Devonport

Devonport is a busy coastal city and hosts the Spirit of Tasmania ferry on its voyage to and from Melbourne. It’s also the gateway to the North West and beyond, with a bounty of fresh produce on its doorstep and plenty to explore right in town.

Located on the Mersey River and the Bass Strait coast, Devonport enjoys river, ocean and mountain views and is close to some of Tasmania’s best natural places, including stunning Cradle Mountain.

There are great beaches, rowing, sailing, kayaking and fishing. Walking and cycling tracks crisscross the city with plenty to see along the way including Aboriginal rock carvings on the coastal trail to The Bluff.

Families will also enjoy a ride on the Don River Railway steam train to Coles Beach (30-min return) as it winds its way along the eastern banks of the picturesque Don River.

Maritime history looms large; the Bass Strait Maritime Centre has an extensive model collection and interpretive display and you’ll also find several galleries, museums, craft shops and the heritage-listed house of former Australian Prime Minister, Joseph Lyons.

Enjoy some pretty parks, including an arboretum (tree garden) that makes for a relaxing nature break. And with so much produce grown in the fertile soil of the Mersey-Forth valley, there’s no shortage of great food from pub meals and fish and chips to fine contemporary fare and farm gate delights.

Devonport also has plenty of places to stay, making it a great base to explore the many treasures of the region.

Devonport is a 1-hr drive (98 km) west of Launceston.