Strahan‘s rich history and beautiful surroundings make it a top destination for travellers seeking unique experiences. In this article, you are going to find out the best things to do in Strahan.
The small picturesque fishing village is perfect for those who love outdoor activities, with plenty of walks, cruises, and sightseeing opportunities on offer. But it’s not just the scenery that makes Strahan special. The town has a unique charm that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re wandering around the historic sites, exploring the local shops or enjoying a coffee at one of the cafes, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to a simpler era.
Overall, Strahan is a fantastic place to visit if you’re looking for an authentic and enjoyable Tasmanian experience. Here are our 12 top picks for things to do Strahan, Tasmania.
Table of Contents - Things To Do Strahan
Experience The Gordon River Cruise – The Best Things To Do in Strahan
When it comes to Best things to do in Strahan, the Gordon River Cruise is an experience that should not be missed. This six-hour tour takes you on a journey through Tasmania’s pristine world heritage wilderness, the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, and offers a glimpse into the area’s history and natural wonders.
The journey begins in Macquarie Harbour, where you will board a comfortable vessel before setting off on your adventure. As you journey along the calm Gordon River, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the rainforest, the river, and the mountains. Keep your cameras ready as you’ll come across some stunning wildlife such as eagles, wallabies, and other native animals living in their natural habitats. You’ll also get to see the majestic Huon pine which is endemic to this part of the world.
During the cruise, you’ll also disembark to explore Sarah Island, which was a notorious penal settlement in the early 19th century. You’ll learn about its history and tales of daring escapes from the prisoners themselves.
The Gordon River Cruise is an excellent way to experience Tasmania’s pristine wilderness and enjoy its natural beauty. It is a must-do activity in Strahan that promises to wow and mesmerise visitors of all ages. Don’t forget to book in advance to experience this unforgettable journey.
Jump On Board the West Coast Wilderness Railway – One Of The Best Things To Do Strahan
Another thing that you absolutely must do when looking for something to do in Strahan is to take a ride on the West Coast Wilderness Railway. This historic steam train, which dates back to over a century ago, runs through Tasmania’s dense rainforests and offers stunning views of the region’s unique landscape.
The train ride runs for 35 kilometres and takes approximately four hours to complete, so you’ll be able to witness the incredible beauty of Tasmania for an extended period. You will have the chance to spot local wildlife like wallabies, possums, and even Tasmanian devils along the way.
Travellers can choose from two classes of service to ride the train: the Heritage and the Wilderness Car, each of which offers a unique and unforgettable experience. While the Heritage Car boasts an antique ambience that takes you back in time, the Wilderness Car provides modern amenities like air conditioning and an onboard bar.
Overall, the West Coast Wilderness Railway offers an amazing, immersive experience. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Strahan exciting way to connect with nature and history and experience the beauty of Tasmania.
Visit Hogarth Falls in Strahan
If you are looking for a natural escape from the hustle and bustle of life, Hogarth Falls is a must-visit destination in Strahan. Conveniently located in Strahan Village, Hogarth Falls is just a one-kilometre walk from the village, making it easily accessible for tourists.
The trail towards Hogarth Falls is surrounded by lush green trees and overgrown ferns, providing a perfect background for photos and a peaceful escape into nature. The trail is mostly flat, making it suitable for children as well. The 2.1-kilometre return walk through the scenic rainforest is an experience you won’t forget soon.
As an added bonus, Hogarth Falls is listed as one of Tasmania’s top 60 walks, so it’s definitely worth the visit. The trek to the falls takes around 45 minutes, which is a perfect amount of time to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. Enjoy the sound of the falls and let your worries fade away.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just looking for a beautiful natural escape, visiting Hogarth Falls should definitely be on your to-do list looking for things to do in Strahan, Tasmania.
Drive the 99-Bends to Queenstown – A Fantastic Thing To Do In Strahan
One of the best things you can do while visiting Strahan, Tasmania, is to take a scenic day trip to Queenstown and drive the 99 bends. The journey from Strahan to Gormanston involves lots of twists and turns, but it’s worth it as the drive offers breathtaking backdrops and hair-raising hairpin turns.
As you drive along the curving tarmac road over the mountains towards Queenstown, you’ll be captivated by nature’s splendour. The scenic 99-bends road takes you through dense forests, along rivers, and past cascading waterfalls. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop along the way to take memorable photos of the rugged, wild scenery.
