Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 10, 2023
How long is the drive from St Kilda to Coles Bay?
The direct drive from St Kilda to Coles Bay is 432 mi (695 km), and should have a drive time of 12 hrs 18 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from St Kilda to Coles Bay, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Launceston, Torquay, Devonport, Cowes, and Geelong, as well as top places to visit like Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne and Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, or the ever-popular St Kilda Pier.
The top cities between St Kilda and Coles Bay are Launceston, Torquay, Devonport, Cowes, and Geelong. Launceston is the most popular city on the route. It's 10 hours from St Kilda and 2 hours from Coles Bay.
Geelong is a town in the southwestern part of Melbourne, Australia. Its waterfront area features a 19th-century carousel, an art deco boardwalk and sea bath at Eastern Beach, and Baywalk Bollards sculptures telling the city's history. The Geelong Botanic Gardens are located on the bay's eastern end while the National Wool Museum hosts changeable exhibitions in its middle.
26% as popular as Launceston
52 minutes off the main route, 6% of way to Coles Bay
Located at the eastern end of the Great Ocean Road coastal drive in Australia, Torquay is a charming seaside town renowned for its surf beaches such as Bells Beach and Jan Juc Beach. The area also offers the picturesque Surf Coast Walk trail, which begins at Point Impossible Beach and passes through Point Danger Marine Sanctuary with its unique limestone reef and sea slugs. Additionally, visitors can explore the Australian National Surfing Museum in town to learn about surf culture.
59% as popular as Launceston
1 hour off the main route, 8% of way to Coles Bay
Need a place to stay?
WhereWhere are you going
When
–
Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
When
–
Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Cowes, located on Phillip Island in Victoria, Australia, is a popular destination for tourists. Just a two-hour drive from Melbourne or accessible by coach or passenger ferry from Stony Point on the Mornington Peninsula, Cowes offers visitors an array of dining options and local shops to explore. Families can enjoy the playgrounds and barbecue stations while art enthusiasts can visit the Mingara art gallery showcasing contemporary and indigenous artworks.
21% as popular as Launceston
2 hours off the main route, 11% of way to Coles Bay
Devonport, situated in the north coast of Tasmania, Australia, is a city where the Mersey River converges with Bass Strait. Visitors can explore early explorers' exhibits, shipwrecks and steamers at the Bass Strait Maritime Centre located on the waterfront. Tasmanian art enthusiasts can head to Devonport Regional Gallery housed in an old church displaying Tasmanian art.
23% as popular as Launceston
5 minutes off the main route, 74% of way to Coles Bay
Located in northern Tasmania, Australia, Launceston is a picturesque riverside city that boasts the famous Cataract Gorge with its scenic views, walking trails and sculpted gardens. Visitors can also explore the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery which feature exhibitions on Tasmanian history. The Tamar Valley vineyards are worth exploring along the Tamar River.
Most popular city on this route
7 minutes off the main route, 82% of way to Coles Bay
Best stops along St Kilda to Coles Bay drive
The top stops along the way from St Kilda to Coles Bay (with short detours) are Cataract Gorge Reserve, Phillip Island Nature Parks, and Spirit of Tasmania, Devonport Terminal. Other popular stops include City Park, Seahorse World, and Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park.
If you're looking for a great place to watch the Melbourne skyline and Port Phillip Bay from, look no further than St Kilda Pier. With its impressive views, this pier is perfect for all sorts of activities - including penguin watching!
Fantastic place to catch the sunset, get views of the city, and spot some penguins!
Note that the actual penguin viewing area further down is closed as of the time of this review.
Sharan — Google review
Had a great time walking about St Kilda Pier during the golden hour period. If not for the clouds, it would've been a killer view!
Wife took me here on her friend's recommendation & definitely worth a walkabout! 10/10 would recommend 👍 👍
Arnab Ghosh — Google review
St Kilda Pier: Where Adventure Meets Serenity!
⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Prepare to embark on a thrilling journey as you step foot onto the iconic St Kilda Pier in Melbourne. The moment you set your eyes on the shimmering waters of Port Phillip Bay, a rush of excitement courses through your veins, promising an unforgettable experience ahead.
As you stroll along the wooden planks of the pier, the rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the pylons fills the air, creating a symphony that harmonizes with the beat of your heart. The salty breeze brushes against your cheeks, carrying with it the scents of the sea—a tantalizing blend of ocean mist and freshly caught fish.
Gazing out into the vast expanse of blue, you're captivated by the sight of sailboats gracefully gliding across the water, their colorful sails billowing in the wind. The lively chatter of seagulls overhead adds to the symphony of sounds, as if they're welcoming you to their seaside sanctuary.
Your eyes are drawn to the distant horizon, where the sky meets the water in a breathtaking display of colors—brilliant hues of orange, pink, and purple that paint the canvas of the heavens. The golden sun begins its descent, casting a warm glow that illuminates the surroundings and creates an ethereal ambiance.
As you continue your journey towards the end of the pier, a sense of anticipation builds within you. You catch a glimpse of the famous St Kilda Breakwater, its rugged rocks teeming with life. Curious penguins waddle along the shore, adding a touch of whimsy to the coastal landscape. It's a magical sight that reminds you of the wonders that lie beneath the surface of the sea.
Reaching the end of the pier, you find yourself surrounded by a panoramic view that stretches as far as the eye can see. The city skyline of Melbourne stands tall in the distance, a testament to the harmonious coexistence of urban and natural beauty. The vibrant colors of Luna Park's iconic Ferris wheel catch your attention, hinting at the thrills and laughter that await just a stone's throw away.
As you take a moment to soak in the atmosphere, a sense of tranquility washes over you. The peacefulness of the surroundings creates a sanctuary away from the bustling city, allowing you to connect with nature and find solace in its embrace.
St Kilda Pier is not just a destination—it's an invitation to embrace adventure, indulge in serenity, and experience the true essence of Melbourne's coastal charm. So, fellow adventurers, I implore you to set foot on this mesmerizing pier, where excitement meets tranquility, and unforgettable memories are waiting to be made. It's a place where dreams come alive, and the wonders of the sea and sky are yours to explore.
Harvey Spencer — Google review
Nice place for a sunset walk. Partially closed at the moment but still great views as you walk towards the end of the pier. Highly recommend for nice sunset/sunrise pictures.
David Webb — Google review
Large pier and beach area lots of activities and nice restaurants also get good view of melbourne cbd
Jonathan Anazodo — Google review
A nice spot to spend time on hot days by the beach. Lovely views of sunrise and sunset. You can also see the new year fireworks display that happens in the city
B.A.T.S VLOGS — Google review
Flown down from WA and currently Half of the pier is completely closed, you can’t really even walk it because only one side is visible and the other is complete construction. Can’t go down to see the penguins and the coffee shop isn’t open either blocked off by big walls due to the construction. Looks like it’s going to be amazing when it’s done! But virtually nothing to see/do on their at the moment, what a shame
Aaron Harrison — Google review
It's such a beautiful and serene place, absolutely miss it when I moved away from saint kilda, when I used to go it used to be less crowded but now it was so busy even during the week. Also seen few people leaving their litter.
Sam Kaz — Google review
I have been coming to this Pier in St Kilda since I was 12. It's very safe to walk along the pier, just make sure you have a jacket as it can get very windy and cool at times. It's also the best place to go fishing in Melbourne. I usually come here with my dad to catch silver breams. 😁
Mish Bui — Google review
My favourite place to watch the sunrise in Melbourne, at present they are doing major maintenance and repairs so you can't get past the old ice-cream parlour so you don't get the full effect, If you can wait until the construction is finished to experience this time of day down here then I would advise you to wait.
Mel Rudd (Mischief) — Google review
St Kilda Pier is undeniably one of the most beautiful places to visit in Melbourne. The beauty of the sea and the distant city view create a captivating atmosphere. There's a myriad of activities happening around the area, making it a must-visit spot in Melbourne that you shouldn't miss.
Ali Al Alawi — Google review
Excellent views of windsurfers, lots of fishermen with fresh catch, lots of yachties and a brand new pier nearing completion. Penguins can be viewed at night and parachutists are regular nearby drop zone.
phil grossi — Google review
Great place to hang out during summer. Good vibes. Spectacular sunsets. Luna Park for the young at heart. You’ll have a field day here!
Z L — Google review
beautiful place to visit and see local penguins.
closed till mid 2024 for bridge renovations.
Gediminas G — Google review
While I was here it was under construction but overall it’s a good place to be. Smells stinky, that can be improved.
Dimensions 3sixty — Google review
Lovely place to watch sun rises and sun sets.
Quite hard to see penguins, bcz they are small and it is dark, but it worths it, better than see them in a zoo
Hoai Le — Google review
Absolutely beautiful and lovely beach for everyone. If you want to see the Penguins, you may join the Sunset Penguin Cruise..Aug schedule is 5.30pm during weekends.
Idy Chiang — Google review
Decent spot for a fish. Plenty of space and a good view of the city. Usually produces some fish too
The Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Cranbourne Gardens is a plant conservation center and horticultural attraction featuring beautifully landscaped beds and trees. It boasts an impressive Australian Garden that showcases the diversity of the country's flora, complete with a free water play area for children to enjoy on hot days. The park also offers various walking tracks that showcase different displays of plants and flowers, including numerous Australian species.
Very beautiful park. Many different tracks to see the different display of plants and flowers. Lots of Australian species. There are many areas to rest and with shade, so even on a hot day one could take a break to get out of the sun. There’s a water area and kids would love this especially on a hot day. A cafe at the entrance and one in the park itself. A souvenir shop with local delights too.
Ample parking and a little walk into the park to begin the journey to see nature.
??? — Google review
Beautiful gardens that is both a nice walk through nature as well as educational.
Peaceful and a good amalgamation of nature with exhibition of various native plants and modern gardening that adheres to current issues such as water consumption.
My favourite would have to be the eucalyptus walk showcasing various species of the eucalyptus tree.
Would go again.
Henry S — Google review
Great outdoor place for even winter
We went here in a rainy winter day but it was still very enjoyable. The facilities are great and there’s a cafe as well. The garden is huge with very great architectures, some of which were inviting for kids. We had a great walk (half a day) around and caught some animals (wallabies, bandicoots) alongside with birds chirping. Great urban escape for even winter!
There were many parking spots but there was also road works on the way to the entrance. Luckily, there were signs pointing to the garden. 😊
Nguyệt Minh — Google review
Great gardens for a day out. Well organised and maintained. Free entry. Good place to show people from overseas about Australian landscape.
There is a cafe, coffee wasn’t great. Sweets was ok. Didn’t had food cause the kitchen closed at 3pm. Plenty of parking and things for kids to do.
Enoki N Daisy — Google review
This is a very beautiful and well maintained garden. It's huge, with easy walking paths, unique landscape including various water views. Accessible with ramps and lift available where applicable. Public toilets on site. Free parking available. Entry is free, no tickets required. Picnic spots available. For kids who love water play, there's a large area where they are welcomed to play in with flat stepping stones of various levels with water running through them like a stream. There's also a little nature inspired playground.
(As of August 2023)
sventek — Google review
Beautiful place. Even with lots of visitors walking around, you could find your own spot as there's so much space and pathways to wonder around. The staff were very friendly and helpful. We took the explorer bus around the garden.
To Peter our tour guide, Tess and Brenton, thank you so much for all your help and making it such a wonderful experience for us.
Indi Wije — Google review
Great place to spend a day. Lovely delicious lunch in the Cafe with a coffee and glass of wine served by friendly staff.
The weather was a bit drizzly do decided to take the bus for a tour with our friendly and knowledgeable Peter tour guide. So happy we did because we learnt a lot about the plants and trees and how the gardens were established. It was nice to see how much it has progressed. Finished off our visit at the gift shop.
Cheryl Scott — Google review
Its a great place to visit. Plenty of place to look if you are a tree lover. Native plants are must see section.
Best part of this garden is it has ceiling hoist for people with disabilities. Great job.
SafiyaTheBaby — Google review
Botanic Gardens are always a safe bet for a great day out walking, resting, or even just a few hours out and about.
The scenery is beautiful, and some of the plants and garden beds are just gorgeous specimens, and there is always a good photo to be taken.
The eatery situated at the back of the park is being renovated at the current time, but don't worry, there is one as you enter the venue.
As it heats up, you do need to keep in mind, there can be snakes about, and there were a few signs up on sightings, but if you stay on the path, you should be fine.
Aaron Giorno — Google review
A wonderful place for a day outing. If you enjoy spending time in the midst of nature, this is a place to be. This place offers great walking paths and various landscapes. It is a lovely place for families and kids to have fun and unwind. There are many scenic spots within the huge and well maintained area.
Roopali Dewan — Google review
Very nice place to visit on a sunny day. If you have an interest in plants you'll be able to see and learn about the many types that the garden has with all of the signage and information. If you aren't too keen on plants, its a wonderfully scenic place for a relaxing walk.
Matthew Roberts — Google review
What a great day we had! We live 15 min drive from here and this was the first time we took a day to visit the gardens. We decided to take the bus tour and Sue was an amazing guide and so afterwards we walked all the way h[we had visited while on the bus, we took over 200 pictures and videos altogether. I’m so in love with the amazing flora we have in this amazing country and the landscape is wonderfully done. After we went through all the gardens I walked along the water flowing feature which was lovely and then we decided to give the trails a go we did! 2 hours walking through Amazon bush and sightseeing the water lakes.
Our day started at about midday and ended at 5:08 when the gardens were closed to the public. 12 kilometres walk and 20K steps, next time will be more! As our day was pretty hot.
We saw a few wallabies in our trail walk and lots of dragonflies and lively butterflies as well, we also loved seeing bees having a feast at the bushes.
A must see and visit fully!
Bought lovely insect repellent from the gift shop which smells like a natural perfume.
Mariella Kennedy — Google review
What a wonderful place for an afternoon stroll through the gardens. We first took the opportunity to do the guided tour with commentary on the electric cart around the gardens, which was worth the $15 each we paid. Then we decided on what part of the gardens we wanted to see and took our time. Wonderful staff were very helpful and loads of wildlife.
The site has a nice cafe there and a gift shop. Highly recommend going there for an afternoon out.
aaron paul — Google review
Such an amazing Garden…. got to see wallabies and Australian wildlife. Beautiful display gardens, with precious displays of native Australian plants. visited on a sunny winter day, such an amazing experience. Plenty of space to sit, relax and rejuvenate. you will feel closer to nature and life.
has cafe and shops, accessible to all: took a pram and faced no issues to navigate through the gardens. A few areas under maintenance and a few restricted areas (when exiting) on the road near carpark, Maps can be deceptive, refer to the boards.
Roop Kaur — Google review
I stumbled upon this place when looking for a garden Cafe. My husband and I ate at the onsite Cafe and ended up taking the Explorer Tour ($15 per adult/approx. 30min), which I really enjoyed. Will be back for a walk and maybe even too find a spot and read a book. Tour was insightful and Sue was friendly and knowledgeable.
Liz Aui — Google review
Such an interesting place. Some parts of it make you feel like you’re on the set of some retro futuristic movie. The info-cards throughout the garden provide a lot of useful information about native Australian vegetation. Free entry, plenty of parking, and a nice cafe on site.
Anima Sola — Google review
Where to start about this stunning garden!!!
I had never been before but wanted to visit a garden that wasn’t in inner Melbourne. And boy this did not disappoint!! From parking, the information centre, the cafe, the shop, the actual gardens themselves, just WOW! Oh and the fact that this is FREE is beyond amazing! I would be more than happy to pay up to $20/$30 to spend a morning or afternoon here. There is so much to see here and so many gorgeous places to sit and take everything in. The amount of work that goes into landscaping and designing something like this is mind blowing. Everything is so thoughtfully done. This is definitely worth going to visit through the seasons, just to see the differences.
And absolutely must see!
Severine Josey — Google review
With an admission fee of $0.00 what better value can you get. Seriously this is an extraordinary public garden that should not be overlooked by both residents and visitors to Melbourne.
Gareth Stickler — Google review
A wonderful day trip. It's deceptive with its layout, some much in such a compact space. If there are any tourists who don;t want to travel 1000s of miles and waste days getting to places to look at flora. Save yourself a great deal of time of visiting these gardens. Its got it all in wonderful natural settings.
Danny Nolan — Google review
Wow. What a great garden. Absolutely loved our visit. Well set out easy to get around. Each section had its very own feel about it. Definitely recommend.
Sean Lawrence — Google review
A very different Botanical Garden in that it showcases Australian Native Fauna. Great walking paths with facilities not too far away. The highlight of our visit was the peppercorn garden where the shrubbery had every conceivable aromas. Most were very pleasant, a few were good and some were downright rank! Absolute gem of a garden! And it's Free!
George Lewandowski — Google review
Beautiful set up and the layout is nice and easy to navigate. We did not get to see water along some of the water ways, unsure why but apart from that everything was as expected. Landscape is a must see and it’s stunning from the start.
Cafe is very pricey, avoid.
Steven McNamara — Google review
4.7
(4017)
•
4.5
(555)
Ballarto Road and, Botanic Drive, Cranbourne VIC 3977, Australia
The Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park is a 25-acre site that features Australian native wildlife during the day and night. This wildlife park is perfect for visitors from other countries who want to see rare and endangered animals in an intimate setting.
Moonlit Sanctuary is now our go to place when we have overseas visitors. There are great animals to see and the staff are so knowledgeable. We heard so much about the Tasmanian devil and kangaroo just from incidental chars with staff. Everyone loves the koala and wallabies here and feeding them is so much fun. We found later in the day was great for the wallabies after they had a rest. My daughter and our visitors were captivated by this experience.
Rebecca Stroud — Google review
Moonlit Sanctuary is a beautiful place to have an intimate experience with Australia's native animals. Being able to hand feed and pet the kangaroos and wallabies is fantastic! The facilities are excellent and very clean. The staff ans keepers friendly and informative. The prices for entry are very reasonable as are the animal encounters. The food is quite expensive but you are able to bring your own food, there is a BBQ to use and an under cover with many picnic tables.
We love visiting this Sanctuary ❤️
Helen Bower — Google review
Great little place to take kids, worth getting the yearly pass if you live nearby. All kinds of Australian animals & they have encounters at different times of the day. Nice casual vibe & not crazy busy. Heaps of kangaroos & wallabies to feed.
Jeff Bryce — Google review
This Sanctuary was fantastic.... had a great experience with the Koalas and the Kangaroos coming right up to my group.
The Live show seeing the Glider, Dingo and Hawk which flew over my head and ruffled my hair - can u say Awesome!!!
Loved seeing the birds and the wallabies!
All in All definitely a moment I will not forget.... love love love....
GO SEE IT I PROMISE - U WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED 🩷
M Lyew — Google review
We had a superb time at Moonlit Sanctuary. We visited on a Monday at opening time and it was perfect. No lines, limited crowds, happy & hungry animals tucking into their breakfast, engaging keeper talks every 30mins and the highlights of handfeeding the wallabies and the show arena were fantastic!
The grounds are not as expansive as other zoos and farms but there is enough there for a memorable 2-3 hours.
Tip: Pack snacks and/or a lunch box and grab a bench along the water or food available at the cafe to enjoy on the deck. Chips were yum!
D Yas — Google review
Wow! What a great experience. We booked the private night tour for our anniversary gift and had a great evening. There are many Australian native animals to see and you get to see the animals that are often asleep in the day. Our guide, a zoo keeper was an expert in our Aussie natives, not only was she a pleasure to speak with, we learnt so many new things about the Australian wild life in the sanctuary. It was such a lovely surprise to get up and close with the squirrel gliders, getting to go into the enclosure was an extra special moment. We also got to feed wallabies. I highly recommend doing a private night tour!
Cherie — Google review
We visited just after Christmas and had a wonderful time! You get to see a variety of animals up close, which is such an incredible experience! The wallabies and kangaroos were very keen to see us and be fed! I also booked the experience and met a koala, which again, is well worth it! There could be more here to keep people here longer but otherwise it was a great morning!
The cafe was clean and had good food too.
kayleigh g — Google review
Went for the night guided tour and our guide Beth was absolutely lovely. She patiently answered my questions and you could tell she really cared for all the animals in the sanctuary. It was quite an adventure getting to know some of Australia's endemic wildlife with interactive activities like feeding the gliders and being allowed to feed/pet some of the animals too. Highly recommend visiting this wonderful place to learn more about some of Australia's unique species. Hoping to do a day tour sometime to see the dingoes. Thanks again Beth!
A. Fernando — Google review
Great place for a day out, especially recommend checking out the 11am show which showcases a lot of the animals very up close! We bought the food for the kangaroos and wallabies and it was well worth it as we were able to use all of it to feed them and get really up close.
I would definitely buy tickets online so you don't need to wait in line and are easily able to get in quickly.
Stefan Boyd — Google review
Will pick this every time over a traditional zoo. Stunning native Australian nature and native wildlife on show, lots of different native flora and fauna.
Accessible with wheelchair friendly path (they can be wet/muddy due to weather) and toilets that are updated and clean.
Staff are very knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions.
Cafe has a decent range of food and drinks, very limited vegan options though.
A must come and see if you're a nature/animal lover, easily spend 2+ hours.
Auden Laurance — Google review
We did the night tour with Sam, it was incredible! The animals were friendly and very food motivated, our tour guide was passionate about the animals and care they receive, plus he was an absolute wealth of knowledge. There were plenty of sanitizing stations and the up close experience with a small group (no more than 16) was incredible. I cannot say enough wonderful things about this experience.
CJ and KJ — Google review
Amazing! So many cool animals up close. Definitely buy the food for the kangaroos and wallabies. The keeper talks were very informative and there were lots of keepers walking around to answer questions or point out interesting things we missed. Warning; you will want to buy everything in the shop, so prep your wallet and remember you deserve a treat!
Sara Pianavilla — Google review
We buy our Melbourne family a Zoo pass each year and when we visit usually do the zoo.
This time decided to visit Moonlit as they hadn't been. It was fantastic!!
The conservation talk is worth every second and interesting!
Loved the owl, sugar glider and the deceptively friendly dingo.
We would visit again
Tracey Ian McWhinnie — Google review
Loved watching the cute animals. Though it would be nice if some people behaved less demanding around wallabies and kangaroos - the food that one can buy at the entrance isn't always in high demand by already well fed animals, so some people just push behind the barriers and try to force the animals to eat so that they can get a photo of themselves or their kids - very sad to watch. That aside, it was lovely to meet a koala, Cyclops, who was happily munching on some eucalyptus and the wombats were so adorable!
Alena — Google review
One of my favourite places to visit in VIC. We have come here multiple times before, but yesterday was a special highlight as it was our first private night tour.
I always enjoy going to Moonlit Sanctuary but with many of the animals being nocturnal, it is a different experience starting a tour around dusk. For instance, it was my first time seeing a Tasmanian Devil run around (being excited about receiving his food soon) instead of sleeping in its burrow during the day. By the same token, it was fantastic to see the Koalas more active than they normally are during the day and of course my personal highlight of any visit is always the chance to get up close and feed the wallabies and kangaroos. But it was also my first time really getting close to Feathertailed Gliders , which are super cute and unbelievably soft.
Finally, I’d like to thank our guide Claudia, who was fantastic. She provided a lot of insights on the Sanctuary and the different animals and allowed us ample time to view and/or get close to the wildlife.
Overall, I can definitely and wholeheartedly recommend a visit to Moonlit Sanctuary be it during the day or at night, but if you’ve got the chance, go for one of their night tours.
S. Azza — Google review
There aren't words to describe how incredible this is. It's a dream for kids and adults alike. There are great experiences with animals like the Koala or Dingos, but then Kangaroos and Wallabys just roam around and you can interact with them as much as they let you. It's a must visit! The caretakers clearly love the animals and are dedicated to their well-being and the species' survival, which is clear in every interaction. No need to buy tickets ahead but the experiences sell out fast. The Cafe has great food and is reasonably priced!!
Beatriz Almeida — Google review
Loved it so much was a really great day. The cafe way wonderful. The keepers are very informative and professional.
