9 Storybook Towns In Tasmania
Whether wandering through the mountain valleys of Mount Owen in Queenstown, strolling the historic streets of New Norfolk, exploring lichen-covered granite rocks in Bicheno, or soaking in the calm of Great Oyster Bay in Swansea, Tasmania feels like a place lifted straight from a storybook. Located south of the mainland, this Australian Island state is known for its stunning coastlines, rugged wilderness, and adorable small towns. With more than 20% of the island being protected as part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, there are thousands of kilometers of walking trails, unique wildlife, stunning mountains, and dense rainforests. Scattered throughout these stunning landscapes are nine towns that offer a unique blend of local culture, nature, and history, creating an atmosphere that feels as if it came straight out of a book.
Stanely
On the northwest coast of Tasmania, the historic fishing village of Stanley is a picturesque town renowned for its iconic landmark, ‘The Nut.’ This 150-metre-high, sheer-sided volcanic plug rises from the sea and draws visitors from across the state. A walking track winds to the top, offering remarkable 360-degree views, while the Nut Chairlift delivers an easier way to reach the summit and appreciate the surrounding landscape. Head to Godfrey’s Beach Penguin Viewing Platform, where little penguins can be spotted in their natural habitat. The beach itself is ideal for relaxing, with picnic tables, facilities, and a playground just across the road. For a memorable coastal experience, join Stanley Seal Cruises and travel across the water to meet playful seals up close.
Bridport
The scenic seaside town of Bridport offers world-class golfing, the beautiful waters of Anderson Bay, and white sand beaches. Spend the day surrounded by coastal beauty at Barnbougle Dunes Golf Links, an 18-hole championship course overlooking Bass Strait. Those looking to capture some amazing photographs should head over to the Mermaids Pool, a popular tourist attraction. This hidden natural pool overlooking the water is surrounded by orange lichen-covered dolerite rock. Travel along four different walking environments at Bridport Walking Track, an 11-km circuit that highlights wildflowers, natural foreshore, beaches, as well as forest and river landscape. Just outside of town, walk amid massive curved rows of beautiful, fragrant lavender at the Bridestowe Lavender Estate. The estate also sells lavender products such as tea, oil, and pillow mist.
Strahan
Known for its natural beauty, Strahan is a small harbor village with a maritime climate that allows visitors to enjoy the outdoor recreation offered year-round. Take a ride on the West Coast Wilderness Railway, which stops in Strahan at Regatta Point Station. This steam train offers tours of the mountain scenery and the river. For a water-bound adventure, take Gordon River Cruises, a guided tour that provides views of the wilderness, lunch or dinner, and walks through the rainforest. Visit the Henty Dunes, extending 15km along the coast north of Strahan. The dunes are 30 meters tall, creating a desert-like environment. At Hogarth Falls Track, visitors can sit by the waterfall and enjoy a picnic and possibly catch sight of platypus that occasionally swim in the creek beneath the falls.
Wynyard
Situated on Tasmania’s Bass Strait Coast, the town of Wynyard offers a blend of beaches, rivers, and stunning landscapes. Known as a “town of tulips,” Wynyard follows the curves of the Inglis River, providing a stunning, storybook setting. Start your visit at Fossil Bluff Lookout, where rugged coastal views border the ocean, then head down to Fossil Bluff Conservation Area for a relaxing break near the water. Just outside town, the famous Table Cape Tulip Farm welcomes visitors to stroll through fragrant fields, enjoy local produce, and capture stunning, colorful photos along the coastline. No trip is complete without experiencing the annual Tulip Festival, where the town comes together to celebrate with parades, food, music, and flowers, highlighting the charm, culture, and natural beauty of the town.
