10 Best Tasmania Towns For Retirees
Around 150 miles (240 km) from mainland Australia, you'll find the island state of Tasmania. Forget about the untamed "Tasmanian Devil" Looney Tunes character; the real-life Tasmania is a safe, beautiful, and tranquil corner of the world with a ton to offer retirees. You'll get to experience four seasons, including mild summers, all the while surrounded by a lush landscape and the deep blue Tasman Sea. The island's laid-back vibe and generally lower cost of living than mainland Australia seal the deal. The only real challenge is narrowing down all the excellent choices of towns to exactly the right one for you.
Latrobe
Surrounded by lush green trees, the town of Latrobe could easily be confused for America's Pacific Northwest. With a population of just 4,169, you'll never feel too crowded. You'll want to spend time in Bell's Parade Park, where you can enjoy photogenic scenery. Pay a visit to The Australian Axeman's Hall of Fame & Timberworks, which celebrates Australia's vibrant lumberjack history. While you're at the Hall of Fame, make sure to take a selfie with the Big Platypus statue that sits outside the museum. Healthcare needs in town are provided by the Mersey Community Hospital. This beautiful little town is about 55-60 miles (85-95 km) from Launceston, and Devonport Airport is the nearby air hub. While in town, you can stay at the Lucas Hotel, which has an appetizing selection of food.
Evandale
Founded in 1809, the historic town of Evandale is currently home to about 1,100 people. This little slice of heaven in Tasmania is just a short distance from Launceston, which makes it perfect for a day or weekend trip. While in town, make sure to stop by The Clarendon Arms for a hearty meal and a welcoming place to stay. To learn more about the town's fascinating history, visit the Evandale Visitor Information and Heritage Center. For those interested in WWI history, you can stop at a Harry Murray statue, celebrating the most highly decorated infantry soldier of the British Empire during the First World War, while enjoying the day at the Evandale Community Center. Should any medical needs arise while you're in town, the Evendale General Practice has you covered.
Huonville
The town of Huonville is located in Tasmania's Huon Valley, also known as the Golden Valley. The name doesn't refer to a precious metal, but to the Golden Delicious apple, a regional specialty. The town is only 24 miles (38 km) from Tasmania's capital city of Hobart. While in Huonville, visitors can stop by the Lost Captain Restaurant and Tap House for a hearty meal. If you're craving something sweet, then stop by The Honey Pot for some fresh honey. To get a different view of the town while spending time in nature, you can take a Huon River Cruise. To learn more about the town's sweet and golden history, you can stop in at Wille Smith's Apple Shed in nearby Grove. Thanks to Huonville's proximity to Hobart, the town is ideal for a day trip. If you're looking to stay in town for a few days, The Walton House has inviting rooms. If you're up for a longer stay, Huonville is also home to Abbeyfield Huon Valley Retirement Village. This cozy town, with a population of just over 2,700, is a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
Bicheno
Situated on Tasmania's east coast is the town of Bicheno. Home to just under 950 people, this welcoming community is the perfect spot for those who want to relax, take a walk along the waters edge of the Tasman Sea, or go for a swim in the warmer months. For a truly unforgettable experience, go on the Bicheno Penguin Tour. While in town, you can take a page out of the penguins' playbook and enjoy some delicious seafood. Local favorite Sealife Bistro boasts some of the best seafood in the area. If you're a fan of the unique, you may want to pay a visit to the Bicheno Blowhole. Don't let the name fool you, this natural geyser is like nature's water cannon. While in town, you can stay at the Beachfront Bicheno Hotel. The Bicheno General Practice provides the town's healthcare. Getting to this idyllic community is a straight 110 miles (178 km) drive to and from Hobart along the Tasman Highway.
Somerset
The little town of Somerset is a welcoming community of just over 4,000 people. Just about 187 miles (301 km) north of Hobart, Somerset is a modest, laid-back town. Residents and visitors alike enjoy spending time at the Cam River Reserve. While there, visitors can enjoy time on the water or have a BBQ on land. For those who enjoy getting a good workout while enjoying the great outdoors, the nearby Burnie Golf Club is an excellent course for golfers of all skill levels. Somerset is home to several retirement communities, including the Yarandoo Retirement Village. A Metro Tasmania bus makes daily trips to nearby Wynyard and Burnie. While in town, make sure to stop by the Jetty Restaurant for a great meal.