Everyone was lovely except maybe the first young girl in the cafe who was far to quick to be gruff with my severely autistic son who was over excited having just met his favourite animal, but all that aside I wish I could give more stars 🌟
Cynthia Morris — Google review
I came here twice, and each time it was a similar experience.
The place is not as big as you'd think, and they don't have a lot of animals, but the ones they have are either rescues or animals only found in Victoria.
The highlights of the place are the kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas, as there are plenty of them. Kangaroos are very friendly and come close to people, so you will get the chance to feed them, so buy the food when you book. One is more than enough for two people.
The koalas are very cute, and depending on the time of day, you might find them sleeping or walking around.
There are plenty of birds walking around the park and swimming. They will follow you for food!
The sanctuary holds talks and shows at specific times.
The cafe inside sells great burgers and fries!
It's a great place for families with kids. Wear boots in winter as the place gets muddy. Get your tickets online. It can take between 1 and 2 hours to complete the experience.
Jo SB — Google review
My family and I have just returned from the night time tour. Despite being cold and a bit of drizzle, the overall tour experience was great. We had a large group of about 20 we were split up into two groups and were given a small container of food for the animals and a lantern to light up the path. The tour guide was great. She interacted very well with the children and adults and answered all the questions una very friendly manner. The animals were very friendly and the kids loved feeding the kangaroos,
Sugar gliders (my personal favourite) wallabies, possums etc. Overall it was a fantastic experience and we all thoroughly enjoyed it.
Paola Moutien — Google review
Brilliant day spent here. It was an awesome experience to get close to animals and feeding the kangaroos. The sanctuary had animals native to Australia and has regular keeper talks on all its wildlife. The koala encounter was brief, yet a truly worthwhile thing to do as not many places offer the chance to get so close to them. Highly recommend if you happen to be in Victoria. Friendly and knowledgable staff as well.
Jasin Philip — Google review
A beautiful sanctuary and such a wonderful experience for people of all ages!
So special to be able to learn about our delightful Australian native wildlife in such an up close & personal way.
Highly recommend the night tour to everyone! Then come back and enjoy it during the day too!
We have been coming for years, and will continue to come and bring as many friends & family to enjoy it with us as we can.
Keep up the great work Moonlit Sanctuary!
Jacinda Scott — Google review
Encounter in close range with many local animals. This is quite fun and exciting for my children.
You can fed the kangaroos. the food can be bought at ticketing at $3/box. My guide recommends 4 person to 1 box.
chen vijra — Google review
Super fun place for someone who loved animals. Very well organised and maintained. The staff is extremely courteous and you’ll definitely have a fun time interacting with Kangaroos, Wallabies, Dingos and many other native animals.
Kanika Mathur — Google review
This park is worth a visit! The animals seem much happier here compared to most zoos. You will see lots of Aussie wildlife and get to feed the wallabies and kangaroos. They will happily come hopping and munching. Most even let us pet them. My family visiting from overseas had an amazing time and loved it there. Most of the animals were out and about on a warm autumn day. Really recommend it and it's worth the price. We spent about 2-3 hours here slowly trotting along the path.
Clara Ge — Google review
Where else can you take a selfie with a kangaroo? 😂
I love this place. Not too big, animals are always easy to see or eating right out of your hand. My favourite place to bring international friends for an Aussie animal experience
Joey dB — Google review
This is the perfect place for tourist to interact with the amazing Koalas and feed Kangaroos as well. I also liked that animals are quite free here, doesn’t feel like a zoo where they are closed in the cage. There is a small lake in the middle and so many birds.
Born to travel — Google review
This sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some of Australia's most iconic animals in a natural and immersive setting. The highlight of the experience has to be the kangaroo feeding, where visitors can interact with these gentle creatures and learn more about their behavior and habitat.
But the excitement doesn't stop there! Moonlit Sanctuary also provides the rare chance to snap a photo with a cuddly koala, creating memories that will last a lifetime. This hands-on approach to wildlife education allows visitors to develop a deeper appreciation for Australia's rich biodiversity while having a blast in the process.
With additional attractions and activities like informative keeper talks, bird shows, and encounters with other native species, there's never a dull moment at Moonlit Sanctuary. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and educational day out, this sanctuary offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Kate — Google review
This is amazing place if you like to see koalas and kangaroos! You can be really close to them and feed them. And we have fun looking them from this close! It’s a good sanctuary to visit here, and It has a lake & food kiosk, where you can chill for 1 hour or maximum 2 hours.
Margaret Mok — Google review
Very beautiful zoo tucked into the more rural side of Melbourne. Highlight was a picture and petting the koala Cyclops. But also seeing the kangaroos and wallabies jump and roam freely was nice.
Other than the two highlights the zoo was quite boring. And expensive for what you get. I understand the money goes to conserving these precious species but the zoo was just really small and not much to get lost and do.
They should do more with the nature they offer. Like eucalyptus tree tour, plantings, product making sessions or something. And maybe create more spaces where the visitors can feel at the center of the animals they are visiting in a peaceful way. Just some suggestions to improve but it was nice overall.
Leonard — Google review
Loved this very much! We were two adults experiencing this but it was a very popular place for parents and children. Absolutely loved the whole experience. It is fairly small and easy to navigate. The animals are clearly loved and well taken care of.
Dawn Dawson — Google review
It’s a good sanctuary to visit, if you like to see koalas and kangaroos! You can be really close to them and feed them. If you’re with kids, they will have fun looking them from this close! Restaurant there is also very nice. Good service. 1 or maximum 2 hours are enough here! It has a lake, where you can chill!
Ria Gotecha — Google review
Would 100% recommend coming here, whether you're a local trying to get the kids out of the house or an overseas tourist, or anywhere in between. This is an amazing experience for all ages, extremely pram and wheelchair friendly. We went during the day and also returned later in the day for the night tour. During the day, the staff are extremely friendly, the animals are very friendly and majority of them will let your children approach them. Lots to look at as well, the cafe here is great quality and the whole sanctuary has an amazing atmosphere.
Coming back for the night tour, Skye was our tour guide and she was lovely, very informative and accommodating for younger ones. With the night tour, you get to wander around and see some of the nocturnal animals being more active in their enclosures. The free roaming wallabies and kangaroos are more active of a night and will follow you around asking for the food you are provided with at the start of the tour. You get to enter the potaroo enclosure and help feed them, you're also allowed to pat them if they allow it.
You also get to enter the squirrel glider enclosure and hand feed them nectar and you're allowed to pat them if they allow it.
We will definitely be coming back once our toddler is a bit older as it was an amazing experience that we want to experience again.
Shania — Google review
4.6
(4726)
•
4.5
(710)
550 Tyabb-Tooradin Rd, Pearcedale VIC 3912, Australia
Nobbies Centre is a tourist attraction on Phillip Island that contains multimedia displays of wildlife in an extreme continent, Antarctica. The attraction includes a boardwalk with stunning views of coastal scenery as well as a blowhole, which can be experienced during big southern swells.
An incredible spot to check out while on the island. The boardwalk is positioned well and gives you so many great views and a phenomenal sense of scale. Informative placards give you insight into this geographically unique spot. Head there early to avoid the crowds, but definitely don't miss it.
Danon O'Kelly — Google review
Beautiful scenery. Cold and strong wind. Its one of the best place to see the unimpeded view of ocean. Its a walk you can enjoy on wooded boardwalk looking at the ocean, waves, sky, flying birds, occasional seal, shrubs, man made penguin nests. It’s a power spot!
Kentaro Mitsuma — Google review
If you're on Phillip Island, you've gotta hit up The Nobbies. It's one of the coolest places to check out nature! Imagine standing on a boardwalk with the ocean on one side and these epic cliffs on the other. And get this—there are actual penguins and seals that hang out nearby!
Perfect for some cute pics or even a school project on wildlife. It's a super chill place to just take in the views and relax. Make sure to bring a jacket though, it can get a bit windy. Totally a 5-star spot!
Maxim Ross — Google review
A very scenic place! You must visit to experience it. The beautiful coastal view. The many many seagulls. The boardwalk. And so on. Btw, wear a windbreaker as the wind is quite strong.
👍👍👍
Joseph Lum — Google review
The centre was closed when I first came on evening of 7 Mar 24. I returned the next morning (8 Mar) after it was opened. Exhibits present Antarctica facts and stuff of previous explorations there.
There's a giftshop and cafe, the cafe with a great view of the nobbies. Ordered a burger, which was great.
Loong Wei Tho — Google review
This is a beautiful lookout with breathtaking views. There are so many locations to take photos as much as you want. There are several types of birds, flowers, and the beach scenes are awesome. I very much enjoyed the visits.
The outside lookout area is free for everyone, and there is a walking path towards the sea, which is so beautiful. If you pay some extra dollars, you could visit the Nobbies Centre.
Kinkini Gamage — Google review
Awesome views and fantastic walkways in amongst the penguins burrows. A beautiful place for a walk and to take some breathtaking photos of the rugged scenery. There are seals that live on the distant rocks though youll need a good pair of binoculars to see them. The visitor center is excellent with details of the local wildlife and a cafe, and sheltered views for when it gets too windy. An excellent place to visit. Highly recommended.
peglegsqueeks — Google review
Do come during sunset where you can have an awesome view of the sea and setting sun, and spend about 30 minutes or so along the boardwalk. There are some interesting information about the place, where you can spend about 45 mins or so in there. Breeze is strong and do bring along a windbreaker even during summer. You can see lots of birds and wildlife.
Encouraged to purchase ticket beforehand, online and can consider purchasing the multi attraction tickets should you be going to the penguin parade etc.
Tip: plan your trip such that you arrive here before taking the small road to penguin parade which starts after sunset. That small less used road gives you another awesome scenic drive!
Ying Xian Chua — Google review
One of the most breathtaking spots in Victoria. The Nobbies boardwalk is a must visit spot when you visit Phillip Island. There are no entries or tickets required here. I also like to call it a mini-Great-Ocean-Road as the scene could almost rival that of the twelve apostles, but much closer from Melbourne.
The Nobbies centre also as their own cafe which serves good food and coffee.
William Aung — Google review
Enjoyed great food at the Cafe, sitting next to the huge panoramic windows highly recommended. Watching the changing weather, then braving the windy weather, was rewarded by awesome huge waves at the Blowhole. A stroll along the board walk was great and easygoing, some steps in different sections.
Jane Richards — Google review
Only did the walks outside this time. (Boardwalks)Spectacular views. Loads of Cape Barren Geese - spring is breeding season, so lots of babies too. Drive slowly along these roads!
Definitely visit here.
Laura A — Google review
captivating destination along the coastline. Known for its stunning ocean views and diverse marine life, it provides an enriching experience. The educational exhibits enhance understanding of the local environment, making it a worthwhile stop for nature enthusiasts and visitors seeking coastal beauty.
Salim Hossain — Google review
Stunning scenery as you walk along the Broadwalk. Worth a visit. Can do the penguin parade after you finish the Broadwalk. Better still, walk down from the Nobbies to the penguin parade. It is very pleasant and you will see many different animals along the way.
Elaine Quek — Google review
Great views, especially at sunset. The boardwalk is excellent and you can see a few penguins too. Can be crowded but not to the point of being uncomfortably so. A quick heads up that you can’t drive in any later than an hour before sunset but once you’re in you can stay as long as you want.
ryan yang — Google review
Fantastic view. If you're already in the area, it's well worth going. It can get cold down their however, and windy, so make sure you bring something warm to wear. It's only a short walk, but the time well spent comes from deciding to stop and take in the atmosphere around you.
N T-Wilson — Google review
Great experience here. Stopped by before Penguin Parade, glad we did. Unbelievable views of The Nobbies inside and out. And really great food! Excellent fish and local beer. Bonus: the info guy at the Antarctic Journey (terrific experience by the way, not to be missed) gave us the inside scoop on where to sit for the Penguin Parade. Overall excellent time, highly recommend despite being there on a very crowded day.
Ray Goodrich — Google review
Amazing place to visit with family and friends. This was my second time here and the view is always breathtaking. You need to buy tickets for the discovery center and recommend buying it in advance.
Tharindu Athauda — Google review
The views and rock structures were incredible. We loved it. Good to have toilets nearby, though the cafe was out of action the day we were there. The cafe did have great views. Maybe a guide book about Philip Island for sale would be helpful.
Helen Callow — Google review
This was beautiful !!! We brought lunch from home and sat on the benches provided and ate lunch and had fun with seagulls diving for our food. We then did the boardwalk which everyone enjoyed. Very pretty, among nature and its beauty. This is a short walk and worth it. We went on a weekday and it wasn’t busy which we really enjoyed.
Maggie — Google review
Situated on Ventnor Road Summerlands. Lots to see and experience with the Ocean Discovery Centre and miles of board walks on the bluff with views far out to sea. Whales and dolphins have been sighted and a colony of Australian Fur Seals on Seal Rock (better seen through a strong lens). Penguins in their breeding boxes and burrows, multitudes of Terns and Silver Gulls, Cape Barren Gees and the occasional Copperhead snake. View out to Nobbies surrounds is breathtaking. A restaurant and clean toilets available on site. Highly recommend and well worth the trip.
Peter Lindsay — Google review
Can't comment on the centre experience as we only visited here briefly for the views and the wildlife. Plenty of geese freely wandering along the windy entry road. From the walkways we got to see parents feeding their young, penguins taking refuge for the day and amazing views looking out towards Tasmania.
We arrived around 9am and by the time we left parking was backed up so recommend going early if possible, you also can't be there too late due to the penguin experience etc.
Allan — Google review
Lots of wind and crowd. Do carry a jacket as it can get chilly.
It was fun to watch sea gulls trying to face the wind to carry food for the young ones. We didn’t spot any seals though.
Good place to spend sometime before heading for Penguin parade.
Divya Jain — Google review
Stunning, one of the best places to visit. Board walk is a little shakey, could do with a refresh. Highly recommended view!
Ben Gerrish — Google review
The Antarctic centre was closed when Google Maps said it should be open. We drove all the way out and were disappointed.
We found the boardwalk though which was beautiful. Some great birdlife around and a peaceful and scenic spot to sit.
Phillip Island Nature Parks is a conservation park that allows visitors to observe penguins and other animals in their natural habitat. The staff is knowledgeable and professional, providing an informative experience for all ages. The park offers premium seating and underground viewing opportunities for a more intimate encounter with the adorable penguins. A visit to this beautiful environment is a must-do activity that should be added to everyone's bucket list.
Oh, Philip Island Nature Park is an absolute natural park. 🌿🐧 It's home to some incredible wildlife and stunning natural beauty. One of the highlights is the Penguin Parade, where you can watch the adorable little penguins waddle ashore at sunset. It's a truly magical experience! The park also has koala conservation centers, where you can see these cuddly creatures up close, as well as beautiful coastal walks and pristine beaches. It's a must-visit destination for any nature lover or animal enthusiast. You're in for a treat, mate! Enjoy your time at Philip Island Nature Park! 🐧🌊
Mj Enterprise — Google review
What a wonderful experience to share with our little boy. All staff were professional and Tom was full of knowledge which was awesome. We loved watching many penguins come to shore and then loved walking along aode many on our way back. We booked our trip to Phillip Island to see the penguins and they did not disappoint.
Annmarie Wain — Google review
Do come early to get the best seats to watch the penguins stroll in, unless you've paid to view them from underground. The place is well maintained and managed to sneak a few pictures of the penguins. Great place for kids to learn about the penguins and conservation efforts to protect them. Highly recommended.
Kenneth Teh — Google review
A great place to relax and go for holidays! Something kids would love to see nature and those little penguins! Worth the wait staying at the penguin parade until 11:30pm!
Frances Salazar — Google review
Our Go West tour was specifically for my wife and I to see the Penguins in their habitat and to watch the Parade. We were able take video and pictures along the boardwalk by the ocean. The boardwalk was safe for my wife to walk and we definitely enjoyed seeing the penguins; I mention this because it shows how important safety is to this organization for folks who come to visit especially if they are physically disabled or families with buggies. And seeing homes made for the little penguins and the well kept natural homes for them was amazing.
When it was time to go to the visitors center we enjoyed an early dinner. May I say that with the number of guests eating at the restaurant the quality and plating of each dish we ordered was delicious and well presented. I observed your restaurant manager, Heni, take the time to look for guests whose food had been made but not picked up because they were sitting where the buzzers didn’t reach them. In all my time I’ve never seen that level of customer service before.
We so enjoyed our overall experience of the penguin parade even with the rain and earlier then expected closure due to safety concerns with thunder and lightning.
In addition, I am writing to let you know what an amazing group of people you have working at the Phillip Island Nature Parks. Every person we came in contact with was kind, helpful, and wonderful. Stephanie and others assisted my wife who needed the buggy down to and from the viewing platform as walking is strenuous for her; your staff assisted and made sure she had a place to view the penguin's waddling to their homes. On my walk back to the visitor center as my wife was on the buggy one of your orange vested staff shared information about the bandicoots and the story of their reemergence on the island (I’m so sorry I didn’t get your name, you were knowledgeable and friendly). And Steven, thank you for taking the time to speak with me about some of what I wrote here.
Thank you all for your efforts and love for Phillip Island Nature Parks flora and fauna.
Cian — Google review
Great experience and suitable for older kids who can survive long journey in the mini bus. The travelling time is about 2 hrs one way. I joined Go West tour operator for a full day tour to Philip Island and went to see a few other places before heading to Penguin Parade at the end of the destination. Penguins are coming after sunset is down or around 6pm local time. These penguins are the smallest species among the other penguins in the world. They are super cute walking around the beach and climbs to the hills to find place to rest after hunting for the foods. It was amazing experience exploring the surroundings since the views are breathtaking especially in nice cold sunny weather.
Theresia Madyanna — Google review
Something you need to do at least once in your lifetime. Informative staff, adorable penguins, beautiful environment- what’s not to love? Pay extra for the premium seating/underground viewing- it’s totally worth it!!
Lori Perry — Google review
My wife and I went on the Ultimate Penguin experience. We were provided with wet weather pants and jackets against the cold wet night. Then with a portable seat, earpiece (to easily hear our guide), torch and night vision scope, we walked about 1km to the beach and sat on the sand in the dark watching the penguins come ashore. It was awesome seeing them so close and watching their clumsy waddling and falling over themselves. The rain did not detract from the experience, if anything, it was perfect penguin weather. Our guide, Rachael gave us the perfect amount of commentary and information, pointing out things she wanted us to see on the way. Her passion was infectious, kudos++ to you Rachael, you have found your calling! On the walk back to the visitors centre in the dark, we saw more penguins on the road heading to their burrows. A great experience. The only thing lacking was a hot drink at the end of the night! Thoroughly recommend this, the small group (about 10 of us) made it all that more special.
Kevin Wun — Google review
Look at the right side or left side. Can’t see much at middle. Booking is essential. The underground viewing is good to try.
Jenny Lu — Google review
Penguin parade - do not miss this no matter what!
Watch the penguins come out of the ocean after the sun sets, watch them gather in groups and then race up the beach.
You then get to watch them waddle all the way to the nests in the hills to feed their babies- yes it is breading season right now.
This is one of the most amazing experiences of my life and I cannot recommend the penguin parade highly enough.
Don’t be the idiot that takes photos or video - no one wants to be that idiot.
If you do nothing else on Phillip island, do the penguin parade!
Nathan Taylor — Google review
Definitely worth the visit!! This place is soooo nice and has a breathtaking view. We went there during winter/spring hence it was very windy and please bring a coat, jacket or blanket if you're stay for the penguin parade. Love to see the cute penguins! I would definitely come again if i have the chance to.
Ain Nuraina — Google review
Loved the penguins here, do book ahead for for the seats and the tour. And make sure you are well wrapped up, it does get cold!
Matthew Fong — Google review
Breathtaking views and change in scenery as sunset transcended. The sound of the ocean waves crashing and the crisps coolness of the air is amazing. And the little fairy penguins are so adorable! The kids LOVED it! The experience is well worth paying for it, at least once 😆 We paid for the general viewing ticket. Coming during winter is good as the penguins generally come to shore when dark (around 5-ish pm). Suppose it’s better for younger kids so they don’t have to wait too long but got to rugged up for the cold. We wanted to get as close to the front row seats so we were here about 1 1/2 hours earlier before estimated penguin return time. And we did 😀 Recommend to wear sufficient warm clothing and bring snacks to nibble. A rug/mat as well if it’s a rainy day. As an adult it is surprisingly fun to watch the penguins waddling/running in to shore. I guess there is a kid in every one of us 😊 So cute to see how the penguins care for each other. They literally come in ones or pairs and they wait for their “small group” and then run in together as a team to their burrows. As you walk back on the boardwalk you get to see how the penguins interact with each other. So many different sounds they emit - be it playing, resting, fighting, feeding, resting or mating. Beauty of life and nature. It’s a pity photo taking aren’t allowed but it’s understandable. But it allows us to savour the moment 😀 They have information posters and few activities indoor. Good range of souvenirs (especially for kids…..parents $$$😅). There are food kiosk as well but did not check it out. Great work done for preserving this nature park.
Cherylz Kitchen — Google review
Been here before and always enjoy walking with the wildlife. The sea breeze can make it a wee bit cool so bring a light coat.
Kate Harmon — Google review
An experience not to be missed if you are travelling around Melborn, this is also a small highlight to visit, actually you'd better book tickets a few day before, on the road 3-4 km to the park, we have seen the notice of "ticket sold out", and it had been so crowed in the park a few hours before the big show. Nice park to walk around, many different animals viewable from the road some including the geese tend to get on the road. The highlight is for sure to spot penguins in the burrows, at the beginning there was hardly a penguin to be seen, when most of them left (around 9:30 p.m.) then a lot of them came and it was just great! It's a big pity that it was forbidden to take photos and videos, but also understandable. You really learned a lot about penguins, e.g. that they go back into the sea about 2 hours before the sunrise.
Recommendation to wear warmly, it is windy and fresh, but beautiful sunset.
Jian — Google review
Such precious, amazing penguins! How lucky we are to have the opportunity to visit them in their own habitat.
Very easy accessibility for all, including disabled.
Take a cushion to sit on, a blanket to wrap yourself in. It can be quite cold, especially if windy. Get there at least an hour beforehand for good posi if general admission. The Rangers are terrific and very informative.
The Phillip Island Koala Conservation Reserve is a wildlife refuge which offers views of koalas. The reserve is home to many different types of Australian wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, cassowaries and more. Visitors can enjoy walks along boardwalks that traverse the park's native bushland.
My family and I went here today. We saw lots of koalas. They are all very well fed. Many of them were awake which was a great thing to see since they sleep most of the day.
Very recommended for family activity and educational purposes!
The place was clean and shady.
Winwin Linus — Google review
As the entry fee is reasonable, I don't mind to help conserve Koalas. However most of the Koalas are older. It's hard to see younger ones as they live mostly at the top of the trees. However staff are friendly and I enjoyed the quiet natural beauty as well, though there was only one bench to sit! It was our third visit and first time we heard Koala's bellow! It sounds almost like the sound of a motorbike.
Rita Hasan — Google review
I visited in May and had a wonderful experience! The entry price was reasonable and the reserve well kept. A lot of care and effort went into minimising human interference and maintaining a natural environment. Volunteers were extremely helpful in pointing out the koala which can be hard to spot. The loop takes about 45minutes to walk, but if you are stopping to search for koalas and are busy taking pictures (like me!) then it could easily take 1-1.5hours. Will definitely visit again!
Brian Law — Google review
This was our first stop after a long drive and I actually enjoyed this more than the penguin parade.
A nice tranquil walk through the reserve whilst looking out for wallabies, birds and of course koalas. I think we were lucky (or they’re more active closer to dusk) but we counted and saw most of the koalas that were in each area. Several were very close to the boardwalk rather than up in the trees. A few of the wallabies and koalas had babies as well.
We drove past a more expensive koala park on the way that looked like it was going for the family theme park with koala vibe so if people have hyperactive kids this may not be for you.
Would highly recommend this place and look forward to seeing how they develop with more spaces in the future.
