Tasmania’s East Coast is perhaps most famous for the Freycinet Peninsula with its pink granite mountains and the spectacular white sands of Wineglass Bay. However, the East Coast region of Tasmania offers so much more. You can easily spend a week or two exploring the diverse options of this region. A small taste of the East Coast includes cool-climate wineries, bustling fishing villages, a UNESCO listed convict heritage site, and the opportunity to spend time on a deserted beach; exploring temperate rain forests; hiking to beautiful waterfalls and discovering the freshest produce straight from the sea and land.
If you are limited for time, we can provide you with a few must-see recommendations for this region and personalise an itinerary that suits your interests.
Wineglass Bay
This is perhaps the most popular spot on the east coast and offers a 2 hour, 2.6 km return walk to Wineglass Bay lookout which is a must-do for all visitors to the Park. The trail is well constructed and amazingly accessible for walkers of all levels. Be prepared to come across native wildlife and an occasional bonus for some is the sight of whales or dolphins in the bay. If holidaying in summer, try and time your arrival before 10.00 am or after 3.00 pm to miss the crowds. Don't forget your National Parks Pass for your visit to Freycinet National Park.
Bay of Fires
This region is truly extraordinary, famous for its white sandy beaches, contrasting the bright orange lichen that grows on granite boulders in the area. Photography enthusiasts have an abundance of photographic subjects to explore from the beach scenery, sunrise and sunset, wildlife and the night sky so clear you will feel like you can almost touch the stars. Definitely on your list of must-sees will be Binalong Bay and Cosy Corner.
Maria Island
Maria (pronounced Mar-eye-ah) is a small island just off the east coast of Tasmania, accessible from Triabunna. It has a diverse environment, full of fascinating geological formations, an abundance of wildlife, spectacular scenery and convict history. Maria Island is easily accessed by ferry or private tour operator, and your means of island exploration are by pushbike (hired on the island) or by foot. There are several day walks on the island; the eastern side of Maria Island offers spectacular cliffs providing a perfect vantage point for watching birds dive and swoop into the ocean. In season, you may even be lucky enough to spot the whales that frequent these waters during their annual migration. The western side of Maria Island is home to the Painted Cliffs and one of the more memorable spectacles, the weathered contours developed through the power of nature, where the wind and waves have eroded the sandstone to reveal a striking facade.
One of the key areas for exploration of Maria Island is the UNESCO World Heritage Convict Site - Darlington Probation Station. It initially functioned as a convict station and later as a probation station for male convicts. Darlington is the most representative and intact example of a probation station in Australia with 14 convict buildings and substantial ruins in a layout that reflects the key features of the probation system in Van Diemen's Land. It is a living, breathing museum.
East Coast Wine Route
Travelling the vineyard route along the Great Eastern Drive between Triabunna and St. Helen's winding its way through coastal farmland you will find many offerings for tastings and wine sales, with east coast restaurants showcasing the finest vintages, as well as handcrafted beers, spirits and ciders. Meet growers and makers and sample fine wines accompanied by tasting plates of Tasmanian cheeses and the freshest seafood imaginable, all while soaking up incredible east coast views.
For more on the East Coast Wine Route click here.
Accommodation
Accommodation on the east coast of Tasmania is varied and there is a diverse range to choose from. Select from a fabulous range of budget to luxury options, from camping at Freycinet National Park to luxury hotels such as Saffire Freycinet named Tripadvisor’s Best Luxury Hotel in Australia four years in a row. There are self-contained accommodation options too, such as Avalon Coastal Retreat, famous for its outdoor bath overlooking The Hazards, or the Bay of Fires Lodge (pictured), perched on the stunning larapuna/Bay of Fires.
Getting around
The best way to get the most out of your time on the magnificent East Coast is to see it by road, be it by car, campervan/caravan, motorbike or cycle, however, if you are on a short visit there are many operators that service this region for your special day tour or multi-day operators who specialise in the region. Contact us for more information.
Image Credits: Matt Donovan (Wineglass Bay), Tourism Australia (Great Walks of Australia – The Maria Island Walk), Tasmanian Walking Company (Bay of Fires Lodge-Spa), Pete Harmsen (Touring – Mayfield Bay)