The ultimate guide to Tasmania’s west coast
When you visit Tasmania’s remote west coast, you won’t just see the wild side – you’ll live it. The quaint seaside village of Strahan serves as the gateway to the Tasmanian World Heritage Wilderness Area, where intrepid visitors can explore one of the most isolated places in the world. You’ll discover untouched nature, darkly fascinating local history, and inspiring cuisine showcasing Tasmania’s world class produce.
The best way to sink your teeth into the west coast is with Strahan Village’s Ultimate West Coast Tasmania Experience Package. It’s an all-inclusive package that combines wilderness adventure with the finer things in life – harbour view accommodation, luxury cruising experience and exceptional dining.
Whether or not you opt for this very special luxury escape package, here’s what you can expect from four fun-filled days in Strahan.
Day 1: Arrive and explore Strahan
Arrival: Pull into Strahan and settle into the wonderfully slow pace of this sleepy village on the edge of the world. Check into your accommodation at Strahan Village and take a moment to soak up the incredible views of Macquarie Harbour. If you’re hungry from your travels, grab a late lunch from The Kitchen, a waterfront café just moments from your room.
Afternoon: Head off on foot along the Strahan Historic Foreshore Walk beside Macquarie Harbour. After just 10 minutes you’ll arrive at the Hogarth Falls Track in People’s Park. This 2.4km return bushwalk will take about 45 minutes. It’s an easy, mostly level walk through cool climate rainforest to a beautiful waterfall. All of this without even leaving Strahan! Be sure to keep your eye out for platypus.
Evening: Head to View 42° for sunset drinks on the deck overlooking the harbour. There’s no better place in Tassie to watch the sun sink into the Indian Ocean. Order a cocktail, a Tasmanian wine or a craft beer and clink glasses with your travel buddy to celebrate your first night on the west coast.
Day 2: Gordon River Cruise
Morning: After waking up to sunrise from your harbour view or waterfront accommodation, walk down to the wharf where you’ll climb aboard Gordon River Cruises. If you’re travelling via our all-inclusive luxury escape package, you’ll head straight to the Premier Upper Deck. Here you’ll enjoy morning refreshments on board as you set sail for six unforgettable hours on the west coast’s most iconic cruise.
You’ll cruise quietly along mysterious waterways through World Heritage Wilderness, seeing infamous sites like Hells Gate and Sarah Island. You’ll disembark for a rainforest walk to stretch your legs, all the while learning about the region’s rich but dark history. Prepare for fascinating tales of convicts, cannibals and killers on the run. You’ll also learn about the local First Nations inhabitation of the area, stretching back more than 30,000 years.
Enjoy a superb lunch on the premium upper deck, where you’ll be treated to local seafood, Mediterranean-style salads, and antipasto platers overflowing with Tasmanian produce. Sip on all-inclusive fine Tasmanian wine, beer or juice, and don’t forget to save space for a delectable dessert!
Afternoon: You’ll disembark the cruise at around 2.30pm. Take it easy this afternoon and explore Strahan’s quaint streets, popping into boutique shops for unique Tasmanian crafts and souvenirs. If you’ve got enough steam remaining after a full day of cruising, head to the West Coast Heritage Centre to learn about the region’s mining history. Alternatively, kick back and relax beside the harbour with an ice cream or a coffee.
Evening: Head down to the Richard Davey Amphitheatre at 5.30pm to see Australia’s longest running play, The Ship That Never Was. Based on a real event in 1834, the play tells the dramatic and hilarious true story about the last Great Escape from Sarah Island.
Then, it’s dinner time. After that indulgent feast aboard the Gordon River Cruise, a relaxed dinner at Hamer’s Bar and Bistro is just what the doctor ordered. Over an ice cold beer, reflect on an amazing day that you’ll be talking about for years to come.
Day 3: Cycling and sand dunes
Morning: Another day, another beautiful morning vista from your stylish room overlooking Macquarie Harbour. Stroll down to The Kitchen café for a peaceful brekky beside the water, before heading to reception to pick up an e-bike for a day of exploring at just the right pace.
Ride 5km out of town to the start of the Ocean Beach Trail, a 4km return track to sprawling Ocean Beach. Once known at the Great Roaring Beach, this is Tasmania’s longest beach stretching for more than 30km. The powerful swells of the Southern Ocean meet this remote stretch of coastline after travelling across 20,000 kilometres of open sea from South America. It’s wild stuff – beware the rips! Swimming is not recommended here.
Before returning your e-bikes, take a leisurely 3km cycle around the foreshore to the comparatively sedate Regatta Point and grab fish and chips for lunch from Tracks on Point Café.
Afternoon: The west coast is known for its mysteries and surprises, and a mountainous sand dune system surrounded by rainforest is certainly one of them. Just 14km north of Strahan you’ll find Henty Dunes, a desert-like expanse of sand dunes stretching 15km along the coast and reaching several kilometres inland.
Here, 30m high dunes rise out of the rainforest like improbable mountains, formed by the lashing winds known as the Roaring Forties, which whip across the ocean from South America. Thrill seekers can hire sandboards in Strahan to ‘surf’ the dunes, while ATV tours are available through Strahan ATV Tours.
Evening: If today’s adventure activities have worked up your appetite, you’re in luck! Head to Hamer's Bar and Bistro to try some of the other dishes. With a large menu featuring a range of fresh seafood and seasonal Tassie produce, Hamer's gives pub-style dining an elevated feel. Don't forget to save room for dessert, with some of the ultimate comfort foods on offer for you to indulge in.
Day 4: Chasing waterfalls
Morning: To celebrate your last morning in Strahan, head back to The Kitchen Cafe for breakfast before checking out of your accommodation. If you’re up for one last west coast adventure before hitting the road back to the ‘real world’, visit Montezuma Falls.
Located an hour’s drive north of Strahan via the town of Zeehan, these thundering falls are the highest permanent falls in Tasmania. Access is via an easy 11.5km or three-hour return walk through breathtaking cool climate rainforest. The perfect way to wrap up your ultimate west coast wilderness adventure!
Book your west coast adventure
If you’re thirsty for a rugged wilderness adventure with a splash of luxury, book the Ultimate West Coast Experience Package today. With premium accommodation, meals, Gordon River Cruises’ Premium Upper Deck tickets, and more, this luxury experience takes the hard work out of planning your Strahan getaway. Simply check in, crack open your complimentary arrival bottle of wine, and spend a few days reconnecting with nature and each other.