Hayden — Google review
This is a great place to see and learn about koalas. And you can feel at ease knowing that the money you spend here goes to where it is needed.
Every morning, rangers go around to find where the koalas are and put up signs around that area so visitors can more easily find them up in the trees. (On sunny days, it’s probably not the easiest to spot them without a bit of help!)
ARBN — Google review
One of the best Koala reserved. Place is so well maintained and you will be able to have close up view with the koalas. Great place to bring along your kids.
Melvin Chang — Google review
This was an unexpected highlight- amazing experience!
We got to see 8 koalas in the trees - ranges are on hand to point them out high up in the trees. We were lucky enough to see one koala shimmy down the tree and walk along the walkway wooden railing, giving us a chance to see it up close. So super cute and cuddle (except for those long claws!)
This was a so much better experience than seeing them in a cage-enclosure, or purposely placed on a tree stump where you pose next to them for a photo.
Highly recommended!
Gustav — Google review
Great experience for me and my family as this was the first sighting of koalas for us. Ticket was $30 per adult which is reasonable and worth. There were 8 koalas and lots of Wallabies and we were fortunate to spot all the koalas. Staff was friendly and helpful.
Chinthaka Godagama — Google review
It was my first time seeing koalas and it was really nice. You can see koalas in their natural habitats. Shady place Each viewing point has a sign with the number of koalas on it. Made us feel like we were playing the game of finding all the koalas. It was really fun, even my parents liked it.
Nattinee Suwannatee — Google review
Great time, guaranteed to see koalas, not guaranteed to see them awake but we were lucky I think as was wet and colder last night so eating this morning. The boardwalks with fresh eucalyptus branches placed close by do encourage the awake ones to be close to visitors instead of high in the trees, so great viewing and photo opportunities.
Andrew F — Google review
Feeling lucky? Then come here to test it out, because one of these cuties literally walked a fashion show in front of us. We were actually every lucky because most of the koalas were awake and quite interactive. Customer service could improve though.
Long 4saken — Google review
Koala conservation reserves Australia Being a cat owner, I have a knack for finding hidden kitties. However, I quickly realized that spotting koalas requires a different set of skills. These furry creatures can climb high up on thin branches and blend in with the eucalyptus tree trunks.
I visited around and discovered that all the koalas were peacefully sleeping. It took me a little while to locate each one of them.
The entry price was reasonable and the reserve well kept. A lot of care and effort went into minimising human interference and maintaining a natural environment. Volunteers were extremely helpful in pointing out the koala which can be hard to spot. The loop takes about 45minutes to walk, but if you are stopping to search for koalas and are busy taking pictures
If I hadn't been pressed for time, I could have happily stood there, mesmerized by their serene slumber. It was an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Additionally, I was lucky enough to spot some adorable wallabies during
JB furnishing — Google review
Being a cat owner, I have a knack for finding hidden kitties. However, I quickly realized that spotting koalas requires a different set of skills. These furry creatures can climb high up on thin branches and blend in with the eucalyptus tree trunks.
I visited around 3-4pm and discovered that all the koalas were peacefully sleeping. It took me a little while to locate each one of them.
If I hadn't been pressed for time, I could have happily stood there, mesmerized by their serene slumber. It was an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Additionally, I was lucky enough to spot some adorable wallabies during my visit.
Gourmet Yuuix — Google review
The main visitor centre provides a lot of interesting information in a visually stimulating and interactive manner. The two koala boardwalks provide an opportunity to get close to the koalas and watch them sleep, eat and sleep a little more. The park is set out in a visitor friendly manner, with lots of space to move around and see the koalas from many different angles. Many opportunities to see other wildlife too, including swamp wallabies. We took our time, 3 adults and 4 children, and did everything the park had to offer in 90-120mins.
Michael Patchell — Google review
I really want to thank all the people who contributed to support this conservation center. Hats off for your effort. Really enjoyed the walk in the park. Sighted so many beautiful things in the visit. Friendly staff and beautifully designed sites for koala and other dwellers. Kids will love to see beautiful and majestic Koala.
Anish Napit — Google review
Pretty good.
Well maintained and staff available in the boardwalk area, should you need them.
You can see several koalas and would be just about guaranteed to see one. They're fairly difficult to see in detail unless you have a good camera or binoculars but you can see them up in the treetops from below.
Some interactive things/craft and colouring zone for kids or koala themed play equipment would improve the place. The potting up of seeds was a cool thing to do and there were interesting displays inside.
The gift shop had a few soft toys and gift type items.
Toilets were available but there was only one unisex toilet and one disabled toilet. They're located out the front on the deck.
Rebecca — Google review
A great place to get a close encounter with koalas without disrupting them too much.
The rescued koalas are grouped into two colonies and some freelancers. The two groups are placed inside their own enclosed area with elevated walking platforms for visitors to see them up close. For the free roaming ones, the centre staff places signs on the ground helping visitors to spot them high up: after all, they are koalas so they will be there for most of the day.
Some other animals are also present but we only spotted a wallaby. There are also conservation programs on some sea birds.
If you are visiting Phillip Island for better known attractions like the penguin parade, consider visiting this as well.
Nick Qi — Google review
A great little park, with 2 koala boardwalks, easy walking for kids & the elderly. We saw about 10 koalas. Volunteers and guides are there to give more information and answer questions.
I also liked their giftshop, reasonably priced items.
Kyzia Morrison — Google review
An amazing experience, the Koalas 🐨 gorgeous.
There are signs around the different walks that tell you that there is a koala nearby. They were quite active when we were there, and 2 had babies!
The raised board walks allow you to see the Koalas much more easily.
Angela Ton Ton — Google review
Rachel, who we bought our tickets from, was incredibly helpful answering our questions and sharing her thoughts and suggestions.
The koalas there were super cute and you get to see them fairly close up in a space that feels natural and healthy for them. It was a really lovely and serene space with beautiful birds to see as well. It took about 1-2 hours to see everything at a relaxed pace which was really nice. Would recommend
The information center was also interesting to learn more about koalas and was a nice experience too.
Jakob — Google review
I had a lovely time here, the staff were friendly and the koalas 🐨 were adorable. My friend and I got to see many native animals here and even got to see a koala eating their eucalyptus leaves! Would love to visit again.
If you're looking for an indulgent treat, look no further than Pannys Amazing World of Chocolate on Phillip Island. Here you can learn all about chocolate and try out a range of fun activities, from designing your own chocolate to taking part in delicious free samples. Plus, there's always something sweet to tempt your taste buds - from delicious chocolates to divine cakes and pastries.
Great place to visit with kids and family.
Great models showing how chocolates are processed from cocoa and is finally made to the chocolates we eat.
Great games allowing to redeem chocolate balls.
Enjoyed the chocolate drawing machine which helps to draw patterns using chocolates.
The $2 chocolate making machine would definitely keep kids entertained, as they can make their on customised chocolate.
The cafe/restaurant offered various varieties of awesome chocolate based foods.
Enjoyed the hot chocolate and other foods served by the robot at the cafeteria.
Jibin Joseph — Google review
Fairly reasonable for $18 per adult head. You get a chocolate bar as well as some games credit to play. It’s great for young kids and allow them to explore the chocolate making process. Though weekends are packed!
There’s also an on-site cafe for lunch and desserts. I did wonder out loud why the special was always a curry and rice in a chocolate factory 😂
Andrew Lim — Google review
It is a must visit spot during tour to Penguins visit, especially for kids. That is a fun and sweet journey That gives you a unique experience with chocolate and your family. However, the games inside look a bit outdated even though there are 10 credits included in the ticket so that you can use for game's in the factory. All in all, it is worthy to have a visit with family and kids here and enjoy chocolate afternoon.
William M — Google review
Delicious hot chocolate, innovative ‘robot food delivery’. Shop shelves were a bit bare and prices seemed rather high. We did buy rocky road to take home and it’s pretty good. Wouldn’t rush back, but worth a visit.
Oh and they take Covid safety very seriously - no entry if not vaccinated and special air filters inside.
Sarah Ferraro — Google review
Amazing place. Must visit. Halal chocolate and great game activities. With each entry ticket you get a chocolate bar. Inside you can eat chocolate at different stations and there are mini games also. Kids really enjoyed and ate chocolate. If going to Philip island. Always stop here for a quick stay. It has toilets and shop also.
Moazzam — Google review
Best place for dinning on Phillip Island. Choice of vegetarian and non veg cuisines. Good hot drinks. Food is served by Robos. They manufacture various range of chocolates which are displayed in their stores. You can see the manufacturing of chocolates with entry tickets. Handicap friendly and clean toilets. Don't miss their high quality food and beverages. Loved it..
Casey Degamwala — Google review
If you are looking for a sweet and fun experience on your way to Phillip Island, you should definitely stop by Phillips island Chocolate factory. This is not just a chocolate shop, but a whole chocolate factory with interactive attractions, fascinating facts, and delicious samples. You can learn about the history and the process of making chocolate, see amazing chocolate sculptures, and even make your own chocolate creation. Kids will love the games and activities, such as the chocolate waterfall, the chocolate quiz, and the chocolate village. The cafe and the shop offer a variety of chocolate treats. Phillips island chocolate factory is a must-visit place for chocolate lovers of all ages. It will make your trip to Phillip Island even more memorable and enjoyable.
Dinuka Ariyaratne — Google review
Great place for kids and family, it's worth taking the tour if you've not been to this place before, you get to play games, they even offer you free chocolates and the tour itself is fun and entertaining. The whole process is very well explained through pictures and equipment used is also showcased. You must try the chocolate machine which allows you to pick the options and makes the bar right in front of you and it only costs you $2, it even packs the bar.
Rama Tadepalli — Google review
I loved this chocolate factory! It has many interactive experiences and a staff member helped me to make chocolate with the $2 chocolate machine. They give out free samples of chocolate too, you can choose what type for chocolate you want and then a little penguin will grab it for you. There’s just so much about this factory to cover! It is quite small but they somehow managed to pack so many experiences in!
Leelie X — Google review
Good for kids. Even good for everyone who likes chocolate. Good option for individual and family tickets. Plenty of parking. In house restaurant. But keep in mind their kitchen closes at 3PM. If you are busy with chocolate might be you will skip the food time then hardly you will get drinks only. Lots of chocolate variety. Good tour for kids All history of chocolates for kids. Some games for kids while you choose tour.
Robbie chopra — Google review
Well it is not bad for a new experience however it is a bit expensive $18 per ticket for a 10 min tour 😕
Still they give you a chocolate ticket, $10 barcode for 3 boring games and a small chocolate coin.
Kids are for free however again it was not fun to pay almost 120 for a group of 6 for a 10 min tour .
Maybe make that $10 game credit an option or make a discount for groups
Rafik Zaky — Google review
Nice displays. Not very big factory. Chocolates tastes moderately alright. Tickets are averagely priced, but chocolates a little overrated. Nothing really very fanciful about the chocolate here in terms of taste, only plus point are cute designs of penguins, kangaroos and koalas.
Dawn L — Google review
Might be fun for young children, less fun for adults. There’s interactive activities in the tour to learn about the chocolate making process and an opportunity to ‘create’ your own drawing with melted chocolate.
While the recommended time for the self-guided tour is 30-45 minutes, it may only take 20 minutes if you don’t interact with everything.
The tickets are $18 for adults and includes 10 plays with the arcade games where you’ll only be allowed to win a max of 6 chocolate balls as your reward. The arcade games has varying difficulties so pick wisely.
Would be great if the admission could be purchased without the arcade games.
Tim Chan — Google review
I've been to a few chocolate factories and this one was by far the best! I loved the chocolate history and how it's all made information. They had games for the kids and big kids and you can even see inside the real working factory. Wow! The tour provides free chocolate delivered via mechanical penguin! For real! Kids just go crazy! If you want some too don't visit during school holidays!
Anthony Smith — Google review
Being in a chocolate factory was exciting.
You can discover a genuine chocolate factory, shop and have a good time at their cafe.
Through the self-paced factory tour, you become familiar with the chocolate preparation process from the earliest stages and where the chocolate seeds come from to the final packaging stage.
Throughout the tour, everyone receives a voucher to play 10 games. Kids love this fun part of the tour.
When I was there, I thought about the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory film. The small fantasy factory scenes were the main reason to bring me to that dream world.
I recommend paying a visit to the Chocolate Factory when you are around Phillip Island.
Ali Shayan — Google review
Amazing experience. Delectable chocolate. Did find it hard to fully enjoy myself, though as an adult.
Other peoples kids were going crazy inside with parents not looking after their kids, letting them go free. Kids were hitting buttons, pushing past, stealing chocolates as you won them. Kids are to be accompanied by an adult as per the signage, but very few of them did. They was a lovely family in there with very well behaved kids.
Parents, please look after your children so we all can enjoy the experience. Gotta stop off at the chocolate shop on the way out. Staff were friendly and overworked by the looks of things..
half pint — Google review
Went late August 2023 on a Saturday
Was pretty busy , lots of parking but it’s way overpriced , no samples were being handed out or on display . The food court is ok, the chocolate cake was as expected nothing special About it
Staff are pretty friendly but expect wait times are families usually order quite a bit of food
Dexter — Google review
The Phillip Island Chocolate Factory was a fantastic experience! We had a great time enjoying the unique chocolate sculptures. While some games felt a bit outdated, the overall atmosphere was enjoyable. It's a perfect spot for kids, and the clean restaurant offers a good menu with vegetarian options. It's a must-visit for a one-time delightful experience.
Garry s — Google review
Nice stopover on the way to Philip Island. I liked the penguin spitting out free chocolate discs and the games. Not really a fan of the chocolate taste. The staff are very friendly and attentive. We were in and out in less than a hour. The photo machine didn't email us the photo. The cafe looks spacious. In the day and age of sugar free chocolates it will be nice to have naturally sweetened chocolates here.
Tash Marion — Google review
3.8
(6285)
•
3.0
(924)
930 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven VIC 3925, Australia
The Makers' UTAS, located in Burnie, Tasmania, is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and those interested in traditional crafts. The workshop offers an engaging paper-making tour where experts use unique local fibers such as wombat poo, apple pulp, and rainforest leaves to create handmade paper using traditional methods. Visitors can explore the information center to gather details about various attractions in the area and enjoy a bite at the on-site cafe.
Information centre has plenty of information you can pickup on the different places you can visit while you're in Tassie. There is also a cafe you can have a bite to eat and the bit we enjoyed the most was all the hand made crafts you can see and buy. You may also have the chance to speak to the artist directly. Highly recommend you pop in.
Lou Italia — Google review
Very cool place to see lots of gorgeous unique art work, beautiful gifts too.
Wall of paper so darn cool, & the paper mache life size figurines WOW, highly recommend visiting & the pictures made from magazines.... Mind blowing 💗💗💗
Mandy Dawes (MJS) — Google review
A highlight of Burnie, a place where you can view and purchase local artisans wares. Also has a good tourist information and Papermaking workshop,...Definitely worth doing. Cafe is busy and average price.
Frank Liz Yates — Google review
Collection of unique local art and other pieces, including a cafe and lots of local attractions. You can access from the beach boardwalk
Russell King — Google review
Well worth a visit to watch many various arts and crafts being made. There's also a pictorial history of Burnie and a couple of really interesting installations.
ken brown — Google review
Lovely information centre with lots of literature brochures, souvenirs, cafe, shop and much more. Very friendly and helpful staff with a lot of local knowledge of the area.
Praful Shah — Google review
Kids throughly enjoyed the paper making tour inside. Learnt alot and even dicided to purchase a paper making kit after the tour. Our tour guide was full of knowledge about all things paper. Would recomend if your in the area and if the weather is not great, as was our case, perfect indoor activity. Also has art work and various other stores.
Toby Te Rupe — Google review
Made paper, looked at restored coal loader made in Burnie. Little penguins are located by board walk. Local artists display their art. Very interesting.
Stopped here for an overnight camp during a through hike. The coffee at the cafe is good and the food is fantastic. Worth a drive in itself. The campground by the river is a beautiful spot. The staff were all very friendly. Next time we'll visit the zoo proper and stay a few nights so we can explore the surrounding area.
Eve Hayden — Google review
Loved the visit! The kangaroos were so friendly and feeding them was the best thing. The surroundings were very beautiful. Plus, the staff was very friendly 💕 the food & coffee from the cafe was absolutely delicious. Very worth the visit & will definitely visit again! Keep up the good work guys🙌♥️
Dila Jayasena — Google review
A wonderful day out for all ages... A great selection of Australian and Exotic animals and birds.
You can buy food to feed the kangaroos and wallabies.
Lovely grassed area with picnic tables for lunch if you bring it yourself. There is also a Cafe which had a good selection of food, drinks, etc.
Robyn Whitmore — Google review
Had an Awesome time at Wings. Great staff and good caring animals. Lottie ( Koala) was lovely. All the endemic species are so precious.
🙏
sudesh atapattu — Google review
I couldn't find anywhere to camp as most were closed. I called Wings Wildlife Park close to closing time and they waited until I arrived...such kindness you won't find in many other places - thank you so much love ❤️
the facilities were clean and working.
so recommended!
Ruffian Chiram — Google review
Wings has a wide variety of wildlife - from birds, snakes, to emus and trout. The keepers show a genuine love for the animals and the enclosures are kept clean and provide adequate space and enrichment for the animals. Picturesque location with nearby camping. Great for kids.
Janelle Fletcher — Google review
Love love visiting this place, helpful and friendly keepers. Interactive enclosures available ... Cafe is nice, food value average. Camping and cabin accommodation on site.
Nicole Young — Google review
We recently visited Wing Wildlife Park after a recommendation from a friend, and boy are we glad we did!
Although a little out of the way compared to some tourist attractions, it is well worth the drive.
From the super friendly staff at all levels (chef, reception, keepers etc), to a fantastic range of animals. The park is large and well spread out. You could easily spend more than a day enjoying it.
We especially loved our Devil Encounter.
My only regret is not doing the highland cow encounter.
Sarah McBryde — Google review
Great place, one of the best wildlife parks in Tasmania. Large range of native animals and birds as well as Monkeys, and so one. Very child friendly and hands on. Cafe has a great menu as well.
Daniel Axton — Google review
Did the Capybara Encounter today. Emma was very knowledgeable and Nicole is a Capybara whisperer 😂 we highly recommend this encounter was fantastic. Oscar was so cute, loved the sounds he made. Thank you.
sue kole — Google review
It was a great place to visit. A cross between a zoo and a wildlife rescue centre. The staff were happy, friendly, and very helpful. I thoroughly enjoyed the day. The food in the café was excellent too.
George Adams — Google review
More animals than I expected, and quite a varied collection too. A variety that we're not Australian, but still interesting. It was possible to get quite close to many of them, particularly the kangaroos, and the park was easy to get around even if mobility is limited. Good selection of ice cream in the cafe too to cool down afterwards. A decent experience all in all.
iChris Shelton — Google review
Very interesting place. The lady at reception was very enthusiastic and all other staff i saw were extremely happy and helpful. A great experience feeding fish and kangaroos. Was also great to walk through the farm area. The drive down was scenic and beautiful, I have rarely seen such amazing scenery. There are a few single lane roads, so be careful driving if its dusk. Many animals are rescues and it is such a wonderful thing to see them being taken care of.
Bethany Thiele — Google review
This is a small family owned wildlife park featuring animals native to Tasmania and Australia. The animals are all there because they can’t be reintroduced to the wild for various reasons. It’s small enough to be easily walkable, the animals are easy to spot and there’s a petting area with farm animals for the littles plus you can feed and pet the kangaroos (visitors are warned to approach from the front - do monitor children). For an additional fee you can reserve a time to get up close and personal with the koala, the wombat and the Tasmanian devil. There’s a nice little gift shop and cafe at the front for coffee or ice cream. Free public restrooms near the parking lot.
Laura Spriggs Gray — Google review
I enjoyed this a lot. The Tassie Devils were very active and you can see the animals are well cared for.
Kelly Leonard — Google review
This was such a cool experience. We had the place to ourselves for the most part when we were there. All of the animals were awake and moving unlike at zoos - and they all seemed so comfortable and happy. I would highly recommend spending 3 hours to see it all and plan to watch the devils eat. It is grossly fascinating! Plus being able to talk amongst the kangaroos and wallaby’s was super cool.
Amelia Stansell — Google review
Stayed for 2 nights in our van and loved it. Was a nice peaceful campgrond beside the river, fairly priced, and we could enter the wildlife park as often as we wanted to which was a real treat
Nicholas Mills — Google review
Beautiful spot to visit with lots of very happy critters to visit. We stayed three nights in the powered section. Staff were lovely.
Follow us Sweet-Az-RV'n on YouTube
Cavern with an illuminated walkway for viewing limestone formations & an underground river.
A Cave well worth visiting. Trish provides a knowledgeable, interesting and humourous dialogue as she guides you through this truly impressive ancient cave. The coffee & cake at the finish of the tour, tops off nicely a wonderful experience.
Jan McKay — Google review
Fantastic family run business.
We had Ben and he was great.
Exceptional people skills. His parents should be so proud of him.
He was well educated on everything in the caves.
He was funny and easy to listen too.
He was great with the kids and didn't rush us or get annoyed at us or the kids.
I will recommend this place to everybody once I return home.
K C B — Google review
Steep steps down leads to quite an extensive network of paths allowing one to appreciate good examples of typical cave formations such as shawls straws, wedding cake, glow worms. Good value with an amusing tour guide with lots of ‘Dad jokes’.
Bryce McLean — Google review
What a great experience the Gunns Plains caves are. Geoff our tour guide was outstanding, full of knowledge and made it a fun tour. Probably the best caves I have ever seen. Highly recommended.
Stephen Williams — Google review
Geoff was an excellent guide! We love doing cave tours and rarely find someone who isn’t passionate at Caves. Geoff was next level - would go again! He is so passionate about what he does and the cave system he shows.
Kris Humphrys — Google review
Spectacular. Highly recommended.
Entry is by guided tour only and is great value, $50 for a family with 2 or more kids.
The guide is very knowledgeable and entertaining, you can tell he enjoys taking people in every time.
After entering the cave down 54 stairs, the path is pretty easy going with a few more stairs here and there and a short ladder at one point that can be bypassed if need be. Our 4 year old walked the whole tour without any problems.
Glenn Chamberlain — Google review
Awesome tour - when you can catch Miss 13s interest you know you are on a winner! Part Natural History, part comedy - Geoff is a GEM imparting his passion for the place. Full of surprises and beauty! Note that guided tours are the entry times - not a wander at will place but the guided tour adds so much more value
Veronica Hausknecht — Google review
These are some seriously cool caves. If you’re lucky you might spot a giant dinner plate sized spider native to the caves. That said, access is difficult - the entrance features 50+ steep stairs to descend (and reascend at the end of the tour) and the tour requires descending a ladder as well as dodging stalactites and squeezing through narrow passages. The tour itself is made fun and interesting by the guide and the caverns feature many interesting formations, a cathedral chamber with astonishing acoustics and a room full of glow worms (no photos without a license which must be purchased far in advance). There’s a cute little gift shop at the entrance and clean restrooms.
Laura Spriggs Gray — Google review
Was wanting to see a cave in Tasmania and found this place online, Gunns plains caves is a must see place, it’s hidden away just a short drive from Ulverstone. We arrived at the gate and was a short wait till we met our guide Geoff and he is a brilliant funny and exciting person to take us for the tour. Lots of different sites to see underground we we’re definitely not left disappointed.
Would definitely recommend this place for anyone to go to.
Jordan Parnham — Google review
Always a great pleasure to bring tourists here and I always join them for a tour. I don't think the cave changes much, but each time it impresses me enormously. Well worth the visit and great knowing your money stays 100% local!
Walter van Praag — Google review
Beautiful cave with many interesting structures. Price is 19 per adult or 15 for concessions. Trish and Geoff ran the tour, and they were very friendly and humorous with their commentary. Trish was our guide, and her guidance has that kind of a school tour vibe, with extra jokes (prepare your sense of humor, so that you can joke as well, not getting triggered like the low rating reviews here). The tour itself is a good exercise for you, with an hour of walking around. Free stamping and few souvenirs are available too!
