
Macquarie Harbour: Macquarie Harbour is a large and deep natural harbour that covers an area of about 300 square kilometres, and is connected to the ocean by a narrow and treacherous channel called the Hells Gates. It is home to a rich and varied marine life, such as seals, dolphins, whales, and fish. It also hosts several islands, such as Sarah Island, which was once a notorious penal settlement, and Liberty Point, which offers a panoramic view of the harbour and the ocean.
Hells Gates: Hells Gates is the name given to the narrow and dangerous entrance to Macquarie Harbour, which is only about 120 metres wide at its narrowest point. It is named after the convicts who passed through it on their way to Sarah Island, and felt like they were entering hell. It is also known for its strong currents, waves, winds, and rocks, which make it a challenge for navigation. It also features a lighthouse, which was built in 1899, and a lookout, which offers a spectacular view of the channel and the harbour.
Gordon River: Gordon River is a majestic and pristine river that flows for about 172 kilometres from the mountains to the sea, and is part of the World Heritage Area. It is renowned for its ancient and untouched rainforest, which hosts some of the oldest and rarest trees in the world, such as the Huon Pine, which can live for over 3000 years. It also features several landmarks, such as the Franklin River, which is a tributary of the Gordon River, and the Heritage Landing, which is a boardwalk that leads to a giant Huon Pine tree.
Franklin River: Franklin River is a wild and remote river that flows for about 129 kilometres from the mountains to the sea, and is part of the World Heritage Area. It is famous for its rapids, waterfalls, gorges, and wildlife, which make it one of the best and most challenging rivers for rafting in the world. It also features several attractions, such as the Rock Island Bend, which is a scenic and iconic bend in the river, and the Kutikina Cave, which is an archaeological site that contains evidence of human occupation dating back to 20000 years ago.
Sarah Island: Sarah Island is a small and isolated island that lies in the Macquarie Harbour, and was once the site of a brutal and notorious penal colony, which operated from 1822 to 1833. It is considered to be one of the harshest and most inhumane prisons in Australian history, where convicts were subjected to torture, starvation, disease, and death. It also features several ruins, such as the barracks, the chapel, the bakehouse, and the shipyard, which was one of the largest and most productive in the world at that time.
Huon Pine: Huon Pine is a species of conifer that is endemic to Tasmania, and is one of the oldest and most valuable trees in the world. It can live for over 3000 years, and grow up to 40 metres tall and 12 metres wide. It is prized for its timber, which is golden, fine-grained, oily, and resistant to rot and insects. It is used for various purposes, such as furniture, boats, musical instruments, and crafts. It is also protected and endangered, as it is threatened by logging, mining, and fire.
World Heritage Area: World Heritage Area is a name given to the area of about 1.6 million hectares that covers the south-west, west, and central parts of Tasmania, and is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for its natural and cultural values. It is one of the largest and most intact temperate wilderness areas in the world, and contains a range of ecosystems, such as rainforests, alpine, moorlands, and coasts. It also hosts a variety of flora and fauna, some of which are endemic, rare, or endangered, such as the Tasmanian Devil, the Wedge-tailed Eagle, the Leatherwood, and the King Billy Pine.
Frenchmans Cap: Frenchmans Cap is a prominent and striking mountain that rises to a height of 1446 metres above sea level, and is part of the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. It is named after its resemblance to a French sailor’s cap, and is visible from several points in the region. It is also a popular and challenging destination for bushwalkers, as it offers stunning views, diverse landscapes, and rewarding experiences. It also features several attractions, such as the Lake Tahune, which is a glacial lake that lies at the base of the summit, and the Irenabyss, which is a deep and narrow chasm that cuts through the Franklin River.
Adventure and Culture
Adventure and Culture in Strahan and the West Coast Strahan and the West Coast are not only rich in natural beauty, but also in adventure and culture. You can challenge yourself and have some fun with some of the most thrilling and fascinating activities and tours in the region. You can also learn more about the history and heritage of the people and places that shaped the region. Here are some of the adventure and culture in Strahan and the West Coast:
Zip-lining:
Zip-lining is one of the most exhilarating and exciting activities in Strahan and the West Coast, as it allows you to soar through the air and enjoy the views from above. You can choose from a range of zip-lining options, from beginner to advanced, and from forest to ocean. Some of the best zip-lining in Strahan and the West Coast are:
Eagle Hang Glider:
Eagle Hang Glider is a 250-metre zip-line that takes you from the top of a hill to the edge of the harbour, with speeds of up to 80 km/h. You will see the town, the water, and the horizon. You will also enjoy a thrilling and spectacular ride on a hang glider-like device.
