West of Burnie

Travelling west along the Bass Highway (A2), your first stop is Wynyard. Drop into the Wonders of Wynyard Exhibition and Visitor Centre to see a world-class display of veteran cars, then take the short detour to Table Cape for breathtaking headland views and, in spring, vibrant tulip fields in bloom.

Visit Creative Paper Tasmania to watch artisans craft handmade paper from natural local fibres and join a papermaking tour to learn about this unique process.

Stop in at The Lobster Ponds Haven near Flowerdale to see Tasmania’s giant freshwater lobsters and learn about their conservation.

Continue along the coast to the seaside gems of Boat Harbour and Sisters Beach, gateways to the spectacular Rocky Cape National Park. Explore coastal walks revealing sea caves, wildflowers, and Aboriginal heritage sites.

Venture inland to Dip Falls to admire the striking two-tiered basalt waterfall and the nearby Big Tree, a towering 260-year-old eucalypt. On the way back, call into the Blue Hills Honey Farm Experience near Mawbanna for tastings and local gifts.

Further west, the historic fishing village of Stanley awaits. Wander its charming main street filled with local crafts and fine foods, savour freshly caught seafood, and ascend The Nut — on foot or by chairlift — for spectacular coastal views. Visit the Stanley Discovery Museum, the birthplace of Prime Minister Sir Joseph Lyons, or step back in time at Highfield Historic Site, the restored headquarters of the Van Diemen’s Land Company.

For those with more time, continue beyond Stanley into the ancient Tarkine rainforest region. Take an eco-cruise on the Arthur River (departing daily, bookings recommended) and experience the untamed power of the Roaring 40s at the Edge of the World Lookout — where wild seas meet rugged coast.