Nguyen Tuan Khoi — Google review
If you can handle all the lame dad jokes from the guide, you'll have a blast. A quick little tour with a great view of caves, stalactites and stalagmites, and other sedimentary wonders. The glow worms were very cool to see.
J — Google review
What a brilliant find. Staff are proper nice, and super friendly and knowledgeable - shout to Matt and Trish who fitted us in on our own private tour. Caves are fantastic and you can see some glow worms as part of the tour too. There's zero phone reception though, so bring your card or cash, as your Optus data ain't going to work with your Google Pay or Apple Pay.
Nathan Hague — Google review
Had been trying to get there for years! Finally did it. Ben was a entertaining guide and a credit to the family business.
Mark ward — Google review
The Gunn's Plains caves are definitely worth seeing. The group was small and the guide was very informative.
The caves were really beautiful .
Robyn Whitmore — Google review
$55 for a family of 4. The guide was funny and we loved seeing the glow worms at the very end. We didn’t expect it to be so bright.
It only has 4 out of 5 stars due to the fact that there was too many people on the tour with us.
Did call in the morning to book in the afternoon no problem.
Ondine LABRISSIERE — Google review
Bring your Imagination and enjoy a tour through a quiet uncommercialised cave system that is truly unique. Set in a beautiful valley that's best viewed by driving along the B17 route from Penguin. Geoff's experience in caving is astounding as he points out beautiful limestone features in a cave that once was near flooded in 1929. A nice added attraction is the glow worms.
Checking in, parking car and locating cabin was all a simple process, Staff and passengers were all friendly.
Being on the ship felt like being in a moving car. Eventually, walking around became challenging, funny and almost difficult to balance. Lots of rails to hold on too🤪
Motorcycle video games on ship... were extra fun😁
Was blessed with a cabin in the middle of ship, so I slept comfortably and peacefully unlike some others😬
Extremely windy whist on deck, making it hard to take clear pics😏
Pets welcomed on board, but are caged and no access to visiting is permitted☹
Definitely will experience this kind of travelling again😁 thanks to all staff who were on board 19-12-21🤗 awesome experience
Netty Green — Google review
Good service, people on board are very nice and helpful. Seats are pretty comfy although after so many hours you start needing a change of position and would love to lay down or something, I guess booking the recliners could be a good option but still 100% doable without them, specially if you are on a budget and want to save that money.
Food on board is pretty cheap ($12 pizza, $4,5 coffee, $7,5 burger)
Anto Nella — Google review
The ship is fine. The amenities aren't bad and the restaurants and bars are ok.
What really subtracted from the experience is that there is no support for public transportation at either of the two ports. You have to walk very long distances with your luggage on both sides. If you don't come with a car, rather fly or find alternative transportation.
Wilhelm van Rooyen — Google review
We had a day sailing from Devonport to Melbourne. The boarding was very late and ship departed late as well. Food wasn't great on deck 10 and pizza was horrible. It was fully crowded due to holiday season. There was shotage of staff and existing staff were trying their level best to do everything they can. Cleaning can be improved further. We got some chairs at different places. More comfy seating facility can be provided. Eventhough we tried to book recliners they were not available. It reached Melbourne on time and disembarking was fine.
Anto Mathew — Google review
The Spirit is a good way to travel to and from Tasmania and bring your own vehicle and van. Friendly staff. Good cabins to sleep and arrive fresh either to Devonport or Geelong, where the new terminal makes loading and unloading easier.
Johnny Whitehead — Google review
My second trip on the cruise and quite enjoyable if you're travelling daytime. Easy directions and hasslefree check in and parking on the decks. Check ind open 2.5 hours before and closes 45mins before the departure time. Restaurants are good with reasonable menus, 29 AUD for an adult if you use buffet. Also there's separate shop where you could buy hot pastries and cold sandwiches with drinks. Ample space for dining. Excellent customer service throughout. Recliner lounge chairs are quite reasonable and you can book them for free, better than staying on other lounge areas. I've travelled in cabins before but I'd prefer recliner lounge given its comfort and convenience.
Ayesh Baddage — Google review
Brilliant both night sailings over and back - firstly you have fantastic staff from booking to loading us on in our motor home - our cabin was covid clean and made us feel secure and safe - Please pass this on as Your staff really need to know what a great job they’re doing!
V — Google review
Wonderful cruise! Quite organised in terms of boarding. Takes a while, but it’s quite a ship full of passengers and vehicles. Dining arrangements were a bit confusing as a first timer.
Anuradha Wickramarachchi — Google review
Good cabins, nice food and a good selection at the bar. Can't complain about anything. Great alternative to flying from Sydney if you want to take your own car, van, bike etc.
Paul Hanson — Google review
Oh, it was so much fun. Very good food, clean, friendly staff. It was such a memorable experience. Good cabins, good recliners.
Luminita Quraishi — Google review
My first trip ever on a ship. Didn’t know what to expect but was blown away how good it was. The crew were great, the food was simple & well cooked. The Deluxe room was a delight. Just one negative the mattress on the queen size bed wasn’t on par. In fact they really need to upgrade the mattress’s. My Deluxe room was 7005.
Pointer PV — Google review
The experience is great if you lower your expectations. It's not a cruise. It's a ferry with accommodation. You need to pay for almost everything especially food and entertainment inside the ferry. It's comfortable but the price could be lower though. Paid more than $1,700 for 2 people + 1 baby and normal car for return ticket. It's after a $500 government subsidy. The terminal in Geelong is new so there are a lot of amenities. Do not come too early. It will be more enjoyable if you come 90 minutes before boarding so you don't have to wait too long.
michael febrianto — Google review
Enjoyable experience on the Spirit. From Geelong we did night sailing so had a cabin. Bed was so uncomfortable. Hard as a rock. No sleep. Coming back we had a day sailing so we just found a comfortable spot and settled down for the 10 hour trip. Went to cinema passed a few hours. We got breakfast after we boarded from the buffet part the Tasmanian kitchen I think it is. Steer clear of the egg and bacon rolls they are as hard as a rock also. I didn't eat the roll. Didn't want to break a tooth. But otherwise all good.
Jeff McNeil — Google review
We have been coming across to Tasmania since 2017, we flew once and it was a horrible flight 🤢, we then decided to try the Spirit and it was nicer, we eventually upgraded to a cabin which I highly recommend for the price, much better in a rough ride, not hearing and seeing other people throw up🤮🤢. We unfortunately did the trip where there was 12 foot waves and that was terrible 😢🤮🤢🤕🥴, fortunately we don’t have many of those and we feel much more relaxed when we get off at the other end. If the Spirit people are reading this, please please please 🙏🏻 do scones with jam and cream every sail, we only had it once and it was amazing as an afternoon treat, the food onboard isn’t anything exciting but scones was 😂🤣😅
Michelle Allen — Google review
Driving on and off the ship is made so effortless by the really helpful loading guides. They clearly and cleverly guide you on and off. Can't thank them enough!
Michael Jones — Google review
Had an amazing time, everything very efficient. Ate at the buffet Restaurant, lovely food, but fill your plate as you can't go back for seconds. Free soft drink included. Staff on board were so very friendly and went out of their way to be helpful. Cabins are very comfy, you can set your cabin temperature. Bathrooms in the cabin are a good size and the showers have good water pressure. Lots of interesting things to do, eat, and drink, plus a kiddie play area too. Pizza available on deck 9... would definitely go on it again!!! Had a great time!
Wendy — Google review
The terminal was well organised, clean and the staff were friendly. Absolutely enjoyed our experience. It was fantastic!
Marvin — Google review
I enjoy sailing with the spirit, I always sail at night and take my car always. Great value and drive on and off each way a bonus.
Located in Latrobe, Tasmania, the House of Anvers is a renowned family-owned chocolate factory that has been producing gourmet Belgian chocolates since 1989. Visitors can explore the museum and tasting center for free and even take a tour of the factory to witness over 2,500 varieties of chocolate being made. The founder, Igor Van Gerwen, takes pride in using the finest ingredients such as Tasmanian cream to create rich and flavorful chocolates.
The best hot chocolate I've tried in a long time. The chili and spice hot chocolate as well as the mint was really nice. The spice hits you then the chili then the chocolate. The flavours are just right and none was over powering the other. Best part is it is not too sweet like others. The mint had a great balance as well. The Eggs benny was good too. The ham with it was delicious. I would have preferred a little bit more moisture and runnier egg.
The staff were great and very friendly. Heaps of parking including for caravans. Easy to get to and find along the main road.
Both the inside and outside seating was homey and pleasant. Highly recommended and would definitely go back.
Marvin — Google review
Open Steak Sandwich: very nice, well cooked. The red wine and mushroom sauce was particularly nice. The cheese on top was unusual but didn't detract from the meal. The flavors were well balanced.
Belgium Waffle (with lemon curd): one of the better waffles I've had recently. It's common for waffles to be served with too little sauce or other accompaniment, not the case here with more than enough lemon curd to cover both waffles. Every element of this meal was quite pleasant, the waffles were soft. The serving size was quite generous.
Cappuccino: unusually creamy but a nice flavor. Not as bitter as I'm used to but a nice change nevertheless.
Verdict: overall a good time, I'd go here again and I'd recommend the above. Slightly disappointed that they had sold out of a couple of menu items we wanted to order, in particular the "Ultimate Anvers Taste Sensation", their dessert tasting board.
Wade Dunham — Google review
First impressions, atmosphere, service and quality are all part of the experience. Let’s begin….
The interesting historic old building attracts your interest straight up, with the antique museum and chocolate making viewing window there to offer an insight into modern and past practices.
The main entrance on our arrival was congested with other patrons, and the plastic doorway strips/ curtain that had to be pushed through kind of defeated the Covid sanitation measures that were requested upon entry.
Although no tables were available for a dine in experience, the friendly waitress offered a take away option which we accepted, whilst admiring numerous empty tables without a reservation label to say otherwise.
The turkey & cranberry toasted sandwich was good (but would have been fantastic if it were hot). We had to go searching for it as it seemed to have gone missing in action (left on the front counter for all the staff to see). The coffee & hot chocolate was delivered 10 minutes earlier to the location we were kindly asked to wait.
As I am sure you would understand, I enjoy my coffee. The coffee here was less than drinkable & made its way to the bin, the hot chocolate however was yummy & chocolatey.
Not the best experience overall, sorry only 2 stars, 1 for the lovely sandwich the other for the lovely & yummy selection of free Anvers chocolates that we got with our takeaway drinks……
Dakota Wolf — Google review
Must visit place in Tassie! The best ever hot chocolate I've enjoyed in Australia. Extravagantly creamy and rich with natural chocolate flavour! Staff is amazing and so quick! Very beautiful place indeed! Spacious parking and a children friendly garden. You could buy chocolate from a range of flavour, real authentic stuff.
Ayesh Baddage — Google review
Great team and attentive staff. Very busy on weekends so worth to call and book a table. Excellent menu. The food we ordered, from hot drinks to desserts were scrumptious. It never disappoints.
There’s a chocolate museum, a playground and an alongside cottage which sales all the chocolate deliciousness.
Sarah Cayce — Google review
I’ve always loved this chocolate factory. There’s a very small museum around the back and a cafe attached. I haven’t tried the food before. The actual chocolate shop always has free samples. They sell the most delicious fudge and truffles in the world! If you’re in Tassie you’ve GOT to try Anvers chocolate.
Jodie Grosvenor — Google review
Chocolate Factory using Belgian skills and techniques was very impressive. There is a cafe, beautiful gardens and a retail shop. They also provide a couple of viewing windows where you can watch them make the chocolates. A wonderful place to learn about how chocolate is made and the history behind it. I did however find the chocolates very expensive.
John Jocys — Google review
This was the first stop after I came off the Spirit of Tasmania 3 years ago, so I had to come back.
And... it certainly did not disappoint! The waffles certainly scratched my itch for something sweet, and the cappuccino was very well made.
Thank you for another great sweet dining experience!!
Cashew Ssss — Google review
We ordered hazelnut waffles. There was a short wait but it tasted nice. A bit more expensive than we expected though. Staff were friendly and accommodating.
mwyeoh — Google review
Fun place that opens at 7 am which is great for Ferry people looking for breakfast. I’ve had brunch twice and attended a large birthday lunch group . Brunch by a real fire is charming and it was well cooked. The real test of a large group went fairly well. Meals arrived within minutes of each other by a succession of cheerful Staff. The more private Atrium area was warm on a windy Sunday too.
Denise Kloeden — Google review
the smoked salmon dishes were phenomenal, the fish was so fresh and it melted in your mouth. the baguette was especially delicious and fresh. the servings for the price were quite decent. the sweets were also quite nice, in particular the banana caramel was super yummy. both the hot chocolates were so sweet and creamy.
kiara. — Google review
Loved the whole Anvers experience. We firstly looked through the little museum, watched a worker making milk chocolate truffles then off to the shop. What a great array of products they had. There were sample bags containing half a truffle and a small handful of chocolate buds.
Gwen2620 — Google review
We had a few hours to spend before flying back home and decided to drive about 1 hour to House of Anvers. I had no expectations whatsoever coming in here, but I left with such a great feeling. There were a chocolate factory, a beautiful garden, a chocolate shop, and a cafe. As it was lunch time, we went straight to the cafe and ordered some food. And wow, everything was exceptionally delicious, especially the salmon strudel 🤤😋 On top of that, staff were friendly, attentive, and helpful as well. I couldn’t be any happier. Worth the drive and would definitely come back!
Kiki W — Google review
If you ever want to treat yourself to a decadent meal.
Look no further!!
The cakes and hot chocolate are rich and delicious.
The hot chocolate is rich, smooth and velvety. Couldn't ask for more from a hot chocolate!!
James Tan — Google review
Situated about a 10min drive out of Devonport, on the Bass Highway, is this delightful little chocolate factory. It has plenty of off road parking, including caravan and RV parking, with a kids playground.
Housed inside a restored 1920s art deco bungalow, Wyndarra Lodge, is a combination cafe/choclate factory/museum. The cafe at the front of the bungalow, is homely and feeds like sitting in a federation style sitting room. The kitchen is only open until 3pm but you can enjoy coffee, tea and hot chocolate with a selection of cakes until 5pm. We enjoyed a nice cup of their chilli & spice hot chocolate and cinnamon hot chocolate for afternoon tea. The museum is really just a series of display boards, chocolate moulds and historical advertising, giving you the history of chocolate and the history of the Anvers family’s chocolate making in Tasmania.
It is fascinating to watch the chocolatiers through the glass windows hard at work making all the different types of chocolate.
The chocolate shop is located separately from the main building. They do provide samples in small white paper bags, very COVID precautionary. The chocolate on sale is relatively pricey compared to mass produced chocolate but it is all handmade traditional chocolate. We bought some of their Belgium truffle chocolate, which was melt in your mouth delicious. Worth making the stop if you’re driving through the Latrobe area.
Daniel Arndt — Google review
Shout out to the friendly and accomodating young staffs. Thanks for the great service.
We arrived during the peak lunch time and attended immediately.
We had the chocolate cake, which was rich, sweetly balanced and delicious. The chicken and cranberry toasted sandwich was generously stacked up with 3 slices of bread and lots of fillings. Can't leave without an iced chocolate, which was not overpowering with sweetness and rich with chocolate. Lastly, 500ml of the Black Inca beer by the Seven Shed makes it a great feast.
Michael Mok — Google review
Good history but disappointing no chocolate making to be seen, maybe times of viewing could be advertised. The history of the building was interesting. Chocolate shop had a good variety but expensive . Small sample bags of choc buddies were avail.
Funky attraction featuring 8 outdoor garden mazes & a whimsical, 1/5th-scale model village.
I really enjoy this place. We were prompted to go her after watching the travel guides. Entry was simple, there is no need to prebook. The mazes are good fun with plenty of activities especially for the kids. There are plenty of signs with witty remarks on them. A lot of work was put into designing the mazes and the miniature village. It is out of the way but we merged it with a trip to Cradle Mountain so it worked well. There is plenty of parking and the gift shop is interesting. It is a pity the founder has passed because we would really have loved to meet him. His quirkiness is evident throughout the site including the witty signs but also in the Tasmazia miniature embassies and township. I particularly liked the Iceland, Poland and the made up Embassies. There is a cafe on site but unfortunately it was closed the day we were there. It was a fun way to spend a couple of hours.
Wayne T — Google review
We went 20yrs ago and compare to now, they kept the place really well. It's a pity that the lavender farm do not have any more flowers. The mazes trimmed beautifully. There's few mazes for different age group to explore and lose yourself in this magical experience.
Noorzidah M N — Google review
Our family had a fun day at Tasmazia recently. This was our second time visiting, our boys 7&10 enjoyed it the first time and requested it on next trip to Tasmania. The staff are very friendly, the mazes were lots of fun and the little houses are very cool. I noticed that QR codes have been added to many of the little houses and tell a short story of the house. We all found that very interesting.
The only downside was that the menu has been scaled back, not as many lunch options. I had a delicious sweetcorn and chicken soup with warm damper.
We will definitely be back 😊
Kate Bresa — Google review
Nicely done and well maintained place. It's got something for all kids. Must visit if you are around Sheffield. Mini Embassies of various countries are very cute.
Little town of crackpot is just that.
It was warm day when we visited had Lavender ice cream which was yummy!!!
Staff are friendly and helpful.
Rupali J — Google review
Lots of things to see. I especially liked their embassy garden. Most of their mazes are reasonably easy. Hampton Court was the only one we didn't conquer. Nice location, sign posted from Sheffield. None of us enjoyed the food. None of my group would recommend their pancakes. Whether we picked the wrong day.
Vicki Bell — Google review
Went on a cold winter day less than 10C. Bit chilly but did enjoy our hour there. Even though we spent almost an hour driving there. The maze were good fun, the jokes were a nice touch. Lots of good things to see. Our 2yo didn't understand much of it but still had a good time exploring. We saw lots of wallaby in the maze, that was fun! No lavender as well, maybe due to season. But the view there were breathtaking. Not much around, we went to Sheffield for lunch afterwards.
Ricky L Gu — Google review
It was surprisingly good, like a lot better than I expected, my 8yo had a blast in the mazes, we got lost multiple times and my suggestion is got to the toilet before you enter as trying to get out of a maze when you need a toilet is not cool. Food was very quick a reasonable, all staff were lovely
Tiffany Rose — Google review
This was such a fun experience (which was unexpected as 2 adults)! The detail included in the paint work is incredible, and we very much enjoyed having a chuckle at the audio clips attached to each of the village houses. Wish we could have spent more time here (but do keep in mind the jokes and houses were conceptualised by a boomer who seems to be a bit religious, so they aren’t very PC- but hey isn’t that the charm of things like this?).
WAY better than Canberra’s Cockington green
Lizzie Garling — Google review
Absolutely enjoyable for both adults and kids! The best maze complex we have been to, as there is plenty to see and funny things to discover along the way. The larger mazes were quite challenging but didn’t feel ‘trapped’ as there were jokes along the way to keep us entertained. Was also delighted to see a few pademelons along the way.
The Village of Lower crackpot and Embassy Gardens were quirky and entertaining to explore. A lot of thought has gone into creating each exhibit. We had a lot of fun, both young and old. There are also great views of Mt Roland from the ‘Village’. The lavender farm was lovely but only small.
Many areas are sunny so be prepared with sun protection. To enjoy the maze, one needs to have enough time.
Renee M — Google review
We went here in July 2021, great place to take the kids, we had lots of fun.
I would give 5 stars but the employee seemed a bit dishonest
Before leaving I place a bar of lavender soap on the counter, the employee moved it to the cash register as he rang it up and left it there, I had to reach over to pick it up, not sure whether he wasn’t paying attention to what he was doing or was trying to see if I forget about the soap like I did with the book. Just odd that he didn’t place the soap back on the counter once paid.
And He kept the let’s go kids book that I had when I first walked in, I was annoyed once I realised that night, but I managed to find a replacement.
Fierce Kitty — Google review
Unique place to visit, one of the best days out. Awesome fun for adults and kids alike.....amazing mazes and beautiful little buildings throughout, also has a cute cafe with awesome food. A must visit for anyone nearby only 40m drive from cradle mountain.
R C — Google review
We had a great time!! 2 adults and 2.5 year old. Seemed expensive at $60 entry but we spent nearly 4 hours there. We saved money by packing a picnic, but the café food looked delicious so next time we will treat ourselves. The facilities are great, clean and new looking. We will definitely go back here. My only complaint is that the largest maze was quite a concern with all the sticks poking out, my toddler was running around and I was worried he would poke an eye out.
Krystal — Google review
This is really good fun! Big mazes with plenty of quirky humour to go with it - the kids absolutely loved it. There was a good selection of mazes and other interesting bits to look at - with some local paddymelon to keep the kids entertained too. The cafe was also really great - their pancakes and scones were absolutely brilliant - toasted sandwiches great too.
Highly recommended for a bit of family fun!
John Hyland — Google review
Great experience in the maze and absolutely loved the puns, banters and sacarsm posts within the maze 🤣
$30 per adult and various prices for kids and family.
Plenty of wildlife and birds to see.
The tiny buildings and embassies were amazing.
Lavender was in its early bloom despite being in mid December.
Overall a great walk, exercise, bonding time and a way to spend the day.
Bonus 'scones on steroids' at the cafe for $12 was a well deserved reward!!!!
Michael Mok — Google review
MUST SEE!! Absolutely amazing. No pun intended. This was one of the best attractions our family visited in Tassie. Incredibly unique. The staff were super helpful and so friendly. The prices were fair. The facilities were great. The cafe was clean and the food was really yummy. Something to do for everyone. Cannot recommend this attraction enough. Our kids 8, 5 and 2 will remember this place for ever. Keep up the exceptional work.
Callum Evenden — Google review
Absolutely recommend especially if you have kids. So much to see and explore! The kids especially loved the embassies and the little town with cubby houses and tree house. I especially enjoyed the scenery and the lavender. Look at that view! Easy food and exceptional service. Bathroom was clean and a nice gift shop too. Bring a hat and sunscreen and plenty of water if you’re tackling the maze and think of staying for abit as we did. Even tho over cast, it was quite a warm day. Amazing time thank you
Maha — Google review
Lots of different things to do here. The mazes are fun, the little signs placed around are also good for a laugh. Lavender was pretty. Definitely stop off here of you are looking for something to do...
Gavin Pohlen — Google review
Omg what an amazing place to visit, somewhere not only the kids but adults can have fun.
Very Quirky lots of funny signs to read, great food , plenty of parking and lovely staff .
Donna Marie — Google review
4.5
(1270)
•
4.5
(528)
500 Staverton Rd, Promised Land TAS 7306, Australia
Seahorse World, located at Beauty Point in West Tamar, Tasmania, offers an immersive and educational experience for visitors. The guided tours provide a unique insight into the mystical world of seahorses and other marine life, including Weedy Sea Dragons and endangered species. The working aquarium allows visitors to witness seahorses from birth and is accompanied by informative guides who make the tour both fun-filled and educational. The facility is wheelchair-friendly with a great gift shop and cafe on-site.
Seahorse World at Beauty Point in Tasmania is a working seahorse farm as well as an educational facility. We took the 40 minute tour which provided an insight into the lifecycle of a seahorse. Very interesting.
Mike Noordermeer — Google review
Very interesting tour, definitely something different - never thought I would hold a seahorse! The tour was a great opportunity to learn about the seahorse breeding lifecycle from young to when they are full size and shipped off around the world. Our guide was super lovely and knowledgeable. Perfect experience for kids and adults. Make sure to book the tour online earlier if you’re on a time schedule. Also helps with planning times if you’re looking to visit the platypus and echidnas next door as well (another attraction in the area). There’s also a gift shop, simple cafe upstairs and a very small and basic chocolate shop upstairs.
