Strahan & the West

Enjoy a sleepy stay in the harbourside village of Strahan as you explore the most rugged and remote quarter of Tasmania. Glide through the forest on a scenic steam train journey along the West Coast Wilderness Railway, take a picturesque drive to beautiful Nelson Falls, or an easy walk to the stunning scene at Hogarth Falls. Cruise the meandering Gordon River from Macquarie Harbour or sail to Hells Gates, the doorway to the vast Southern Ocean. Disembark to discover the remains of the penal colony on Sarah Island or wander among the flora of Heritage Landing’s temperate rainforest.

Ride a toboggan down the giant Henty Dunes or join an ATV tour to explore the wild sands in full. Set your heart racing on a white-water raft run through the rapids of the King River. Or watch the sky explode with colour as the sun dips into the sea.

Permanent home to less than 1000 people, that Strahan is the main town on Tasmania’s isolated west coast is telling of just how peaceful you’ll find this scenic side of Australia’s island state. Take a walk along the picturesque esplanade of Strahan’s foreshore as boats bob in the harbour before this tiny strip of historic buildings. Breathe in the wooden aromas of Morrison’s Huon Pine Sawmill, a four-generation family business now demonstrating the traditional techniques to each day’s visitors.

See The Ship That Never Was and learn the tale of the ‘great escape’ from Sarah Island through a captivating family show performed by the Round Earth Company for more than 25 years. Cruise Macquarie Harbour, six times larger than Sydney’s equivalent, to explore Sarah Island as it is today. As day turns dramatically into night, dine on delicious fresh seafood as you sip and chat at a quaint harbourside restaurant.

Strahan is beautiful itself and you don’t have to travel far to become surrounded by some of Tasmania’s most stunning scenery. Look out for a wild platypus as you hike just an hour along Botanical Creek to the idyllic Hogarth Falls, one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks, or drive a little further to the enchanting forest location of Nelson Falls.

Look west from the rugged sands of Ocean Beach and know there is nothing but water and marine life between you and the shores of Argentina, nearly 7,000 miles away. Navigate the twists and turns of 99 Bends road to Queenstown and enjoy unrivalled views as you snake your way through mountain ridges. Finally, step back in time and ride a steam train along the rainforest track of West Coast Wilderness Railway, one of the undoubted highlights of any Tasmanian itinerary.

Strahan and the West sees cooler temperatures and higher rainfall than most of Tasmania but this only adds to the region's wild and rugged appeal. If you’re seeking sunnier days, December to February is the best time to visit with average daytime temperatures of 15-20°C and the lowest rainfall of the year.

Winter falls from June to August and days can feel chillier with averages of 9°C in sunlight and colder at night. This is also the wettest time of year so be sure to take a good waterproof coat. Spring, from September to November, and autumn, from March to May, are ideal times to visit with pleasant weather most days and plenty of adventures to be enjoyed. Crowds are rarely an issue on this side of the island so pack layers and add Strahan and the West to your itinerary to enjoy a true wilderness escape.