Once you reach Queenstown, the old mining town, you can explore the many attractions, such as the Heritage and Arts Centre, the Galley Museum, or the Paragon Theatre. As you take in the town’s rich history, you’ll realise why it’s considered one of Tasmania’s must-visit destinations.
In conclusion, driving the 99-bends to Queenstown is one of the top things to include on your itinerary when you visit Strahan, Tasmania. The journey is as important as the destination, and you’ll come back with cherished memories of this scenic road trip.
See the Iron Blow Lookout
If you’re looking for a place that offers a panoramic view of Tasmania’s unique mining history, then the Iron Blow Lookout is a must-visit spot for you. Located between Strahan and Queenstown, the lookout allows you to catch a glimpse into the tortured mining past of Tasmania.
Iron Blow is the site of one of the oldest mining and smelting sites in Australia, and a visit to the lookout will leave you mesmerised by the sheer force of human skill and ingenuity. You can explore the enormous open-cut mine created by miners over a century ago or gaze in awe as you see the majestic Queen River snaking its way through the rugged wilderness.
Not only is the Iron Blow Lookout historically significant, but it also offers stunning scenic views from its elevated position. The lookout provides an ideal vantage point, allowing you to take in the unspoilt beauty of the surrounding hills and countryside.
In conclusion, the Iron Blow Lookout is a must-visit thing to do Strahan for anyone interested in history, mining, and breathtaking landscapes. Don’t forget to pack your camera, as the lookout provides some of the most amazing views that you’ll want to capture and cherish forever.
Road Trip to Nelson Falls
A road trip to Nelson Falls is a must-add to your itinerary when exploring the West Coast of Tasmania. Situated just off the Lyell Highway, between Queenstown and Derwent Bridge, this stunning natural wonder can be reached by taking an incredibly easy walk through a rainforest full of giant ferns, myrtles, and sassafras.
The walk is only 1.5 kilometres on a flat gravel path, making it easily accessible to most, including families with younger children or elderly individuals. As you wander through the lush rainforest, you will be surrounded by the tranquil sound of cascading waters, which builds up the excitement as you near the falls. Nelson Falls stands 30 metres tall, and as you approach it, you feel the cool mist from the waterfall on your skin, leaving you with a sense of awe and tranquilly.
While at Nelson Falls, make sure to take your time, enjoy the stunning views and take plenty of photos to capture your memories forever. The fascinating informational displays around the falls will educate you about the local flora, adding to your experience. A road trip to Nelson Falls is an unforgettable experience that offers visitors a unique opportunity to be immersed in Tasmania’s pristine natural beauty while learning about the local flora.
Whitewater Rafting on the King River
If you’re an adventure seeker and love to experience thrilling activities, whitewater rafting on the King River is a top thing to do when exploring the West Coast of Tasmania. King River Rafting is Tasmania’s single-day rafting specialist, operating out of Queenstown, a remote town on the West Coast of Tasmania. The company prides itself on providing unique, exciting, and adventurous experiences for anyone with a sense of adventure.
The King River rafting experience takes you on a journey down the river, from its source to the sea, encompassing the thrill of the whitewater gorge and the wonder and history of the West Coast rainforest. This amazing experience is an exploration of the seldom-explored upper King River Gorge, which offers a stunning landscape that you will never forget.
While on your adventure, you will be accompanied by professional guides who will ensure your safety while having an unforgettable experience. The trip is suitable for all, including families with younger children or elderly individuals. If you’re not ready for the thrill of the whitewater gorge, you can opt for a more sedate rafting experience on the Pieman River, which is also available through the remote forests of the Tarkine Wilderness.
Overall, whitewater rafting on the King River is an exhilarating experience that you will not regret adding to your itinerary when exploring Tasmania’s West Coast.
The Ship That Never Was: Local Play
If you’re planning a trip to Strahan, and looking for things to do in Strahan, be sure to include a visit to the Richard Davey Amphitheatre to watch The Ship That Never Was, Australia’s longest-running play. This performance is a combination of history and entertainment that is sure to captivate audiences of all ages.
The play tells the true story of the last Great Escape from Sarah Island, a prison on the West Coast of Tasmania. As the story unfolds, you will be transported back to the time of the convicts as they plan and execute their daring escape. The talented actors bring the characters to life with their comedic and dramatic performances, making for a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
The Ship That Never Was is a great way to complement your exploration of the Gordon River and Sarah Island during your visit to Strahan. The play provides a unique opportunity to learn about the area’s history in a fun and interactive way. It is highly recommended for both locals and tourists alike.
