Best things to see in Port Arthur Tasmania
The ruins of the 19th-century penitentiary building
Why go?
Tasmania will move you. The island’s wild landscape of alpine ranges, vast rainforests and white-sand coves are intertwined with a complex history, from British colonisation to war with the aboriginals and the creation of a convict outpost. Nowhere better embodies this unique dichotomy than Port Arthur. Resting on the tip of the Tasman Peninsula, the former penal settlement is surrounded by an arresting natural beauty – dark sea, lush flora, rocky cape – which makes its strange ruins all the more affecting. The massive 17th-century prison was used to house British convicts, most of whom never returned home. Those who love a good story shouldn’t miss a ghost tour and a trip to Isle of the Dead, the gravesite of over 1000 prisoners and members of the military.
A sunny autumn day in Port Arthur
After a day or two absorbing the town’s heritage, strike out on the many walking paths and lookouts. The magnificent cliffs of Cape Raoul seem to plunge over the edge of the world, and Remarkable Cave has been carved out by the thunderous Southern Ocean over millennia. The hiking trails around Fortescue Bay offer humbling views of the coastline and the chance to see native wildlife, such as wallabies, echidnas and pademelons, which are perhaps three of cutest animals on Earth.
The clear waters of the Tasmanian Coastal Bay
When to go?
December and January bring sunshine and warmer temperatures. That being said, it’s when Aussies take their summer holiday, so you can save big by taking an autumn trip instead. Try February, when it’s still warm, or April when the harvest explodes statewide – just be sure to avoid the Easter rush.
Where to stay?
NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park – Port Arthur, Tasmania
Situated on Garden Point Road, Port Arthur Holiday Park, the winner of the 2019, 2018, and 2017 TAS Tourism Awards, offers both cabins and tents, all with water views. Guests enjoy access to free WiFi and an on-site shop which supplies both groceries and car fuel.
Stewarts Bay Lodge – Port Arthur, Tasmania
These log cabins are located in the bush, a 5-minute walk from the beach. The homely chalets range from one to three bedrooms, with balconies offering views of the water and the forest. You can cook your own meals or try the on-site seafood restaurant.
Bridgecroft Beach Shack blissful spa retreat for 6 – Port Arthur, Tasmania
Surrounded by views of the inner courtyard, Bridgecroft Beach Shack blissful spa retreat for 6 is a sustainable villa in Port Arthur, offering guests an environmentally friendly accommodation close to Port Arthur. The villa with a balcony and sea views has 3 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower.
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