Irwin Hau — Google review
Such an amazing place to share with the kids! The staff were so friendly and the tour was really educational. We loved our visit and will definitely stop by again
Rhiannon Harris-Campbell — Google review
If you love seahorses, this place is worth a visit. Perfect indoor activity for a rainy day especially. We arrived at 3pm but as we didn’t pre-book, the tour was already full so we had to wait until 4pm till the next one. However, it wasn’t an issue for us, we looked around the gift shop and had a hot drink while we waited. The tour guide was very enthusiastic and passionate about the seahorses. Very informative and you even have the opportunity to touch a seahorse if you wish.
Jessica J — Google review
Seahorse World is a great place to see amazing seahorses! It's located in a beautiful valley called Tamar Valley. They have special tours where guides teach you all about seahorses, how they live and grow, and how we protect them. Tickets are affordable for families, and there's plenty of parking. You can even see a scenic river! A family ticket is only $69, which is a good deal. After the tour, there's a cafe where you can relax and grab a bite to eat. If you love nature and want a fun family outing, Seahorse World is a must-see!
C S — Google review
Such a great place and the host was such a character! My goodness I want all the seahorses. All of them. You can really tell they care and put all their time and effort into these little guys. Absolutely worthy of all the tourism dollars in our opinion. And you get to hold them!! Have I mentioned that?! How cool!
Madison Van Haeren — Google review
We stopped here because someone recommended to us to have a look at Seahorse World. I am so glad we did. The tour was amazing and the staff are very knowledgeable and friendly. It was very interesting to learn about different kinds of seahorses and seadragons. It was also fascinating to see the different tanks of potbelly seahorses at different stages of life and learn about the food they eat. They also have an area where you can hold a seahorse if you wish. They also have some other interesting fishes you can look at. The gift shop is also good and reasonably priced. The entry tickets were also very well priced. I highly recommend checking this place out.
Matthys Loedolff — Google review
Seahorse World & the Southern Ocean Aquarium is located at Beauty Point in West Tamar, not far from Beaconsfield, Tasmania.
It is positioned in a stunning location on the west bank of the Tamar River and located on a wharf.
We were not sure of what to expect, and what we got was better than we thought. It is definitely different and quite interesting. They are delightful creatures, and I could watch them for ages. Their antics are quite funny.
The guided tour is 45 minutes. It is probably worth checking ahead to both book, and find out the time of the tour. Their gift shop is quite extensive but more importantly they sell Anvers Chocolate there.
If you are in West Tamar, definitely pop in and see both Seahorse World and Platypus House as they are on the same docks at Beauty Point. Beaconsfield Mine Museum is just down the road, too. We did both Seahorse World & Platypus House in one visit.
YOUTUBE @JABINDAJOEY
Niki Vogel — Google review
Not just a tourist attraction, but a real working seahorse farm... absolutely fascinating.
Catherine Brunskill — Google review
We had a great time at Seahorse world. The tour guide was really nice and super knowledgeable. So many seahorses and other cool sea creatures too. The displays look awesome as well.
All the animals are happy, healthy and thriving. It's nice to see such a passionate tourguide telling us all about the seahorses!
The only thing that was a bit off putting was one of the staff members when we arrived. We had a tour booked for 10am and we were tracking well to arrive at 9:45 but unfortunately our little almost 2 year old was carsick on the way. This meant we had to stop, help her etc before getting there at 10:05. When I said we were here for the tour the guy just said "well you're late" in such a scowling way with lots of attitude. I explained what happened, not that I should have to because it's on me if I miss some of the tour, and we joined the tour to see we didn't miss much at all.
It was unnecessary and thankfully the rest of the tour was awesome because that definitely wasn't a nice way to start the visit.
Lindsey — Google review
Very interesting display to visit when in Beauty Point Tasmania. Get up close and personal with Seahorses and other sea creatures. The tour was great and the guide explained the whole breeding process very well. They have an excellent souvenir shop as well with a great range of items to peruse and purchase.
Kim Osborne — Google review
Very informative place, good for children ages 7 and up. Real young kids will find it hard to stay focused during the tour. They need more hands on activities for kids. We had a good time though and well worth the money. You have to go on the tour so make sure you find out the times they are going or there is a 30min wait until the next one.
kyle stratton — Google review
Seahorse World is informative and obviously very skilled at their breeding program as there were thousands of seahorses. Seeing so many in one tank was an odd experience and changed the way I see these fish. Being able to hold them though was novel and we enjoyed seeing the other fish too.
Website booking system doesn’t match their tour times and we had to wait for a tour, even though we turned up on time.
Nate C — Google review
What an amazing experience, I can’t believe I got to hold a sea horse. Great tour and excellent displays. Definitely a great place to visit.
Jacinta Dzioba (Jazz) — Google review
My wife and I visited here and were simply fascinated by the displays. Our guide was a fountain of knowledge. This would be great for families. There are literally thousands of seahorses to see, from tiny babies up to large adults, and in a range of colours and varieties.
One of the highlights of the tour is where you can actually cradle a seahorse in your hand and pose for a photo.
This experience exceeded our expectations. And its right next door to Platypus World.
Graham Brown — Google review
We came as a family of 4, the tour guide was okay for the 45min tour on the hour. They had a great range of seahorses but breed the "potbelly" which is local to the waters and showed you steps from breeding to export. At no stage were we offered to hold a seahorse like others had previously in their reviews. There was also a couple of other tanks with fish and sharks, and the "Weedy Seadragons", now they are stunning creatures.
Gift shop was great with gift shop pricing. My only small issue is the price of entry. At $24 per adult was a bit rich and should realistically be around the $17 mark.
Did I enjoy it...yes
Would I recommend...yes but note about entry price.
Darren Klemra — Google review
This was fantastic! Tours run every hour for approx 45 minutes, allow an hour for questions and further Seahorse watching. Our tourguide was very passionate and knowledgeable, there was nothing he couldn't answer. If you are doing platypus house (you should), take time to browse shop and have a hot drink so you don't have to rush between buildings.
You should book in advance as spots on tours are limited.
Gillian F — Google review
An amazing experience, thank you James for answering all our questions.
Where else can you see so many beautiful Seahorses and have chance to hold one.
A must visit to learn about Seahorses breeding and intelligence!!!
Richard Jagger — Google review
Agree with other comments, definitely a Seahorse Farm and some questionable ethical issues. My partner and I were really excited having heard about Seahorse World from friends, so made the effort to check it out on our short trip to Launceston but unfortunately both left feeling deflated.
The guides and staff were friendly and facilities fine, but the lack of conservation message is very apparent. And there’s also a clear lack of what sustainable / responsible aquarium pet ownership is. Should just anyone be allowed to own a seahorse?
The tank features with plastic netting and rope seems way off base considering the global marine plastic pollution crisis, might be sending the wrong message.
If you are a lover of ocean creatures and don’t support captive breeding for profit, this place isn’t for you.
Natasha Mills — Google review
Great tour! Friendly staff, very informative. Kids loved holding a seahorse. I was especially impressed with the bred in captivity spotted handfish.
Alex Maeers — Google review
Seahorses are magical, amazing chameleons and unique to say the least. Holly the tour guide has enthusiasms that is contagious. They are doing an amazing job in their industry. Well worth the visit. The staff are happy and fun.
Kriket W — Google review
Very impressed with the pleasant nature and helpfulness of the staff facilities are excellent and they have bait and allow external fishers to use their toilet facilities. A five star rating is deserved for this business.
Ken D — Google review
Really cool experience 😎 loved the spotted hand fish especially!
Can tell staff keep the place really clean and all animals well looked after!!
The tour was great and learnt so many facts about seahorses that I never would have guessed!!
Gift/souvenirs shop was out of this world good!! We bought heaps of keepsakes to remember Seahorse World 💙
Keep up the good work guys!! 👏
Courtney — Google review
We absolutely LOVED this tour. Such an incredible story, heaps of new facts learned and beautiful seahorses. The kids loved the interactive nature, and their highlight was definitely holding the seahorses and hermit crabs. I never caught our tour guides name but with her beautiful fluro orange hair, she fit in perfectly to the surroundings 😊
Platypus House, located at Beauty Point on the Tamar River in Tasmania, is a unique attraction that showcases the world's only two monotremes - the platypus and the echidna. Visitors can observe these fascinating creatures up close in their natural habitat. The house offers guided tours where guests can learn about these animals' distinctive features and behaviors.
A simple drop by and visit that turned into one of the highlights of our trip. Definitely a winner if you or the family love animals. And don’t let the name fool you, it has both platypus and echidnas. Other reviews already talk about the general overview of the place and format but my pro tip - make sure to book in advance the tour prior to going or at least go and book it before looking at other attractions in the area. There is also another attraction next door (Seahorses) so if you time your tours you won’t waste time waiting around like a lot of others who we saw. Also the real highlight is having the echidnas real up close and personal so make sure you have your cameras ready as it’s one of the more unique moments.
Irwin Hau — Google review
Came with no expectations and left with great information - staff were really friendly and knowledgeable - only had a hand full of platypus but an up and close encounter is what we got. The Echidna was a lovely touch
V — Google review
Absolutely loved it, our guide was fantastic, very knowledgeable.
Highly recommend
Christina Davies — Google review
Interesting little place, 4 platypus and 3 echidnas. The echidnas were very cute and the animals are well taken care of! Very informative and reasonably priced.
Will — Google review
A very pleasant and inexpensive surprise. Loved the enthusiasm from the staff and the entertainment from the very active critters. Never seen echidnas and platypuses being so active before. We were really entertained by their antics. Everyone needs to add this to their Tassie itineraries.
Nate C — Google review
Fantastic experience. Lovely staff were very knowledgeable about their animals. Educational and a lot of fun
Anthony Devine — Google review
Nice tour to learn about these unusual native species! The team there are very friendly and knowledgeable. The animals are all rescues who, sadly wouldn’t be able to be released back into the wild. Be sure to pre-book!
Alex Brown — Google review
Went there to see the platypus, left loving echidnas.
The staff were incredibly friendly and the tour was informative and insightful.
Amanda Ryan — Google review
Different than your typical tour. Seeing these animals close up was a great experience. A good place to take the kids. Staff is very informative and friendly.
Lee Kleinman — Google review
Staff were very knowledgeable about both platypus and echidna. Full tour got us seeing live platypus and had echidnas walking around us.
Dave Gerrard — Google review
Located right next door to Seahorse World it's so convenient to get to.
We weren't sure if we're going to going to go inside and even see a platypus, as they are such secretive creatures, so we didn't want to get our hopes up too much. But, we were blown away to go inside the exhibit and see multiple platypus actively swimming around, and our guide giving a really interesting and informative talk whilst feeding them. The little guys were so active it was crazy!
The design of their main tank is so well done, so kids can easily see through the walls of the tank or walk up a ramp so they can look down on the tank.
It's so good when operators really do think of their customers and get things right, and these guys have! 10/10
Once the platypus part of the tour is over we were led into another bushland settin/themed room for the echidna presentation, which was VERY interactive!
Three echidna were allowed to roam free amongst us whilst we sat on the ground or seat or rock in a circle while our awesome guide, Hosanna, fed them. The echidna were so curious and friendly and literally walked all around and in between us.
It was a wonderful experience.
We highly recommend this tour!
Graham Brown — Google review
Platypus House was amazing. We watched a great 15-minute doco on the platypus and then went on a 45-minute guided tour. LOVED IT
Platypus House is located at Beauty Point on the Tamar River, quite close to Beaconsfield, Tasmania.
It is a house of monotremes - Platypus & Echidna.
· Both animals have hips that are backwards. Therefore, their back feet face backwards.
· They are mammals that lay eggs and nurse their young with milk.
· They both have hair (the echidna has hair as well as spines).
· Both species have spurs on their back ankle region. The spurs are not functional in echidnas. The female platypus is the same, and most often, it will fall off. But the male platypus can inject venom from its’ spurs, but it will only do so if you try to handle it.
· Their babies are called puggles.
On our tour, we met Jupiter, a male platypus. What a show off! He was amazing.
We then met the females. Dawn, Jupiter’s mate, was having a private sleep. But Pumpkin, Poppy & Freya were more than entertaining.
The echidnas were equally entertaining and thoroughly delightful. Thomas, Edwina & Eddie walked all around us while we were sitting on the floor. They are quite comical and inquisitive.
I would do this tour again in a heartbeat. It was so much fun and so very interesting.
We did both Platypus House and Seahorse World on the same day as they are at the same location. Both run a 45-minute tour, so it is best to pre-book and know your times to coordinate the two. Personally, we snagged it, but it could have gone horribly wrong.
YOUTUBE @JABINDAJOEY like & subscribe to follow our adventures around Aus.
Jabinda Joey — Google review
Wasn't sure what to expect when a very,very youthful presenter appeared...but what a pleasant surprise!
Maddie, our guide was just superb; a very knowledgeable professional who made it an enjoyable and educational experience. No, you will not handle any animal, but you'll be up close. I'd definitely recommend a visit.
Worth knowing that tours are on the hour, we grabbed a coffee and a bite while we waited.
Addy — Google review
A great little place for those that have never seen a platypus in the wild. It is a rescue facility although it wasn’t widely discussed or broadcasted. Knowledgable staff that delivered an informal tour.
Madeleine Dean — Google review
A wonderful place to visit, very educational. The staff were very polite and engaging. I definitely recommend the tour - it very interesting. They have a lovely gift shop there as well. I had never seen a platypus in real life before, so it was a very fun experience, the echidnas were also so beautiful. This location is very aware of the respect and conservation of the species. This means a lot to me as someone passionate about animal rights animal rights. Thank you! ❤️
Gentle Khajiit — Google review
The tour was very informative and we were able to interact with echidnas in their enclosure. The platypuses were active and so adorable.
Olga Iftinka — Google review
It was so exciting to see a platypus! They give an informative tour and you have time to view the platypuses in action, swimming in their pools. As an added bonus, they have a room with three echidnas that are roaming around and will go right around your feet. So cute and adorable.
Linda Kirtley — Google review
Was such a great experience, get to see the platypus up close and the tour guide is very knowledgeable even get to sit with echidnas.
j wazza — Google review
What a fantastic place! The platypus are absolutely gorgeous. The enclosures are really fantastic and each animal is well cared for. The Echidnas were a huge highlight. A fantastic up close and personal experience with these total cutie pies.
There was also a very impressive taxidermy collection too! Absolutely recommend this place.
The tour guide Maddie was .... However the way she presented the information was a bit condescending. She sounded like she was reading off a teleprompter with timed jokes that fell flat and didn't match her seriousness. Her answers to everyone's questions kind of made it seem like people were stupid for asking them because she's the expert.
Visitors can explore the Mole Creek Caves, which consist of two underground caverns with streams and colorful stalagmites. The Marakoopa Caves boast the highest concentration of glow worms in the country, while the King Solomon Caves are dry. Guided tours are required to access both caves, with Marakoopa tours departing hourly from 10:00 am and King Solomon tours starting at 10:30 am.
Nice and easy for the less fit and adventurous of us. Great guide who was really informative. First time in a cave and thoroughly enjoyed it.
The track up to the cave is an easy walk and so beautiful however you can drive to the entrance if preferred.
Yvonne Phillips — Google review
Really good value. Lots of typical cave features to see in a remarkably beautiful and unique Tasmanian cave. Lots of stairs to climb on the way in, easy descent on the way out. Guide (Aaron) was knowledgeable and friendly, he was only too happy to include our kids and answer the endless questions. Highly recommend a visit if you’re looking for things to do on the North West Coast.
Benjamin Evans — Google review
Had a ball. Good sealed road all the way. Beautiful surrounds and well cared for facility. Friendly staff. Informative and charming tour guide. The caves are an amazing exhibit. Loved the glow worms.
Vincent Bowyer — Google review
This was a fascinating experience being shown through the cave system at Mole Creek. The guide was informative and knew what she was talking about. She has a wealth of information regarding repair caves in the cave systems which extends well beyond where we were able to go as general public.
Steven Hackett — Google review
Let me start by saying how beautiful the area surrounding Mole Creek is! Shannon was our tour guide today and she was fantastic; great sense of humour, knowledgeable, passionate about what she does and was happy to take the time to answer any questions.
The caves themselves were beautiful; we did the underground rivers and glow worms tour and it did not disappoint. Great for an average fitness level and went for around 45min, if not a bit longer. Highly recommended for anyone appreciative of what nature has to offer!
Jessica Truswell — Google review
Incredible cave system to explore via a guided tour. The formations are beautiful and one of the caves even has an internal creek and glow worms. Booking is essential as numbers are limited per allocated time slot. If you're in the Launceston area do yourself a favour and head to the Mole Creek Caves, you won't be disappointed.
Suitable for kids, some are easier to explore than others so recommend you ask the booking team when you call ahead.
Timothy Morrison — Google review
Had a great time here. Cold in the caves, bring warm clothes. Listen to the rangers and respect them for their great knowledge.
Lynette Jayne — Google review
First thing first: guided tour only. So book your visit / tour around 2 weeks prior. We had the King Solomon Cave and it was awesome experience. Ben was very helpful in the booking process and Renee was very knowldegable and fun at the same time. She guided us in ways that keep the kids entertained and safe, while informing us things to watch for as we go. She also has excellent time management skill that we can comfortably take so many pictures. Magnificent caves made extra-ordinary. Highly recommended. Make sure you visit the Marakoopa Cave too.
Andrew Aditya — Google review
Great tour, very knowledgeable and friendly guide Aaron. We did the Great Cathedral tour, it climbs 60m from the entry up into hollow hill. Plenty of stops to catch your breath for the less fit. There are moments where the lights are turned off and you are plunged into pitch black. The caves have incredible stalactites and stalagmites. The glow worm section of the tour is amazing.
Definitely worth the stop. Beautiful area.
Winston Hawke — Google review
Insane cave network in the area, real shame you are not allowed to take pictures of the glow worms as they were easily the highlight. Regardless, the cave has some incredible formations and I really recommend checking them out!
Clancy Arkcoll — Google review
What an incredible experience. First things. There are to cave tours (1) Glow Worms Tour and (2) Great Cathedral Tour - I would encourage you to do both in succession! I made my booking by phone and spoke with Shannon, then was met at the rangers visitors centre by Ben and Dave. We only booked the glow worm tour not knowing about the Great Cathedral Tour. We ended up doing both! My chat with Ben at the visitors centre was great as we talked about our mutual respect and love for Fungus! Ask Ben if you meet him, it will be fascinating! We received our access pass from Dave and then made our way (800m) up to the cave entrance where we met 4 other tour guests. Shannon arrived after completing another tour at about 2pm (our tour time) and we made our way in. Shannon's beautiful nature, and love for the cave was obvious. The cave path is easy to navigate with everyone having to duck their heads (even short people) a couple of times. The cave has been formed over millions of years from limestone with speleothem (limestone stalactites and stalagmites), A speleothem is a geological formation by mineral deposits that accumulate over time in caves. There are a couple of places in the cave where the reverberation of your voice makes even the worst singer sound amazing. What to see: There are amazing formations of limestone stalactites and stalagmites as well as an underground river (short creek) and glow worms. There are a number of occasions where the guide will turn out the lights and you will get to experience the grandeur of the cave structure. The highlight for me was a surprise (so I won't give it away, but if you get Shannon and do the Great Cathedral Tour, (and she is in the mood) you definitely will not be disappointed. This is a great attraction for young, middle aged and older people. Easy to navigate and very interesting.. Allow an hour for each tour!
Russ Porteous — Google review
One of the most beautiful natural formations we’ve seen. The people running the site are so warm and welcoming. Our tour was made even better by our guide Aaron who made sure the experience was comfortable, fun and educational. Would 10/10 recommend to everyone!
Ellen parker — Google review
We visited the Marakoopa Caves.
I highly encourage you to prebook your tickets. We booked 4 days in advance (January) and were able to secure our tickets. The time and date sold out by the next morning.
We have visited caves all around Australia and New Zealand, so what makes these caves different? Being part of the original Gondwana super continent sea shelf was amazing to hear. Seeing a running creek through the cave was also awesome. But it was the glow worms that really make the cave spectacular. Whilst not as abundant as those we’ve seen in New Zealand, they do glow a different colour (slightly green).
We were not allowed to take photos (even without flash) until we moved beyond the open caverns.
A great “introductory” cave for families rather than a showcase cave. We did learn that it is one of 500 in the area.
Leah Kid Bucket List — Google review
We had yet again the pleasure of having Aaron as our guide. It is his passion and conviction, coupled with an in depth knowledge of natural science and many other academic fields that make this cave tour well worth a visit.
Merry Christmas Aaron and hope to see you again in the New Year.
Dieter — Google review
Easy cave to tour but lots of steps. The lighting has been done to show the natural colour of the cave. Very knowledgable guide. Some of the walking tracks were still closed at the time of our visit but still enjoyable.
Jeff Rogers — Google review
Exceptional these caves were amazing and the tour was so well done. Best value for money and a really special experience. The glow worms were spectacular!
Jennifer Peachey — Google review
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Mole Creek Caves, and it was truly an amazing experience, thanks in large part to Mr Ben. As a dedicated Visitor Services Officer and Tour Guide, Ben's expertise shines through in every aspect.
His tours are not just informative; they're a captivating journey into the mesmerizing world of caves. Ben's explanations of stalactite formations, playfully likening them to "bacon" and "cheese," make the experience both enlightening and engaging. His ability to blend technical details with plain language keeps you hooked and wanting to learn more.
Beyond the fascinating tour itself, Ben's commitment to educating visitors about the significance of preserving our natural environment is truly admirable. His passion for environmental conservation is not only inspiring but also a reminder of our duty to safeguard these remarkable natural treasures.
Kudos to Ben for his exceptional work. The Mole Creek Caves experience was enhanced by his knowledge, dedication, and unwavering commitment to creating an unforgettable and educational journey.
Jason Zhang — Google review
2 adults, 2 kids.
Staff were very friendly, helpful and informative. The tour of the caves was really interesting and seeing the glow worms was awesome. Wear a warm jacket because the caves are approx 9 degrees celcius.
Would highly recommend the Marakoopa Cave, and good value for money.
Site of an old mine with a museum & education center teaching about the area's industrial past.
Not your boring museum or exhibition. Very interactive for children and can get lost in all the amazing history. The kids really enjoyed panning for gold. I loved the gift shop.
Rakhsh Appoo — Google review
Definitely worth stopping in.
So many great items and hands on displays to check out. Make sure to see the water wheel in operation.
Also the staff are lovely and the gift shop has heaps of stuff.
Stuart A — Google review
Amazing story of survival amidst tragedy. Appreciate the history and sombre experience but well worth the visit. Pay my respects to the minors, their contribution to making Australian great and their risk and sacrifice in doing so.
T atts — Google review
Very interesting with exhibits shown within ruins of the former mining buildings. In addition to exhibits related to mining, there are steam engines & equipment that were abandoned, found & restored with some of allowing interactive play of the equipment. There are other exhibits related to life of residents in the past years. Should plan for a 3 to 4 hours visit in order to fully cover all the exhibits.
Le Rock Steady — Google review
Fantastic experience for young and old to check out the local mining history and a story in Australian history. Staff were super friendly and there was heaps of interactive stuff for the kids to get involved with too. They had fun playing with and seeing how some of the old machines worked and getting to see the paddle wheel operate a crusher.
There is also an animal hunt for the kids to find different animals around the venue.
presty63 — Google review
Spent way too long in this place. It tells the amazing story and also has a good mixture of the old mine and the new. The new mine really does look like it just shut yesterday. Perfect for anyone into machinery
ben schultz — Google review
Fantastic museum of historical objects as well as the history of the operation of the mine as well as remnants from the mine’s historic and modern operations including the notable rescue in 2006, which has it’s own section dedicated to it with a replica of the conditions the 2 blokes endured. Reasonable price to enter and there is enough to see and do to last at least 2 hours with heaps of hands on exhibits and objects. Highly recommend.
Luke — Google review
This place is massive, lots of interactive displays. This museum has so many different facets. Staff are lovely, great shop.