Deloraine
Just over 125 miles (200 km) from Hobart is the charming community of Deloraine. Visitors and residents alike rave about the town's friendly atmosphere and amazing weather. While you're in town, you can view the area's many historic buildings. Among them, you'll find the Deloraine and Districts Folk Museum where you can immerse yourself in interesting local history. When you've worked up an appetite, you can get a bite to eat at local favorite: The Bush Inn Brew House. Nature lovers will want to spend time on the Deloraine River Walk near the Meander River. The Riverbank Walk offers a great way to stay in shape while enjoying the natural scenery. While in town, you can stay at the Mountain View County Inn. If any medical needs arise while in town, the Deloraine Medical Centre has you covered.
Ross
Established in 1812, the town of Ross is one of those "blink and you'll miss it" towns. But it would be a pity to overlook it because it is such a haven for history lovers and is widely recognized for its extensive heritage listings. While in town, you'll be able to pay a visit to the Ross Stone Bridge. Built in 1836, the bridge is the third-oldest still in use in all of Australia. If you're looking for a hearty meal, stop by The Ross Hotel. If you are looking for a place to stay while in town, The Riverview at Ross is a great option. With a population of just over 400 people, you'll never feel too crowded as you stroll down its historic streets or spend time in the Ross Caravan Park, conveniently located in the town's historic section. No matter if you're there for a visit or on a permanent vacation, Ross is waiting for you.
Oatlands
Approximately 52 miles north of Hobart lies the historic town of Oatlands. Home to about 728 people, this town sits right on the shores of Lake Dulverton. The lake is a great spot for spending time on the water, going for a swim, or just enjoying the scenery from on shore. The Midlands Multi-Purpose Health Centre is a state-of-the-art facility that can address a wide range of health issues. If going to town for a short trip, The Kentish has been welcoming weary travelers since 1832. While there, you should also stop in for a bite at Kentish cafe before setting out on adventures. For those looking to stay in town for longer, the Oatlands Gardens retirement community is ready and waiting. The Oatlands District Historical Society Inc. is your "go to" stop to learn about the area's complex history. Art lovers will want to stop by the Still Wild Studio Gallery. While at the gallery you can view examples of traditional and modern Tasmanian art. The gallery also offers furniture for those looking to spruce up their home.
St. Helens
No matter where you look in the coastal town of St. Helens, you'll see something breathtaking. Home to just over 2,200 residents, St. Helens has a rich history as a fishing community and is also renowned for its oysters. So it should come as no surprise that the town is an embarrassment of riches for seafood lovers. Grab a bite at the Wharf Bar and Kitchen, among other eateries, for some true Tasmanian cuisine. The St. Helens Point Conservation area is home to one of the best beaches in Tasmania. If you are looking to get up close and personal with some of the state's wildlife, then stop by Serpentarium Wildlife Park. The nearest major city to St. Helens is Launceston, which is about 103 miles (165 km) away. Launceston is also home to the Launceston Airport. For those seeking an extended stay in St. Helens, the Sunhaven Villas Residential Village has staff available to assist.
Longford
Established in 1813, the town of Longford has retained its history while evolving with the modern era. The town is approximately 21 miles from the much larger Launceston, making it ideal for a day trip. For those looking to stay in town for a bit longer, you can stay at the Brickendon Estate. To experience some of the town's remarkable history, take a walk and explore its historic buildings, including Christ Church. Built in 1839 out of sandstone, the church features a bell that was a gift from King George IV. The Longford Golf Club is a challenging course suitable for all skill levels, offering a perfect way to spend a sunny day. When hunger strikes, stop in at local favorite JJs Bakery.
The Only Thing Tasmania is Missing
As you can see, Tasmania has a lot to offer. Plan a weekend, talk with locals, and try a slow loop between Hobart and Launceston to see how it feels to wake up there and live at Tasmania’s pace. From coastal towns to landlocked communities, there is something for everyone. Few places in the world offer as wide a range of entrancing scenery, world-class food, and authentic culture as Tasmania. It's as rich in history as it is in lush vegetation. In fact, Tasmania has almost everything. The only thing missing is you.