Make sure to book your tickets in advance, as the play can sometimes sell out quickly. Don’t miss out on this delightful experience that is truly an essential part of any trip to Strahan.
Hike To Montezuma Falls – Things To Do Strahan Tasmania
While there are plenty of things to do in Strahan, the hike to Montezuma Falls is a must-do for nature enthusiasts and keen hikers. As Tassie’s highest waterfall, you can expect to be blown away by the magnificent beauty of the falls.
The relatively flat trail may seem easy, but it’s a lot further than Hogarth Falls in Strahan. However, the 4.5-kilometer round trip is worth every step. Walking through dense rainforests and crossing several suspension bridges, the trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The hike can take between 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take in the scenery. Pack a picnic and take a break at the falls while soaking in the stunning views before making your way back.
Hiking to Montezuma Falls is an excellent way to get some exercise while enjoying the beauty of nature. It is a family-friendly activity that offers something for everyone, regardless of age or fitness level.
Make sure to bring suitable clothing and footwear, as the trail can get muddy and slippery in parts. Also, don’t forget your camera to capture the beauty of the falls and the natural environment. Its definenlty a must visit when looking for best things to do in Strahan.
Morrison’s Huon Pine Sawmill
If you’re looking to explore the rich history of Strahan, then a visit to Morrison’s Huon Pine Sawmill is a must-do. This sawmill has been operating for over a century and is a significant part of Tasmania’s history. The mill allows you to experience the working process of the rare Huon Pine, which only grows in this region. It’s definently one of the best things to do in Strahan!
During your visit, you can watch the skilled woodworkers in action and learn about the unique properties of this beautiful timber. The sawmill offers guided tours that take you through the entire process of transforming the raw wood into stunning finished products that are available for purchase.
Morrison’s Huon Pine Sawmill is not just a place for wood enthusiasts. You will be able to appreciate the history of Tasmania and the impact that sawmills like this one had on the community. The sawmill is open seven days a week, and it’s easy to find along the Esplanade in Strahan.
Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop on your way out and bring home a piece of history. This is an excellent opportunity to support local craftsmen and artists, and take home an authentic piece of Tasmania.
Buy A Gift At Wilderness Woodworks
Are you searching for a unique and authentic gift to bring home from your Tasmania trip? Look no further than Wilderness Woodworks, a store managed by the next generation of the Morrison Huon Pine family under new management. This store offers an exceptional range of quality items made on-site and from other Tasmanian craftsmen.
The store features a gallery section displaying high-quality artwork, and their products range from raw Huon Pine suitable for furniture making to worked and finished items made from Tasmania timber. You can also find souvenirs, kitchen accessories, homeware, and much more at Wilderness Woodworks.
The staff at Wilderness Woodworks are friendly, knowledgeable, and always available to assist you with any inquiries about their products and other visitor information.
Whether for a souvenir or a gift, Wilderness Woodworks offers an unforgettable experience for each customer through its exceptional craftsmanship and superior quality products. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to take home an authentic piece of Tasmania by visiting the lovely Wilderness Woodworks and supporting local Tasmanian craftsmen and artists.
Feast On Local Seafood at View 42º Restaurant & Bar
One of the best ways to experience the local Tasmanian cuisine is by heading to View 42º Restaurant & Bar. This restaurant is a seafood lover’s paradise, featuring the best of the local produce. Situated in Strahan, it offers an exceptional fine dining experience with magnificent views of the stunning Macquarie Harbour. The buffet setup is thoughtfully arranged to showcase the quality and variety of seafood available in the region.
Whether you prefer classic seafood dishes or want to try something new, View 42º is the perfect dining destination with friendly service and a warm ambience. You can enjoy your meal with a refreshing cocktail or premium Tasmanian wine as you watch the sunset, taking in breathtaking views. However, please note that View 42˚ Restaurant will be temporarily closed for dinner from December 8th to 23rd.
Overall, View 42º Restaurant & Bar offers an unforgettable experience for seafood lovers with its exceptional cuisine and wonderful views. If you are a food enthusiast, this is a must-visit destination when in Strahan, Tasmania.
Conclusion: Top Things To Do in Strahan, Tasmania
Strahan, Tasmania, is a hidden gem located on the West Coast of Australia. This charming town offers a plethora of activities and attractions that will delight any traveller, from history buffs to adventure seekers. We hope you enjoyed our top 12 picks for the best things to do in Strahan. Enjoy and have a safe trip to Strahan. If you need more information on all of these things to do, be sure to check out the local visitor centre.