Jacinta Dzioba (Jazz) — Google review
Excellent display of mining and agriculture machinery used in the area. Took about 4.5 hours to see and read all information given. Hands on displays were very pratacial for explanions of things past. Gift shop on site had a large choice. A huge thank you for the tribute of 25 April 2006. A few tears bought to me. A small boy asking a Rescue Cordinator to get my dad says it all about mining yesterday and today.
Debbie Norman — Google review
Great experience to see how a modern mine was operating until recently. The space where the two miners were trapped is seriously scary and would leave you with serious mental issues for the rest of your life. A must see if you are in the area. Staff are very friendly and there is a gift shop also. To tour everything you need about an hour and a half to 2 hours and is well worth it.
Don Smith — Google review
Mining is a big part of Australia's economy and Tasmania's heritage. The Beaconsfield Mine & Heritage Centre preserves a former gold mine that operated for the better part of a century.
The complex includes historic brick buildings from the early mine days to modern facilities from more recent operations. Visitors can visit the excellent exhibits then head outside to walk among the actual mining equipment - climbing on the headframe and going inside the miners shower facility.
The headframe towers over Beaconsfield so it's easy to find and there is plenty of parking. While you can see the site with a short visit, I recommend planning at least 2 hours to fully enjoy it and longer if you want to take advantage of the many photo opportunities.
Nuclear Engineer — Google review
This morning, my parents and I visited the Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre. It's a very large interactive museum, showcasing the history of Beaconsfield Mine and other important events related to Tasmania, Australia.
Starting from the Gift Shop, this is a self guided tour costing $16 for concession and $21 for adults. The lower level features old fashioned telephones, the Diprose Room and Miners Rescue exhibition. The upper level features the Life & Times Exhibition, the Engine House, Substation and the Boiler House (Water Water).
Beyond here, you enter the Mine Yard with outdoor metal walkways, relics and native gardens. There is a large open area here with lots of different buildings including the Drill Workshop, Headframe (Miners Lift), Bogger Shed, Miners' Change Room and Winder House (Hart Shaft).
As you can see, there is A LOT to explore and experience at this Heritage Centre. I'd recommend allowing at least 1.5-2 hours if you want to appreciate everything here. It was certainly a great history lesson and educational experience.
Michael Dixon — Google review
As a family of 4, from the age of 17 to 53, we all had a fantastic time here. Very informative, plenty to see and interact with. Both my girls (17,29) were like "dad come and see this". You could spend a couple hours here no problems at all. Definitely a must see in Beaconsfield as I think it will catch you out how much is there to see and do.
Darren Klemra — Google review
If you watched the tv back in 2006 you would have waited in anticipation for the three guys to be rescued from 300 m down below after a collapsed tunnel. Great to see all about the rescue and the history of the gold mine.
Paul A — Google review
Amazing! But may cause PTSD triggers to some (whose who experienced somewhat similar type trauma). The outdoor area is less confronting.
Joe Raphael — Google review
the best museum i’ve ever visited
a must do !!!!! it’s so worth the effort
spend 1.5 to 2 hours
Angela Pirotta — Google review
Awesome piece of history. So much to look at and read about. Pity about the kids running a muck in there.
Ashgrove Cheese Dairy Door is a must-visit destination for cheese lovers in Tasmania. This cheese farm offers an array of unique cheese flavors, such as Wild Wasabi, Bush Pepper, and Lavender. Visitors can witness the cheese making process through window viewing areas and learn about the history of the farm through audiovisual presentations. The retail space at Ashgrove Cheese Dairy Door is impressive with plenty of items to purchase.
We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Ashgrove Cheese Dairy Door. They provide lots of information on how their different cheeses are made and matured, lots of fun facts and ‘dad jokes’, and most importantly how they care for their dairy cows - it’s great to see a business who cares so much about their animals. Oh … I forgot to mention their cheese is divine! I’ll be looking for their cheeses when I get home.
Mike Noordermeer — Google review
First time visiting a cheese Factory. They opened this place for public last year. There are plenty of parking outside. 100 metres away from main highway. There are seating outside. The are and facility are well maintained. There is a history about this place and carry years of tradition in making cheese. They also depicts the process of making through images and illustration. You can view the cheese making process through the glass window. They have cheese tasting section and you can buy crackers and cheese. Also they sell variety of good ice creams. They have cheese shop as well and you can buy variety of delicious cheese which are sourced and processed locally. You can also see the cheese storage area through the glass. Entry is FREE. Worth going to this place if you are are visiting Davenport.
Anto Mathew — Google review
We were lucky enough to have someone at our lodge in cradle Mountain. Recommend we stop off at this place on our way back from Launceston.
We were tempted by everything but bought some snacks and specialties to either take home as gifts or nibble-on while we went and decided to have some ice cream before we left even though it was 9:30 in the morning.
It was one of the best decisions we've ever made! I had the lemon poppy seed ice cream. My best friend had the chocolate cream which was just the perfect blend of bitter chocolate and we can't recommend this place strongly enough! Even on a bank holiday. The staff were unfailingly pleasant and helpful!
Kathleen Law — Google review
If you are a cheese lover then this is the place for you. There is a little section that educates you on how cheese is made and a little
About the cows in the region. There is a section that shows how the cheese is made and storage and a typical tourist shop to buy all the usual. They have obviously cheese of many varieties and milk as well, as well as some cooking ingredients. The best part was the cafeteria that do amazing coffee and toasties. We got there fairly early so felt it was too early to have ice cream but there was definitely some temptation there.
Alfred Tao — Google review
We really enjoyed our visit today to the Ashgrove Cheese Dairy. We purchased a lot of various Cheeses and Honey and also Enjoyed our ice creams. We were served by a young man by the name of Julius and he couldn't have been more helpful, what a great asset to the Cheese Dairy he is.😊😁
Bob Wright — Google review
Four stars but I love cheese. We got one of their cheese platters and two glasses of wine - $58 I think. Enough cheese, crackers, relish, bread, fruit and nuts to satisfy us and a good cross section of their product. Different platters offer different mixes of cheese or you can choose what you like. Not a lot else to see other than through the glass at their workings or at the stacked cheese rounds except for the gift shop which sells nic nacs, cheese, wine, etc. You can also purchase various icy confections if you don't like cheese.
Paul Smith — Google review
Lovely place to stop and get some food or have a brake from the car. Good food, nice staff. Sweet play space for the kids, well priced, and some educational information. Would have been nice to see the factory in action. Lots of setting inside and out. A lovely little gift shop as well, with a good selection of Tasmanian foods.
Arual Effilctus (woombie) — Google review
🐮Ashgrove cheese is delicious in six different varieties. Each has its own flavor and character. 😋I like Wasabi cheese and MT Roland cheese best. ✨The indoor environment is very clean. In addition to eating cheese, this place is also educational so that you can have a deeper understanding of cheese. And Ashgrove's story history is interesting! If you like cheese, you can visit here! Visit and taste about 1.5 hours!
Yo???? — Google review
A fantastic venue for tasting local Tasmanian cheese and stopping between Launceston and Devonport for coffee or a meal. We came here twice, firstly for a cheese platter, and second time for breakfast. Both were enjoyable experiences in a clean and friendly environment. The cheese selections were diverse and tasty, and affordable at $12. The toasties are amazing, with sourdough bread and delicious melted cheese. There's a well-equipped shop with a wide range of cheese, snacks and condiments to choose from.
Michael G — Google review
Ashgrove Cheese has a great dairy door - cafe, cheese making, shop, and facilities. There is a reasonable sized parking lot big enough for caravans to turn around and park. It is on the Bass highway and is worth the stop.
I love Ashgrove cheese, so I made it my mission to visit their business. WOW, what a great setup. Love the cow statues, the information about their background and cheese making, but I love their cheese the most. And, yes, we definitely bought more than we needed ;-)
YouTube @JabindaJoey, check us out & follow our travels around OZ
Jabinda Joey — Google review
Right off the highway and easy to get to. Some super yummy cheese. Super informative as well. You must get the cheese balls, red wine and thyme is delicious.
Good place to stop for some Tucker and coffee.
Craig “Firebird” Goodchild — Google review
This is a must visit . Staff are very friendly. Even though the day we stopped was bad weather but we had wonderful experiences apart from run to car in rain 😂. Food were amazing. Hot malted drink was so good my partner loved it . We will definitely come back again . Shame we couldn’t try Tasmanian smoke trout as they didn’t had any .
Rana M — Google review
Ashgrove Cheese was awesome. Great story telling room including audio visual presentation. This story telling continues along the window viewing areas depicting how cheese is made and stored. Their retail space is wonderful with lots to buy.
John Jocys — Google review
A must visit when you are in Tasmania. Located just a few metres from the main highway. It has a wide variety of cheese churned in house for sale. There is a small in-house restaurant/cafe with cheese platter options, ice creams etc.The seating area indoor /outdoor is good to enjoy as a family. Ample parking space. The cheese from the factory was delectable, flavoursome,authentic and fresh. Flavours were unique. The information on the craftsmanship of cheese making is explained with great facts.
Saranya Vivek — Google review
Staffs there are friendly and helpful. Ice cream doesn't have much favorite in it but is super creamy. Highly recommend cheese fondue and the cheese platters. Anything with cheese will pretty much does it.
Only down side there is not much to see at the factory (windows display) and the light reflection is very strong so you see yourself most of the time.
They also cheese and milk there. Can grab a few things before heading off. Bring some ice pack or cold bag if you travel in longer distance. I wish I had.
Is definitely worth the visit if you like cheese and creamy ice cream.
Toby J — Google review
Great location for a break/stopover driving through the Northwest trail.
Informative, spacious and able to see the cheeses behind the scenes is wonderful.
Good gift and cheese shop but wish the samples given/provided be given a little more effort. Example, leave the samples in a cool section and not given ?crushed, put cubes instead.
Toastie was great but slightly overpriced. 18$ for a ham and cheese is a bit hefty.
Michael Mok — Google review
Just visited the upgraded cheese factory. I really like the modern style. There are so many viewing stations where you can see the cheese being made and see the enormous storage rooms with rounds of cheese aging. There is an area where kids can play. They also sell big bags of off cuts of the cheese for a reduced price. $18 for a kilo to be exact. There are lots of locally produced food items to purchase and on tap milk. The only downside is they just do a single cheese sample whereas they used to have a heap available to try.
Jodie Grosvenor — Google review
Great interactive displays for the kids, and interesting educational displays and showroom. The potato salad was different than what I'd expected but still tasty. Recommend the breakfasts and toasties. Took home 3 of my favourite cheeses: wasabi, pickled onions and havarti. Good selection of deli foods in the gift shop. Something for everyone and a wonderful foodie experience.
Lisa Bolton — Google review
Awesome place to try local cheese and have scones etc we weren't hungry the cheesy nachos looked yummy will have to come back to try that. We tried the 6 cheese platter and wasabi cheese was the winner .Great cheesy experience. !!!!Must try if u are passing through.
Beautiful and friendly staff.
Rupali J — Google review
We loved this place. Would have been good for a coffee but we have coffee coming out of our ears.
We were taken by the cheese store. So many cheeses aging. Impressive.
A great little shop. Check out the cheese shavings for sale. Amazing bargains!
Vincent Bowyer — Google review
Death by dairy is the only way to go! Great stop on the highway, lots of room to eat and enjoy the surrounds! Well stocked giftshop and the painted cows are always a hit!
Angie JM — Google review
Loved the ice cream here! They are freshly churned onsite and not available anywhere else! The Ashgrove cream flavour is amazing!!! Of course, they also have a range of cheeses too.
There is plenty of seating for a nice breakfast, lunch or snack.
Renee M — Google review
Great place, great history, nice and light hearted, good jokes!! Cheese tasting plate for $12 was super plain and potentially pricey but we did end up buying 3 of three 6 on the tasting plate. The nachos were not nice. The salsa had hardly no tomatoes or salsa so it was just a bean and corn dry mix. Pea guacamole and the cheese sauce was weird. I'd stay clear of that however the plain cheese toasty is anything from plain and was so delicious!!
Highly recommend 👌
Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Mole Creek, Tasmania, is a renowned wildlife conservation center that offers daily tours to visitors. Since 1985, it has been a popular destination for observing native Tasmanian species such as the iconic Tasmanian Devils. The sanctuary provides an opportunity to get up close and personal with kangaroos and ducks while enjoying the natural environment.
Very well maintained. Great job they are doing there regarding native Australian fauna conservation. Friendly and knowledgeable staff. The animal tours of the quoll, Tass devils and wombats were very well conducted.
FrankoBaggins — Google review
My two children (15 and 9) and I visited today. We followed the 1pm tour and enjoyed learning about some of the animals. The tour was the perfect amount of time, not to long and not to short. The sanctuary was really open (free roaming animals and the ones secured away for safety). The kangaroos were the fan favourite for my children and I but I also loved the Tasmanian devils. They weren't hiding away and we could get up and close (safely) to them. I feel it is the perfect environment for if one needs to relax and enjoy the surroundings and animals - there is seating to do so. A calming environment and the staff are really friendly. Highly recommend a visit. Suited for all ages.
Amanda Evans — Google review
We enjoyed it 15 years ago, and enjoyed even more today with kids.
We loved the low key nature of Trowunna, hand feeding birds and kangaroos, plus the very informative tour/talk included in the entry price. More sanctuary than commercialised tourist trap.
Glenn Chamberlain — Google review
Good zoo, Good tours. Although a safety hazard for tourists is that there is no sign saying not to pat the Tassie devils as it has occurred before and injuries have happened. Overall 3.5 stars out of 5
Hazhof — Google review
This is a wonderful sanctuary to visit. Would highly recommend doing one of the free tours, as the staff are so knowledgeable and it was a great opportunity to learn more about these amazing animals. Worth the visit, you won't regret it!
Amy McKimm — Google review
This place was awesome. A rescue centre that cares about its animals. You buy your tickets from the gift shop. The tour was excellent with guides that care for the animals as well. There is time spent answering questions. You can get really up close, great for picture taking. Well worth the travel to visit here.
Cynthea Corbett — Google review
We really enjoyed the tour session given by the keepers, it was highly informative and we got to get up real close to the wombat and Tassie devil. This place has a real heart for these animals and their welfare, would highly recommend anyone visiting (or even passing through) Mole Creek to stop for a visit!
Joshua Yeo — Google review
We did a private tour with Ned, and had a great time! It may not be as fancy as many other sanctuaries or zoos, but you can tell it’s run by people who genuinely care for these animals. Love your work team!
Jessica Ivers — Google review
It's such a beautiful and peaceful place where you can meet the unbelievable fauna Tasmania possess. It's a one and only opportunity to watch Tasmanian devils from really close among others species. Highly recommended, probably coming back again
Joaquín Guzmán — Google review
We are big native wildlife supporters so loved seeing this Sanctuary. The staff were very knowledgeable and friendly with a passion for conservation. Don't miss the free interactive tour. Kids loved it. Great half day out.
Haley Scarabelli — Google review
Very cool and chill place and we truly enjoyed it. Recommended to go Marakoopa Cave for the glow worm tour before coming here and as is 10% discount for this place from there.
We like the tour as it is very educational for tourists like us and if was an eye opener when the tasmanian devils was fed a carcass. We also get a chance to feed kangaroos and stroke animals. The free tour is a must and purchase the feed to make it a complete experience.
David Wong — Google review
Trowunna Sanctuary is an exceptional wildlife sanctuary with a focus on the Tasmanian devil, and it offers an incredible experience for an affordable price. With an entry fee of less than 30 bucks, visitors can embark on daily free tours guided by knowledgeable experts. These tours provide an up-close encounter with remarkable creatures like wombats and Tasmanian devils, allowing visitors to pet and interact with them.
The dedication and professionalism displayed by the staff at Trowunna Sanctuary are commendable. They not only facilitate these unforgettable encounters but also educate visitors about the risks posed by cats to wildlife. By raising awareness about the dangers of toxoplasmosis, they highlight the need to keep cats from roaming freely, as they can pose a significant threat to kangaroos, koalas, and Tasmanian devils.
For a small additional fee, visitors can purchase food to feed the park's wildlife. This offers a unique opportunity to interact with kangaroos, which are accustomed to being fed by people and pose no danger.
Trowunna Sanctuary is an exceptional sanctuary that combines education, conservation, and hands-on experiences. It's a place where visitors can connect with fascinating creatures and support their conservation efforts—a truly worthwhile and memorable experience for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Paul and Davy around OZ — Google review
Great wildlife sanctuary, staff are really friendly and there is an abundance of animals to see. There are numerous tours throughout the day and the guides are very knowledgeable.
Very kid friendly with the option to buy feeder bags to feed many of the free roaming animals.
There are limited food options here, however there are a selection of cold drinks and a Coffee/tea/hot chocolate machine for those cold days.
Timothy Morrison — Google review
Great little sanctuary here! The staff have such a passion for everything they do here and are so knowledgeable and able to educate you on all the different animals. Would definitely recommend going and timing your visit with their interactive tours and feedings.
Marianne Yeo — Google review
Was recommended to come here by other travellers and this place was amazing. Our daughter is obsessed with devils and this place has plenty of them. We arrived at opening and pretty much had the place to ourselves for an hour. We did the 11am tour and it was really informative. We were able to pat a young devil as well. Highly recommend a visit here
Appsolutely Outta Here — Google review
Had a great break driving back from cradle mountains to Launceston. The keepers are well informed and very friendly. Had a great time with the devil's and the Wombats. My favourite was the tawny frog mouth. Wait until it opens its beak. Thanks to all at the zoo for their good work and to help out our animal friends and maintain balance on this planet.
I would have liked a cafe overlooking the bird sanctuary or similar and think would been a great income for the zoo.
Porus Bharucha — Google review
If you get to be part of a group tour, it's totally worth it for the experience of petting a Tasmanian Devil and a wombat. Feeding the wallabies and kangaroos was fun. A few cool birds roaming around and in cages. Generally you'll be done in an hour.
J — Google review
Privatly run Australian wildlife sanctuary.
Great gift shop and feed available for some of the friendly animals.
Interactive tours 3 times a day. You're able to get up close with some of the cutest animals.
You're free to wander at your own pace too, just expect some slightly rough, hilly terrain, theres no paved paths, its all natural.
Kangaroos are very chilled and able to be fed and patted.
Not far out of the town of Mole Creek or the caves if you want to do some exploring.
Rochelle Richardson — Google review
Brilliant place! Be sure to do the free tour! Super informative and cool animals up close! Excellent conservation work being done by this small team, mindblowing stuff!
Meagan Thomas — Google review
A fabulous place to visit! Great experience feeding the ducks, kangaroos and other free roaming animals. There was a large population of kangaroos and ducks!! You can get up very close to the kangaroos and they are not shy at all! Saw a few kangaroos with joeys too. Lovely experience watching the animals roam in their natural environment.
The keeper gave a very informative and entertaining talk on the Tassie devils. It was amazing to see so many Tassie devils and watch them feed. There were wombats and wild roaming pademelons too. Too cute!
Definitely would recommend visiting. Best to visit early in the morning when the animals are more active. Staff were nice and friendly. Great to hear about the breeding program and conservation work that is being done at this centre.
Renee M — Google review
Great sanctuary (education and research center). The tour is around 45 minutes start with wombat, Tasmania devils,soot tail squall, and feeding Tasmania devils.
We spent roughly 3hours there with a 9 yos old. It’s a bit hard to find a carpark during Christmas break after 12.30pm.
LIANCHENG LI — Google review
4.7
(1196)
•
4.5
(556)
1892 Mole Creek Rd, Mole Creek TAS 7304, Australia
Pipers Brook Vineyard is a must-visit destination in Tasmania, located just 45 minutes from Launceston. Here, you can indulge in wine tasting and take advantage of the $5 discount on wine purchases. The vineyard offers a delightful selection of wines, and you can also savor delectable dishes at the attached restaurant. The charming English staff provides friendly and informative tastings, making your visit even more enjoyable.
Just happened to be driving past about lunch time and dropped in. So glad we did, beautiful food in a pleasant setting and of course more good wine than you can poke a stick at. Very much recommend coming here for lunch and of course the tastings, unless like me your driving, n which case the coffee’s good too!
Jason Adams (Jase) — Google review
Compared to the other wineries in the Tamar Valley (and indeed across the rest of Tasmania and throughout Australia), Pipers Brook tries hard but is very much lacking in many aspects. The tastings are among the most expensive we came across ($15 for 4 tasters is excessive when better vineyards are offering more for the same price), the cellar door offers no view or atmosphere (others in the area offer spectacular views), and the food in Nadine's is OK but overpriced (you really need to provide much more if you're charging $80 for a grazing platter). The same people work across the cellar door and Nadine's, so they are effectively the same place. The service is somewhat chaotic, and it lacks the personal touch you might expect from a cellar door of this size. The intent is there, and some of the wines are ok, but there are many better wineries in the area.
Marc Glassman — Google review
We tasted their Pinot Noir range. The lunch was quite good and service was professional. Considering their beautiful surroundings, having people dine inside is a missed opportunity to really enjoy their winery.
richard austin — Google review
We did a tasting. They take $5 off if you purchase wines. You can only pick 4 wines that you want to purchase. We also ordered a charcuterie board. The prawns were plump and fresh. Everything was very tasty.
There is also a cafe attached to the Resturant. They need to fix the front door as it makes an excruciating screeching sound when opening and closing the door.
Shenny Penny — Google review
Very average, tasting for a 1.6 standard drinks flight was $15; the fish pie lunch was warmed up from frozen, nice salad but unable to discern how they cooked the chips - the 1.5 prawns in the pie were totally overcooked, dried up and horrible.
On site camping is closed, due to Covid, but still offered on the web - “yes, we must update that …” shame I started drinking with lunch b4 they told me …..
tony lee — Google review
$15 to taste four very average wines. An underwhelming experience as the tasting notes are basic and staff, while polite, don’t offer any additional information.
A nice setting and drive up to the cellar door itself.
Michael Lichtenberger — Google review
Bit of a mixed bag experience here:
Cellar Door - nice wines but despite booking a tasting we’re only offer “wine flights” with no further info on the wines given. Basically select 4 sample sizes.
Nadine - great food but poor/ chaotic service.
The drive in through the Pipers Brook vineyard is stunning, but when you arrive at the old dated cellar door complex it’s rather dull (dusty) and less appealing. Unfortunately the cellar door has no view at all - it’s an indoor space opening onto a small internal courtyard. Perfectly nice cafe space , but you could be anywhere.
We pre-booked a tasting by phone and arrived on time at 1.30 - the staff were frantically running around and looked exhausted and ignored us. We thought about leaving but since there are not many dining options around the area, we decided to stay.
We were seated in Nadine’s cafe area from where we could do a wine tasting.
We ordered the Tasmanian Board which includes cheese, meat, prawns and salmon - this was absolutely sensational and the highlight of our visit - we were glad we stayed.
The wine tasting was more of a wine flight really - we were asked to select 4 wines from the menu and nobody gave us any information on the wines.
Gustav — Google review
A lovely place. We just arrived at a busy time so service wasn't snappy but very friendly all the same despite the slight madness.
Food was great. We had the sharing platter and quiche of the day. See photos.
Wine was splendid. We had the Riesling which was light and not sweet at all as it traditionally is. We also had the '07 Brut Cuvee which I loved for its tastes of cream pie!
Overall a great experience. Definitely recommend.
Mary-Grace Dancing — Google review
We enjoyed a wine tasting and a cheese platter at Nadine's for lunch as opposed to a meal as the meal prices were very expensive. The food was delicious. The Estate Pinot Noir paired beautifully with the cheese platter chosen - Charcuterie Cheese Platter. We sat out in the courtyard and enjoyed a slight breeze in the sun. A huge vineyard and a definite recommendation from me. :)
Lisa-Marie North — Google review
Beautiful countryside surrounding their huge vinyards. The wine tasting was a pleasure and then we enjoyed a charcuterie board which was delicious while sitting in the courtyard with wine barrels and plants here and there to complete the atmosphere.