St. Helens
On Tasmania’s northeast coast, the town of St. Helens sits along the calm waters of Georges Bay. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, the town is popular for fishing, natural views, and world-class mountain biking. Visit the Serpentarium Wildlife Park, where you can see a variety of native animals and reptiles up close. Just outside town, St. Helens Point Conservation Area is famous for its long sand dunes and open coastline, making it a great spot for fishing, walking, and surfing, while enjoying ocean views. Nature lovers can also explore Ferntree Falls, a peaceful rainforest stop featuring cascading water and walking paths. For adventure seekers, grab a bike and ride the St. Helens Mountain Bike Trails, offering scenic routes through coastal terrain and forests that showcase the area’s natural beauty.
Swansea
Overlooking the calm waters of Great Oyster Bay, the seaside town of Swansea is one of Tasmania’s oldest and most charming coastal locations. Set against stunning views of the Hazards Mountains, the town blends history with relaxed seaside beauty. Start your day at Kate’s Berry Farm, a well-known farm café where visitors stock up on fresh berries, homemade treats, and enjoy a warm cup of coffee. Afterwards, head to Dolphin Sands, a quiet shoreline providing white sand and dramatic views of the Freycinet Peninsula and the mountains. Just outside town is the historic Spiky Bridge, built in the 1840s by convicts using local fieldstone. Nearby, a short track leads to Spiky Beach Conservation Area, a 100-metre beach with clear blue water and a calm atmosphere perfect for relaxing.
Bicheno
The charming and relaxed town of Bicheno often tops lists of must-see destinations in Tasmania. This coastal fishing town is famous for its little penguins, lichen-covered granite rocks, beautiful beaches, ocean views, and unique wildlife. One of the most popular sights is the Bicheno Blowhole, located along a sandy shoreline, where granite formations direct jets of water into the air. Explore East Coast Natureworld, a 150-acre wildlife refuge home to native birds, reptiles, and mammals, with walking trails through lagoons and forested areas. For a different experience, climb aboard Bicheno’s Glass Bottom Boat to discover the magical world beneath the surface. Finish your visit at Whalers Lookout Scenic Reserve, an ideal spot to watch for migrating whales while taking in dramatic coastal scenery.
New Norfolk
Set along the River Derwent, the riverside town of New Norfolk feels like it has been ripped from the pages of a storybook. Begin your visit at Arthur Square, a beautiful riverside park with well-kept gardens and quiet corners ideal for watching the river and relaxing. Learn about the town’s history with a Willow Court Asylum Tour, exploring one of the oldest continually operating asylum complexes in the world, where stories of the past haunt the present. Visit one of the oldest trout hatcheries in the southern hemisphere, Salmon Ponds Heritage Hatchery, located just outside of the center of town. Wander through its stunning gardens, learn about its history, and have a delicious meal at the delightful on-site eatery, refueling for a day of exploration.
Queenstown
In a quiet valley on the western slopes of Mount Owen, sits the historic mining town of Queenstown, famous for its striking ‘lunar’ landscape, caused by 19th-century mining. The pale carved hills give the area a unique feel that perfectly contrasts with the nearby colorful rainforest. Outside of town, Horsetail Falls provides a scenic walk along a boardwalk to a viewing platform, overlooking the waterfall. Another popular location is Nelson Falls, where a short trail winds through ferns, moss, and sassafras trees, with educational panels featured throughout. For a great ending to the day, head over to the Confluence, a relaxing area where individuals can walk along the King River, through bush tracks, discovering the natural beauty that surrounds Queenstown amid the mountain slopes.
Enjoy the Beauty of Tasmania
While Tasmania is one of Australia’s smallest island states, it provides a wealth of spaces for exploration. The magic that Tasmania holds is not only within its beautiful landscapes, but also in the adventures that await. From coastal towns amid turquoise bays to historic villages found in lush valleys, each of these storybook towns provides a unique experience sure to spark the imagination of any traveler. Whether looking out across beautiful bays, wandering charming streets, or hiking through dense rainforests, Tasmania is a perfect destination for those who enjoy the type of beauty that seems to only be described in storybooks.
