Adventure in Gordon River, Tasmania!

Gordon River

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling adventure to Tasmania’s wild west coast, where the majestic Gordon River carves its way through the pristine Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Your journey will start in the quaint harbor town of Strahan, accessible by a scenic drive from Hobart (about 4.5 hours) or directly by small plane to Strahan Airport.

Day 1: Arrival in Strahan

Upon arrival, settle into one of Strahan"s cozy accommodations, ranging from quaint B&Bs to waterfront hotels. Explore the charming town, visiting local artisan shops and indulging in fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant.

Day 2: Gordon River Cruise

Begin your adventure with a Gordon River Cruise, a must-do to appreciate the area"s rugged beauty. Departing from Strahan, these cruises offer insightful commentary on the river’s ecological and historical significance while gliding past ancient rainforeaches and stunning landscapes. Opt for a morning departure to enjoy the serene beauty and reflective waters. Don"t miss the Heritage Landing walk, where you can stroll through a lush rainforest and gaze at trees over 2,000 years old.

Day 3: Wilderness Railway

Step aboard the West Coast Wilderness Railway for a heritage train journey that retraces the original mining railway from Queenstown to Strahan. The train chugs through dense rainforests, alongside sheer cliff faces and across the wild King River. Opt for the Wilderness Carriage for an added touch of luxury with complimentary Tasmanian wines and cheeses.

Day 4: Kayaking and Hiking

For a closer encounter, rent a kayak or join a guided tour to paddle the serene waters of the Gordon River. Adventure enthusiasts can hike parts of the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. The rugged terrain and untouched wilderness will reward you with breathtaking vistas and a true sense of isolation.

Departure

Conclude your adventure-filled visit with a final morning in Strahan, perhaps catching a sunrise over the harbor before your departure, carrying with you the wild heart of Tasmania’s western wilderness.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Sarah Island

Why Visit?

Adventure Itinerary: Sarah Island, Tasmania

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning: Kick off your adventure in the rugged heart of Tasmania by catching the early ferry from Strahan to Sarah Island, a journey that not only transports you through the stunningly scenic Gordon River but also catapults you back into Tasmania"s intriguing convict past. The cruise, taking approximately 45 minutes, offers breathtaking views and an insightful commentary on the region’s ecology and history.

Afternoon: Upon arrival at Sarah Island, take a guided tour around the ruins of what was once one of the most infamous penal colonies during the 1820s. As you navigate through the remains of the penal settlement, your guide will unveil harrowing tales of hardship and remarkable stories of escape, making the island"s grim history come alive. This isolated island was a place where convicts were brought to toil in the shipbuilding industry, under some of the harshest conditions in the British penal system.

Day 2: Adventure and Reflection

Morning: Embark on a kayaking expedition around the island to explore its hidden coves and waterways. This paddling adventure not only provides a unique perspective of the island but also opportunities to spot local wildlife such as sea eagles and dolphins.

Afternoon: Enjoy a peaceful afternoon hiking the lesser-known trails of the island, exploring its lush surroundings and panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. The contrast between the island’s dark history and its natural beauty makes for a profoundly reflective experience.

Evening: Return on the late ferry to Strahan, as the setting sun casts golden hues over the Gordon River, offering a serene finale to your adventurous exploration of Sarah Island.

Fact to Share: Sarah Island functioned as one of the most productive shipyards in the Australian colonies during its operation, where the craftsmanship of the convicts was highly regarded despite the brutal conditions.

Know Before You Go: Weather can be unpredictable; waterproof gear and sturdy hiking shoes are must-haves. Also, pre-booking the ferry and guided tours is recommended as they can be fully booked during peak seasons.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Henty Dunes

Why Visit?

Adventure Itinerary: Conquering the Henty Dunes

Day 1: Arrival and Prep

Begin your adventure in Tasmania by arriving in Strahan, a charming harbor-side village on the west coast. Accessible by a scenic drive from Hobart (about 4.5 hours) or Launceston (just under 4 hours), Strahan is your gateway to the wild Henty Dunes. Settle into your accommodation — options range from cozy B&Bs to waterfront lodges. Take the evening to explore Strahan’s historic sites and sample some local seafood to fuel up for the days ahead.

Day 2: Dune Bashing and Sandboarding

After breakfast, head to the Henty Dunes, located just north of Strayan along the A10 highway. At over 15 km long and 30 meters high, these sprawling white sands offer a playground for adventure enthusiasts. Rent a sandboard or dune buggy from a local operator right at the entrance to the dunes. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you speed down the slopes with the roar of the Southern Ocean in your ears.

For a touch of history, explore the edges of the dunes where remnants of ancient Huon Pine logs are sometimes visible, washed out from the neighboring forests. These logs are relics from over a thousand years ago, providing a unique glimpse into Tasmania’s ecological past.

Day 3: Hiking and Heritage

Shift gears and lace up your hiking boots for a trek along the dunes. Follow marked trails that crisscross the landscape, offering panoramic views of the ocean and lush forests. Mid-hike, enjoy a packed lunch while soaking in the serene isolation of Tasmania’s wild west coast.

Later, visit the nearby historic mining town of Zeehan, where you can walk through its storied streets and visit the West Coast Heritage Centre. Return to Strahan by evening.

Day 4: Departure

Reflect on your thrilling experiences at Henty Dunes over a hearty breakfast before checking out and heading back to the city, carrying with you memories of sand, speed, and solitude.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.