Australian Traveller voted Strahan, the last outpost of civilisation on the west coast of Tassie, one of the top 10 ‘best towns in Australia’ a few years back. Visit here and you’ll soon see why.
This isolated fishing village is outrageously picturesque, with colonial-style buildings and fishing boats lining the edge of the stunningly pure Macquarie Harbour – which, incidentally, is six times the size of Sydney Harbour. Some of the most prized and expensive seafood in the world is sourced from these waters, a testament to the pure, wild and beautiful scenery Strahan is renowned for.
There’s plenty to keep you occupied: the scenic West Coast Wilderness railway; myriad walking trails; Gordon River cruises along the sites of historic battles in Tasmania’s colonial past; and scenic flights. Or head to Ocean Beach and watch the wild waves rolling in as the freakishly fresh winds buffet your face. You may find yourself rooted to one spot for a while, floored by the untouched beauty that surrounds this place.
Given Strahan’s (carefully managed) popularity with tourists, there’s plenty of accommodation on offer. Try the sweet-as-as-Tassie-apple-pie waterfront cottages at Strahan Village, tucked behind a white picket fence on the Esplanade.
The details
Getting there: Strahan is 300km west of Hobart.
Staying there: Strahan Village has five types of rooms, starting from $165 per night with breakfast.
Playing there: See discoverstrahan.com.au for more information on tours and activities.
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