Tasmania’s east coast is perhaps most famous for the pink granite mountains of Freycinet Peninsula and spectacular white sands of Wineglass Bay, however, it offers so much more. You can easily spend a week or two exploring this region, which offers cool climate wines, bustling fishing villages, UNESCO listed convict heritage, the opportunity to spend the afternoon on your own beach and, inland, temperate rain forests, waterfalls and fresh produce.
If you are limited for time, we can definitely make a few recommendations on things to do in this area and the following attractions are must do’s:
Wineglass Bay
This is perhaps the most popular spot on the east coast and is a reasonably short walk, although it can get a little bit steep, so you will need a basic level of fitness to climb the lookout track. Be prepared to come across native wildlife and, if travelling in summer, try and time your arrival before 10 am or after 3 pm to miss the crowds.
Bay of Fires
Famous for its white sandy beaches, which contrast with the bright orange lichen that grows on granite boulders in the area. Photography enthusiasts will want to check out Binalong Bay and Cosy Corner for great images, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Maria Island
Maria (pronounced Mar-eye-ah) is a small island just off the east coast of Tasmania. It is a diverse environment, full of fascinating geological formations, wildlife, spectacular scenery and convict history. Accessed by ferry or private tour operator, the island can only be explored by pushbike (which can be hired on the island) or by foot. There are several day walks on the island, as well as some shorter walks. The UNESCO rocegnised convict probation station, Darlington, is the major arrival point and doubles as basic accommodation and a living, breathing museum. Maria Island is also famous for it's wildlife, in particular, you are all but guaranteed to see a wombat or three. Just be sure to take The Pledge before you go.
East Coast Wine Route
Located along the Great Eastern Drive, primarily between Triabunna at the southern end and St Helen’s to the north, the wine route winds through coastal farmland and many vineyards, each with their own story to tell. Cellar door stops include the Devil’s Corner Cellar Door and Lookout, which serves a great pizza or morning coffee and The Farm Shed in Bicheno which hosts wines from around 20 of the local region’s vineyards as well as providing tastings for some of those that don’t have public cellar doors.
For more on the East Coast Wine Route click here.
Accommodation
Accommodation on the east coast of Tasmania is varied and there is so much to choose from. Select from fabulous budget and luxury options, from camping at Freycinet National Park and luxury hotels such as Saffire Freycinet, named Tripadvisor’s Best Luxury Hotel for 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 (picutured), overlooking the Bay of Fires, voted one of Lonely Planet’s top 10 regions in the world.
Getting around
The best way to see the east coast of Tasmania is with your own transport, whether it be caravan, bike, your own or a rental car, however, for those who are less confident on our coastal roads, there are a number of day and multi day operators who specialize 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)