Strahan

Prepare to feel the immensity of nature at this remote town at the gateway to World Heritage-listed wilderness.

Explore the mirrored waterways with Gordon River Cruises and World Heritage Cruises. Passengers see Hells Gates, where Macquarie Harbour, Australia's second-largest natural harbour, meets the Southern Ocean, then cruise into serene Gordon River. The final stop is the former penal colony of Sarah Island.

In town, head to Peoples Park and stroll through cool-temperate rainforest to reach Hogarth Falls – the experience is one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks (you might even spot a platypus). 

For wilder water, head to Ocean Beach – Tasmania’s longest beach – to witness the majestic force of the Southern Ocean. 

About 14km north of Strahan is the vast sandy expanse of Henty Dunes, reaching heights of 30m in places. The dunes reach several kilometres inland and extend 15km along the coast, creating the illusion of a desert amid Tasmania’s west-coast rainforest. From the picnic area it’s a 90min return walk through the dunes to Ocean Beach. Or try surfing the sand on toboggans (hire them in town).

Where

Strahan is a 4hr 30min drive (300km) from Hobart and a 3hr drive (226km) from Devonport.

Insider tips

• Head to Regatta Point Station to board the West Coast Wilderness Railway for a heritage train ride into the rainforest.
• Learn about the last great convict escape from Sarah Island at The Ship That Never Was, Australia’s longest-running play.
• At Morrison’s Huon Pine Sawmill, see how salvaged logs are transformed into craft timber at a free daily demonstration and talk.