Tahune AirWalk:
Tahune AirWalk is a 600-metre zip-line that takes you through the canopy of the Huon Pine forest, with heights of up to 50 metres. You will see the trees, the river, and the wildlife. You will also enjoy a relaxing and refreshing walk on a suspended walkway that offers panoramic views of the forest.
Cradle Mountain Canopy:
Cradle Mountain Canopy is a 900-metre zip-line that takes you across the valley of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, with speeds of up to 50 km/h. You will see the mountains, the lakes, and the sky. You will also enjoy a guided and informative tour that teaches you about the ecology and conservation of the park.
Jet-boating:
Jet-boating is another exhilarating and exciting activity in Strahan and the West Coast, as it allows you to zoom through the water and enjoy the scenery from below. You can choose from a range of jet-boating options, from calm to wild, and from harbour to river. Some of the best jet-boating in Strahan and the West Coast are:
Strahan Jetty: Strahan Jetty is a 30-minute jet-boat ride that takes you around the Macquarie Harbour, with speeds of up to 70 km/h. You will see the town, the islands, and the Hells Gates. You will also enjoy a fun and fast ride that includes spins, slides, and splashes.
King River: King River is a 2-hour jet-boat ride that takes you along the King River, which is one of the most polluted rivers in Australia due to the mining activities. You will see the ruins, the rapids, and the wildlife. You will also enjoy a scenic and adventurous ride that includes stops, stories, and snacks.
Franklin River: Franklin River is a 3-hour jet-boat ride that takes you along the Franklin River, which is one of the most pristine and remote rivers in Australia. You will see the gorges, the waterfalls, and the rainforest. You will also enjoy a wild and wonderful ride that includes jumps, turns, and swims.
Abseiling:
Abseiling is one of the most challenging and rewarding activities in Strahan and the West Coast, as it allows you to descend from the heights and enjoy the views from a different perspective. You can choose from a range of abseiling options, from easy to hard, and from cliff to waterfall. Some of the best abseiling in Strahan and the West Coast are:
Henty Dunes: Henty Dunes is a 30-metre abseil that takes you down the sand dunes of the Ocean Beach, which are the highest in Tasmania. You will see the ocean, the beach, and the horizon. You will also enjoy a sandy and smooth abseil that is suitable for beginners and families.
Frenchmans Cap: Frenchmans Cap is a 140-metre abseil that takes you down the face of the Frenchmans Cap, which is one of the most prominent and striking mountains in Tasmania. You will see the valley, the lake, and the sky. You will also enjoy a steep and spectacular abseil that is suitable for experienced and adventurous abseilers.
Montezuma Falls: Montezuma Falls is a 50-metre abseil that takes you down the side of the Montezuma Falls, which are the highest waterfalls in Tasmania. You will see the water, the rocks, and the forest. You will also enjoy a wet and wonderful abseil that is suitable for intermediate and adventurous abseilers.
Mining and Logging:
Mining and logging are some of the most important and influential industries in Strahan and the West Coast, as they have shaped the history and heritage of the region. You can learn more about the mining and logging activities and their impacts on the people and the environment, by visiting some of the museums and sites that showcase them. Some of the best mining and logging in Strahan and the West Coast are:
Queenstown: Queenstown is a town that was once the centre of the mining industry in Tasmania, and is known for its rich and diverse mineral deposits, such as copper, gold, silver, and zinc. You can see the mining relics, such as the smelters, the shafts, and the slag heaps, and learn about the mining history and culture, by visiting the Galley Museum, the Spion Kop Lookout, and the Mt Lyell Mining and Railway Company.
Zeehan: Zeehan is a town that was once the second largest town in Tasmania, and is known for its silver boom in the late 1800s and early 1900s. You can see the mining heritage, such as the buildings, the streets, and the monuments, and learn about the mining stories and legends, by visiting the West Coast Heritage Centre, the Gaiety Theatre, and the Pioneer Cemetery.
Tullah: Tullah is a town that was once the centre of the logging industry in Tasmania, and is known for its Huon Pine forests, which are some of the oldest and most valuable in the world. You can see the logging history, such as the sawmills, the railways, and the boats, and learn about the logging challenges and achievements, by visiting the Wee Georgie Wood Railway, the Lake Rosebery, and the Tullah Lakeside Lodge.
Strahan and the West Coast are truly amazing and unique destinations that will make your Tasmania holiday unforgettable and enjoyable. You will be able to experience the beauty and adventure of the wilderness, the history and culture of the region, and the charm and hospitality of the town.
Whether you want to relax and unwind, or explore and discover, you will find something to suit your interests and preferences in Strahan and the West Coast. You will also find a variety of accommodation options, from luxury to budget, and from hotels to caravan parks.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Strahan and the West Coast today, and get ready for the ultimate Tasmania holiday!