Philip North — Google review
Fabulous lunch and wines❤️
robyn Pettingill — Google review
We visited this winery after tasting a great drop at dinner the night before. The English lady who conducted our tasting was great. Friendly and not over the top. She made some great recommendations on what we should do on our travels around tassie. Well worth the trip
Sarah Polsen — Google review
4.3
(159)
•
4.0
(197)
1216 Pipers Brook Rd, Pipers Brook TAS 7254, Australia
Liffey Falls State Reserve, situated in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, boasts a strikingly picturesque waterfall. A gentle walk lasting approximately 45 minutes leads visitors through temperate rainforest and past several cascades along the Liffey River to reach the base of the falls. The beginning of this path can be found 29km south of Deloraine by following Highland Lakes Rd (A5).
Queen Victoria Museum Inveresk is a museum containing items from the life of Queen Victoria. It is located in the restored and reinvented Inveresk railway yards, QVMAG. The museum has an interactive science centre and planetarium. It also has a cafe and museum shop.
A free museum for anyone visiting Launceston. Quite a lot of history in there ranging from dinosaurs to motor vehicles to artifacts from the first settlers.
It's free so why not. Im sure everyone will be able to find something that interests here.
Lu Bi Huang — Google review
A great cheap day out. The museum was well presented and had displays from the prehistoric eras to man landing on the moon. Has an interactive area for kids and adults to play.
Douglas Gray — Google review
Good place to visit. It is free. Amazing display of animals and dinosaurs. Lots of information to be had. Upstairs has an amazing array of photos from around Tasmania and under Tasmanian waters.
The science part for kids is a massive let down. I would have honestly thought that during its time closed for covid they would have upgraded or fixed the activities. Instead there is still plenty out of order. The tram cafe was closed on both occasions we went. Art display across from that had broken art work etc. Outside has standard science stuff but once again some were out of order or lacked the equipment needed to do them. It's free so please donate.
andrew crampsie — Google review
I had a few hours to kill and decided to take a look at the museum, it was a great decision!
Helpful members of staff directed me to the planetarium which whilst small was full of info and history of Tasmanian research.
The main display shows a sad history of the Tasmania Tiger, a good dinosaur display, an old bike display, an old Alfa Romeo and a photographic display upstairs. I loved the old train display and especially the railway workshops
This was a great use of my few hours. I really enjoyed it!
Paul Tooze — Google review
Amazing museum with free entry. Lots of exhibits ranging from dinosaurs, astronomy and my favourite - the old school photography exhibit! Easy to spend an hour or two browsing around here.
Car parking was paid and my ticket got stuck deep in the machine - with difficulty I was able to remove it. I also saw a few others having difficulty as well.
Victor — Google review
Great Museam. Chock full of things to do. Planetarium was unfortunately closed the day I went but that's no biggie, had a ton of other things for the kiddies (big and small) to do. Definately check out the Dino exhibition. Well layed out and maintained.
Paolo De Guzman — Google review
A very good museum worth spending a couple of hours exploring and reading about Tasmania's rich history. It's a museum close to the CBD, reachable with the free Tiger bus and offering a diverse collection of Australian animals, old transport systems, dinosaurs and other interesting display. There's plenty of parking and still walkable from the city.
Kim Nguy — Google review
It's a lovely museum have lots of things to see! We love the part they display all the local animals, insects and birds. It is worth to spend few hours there and walk out with more knowledge and idea about Launceston and Tasmania history!
Kandrew Lo — Google review
Highly recommended for children learning it has about space , old train , tasmanian aborigine life, weapons, ship wreaked, staffed animal, Furthur more It has auditorium for wild life such as bees, egauna ,etc. The second floor is about HJ King photographer, who has a passion about natural of Tasmania. Free museum, no need to pay. Not crowded.I love this museum so much.
Siri Kel — Google review
Great museum. They have a lot of different things to look at and interactive things for kids too. Free entry which was a bonus. Great day out. Highly recommend.
Nicolle Hanington — Google review
Always amazing and the staff are super helpful. This particular trip was to enjoy Illuminate with my 4yo and it is just a fantastic exhibition. Totally recommend seeing it before it closes on Apr 28
Frankie Frech — Google review
Such a nice museum! Loved the description and commentary. It's a very well maintained museum with very friendly staff members, some dinosaurs to look at, art, some space exhibitions at the moment. Will definitely come by again!
Cataract Gorge Reserve, located at the edge of Launceston's city centre, boasts a stunning natural landscape with cliffs, bushland and the cold South Esk River. First Basin offers visitors a chance to swim in a free outdoor pool (open November to March), ride on the world's longest single-span chairlift for a fee, and wander Victorian-era gardens where peacocks roam. There are also walking tracks and lookout points to enjoy. Dining options include both a cafe and restaurant.
This is a beautiful spot so close to Launceston, you can walk to it from the city, we drove though.
We did the a short walk around the water and across the suspension bridge and chairlift back which was approx an hour.
The view is stunning, the bridge does have a little bit of movement whilst walking across and the chairlift was very smooth.
Rachael Stanley — Google review
Beautiful place to walk, hike, swim, feed the birds or just stand and stare at the Great Outdoor. Admire the natural beauty, breathe the fresh air and enjoy the quiet. A must visit if you are in Launceston. Entrance is free but a fee is charged for the chairlift ride. 2 hours of my time well spent checking out the many trails and lookout points. Not as spectacular as Cradle Mountain but Cataract Gorge is more accessible from Launceston.
Eng-Hoe Loh — Google review
Cataract Gorge Reserve in Launceston is a must-visit spot for a relaxing and enjoyable experience. During my recent visit, I was impressed by the reserve's natural beauty and the leisurely strolls it offers.
The reserve features several easy-to-follow tracks that take you through stunning surroundings. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful walk, the trails here are accessible and enjoyable. You'll be treated to breathtaking views of the gorge and its waterfalls along the way.
What stood out to me was how well-maintained the tracks were. They were clearly marked and suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. This makes it easy for everyone to explore and appreciate the reserve's natural wonders.
Cataract Gorge Reserve provides a serene atmosphere where you can relax and unwind. You can find cozy picnic spots and charming cafes where you can take a break and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. It's a great place to spend quality time with loved ones or simply enjoy some peace and quiet
Yousef Dablin — Google review
Beautiful historic well maintained area. The chair lift was an experience and quite cost-effective. There is an abundance of wildlife wondering about which is beautiful.
It's such a calm, peaceful place. Excellent for a quiet stroll and a place to picnic with friends.
Suzie McCracken — Google review
Stunning space! Plenty to see and do. Is a fair bit of walking involved (we did near 16000 steps climbing to the Eagle Nest lookout and around the gorge, but it is worth it!). Lovely little cafe and restaurant inside and the chair lift is a must do! Lots of wildlife to look at and enjoy also. And randomly, there is a pool, so bring your bathers if you're keen (still a bit cold!).
Rebecca N — Google review
It's definitely a full day needed for this amazing activity! The walks are stunning, the chairlift is so beautiful, and the pool is such an amazing place on a hot day. The wildlife are so cute and very tame.
Caitlin — Google review
Big and beautiful park and very pleasing to the eyes. Very tranquil place. We took the chairlift to and fro for $20 per adult. Met with many wildlife, peacocks, peahens, wallabies, different species of birds. A lot of walking and you can get good exercise. We can just follow the trail to Alexandra suspension bridge where you can watch the constant rapids hitting the stones and rocks below. Soothing to the ear. There's a swimming pool before the banks. Cool place and we love it here.
Noorzidah M N — Google review
This is a beautiful place in Launceston in Tasmania. Worth going to this place if you are visiting Launceston. There are plenty of parking, but you need to pay for parking, which is nominal fee. This is scenic place. They is an old hanging bridge, long rope way etc. You need to pay for using the rope way. There are places for tail walk. There is an open swimming pool as well, but wasn't open. You can walk through the area and take beautiful photos. There is a coffee shop in the precinct and you can dine in. Main attraction is scenery, trail walking, hanging bridge, rope way etc. This is well maintained is a tourist attraction in Tasmania.
Anto Mathew — Google review
Very picturesque with great walks. What a great place to spend an hour or a day. We were there for a few hours and did a couple of the walks which are not too challenging. I can imagine this would be a great place in the summer and the pool would be a welcoming sight after other activities. The lady at the entrance booth was a friendly font of knowledge, so make sure you take her tips and advice.
Ian Hamilton — Google review
Cataract Gorge Reserve is a breathtaking destination. The suspension bridge adds a thrilling element to the experience, providing stunning views of the gorge. The walking trails and natural beauty make it a must-visit spot for getting back to nature.
Anthony Critchley — Google review
An amazing picturesque destination that's surrounded by tranquil nature that only a God could create. Beautiful all round, perfect for tourists and families. There's a Cafe, a chairlift over the gorge and a few descent walking tracks.
Ronnie S. Riskalla — Google review
One of the best places in Tasmania to visit. The chairlift is amazing and safe for adults. For newborn and kids will have safety strap to put on and team will help you out with that. One way is $15 per person and worth the walk for sure. Trust me you will like it. There’s a cafe and resting area too.
DJ LUVD — Google review
A lovely Launceston Tamar River surprise. Our party really enjoyed this because the walk from Kings Bridge gave nice views and we then went over on the Gorge on chairlift and back via the Suspension Bridge. We were we were all quite surprised at just how attractive this area was and the walk back along the river gorge was quite beautiful. Leave plenty of time as this actually took most of the morning. And the videos are for our grandchildren.
Ross Daniels — Google review
We visited Launceston for my birthday. Landing mid morning before our hotel room was ready, we needed something to do in the meantime. We set out towards the Gorge along the waterfront. The Gorge walk was a delightful, easy paced, not too steep walk past millions of year old sentinels of volcanic rock and the ever present waterway. There are historic points all along the way, the rotunda cafe, suspension bridge, chair lift, basin reserve, even a swimming pool! We walked back the way we came and it seemed easier on the return. There is a steeper walk suitable for seasoned hikers as well. Highly recommended.
Trevor Newman — Google review
A great family friendly place close to the heart of Launceston. It has a free swimming pool (not always manned by lifeguards) as well as some great walks.
The chair lift is pretty decent, and would recommend purchasing a one way ticket as the walk back across the suspension bridge is worth it.
We had an infant with us, so anything with lots of stairs was a problem, otherwise well worth visiting.
Parking is paid but quite cheap at $1/h although the meter wasn't working when we visited.
Aditya Gollakota — Google review
I visited the reserve whilst it was raining, although the reserve was flooded it did not detract from the view or experience.
If you are able, I would recommend a one way ticket for the cable chair (provides a leisurely ride up cataract George, you're able to see a lovely overhead view of the reserve).
Once you have reached the top, it is a lovely ~15min stroll down through Alexandria bridge to return back to the start.
If you have more time set aside for the day, I highly recommend you check out the hikes available at the reserve, there are different intensities available.
Nata H — Google review
A beautiful reserve with a Cafe, bathroom, chair lifts, paid parking and space for the family. Very relaxing, well maintained and not too far from the city centre. There are a combination of short and long treks, so I decided to come the morning before my flight. I highly recommend anyone who comes to Launceston to visit the Cataract Gorge Reserve. 👍👍
M So — Google review
A good experience during the winter. If you like to walk, you should do it! But for those who are not afraid of heights / enjoys a bird view kind of experience, you should go on the skylift! It's beautiful! Fun place to bring your kids and take beautiful photos of the nature
Norhalina Mt — Google review
Definitely come here if you like getting outdoors!
Such an awesome place literally minutes from the heart of Launceston. Easy and pleasant walks to be done, many of which seem even stroller accessible (quite a few being pushed as we walked around)
Lots of local wildlife plus all the peacocks that call this area home. A neat little cafe on the far side of the gorge with a great deck. Couple of minutes walk to the iconic suspension bridge and further longer walks to be taken up the gorge if you’re keen.
Lots of parking, but it is metered, but at the time of visit the maximum day charge was $6. We spent about 1.5-2 hours and took the chairlift one-way to the far side then did the walk back around as we took lots of pics.
Jason Miller — Google review
We went to the gorge pretty certain that due to my slight disability we wouldn’t have got to see much. The chairlift was likely our best option, but I was concerned about my legs coping with jumping off at the end. I needn’t have worried. They stopped the lift for me to get on safely, and the same at the end to disembark. It wasn’t just me either. What a great service - and a way for all abilities to enjoy such a beautiful place.
Lots of more strenuous walks to satisfy all fitness levels.
Also a few wildlife encounters which was a bit cool too!
Kitty Kat — Google review
Very interesting and picturesque place. Sat in the longest chairlift in the world. Yes, feeling fabulous and the chair lift can seat two person max. The walk through the suspension bridge is a bit wobbly and will shake more if children jumps on it. The view from the bridge is scenic with the cascading waterfalls and rocks in the background. There are toilets and restaurants too.
Peacocks walking around picking up foods, not shy of people.
Cheah KM — Google review
We had an amazing experience at Cataract Gorge..the facility catered to the needs of our entire family...the chair car experience was amazing on a beautiful sunny day. Children were kept entertained with a variety of play equipment and gorgeous swimming pool. The cafe was also amazing with lovely views...must cover if you are in Launceston!
Rahul Puri — Google review
Spectacular views and awesome place to visit on a hot summers day. Must do chairlift. Have a look down on the souvenir shop roof and you might find a drink bottle or 2 on the roof 😂. Great walks around the gorge with plenty of of wildlife
Peter Hayes — Google review
This is a terrific place to visit. The entry is free. Lots of walking or hiking paths. Tame peacocks, wallabies wander about. Cafe at the entrance makes good coffee and there is also a cafe near the rotunda. Chairlift has a fee, but if you have a Seniors Card or Concession Card it is cheaper. Beautiful gorge.
Mary Knights — Google review
A lovely recreation and picnic ground steeped in history. Great cafe, playgrounds, swimming pool, and amenities with well maintained gardens and walking trails to explore the beautiful natural surroundings. Of course there is also the famous old chairlift across the gorge. Well worth the small parking fee and short drive from Launceston CBD.
Keith — Google review
Beautiful place!! 🤩 there's also a swimming pool and some wildlife (peacocks, wallabies and some interesting looking birds)
The chairlift is a must, so many great photo opportunities and I'd say paying for the one way is good enough rather than the return because the walk back down isn't as long as you'd think it is. It'd take you only 15 - 20mins unless of course you need the return trip then go for it. Definitely check out the suspension bridge
Best to go as early as you can as it can get crowded, especially the line for the chairlift. We came just as the place was opening so there was no line but when were leaving, there was a huge line
LJ LJ — Google review
This morning, my parents and I visited the Cataract Gorge Reserve in West Launceston, Tasmania. It's hard to begin how to describe this place. Massive, breathtaking, scenic, incredible, magnificent. It reminds me of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado or Yellowstone National Park.
We started on the First Basin Walk, a short easy walk around the large water basin and over the Alexander Suspension Bridge. From here, it splits off into several walks and hiking trails as well as the continuation of the First Basin Walk with a lovely crossing over the water.
I decided to tackle the Trevelyan Walk by myself. It's a steep, rocky trail with lots of trees and overgrown vegetation. I spotted a wallaby and baby joey as well as several fellow hikers and runners which put my mind at ease. Plenty of scenic views along here of the reserve.
I walked back along the Daffodil Walk which is a beautiful short rainforest track and connects back to the First Basin Walk.
As well as the walking tracks, there's also a chairlift, outdoor swimming pool, cafe, restaurant, BBQ picnic area, lots of blue peacocks and more. It was certainly worth visiting on our Tasmania trip.
Michael Dixon — Google review
Wow, what a day at Cataract Gorge Reserve! We enjoyed the chair lift, which is short and not that high. You can explore the other side with a short hike to the suspension bridge. The pool was good and relaxing. There are plenty of natural animals on site, which you can't miss. In the end, the meal was tasty and reasonably priced. When visiting Launcestan, this location is a must-see.
aador h — Google review
Beautiful location and views. Can spend a whole day if the weather is kind! Quite a few walks if you are keen… chair lift gives a great areal view of the gorge and the river. Kids were excited to see so many peacocks in one place! there is a large picnic area with a pool and a kids playground. Very close to Launceston city centre.
Kushar Perera — Google review
4.7
(6891)
•
4.5
(5828)
74-90 Basin Rd, West Launceston TAS 7250, Australia
City Park is a large park located next to Launceston CBD. It has plenty of green space, benches and a playground for children, as well as a Japanese macaque enclosure with kids' activities. The gardens are full of flowers and the local wildlife includes several ducks, various birds and monkeys. City Park is worth a visit for anyone in Launceston.
Great place for a walk. Located centrally within Launceston. Has a play area for the kids. Others will enjoy the gardens full of flowers. Kids will also enjoy a ride on the kids train which takes around 10mins a quick tour around the park. The local wildlife consist of several ducks, various birds and monkeys. Worth a visit.
Paolo De Guzman — Google review
The Launceston Park is nicely located in the heart of the business district of town. It's not massive but it can be considered as a people's park because it has the basic amenities of a public park.
People can see animals, appreciate nature, mesmerize by the old architectures in the area or just breath the freshest air the world has to offer.
The well manicured lawns is welcoming for first time visitors and by just walking in the park, you can have a glimpse of some bits and pieces of history of the place during the early days of the settlers.
The Park have few entrances and exits from multiple streets and you can see walkers, joggers, cyclist, picnic goers, event phot shoots, and photographers, etc around the park. This park is also a good place to celebrate life moments like birthdays, weddings and anniversaries. .
One thing to note, is that dogs are not allowed inside the park and if you bring your car, off street parking is available around the area and during Saturdays, Harvest Market is just around the corner.
The park is not that well maintained though, smelly water from the pond, the fountain and its water is visibly not been taken cared very well. I think the council/ park administration needs to do more than what they are doing now.
Maybe more staff or hours needs to be allocated in maintaining the park, or they can distribute forms or ask online and ask some suggestion from the general public about the best way to improve the park for the future generations to enjoy.
Alpha Twenty — Google review
Stunning park in the city area, offering plenty of space with lots of shaded areas to have a picnic play with your children or just wander. The park also has a viewpoint to admire the Japanese Monkeys that live and bread in their own habitat. Worth the visit
Terry Ross — Google review
Gorgeous park! Well kept, pretty flowers and plants, the atrium is amazing! There's a monkey enclosure which is awesome. Plenty of giant shady trees, a water fountain with gardens. Beautiful all round.
Amber McGrath — Google review
Lovely walk around the park. Many sites to see and read about. Japanese Macac enclosure worth a stop.
Mark and Jen Ackerman — Google review
Lovely park across the road from our accommodation. Beautiful gardens lush green lawns, stunning display of orchids in the conservatory. I just was amazed by the Macaque display so cute and entertaining such a fantastic idea and free to view them. Such a rare find.
Gay Jardine — Google review
A nice park with a conservatory area. Not a lot to see. The monkeys make it a must see. Note the craftsmanship in the Queen's Jubilee commemorative arch which also has a drinking fountain.
Debbie Norman — Google review
The appropriately named "City Park" is a beautiful park in the centre of Launceston. The grounds were spotless and extremly well maintained. Great place for a walk or a picnic with liots of open areas. There was also a Japanese Macaque exhibit which was free and very much unexpected.
Victor — Google review
Launceston City Park is a heritage park that was established in the 1820s by the Launceston Horticultural Society. In 1863 it was passed to the Launceston City Council.
It is a beautiful park near the centre of town with a display of Snow Monkeys, a conservatory, a band stand, a fountain paying tribute to Queen Victoria, a duck pond, Albert Hall, Design Tasmania, City Park Radio and Museum and various other sculptures and tributes.
It was well worth the stroll through. The Radio museum is entry by gold coin donation but the rest is free to wander through, including the monkeys.
YouTube @JABINDAJOEY like & subscribe to follow our Aussie adventures
Jabinda Joey — Google review
First time in Launceston and this was the second place we visited, easy walk across a foot bridge from Victoria Museum if you go there first. Saves finding anything closer to park your vehicle.
Well worth a roam around at any time of day.
G Frost — Google review
I passed the park to go to the resto for dinner, the park becomes someone’s residence so NOT recommend you to pass after sunset. Whilst in the morning, its beautiful and its fine as some people jog around here.
Novita Halim — Google review
A really serene, beautifully kept garden space. I loved the huge trees and the general way its set out. It's a lovely walk and very tranquil as a community space.
Petra Sabina — Google review
This park was very beautiful. The flowers surrounding the benches were just inviting you to sit and enjoy this green space.
The conservatory was just bursting with or hids and othe fabulous flowers.
The monkeys were very entertaining, and I had a good chuckle at their antics.
Julie R — Google review
Loved the easy walking and shaded areas in the park. Large areas to picnic. The Macaqau Monkeys enclosure, open 9am till 4pm and free. The monkeys 🐒 are so playful and information signs are available. Since late 1800s the park has had an animal enclosure to encourage people to the park, our main reason to visit, before returning to Victoria. 🐒😍
moni lee — Google review
This is an amazing park. Beautiful green grass and plenty of space to enjoy it.
The duck pond is muddy water but the ducks love it.
The main feature of the park is the monkey enclosure. They have been in the park for years and the community includes young.
Darren White — Google review
Plenty of parking around the park area. Heaps to do for the family. Play areas, the John Hart Conservatory and a superb monkey enclosure, make this park perfect for repeat visits.
Mark Boltman — Google review
What a beautiful place to read a book , have some lunch, or just sit back and relax gazing at the parks beauty. Have a wander through the conservatorium filled with beautiful plants and water fountain. Don't forget to visit the monkey enclosure as well, the enclosure opens at 8am with keepers putting out lots of fruit , watch the monkeys have breakfast and play
Mal Forsyth — Google review
Although the entertaining monkeys area worth a visit, it's the beautiful gardens and gorgeous established trees that make this park a lovely place to hold a picnic date or have a quiet recharging walk. Plentiful grassy areas, benches to sit and a kids playground with a cute little mushroom toilet room. Well groomed gardens with path access to get fully around making a great place for a walk. The hot house has a wonderful arrangement of flowers, orchids ferns and indoor plants. There are also toilet facilities available. Near Tamar st entrance there is this vintage radio museum. Very eclectic and interesting place to enjoy.
Sam Waddi — Google review
A must-see (FREE) attraction whilst visiting Launceston.
Well done to the local council for keeping this treasure so clean, maintained & appealing to visit.
There is so much to see and do here.
I visited the City Park radio station & Museum, the plant atrium, sat with the ducks. But the Japanese snow monkeys 🐒 are so cool to see.
The Monkeys are fed 4 times a day, so you see them interact with the keepers & ask questions. 25 in total, including many new babies (Feb).
The annual 3 day FESTIVALÈ held here on Feb 2 - 4th, was so good too.
Raelene G — Google review
Went for the snow monkeys. They were away the whole day. Maybe for cleaning the enclosure. More time out of the enclosure would be nice for the monkeys, 8-4 doesnt seam like enough time out for them. Maybe change the time according to the seasons. No staff, locals told me funding cuts and that their used to be more animals. Beautiful park and location though.
Tours & dining at a 19th-century manor house on a sprawling farm renowned for its rose garden.
July 2021. Woolmers Estate, located a few kilometres outside of Longford is a must if you're on the convict trail, or heritage trail around Tasmania. The estate offers a brilliant insight into the lives of the northern settlement years of Tasmania and the relationships between the free settlers and the convicts. Fairly well intact, there are many stories to be told here. Ensure that you book a house tour to explore the inside of the main estate building, and a convict tour to understand the stories of the past. This is a must for anyone looking for Tasmanian history, and a scarcely different story to that of Port Arthur.
Andrew — Google review
We attended at Woolmers Estate for the Convict Tour - our guide was very knowledgeable and asked our son questions along to way which kept him engaged and listening along the way.
It was a very hot day and I unfortunately got very burnt - yes I should have applied sunscreen before coming - but as a suggestion this could be provided in the shearing shed at the commencement of the tour?
We also went to the restaurant, which isn’t part of the estate, food was really nice, however menu wasn’t suitable for children at all
A K — Google review
Fabulous, historic home that lets you learn something about early colonial life plus a fascinating family. Add to this a beautiful, huge rose garden and a fantastic restaurant and gift shop. A must visit attraction.
