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Stanley Travel Guide

North West Tasmania

Overview

The north-west is a glorious pastiche of wild coastlines, picturesque towns and ancient rainforests. Nicknamed the ‘Edge of the World’, the folks here enjoy an enviable frontier lifestyle, with unspoiled natural beauty right at their fingertips.

Stanley & Surrounds

Stanley exudes small-town charm. Little more than a sprinkling of bright cottages on Tasmania’s northern rim, this quiet fishing village resembles more a relic than a present-day township. It’s hard not to tap into the relaxed lifestyle here, with its genteel cafes, quaint B&Bs and the gentle lull of the waves on shore.

Attractions

The Nut

This remarkable, flat-top volcanic landmark is impossible to miss—in fact it was sighted by Bass and Flinders on their historic circumnavigation of Tasmania in 1798. Rising 143 metres from the shallow waters of Bass Strait, the Nut keeps a steady watch over the sleepy town of Stanley. Popular among climbers, its peak affords stunning panoramic views of the north-west coast. Not to worry though if you’re not up for the hike—there’s a chairlift that will take you straight to the top.

Highfield

This historic homestead, 2 km north of Stanley, is often regarded as the birthplace of European settlement in Tasmania’s north-west. Built from 1832 to 1835 as a residence for the chief agent of the Van Diemen's Land Company, the house is a brilliant example of Regency architecture. Today you can tour the house and outbuildings, including convict barracks, barns, stables and chapel.

Tarkine

The Tarkine stretches almost endlessly across the north-west, and is in fact the largest expanse of cool temperate rainforest in Australia. Within its depths exist fauna and flora dating back millennia, and unique habitats not found anywhere else. You can explore this ancient forest at your own pace, whether via its labyrinth of walking trails, self-guided drives or gentle river cruises. It’s all within a half-hour drive from Stanley.

Rocky Cape National Park

Rocky Cape is much more than its lighthouse (though that is impressive!)—it’s a craggy stretch of coastline peppered with sea caves, rock pools, colourful hillsides and pretty, sheltered beaches. And courtesy of the many walking trails, the area is perfect for exploring on foot! Swimming, fishing and boating are also popular activities in the area.

Need to know

Accommodation

Guests can stay in suites at the Bay View Guest House—perfect for those wanting access to a full kitchen. Or if it’s all about the panoramic views, rooms at the Stanley Seaview Inn are sure to satisfy your Instagram cravings. Spa suites and apartments are available here as well.

What's on?

The annual Melbourne to Stanley Yacht Race in November begins in Melbourne and ends in Stanley. The town is abuzz come December, when the Circular Head Agricultural Society put on their annual show—there’s live music, a parade, livestock competitions and delicious food stalls for the locals to enjoy.

Getting there

Stanley lies atop a peninsula near Perkins Bay on the northern coast of Tasmania about two hours’ drive from Devonport.
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