Tassie Travels Part 3
TASSIE TRAVELS – Part Three of the Adventure!
The last part of our adventures saw us exploring the township of Stanley and its ‘Nut’, as well as the glorious Tarkine Wilderness Area. Have you ever thought ‘it’s just too much effort to get to Tassie with the camper’? Well it’s really not if you have at least three or four weeks to meander around the wonderful isle that is Tasmania. The weather is part of the fun, and believe us – it varies regularly! It’s not uncommon to see snow on Cradle Mountain, and then be in 30 degree weather in Port Arthur the same week.
Lovely Launceston
Now, it’s not ‘Lawnkeston’ - it’s pronounced ‘Lonseston’ and you will please the locals if you call this beautiful city by its correct name! So much to see and do, so let’s jump right into the touristy things to experience in lovely Launceston. This riverside city is second only to Hobart in size, and is a vibrant place for food, wine and nature and has well-preserved Victorian and Colonial architecture. Cataract Gorge (tip: free entry), is located close to the city centre and boasts a swimming pool; kiosk; restaurant; chairlift across the South Esk River; wonderful gardens and rotunda; and the amazing Kings Bridge built in 1867. Find plenty of culture in the art galleries, museums, and design studios with a must-see being the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery. The history of Launceston began in 1804 when Lt. Col. William Paterson set up a camp at what is now George Town, north of Launceston. Visit City Park and be in awe of the annual flower display, and don’t miss The Old Umbrella Shop which is located in downtown George Street.
Birdie at Barnbougle?
There are just so many country roads which criss-cross Tasmania, it’s actually really hard to travel them all! Driving north, back to the top coast, we chose the eastern side of the River Tamar and the townships of George Town and Low Head to settle in for a few days. Don’t pass up spectacular Bridport, with its coastal parks and white beaches. If you love golf, then do some research and find out why we’re suggesting a stay in Bridport! For the ladies, 260 acres of lavender farm is located at Bridestowe Estate, just south of Bridport.
Rocks of Fire
The last little mention for this part of our Tassie Travels Blog, will be of Binalong Bay, St Helens, and the Bay of Fires! Check out Swimcart Beach for some great camping, and explore the Bay of Fires Conservation Area. Pristine white sandy beaches with crystal clear water on a sunny day, and boulders covered in orange lichen is really a sight to behold. The name was given by Captain Furneaux in 1773 as he saw many aboriginal fires burning on the shore. St Helens is a gorgeous little town, right on Georges Bay, and is considered the game fishing capital of Tasmania (tip: yellowfin tuna). Make sure to visit Peron Dunes in the St Helens Conservation Park for a truly impressive vista.
Next time we’ll introduce you to the rest of the beautiful east coast of Tasmania, including Port Arthur which is an open-air museum of a 19th century penal settlement! Piqued your desire to visit Tassie? Keep a look-out for more Tassie Travels real soon – another great Aussie place to Make Memories.