Ian Sanders — Google review
An interesting art collection in the gallery and the buildings ĥold a lot of colonial history. Worth a walk around to see the rose garden when in bloom.
Smiley — Google review
Gardens stunning and staff very helpful.
Restaurant food was great a bit pricey and they were out of stock on a lot of options
Worth a visit
Carolann Krause — Google review
A wonderful place to visit, full of history. A must if you visit Longford. Beautiful gardens & historic buildings. Tours are available. There is also a really nice restaurant there with a gorgeous outlook, plus accomodation.
Alex Cieciwa — Google review
A beautiful place to visit. When we were there, there was a car club event so it was very busy, a good wait for cups of tea and coffee. I’m sure they did their best to get everyone sorted.
Christine Patching — Google review
Beautiful Estate with a fascinating history. Glorious rose gardens, and the grounds were immaculate. Our guide, Margaret, not only filled our ears and brains with amazing facts and stories, she also wrestled a Tasmanian Tiger Snake to the ground and returned it to the Estate's wilderness in order for the tour to continue. 10/10 recommend Margaret and the estate in general.
Kara Wilson-Yapp — Google review
Very nice historical area to wander around. Lovely gardens, nice set up. Very good lunch. Helpful staff, unfortunately no tours due to sickness. If you only have time for one, do Brickendon instead, but it is good to see both.
Gerry Buitendag — Google review
Woolmers Estate - One of eleven Australian convict sites awarded World Heritage status by UNESCO in 2010.
From entry to exit the staff were so helpful and informative. They are obviously as enchanted as we were by this incredible piece of history.
Go, take your time, soak in the history and smell the roses. It's worth it!
The estate was owned and built by Thomas Archer I, and then subsequently owned by six generations of Thomas Archers. Sadly, when Thomas Archer VI died in 1994 there were no heirs. The property and its contents were bequeathed to the Archer Historical Foundation, now the Woolmers Foundation.
Over the six generations things were subsequently added and changed, but the heart of the estate is essentially as it was 200 years ago. It is quite an amazing property to walk around. The main house is entry by tour only. We did the house tour and the convict tour and thoroughly enjoyed them both. You are guided by volunteers who know their stuff and their delivery shows the passion they have for this amazing property and its history.
YouTube @jabindajoey - like & subscribe to follow our adventures around Australia
Jabinda Joey — Google review
What a fascinating place to see. We did the guided tour of the Homestead. Our Guide was a distant relative of the original owners and very knowledgeable. The Rise garden was something to see and smell. Loved our visit there.
Kerry Haddock — Google review
I was hooked listening to the story behind this beautiful property and the history. Take a trip back in time!
Therese Feldman — Google review
The estate has famous rose garden ,vintage cars and buildings on display. The visitor information centre has restaurant with various food options.The estate has an entry fee for visitors
The Tasmanian Wool Centre is a beautiful and neat shop promoting Australian wool, offering a variety of woolen products from jumpers to socks. The center also features a wool museum that delves into the history of the town Ross. Visitors can explore historical displays and learn about different breeds of sheep and their impact on wool texture. Additionally, the center serves as an information hub for visitors.
Worth the visit to learn about the history of wool in Australaia and the different types. Michelle is so friendly and accommodating. She even explained some history around the place. Very interesting. The museum was very well presented as well as the shop and the products.
Definitely worth the visit. Highly recommended!
Marvin — Google review
A beautiful store with so many lovely woollen jumpers, jackets, beanies and scarves for women, men and children. A must visit! (Woollen blazer purchased from the store!!
Karen Miles — Google review
Beautiful shop, neat and tidy promoting Australian wool. You'll find anything you need from jumper to singlet, socks, beanies, scarves and gloves ...
There is also a wool museum at the back and part of it explains the history of the town Ross.
The Tasmanian Wool Centre is an information centre as well! Make sure to pop in here, it's worth it.
Claire Garcia — Google review
Excellent experience
Lovely wool
Historical displays
Friendly staff
Hand knitted fabric for sale
Highly recommended
Amy Johnston — Google review
Huge range of quality woollen garments as well as a range of children's hand knitted clothing. A great range of wool available bother raw and in skeins together with patterns, needles and crotchet hooks. Brilliant for traveller's itchy fingers!
Even some great wool dyes available!
Love this outlet. Brilliant.
Diana Quilliam — Google review
It was a cute places to visit. It is a store with an attached museum about wool. It talked about the in mates and had wool samples you could touch. I didn't know the breed of the sheep would change the texture of the wool as much as it did. However the goods are a bit expensive and not all of it was made in Australia let alone Tasmania.
Jessie Kilcourse — Google review
Very worthwhile place to visit! The museum was interesting and informative. Especially interesting display of the different types of merino wool where you can feel the difference texture of each type and learn what they are used for.
Very lovely staff. The shop had a big selection of good quality woollen clothing, accessories and other lovely handmade merchandise. Bought a few items for myself and friends. Good to support the local industry too.
Renee M — Google review
Located on Church Street, just up from the crossroads in the centre of Ross, housed in a historic colonial sandstone building is the Tasmanian Wool Centre. It is open seven days a week between 9:30am-4:30pm on weekdays and 10:00am-4:00pm on weekends.
When you first walk in, you feel that you are in an upmarket store, with a range of fashionable high-quality woollen garments on display. All the products sold are made with Australian/Tasmanian wool (though some unfortunately are manufactured overseas).
I failed, at first, to realise is that at the back of the store is a well curated museum, which traces the evolution of the wool industry in Tasmania and the Midlands area, together with displays highlighting the development of Ross from its colonial convict origins. The museum includes a touch and feel display of different types and microns of superfine merino wool - the smell and touch of the natural lanolin, brings the experience to a new level.
I am so glad we spent the time, exploring the Wool Centre, as it gave us a great insight and appreciation into the history of Ross and the role it played in developing Australia's wool industry.
Daniel Arndt — Google review
Very good service, a small curated collection of local wool to buy.
What is most interesting is the museum collection at the back, with permanent as well as temporary exhibitions.
Very informative, vey careful staff, totally worth a visit.
I BT — Google review
This is an interesting exhibition showing the history of the wool industry in Tasmania and is worth visiting if you are in Ross. There is also a shop containing a wide range of pure wool clothing items. Entry is free.
Chris Fellows — Google review
It is a wonderful experience to visit Ross Village. We visited here in spring. The scenary was amazing. Wandering under the big trees with young leaves on the street is fabulous.
Dan Dau — Google review
I used their online shop to purchase their wool hat. Excellent product, reasonably priced and very fast delivery. Highly recommended.
Wonderful to walk through the old mill and surrounding historic buildings. Interactive video inside the buildings showcases the history of Oatlands. Lovely to look back in time.
Noogal — Google review
We got the opportunity to do the Serendipity experience, which was hands down one of the best experiences for whiskey tasting I have ever done.
Do not be deterred by the price tag of the experience as what you get is above and beyond.
The staff are so friendly and helpful. Our tour guide was amazing (even working past the closing time to make sure we got a great experience)
If you are into whiskey then look no further.
John Church — Google review
The only authentic working tower mill in the Southern Hemisphere!! Impressive, beautifully restored – something I never expected to find in such a random town we passed through by accident. Beside it sits a fantastic playground picnic area with water taps, shelter, BBQs. (Lost a star because the windmill was closed both days I was there, and I was dying to go inside)
Michael Fuller — Google review
My family gave me the Serendipity Experience as a 70th birthday gift. My wife and I were also celebrating our 45th wedding anniversary.
Jose was my assistant and guide for the experience and also at our lunch time meal. He was such a lovely guy, so informative and helpful. He took me through the process. This was the best ever whiskey tasting experience I have had. I would recommend to any whiskey lover. Our meal was delicious and the service provided was impeccable. We are from Tasmania and will be sure to call in again on our way past Oatlands. Thank you again!
Frank & Sue Stucas — Google review
An interesting historic site, which sadly was closed on an autumn Sunday. Visitors could wander around the ground though.The restoration looks great, and the adjacent spanking new Distillery which will soon open will be a fine addition to the site.
Ken Richards — Google review
A first visit to the mill and distillery was a wonderful experience. After hearing great things from friends who have been before us, we made the trip up.
The grounds and buildings are very well maintained and the restaurant warm and inviting on a rugged Tasmanian winters day.
We had booked a late lunch and looked forward to the offerings. The staff were very attentive and the meals lovely. Paired with a whisky flight, the afternoon was a delight 😊
A very special mention for house manager Josh. He chatted a while with us about our experience at Callington Mill and our thoughts on a favourite whisky. This led to an offer to sample a very rare dram of their first release bottling. I was stoked to be able to taste history in a glass...a delicious combination of PX and Oloroso casks 🥃🥃
Big love to all at Callington Mill for making a very memorable day for my wife and I.
Jeremiah Tonks — Google review
Wow wow wow, what an amazing experience and what a beautiful tourist attraction Callington Mill Team have created in Oatlands TASMANIA. We went there expecting to spend 1 to 2 hours but ended up staying there for half a day and never wanting to leave. The food is nothing short of exceptional and the service is just mind blowing. My wife and I really enjoyed it and thank you for hosting us. We can't wait to come again.
Robert David — Google review
Add definite must visit trip learn about how they distil in Tasmania. Great tasting whisky, very friendly staff. The distillers on hand to answer any questions. It is always worth getting the tasting plates
David Shirley — Google review
Truly a splendid venue and a fitting tribute to the spirit(ual) entrepreneurship found in Tasmania. We thoroughly enjoyed our lunch and the whisky tasting. The tour of the distillery was insightful. Highly recommended as a lunch venue if you're visiting or even passing by Oatlands.
Peter Bond — Google review
I did a tasting flight
Quintessence
Emulsion
Blue Lake
Dark Secret
Ranking
Emulsion - A good mix of cognac and port in this one, definitely the best of the bunch I tasted here
Quintessence - Was great but lacked the character and finish of the emulsion
Dark secret - smells like Scotland and has so much potential this one but that initial sweetness kills it for me.
Blue Lake - Too sweet
Kids play park is brilliant!
Location excellently finished
Food looked absolutely divine
Worth a visit and a stop, whiskey is ok/good.
Michael X — Google review
This mill is so amazing. The windmill perfectly still in working order! The gardens and grounds are stunning. The town of Oatlands is worth investigating. The locals are so friendly and helpful
Kriket W — Google review
We visited Callington Mill Distillery last week and have to say, it is a visit that must be done and the "make your own whiskey" experience, is one to not be missed!
The Craftsmanship that has gone into this place is incredible. We were in awe of how beautiful and pristine everything looked- took way too many pics.
Hubby and I opted for the informative guided tour with whiskey tasting, the make your own whiskey experience and also had a delicious lunch! We will definitely be re-visiting on our next trip to Tas.
I also must mention the quality of the staff was second to none- all were friendly, helpful, professional and so informative.
You know a place is great when you factor in 2 hours for a visit and end up spending 4 hours, willingly. Thank you for an amazing experience- looking forward to our next visit.
Del — Google review
Hard to find a better restaurant in Tasmania! Morton bay bugs to perfection. Whiskey tasting was also a really nice experience of taste so sensations. Great service and ambience. Thank you for a lovely afternoon.
Randy DeGraw — Google review
We did the serendipity experience for an 30th birthday and it was incredible. Special shout-out to Josh who guided us every step of the way and made it the most amazing experience. Cannot recommend Callington Mill Distillery or Josh enough, definitely made the trip down from Melbourne well worth it! We also stayed for lunch and the food was so good. Can’t wait to come back.
Kara Nathan — Google review
I can't speak for the distillery but the surrounds and the mill are so worth the visit. Interesting history and they did a very good job of the visual presentations. Highly recommended!
The Devil's Corner Cellar Door winery overlooks Moulting Lagoon and the Hazards mountains on Freycinet Peninsula, and has two food outlets, styled-up shipping containers. The wine is delicious, but can be a bit overpriced. The atmosphere is charming, and the lookout tower is an excellent feature.
Has been here many times and the food (seafood place and also the pizza’s)is lovely and the lookout is exceptional!!!!! I Fond the wine is bit over priced as you can get the same bottles from stores for cheap. Loved the atmosphere and best is when there is some live music.
Anthony Rodrigo — Google review
Love this place so much! Modern classy place with al fresco seating. We did wine-tasting and got ourselves the wood fired Deli pizza, wild prawns and oysters. The pizza crust is probably the best I’ve ever had.
Fangqin Chuah — Google review
Let me preface this by saying I'm not usually a huge wine person, but my recent trip to Tasmania took me to Devil's Corner Cellar Door, and let me tell you, it was an experience that went way beyond just the wine.
The location itself is incredible. It's a bit of a drive from both Hobart and Launceston, but the scenery along the way is stunning. The minute you pull up to the cellar door, you're greeted by this breathtaking view of the coast. It's wild and rugged, and it definitely lives up to the "Devil's Corner" name.
The cellar door itself is modern and stylish, but it still feels warm and inviting. The staff were fantastic – friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about the wines. I did a tasting, and even though, as I mentioned, I'm not the biggest wine person, I was really impressed. The wines were full-bodied and flavorful, and they definitely had that unique Tasmanian character.
But what really made the experience for me was the combination of the wine, the food, and the view. We grabbed some snacks from their food partners, Tombolo Freycinet, and they were the perfect complement to the wine. We just sat there, sipping our wine, munching on delicious food, and soaking up the view. It was pure relaxation and a moment I won't forget.
So, even if you're not a huge wine drinker, I highly recommend checking out Devil's Corner Cellar Door. It's a beautiful place with great wine, food, and views, and it's the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the stunning Tasmanian scenery.
Thanh Hảo Lê — Google review
This place looks fancy and has fabulous views across the vineyards and over to the Freycinet peninsular. We called in just after opening and walked up to a bar which looked like it might be the place for tastings. We greeted the lady behind the bar and asked if we could taste some wine - she gave us the impression she was busy and we were interrupting, but proceeded to tell us we could pay $12 for 3, $15 for 5 or $20 for 5 or premium wines. We ended up opting for the latter and tried a sparkling, 2 whites and 2 reds (1 paddle between 2 adults as one was driving). The portion sizes were quite small considering the cost of the tasting in my opinion. She recommended we taste white to red then have some water and come back through them all again - which we couldn’t do with some of them despite having tiny sips of each.
She left to answer a call for the majority of the time we were standing at the bar tasting so we didn’t get much explanation of the wines at all. When we decided to purchase one of the whites we asked whether any of the cost of the tasting would be deducted and were met with a kind of shocked “no”…just 10% discount off any purchases. We were made to feel silly for asking although I know this to be pretty standard across most wineries in Australia (if the tastings aren’t free in the first place).
Overall we would have appreciated more attention and explanation, a nicer friendlier demeanour from the staff member or else a free or refunded tasting experience with purchase. The wines were quite nice and we probably would have purchased more with a different feel/experience.
Claire Walker — Google review
The most amazing dining experience! We highly recommend checking out the wood fire pizzas and fresh oysters to go along with your wine board tasting, and have a stroll around the grounds! Beautiful estate!
Yvette Dimalanta — Google review
Beautiful winery, the location is stunning and the overall ambiance is extremely aesthetic and polished. It was quite pricey though, so be prepared to fork out for the tasting and accompaniments. The coffee was really nice! Worth a visit for the scenery and vibes
Srishti Suri — Google review
Called in by chance. The set up and the views are exceptional. The wine tasting was nice but none of those selected blew me away. It is a great location to sit and taste something new, just a shame there was a power outage because some food would have complimented the offering.
Mike Hall — Google review
Great spot for lunch, the views are amazing and the pizzas were absolutely delicious. The renovation was done really well.
We were a quite disappointed with the cheese and charcuterie board. After ordering it we were given a pre made platter that is barely enough for one person. It was being stored in a fridge with a plastic cover on it, so the crackers had gone soggy. At $45 I expected something a little more substantial and better quality. So don’t bother with it, the money is better spent on the pizza.
Liam Akacich — Google review
Even if you don't drink wine pop In for a coffee, because this place has one of the most breathtaking view. And the food was on point and the wines sure does make the heart rejoice. Julie is wonderful on walking you through the selections and wine tasting. Thank you
B Adams (Adams family) — Google review
We had an amazing time here on Sunday. Service in the wine cellar was warm, attentive and they were very knowledgeable about the area and delicious wine. We had oysters in every way possible which were the best we’ve eaten in a long time, perfect size, flavoursome and the salmon pate plate which was very tasty. The only note I’d say was a negative was that they stopped serving pizza around 2pm however we chose a cheeseboard instead and that was fine. Other than that, the weather was beautiful, the service was perfect and we will definitely be back on our next visit to Tasmania. Thank you!
Margo Wright — Google review
The service at the pizza counter was just okay, but the rest of the staff at Devil's Corner were truly amazing. Their dedication and friendliness contributed to a memorable experience. The stunning location and excellent wine make this place deserving of a 5-star rating.
Vipin Kc — Google review
The place looks incredible. Even if you don’t want to drink wine, you must visit this place for lunch.
Wine tasting was good, and the food as well.
But the view it’s definitely the best!
Carlos J T — Google review
Wine & chocolate tasting... what a fantastic experience... the pairings were delightful and the staff very informative and interested in what we doing down here in Tassie... it was over lunch which can be a very busy time but they were helped us very quickly... even got discount on the wine purchases because I did the tasting.
the weather was perfect with splendid views over the vineyards... wife & the kids had pizza on the deck and enjoyed it very much.
Will recommend a stop for lunch and some nice wine.
Herman Janse van Rensburg — Google review
We need somewhere to go on a rainy day and this was the perfect find. There are 3 businesses sharing the location. The building is most creative in its design. The vertical naturally stained timber structure has exposed beams. There's a lookout detached from the complex. There's the seafood outlet, the pizza outlet and the winery. A very lay back dining atmosphere with no pretensions here. The quality of each product is of a high standard and reasonably priced. There was 6 of us and a toddler who turned up unannounced and we found a place to sit and a baby chair readily available.
Peter Dal-Ben — Google review
Gorgeous views!!! We also did a premium wine tasting and learnt more about the vineyards. The gentleman from Manchester shared about the history and 6 types of grapes grown here.
Goh Shi Hui Kimberley — Google review
Devil's Corner is a fantastic destination for wine enthusiasts and food lovers seeking a memorable experience in a picturesque setting. Located in Tasmania, Australia, Devil's Corner offers a unique blend of wine tasting, delectable cuisine, and stunning views, especially on a sunny day.
• Wine Tasting: Devil's Corner is renowned for its exceptional wine offerings. You can embark on a delightful wine-tasting journey, sampling a variety of their finest wines. From crisp Chardonnays to bold Pinot Noirs, their selection caters to a range of palates.
• Pizza and Seafood: Pair your wine with mouthwatering pizzas and fresh seafood. The combination of wood-fired pizzas with locally sourced seafood creates a culinary experience that's both satisfying and complementary to the wines.
• Coffee: If you're looking for a pick-me-up or a change of pace from wine, Devil's Corner offers quality coffee. Sip on a cup of freshly brewed coffee while taking in the serene surroundings.
One of Devil's Corner's standout features is its breathtaking view. Enjoy your wine, pizza, or coffee while gazing out at the stunning landscape. The vineyard is set against the backdrop of the pristine coastline, making it an ideal spot to unwind and capture some memorable moments.
Located just a short 10-minute drive from Swansea, Kate's Berry Farm offers a charming and picturesque setting. Their shop is beautifully designed, with a variety of delicious goods available for purchase. Visitors can sample different jams, including some that are meant for adults only. The farm also serves up a berry-filled breakfast to start your day off right before heading out to explore the nearby wineries on the east coast trail.
What a quaint and beautiful berry farm. The location is stunning and the shop is so lovely. We got some delicious huge strawberries which were very pricey. There is so much goodies here and even jam tasting. We could get out 26ft caravan in here but it was a bit of a tight fit, I think only one caravan could fit in here!
“Jonique Life” If you find value in our reviews please consider following our social media outlets on Facebook and Instagram as we highlight magical places you can add to your ever growing bucket list.
Jonique Life — Google review
Absolutely delicious jams and divine relishes! Highlight for me was the tasting station they provide. Took a few little take homes and some for my mum, of course. So glad we made this stopover! Such a cute location. Has a cafe serving food and coffee.
Ally Wilwood — Google review
They have the best I boysenberry ice cream and the must have french crepes. The cottage is cute and cozy which is perfect for have tea and dessert. Too bad they didn't have any berries bushes for self picking.
Overall I would recommend anyone and I'll revisit again just for the crepes.
Am Friesen — Google review
Boysenberry ice cream was delicious, berry sorbet too (very strong flavour).
French vegan crepes could be improved if vegan vanilla ice cream was available instead of berry sorbet as it’s too much when you add the berries jam. Also due to berry jam being warm, sorbet ice cream melts too quick and it’s hard to eat.
Latte was good!
There’s a wide variety of jams, chocolates, chutneys.
Many cute little details everywhere.
Anto Nella — Google review
Pretty location. We had ice-cream but plenty of other food available too. We arrived late in the day, so couldn't do the place justice. Certainly looks worth another visit.
Sonia Lancaster — Google review
Closed for winter but now open for spring. I can’t resist berries of any kind, so it was a given the car was going to go up this driveway. And what an amazing view it disclosed. You could see all of the Hazards (mountains) looking over Coles Bay and Freycinet National Park. WOW
Our chosen delectable gourmet 2nd lunch was a round of scones with raspberry jam. YUM!
I was close to buying chocolate covered dried raspberries, but I was strong. And then there was the raspberry and cointreau jam - walk away right now! I had a taste of it - delightful!
Definitely worth a visit just for the view and the berries. It would be even better once the berries are ready to pick.
YouTube @jabindajoey like & subscribe to follow our adventures around Australia
Jabinda Joey — Google review
The mixed berry compote is the star here with the flavour and texture of the berries shining through without the addition of much (if any!) sugar. Our two year old loved it, even more than the ice cream and crepes it came with!!
Scones were fresh and perfect - crisp on the outside, fluffy inside and came with your choice of jam and whipped cream.
Everything is made with such care and the staff were lovely and attentive. There are few charming and genuine places like this left, worth the venture out to support a local gem
Carmen S — Google review
Kate's Berry Farm not only captivates with its natural flavours but also exudes a friendly atmosphere.The non added sugar jam berries is a standout feature, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate the pure, unadulterated flavors of fresh berries.
A special thanks to Sara for her exceptional assistance adds a personal touch to the experience, making it even more memorable. The combination of genuine warmth and outstanding berries makes this place truly remarkable.
Christophe Demouche — Google review
Luckily we turned when we saw the road sign. Absolutely stunning place. I had the pie. Which has a soft microwaved crust. Partner had the crepes which he said was lovely. Go for the crepes.
Dez Rock — Google review
Amazing destination, not just a stop on the way to Freycinet from Hobart. We absolutely loved how serene the farm was and the blueberry ice cream was divine, the boysenberry has a great vanilla note to it and they are very generous with the servings. We can't wait to visit again.
Karl Chong — Google review
We came in as it’s very popular here. The humbleberrry pie is nice. Pancakes are in pack of 2 (not 3) and everything has ice cream which is a bit too much for breakfast ! Flavourful berry sauce with pancakes. Would have loved without ice cream, with butter and more of pancake. Nice setting. Scones a bit dry.
Anandwardhan Hardikar — Google review
What a special little place overlooking the Swansea coast. We enjoyed chatting to Kate and hearing all about the history of her place and we especially enjoyed the scones with jam and cream. Highly recommend!
Stacey Young — Google review
We arrived after a big lunch but we're attracted to eat by the chocolate volcano cake. So yummy. Brilliant coffee. Everything is done with love and care
Linda Simpson — Google review
The visit to Kate's Berry Farm is wonderful. The jam/peanut butter is locally produced and is fresh and tasty. We had some good food at the cafe there as well. We tried the Lavender and Blue Berry Ice Cream- they are both awesome!!
Fish Fanatic — Google review
Tried the pancakes and berry pie. The pie was absolutely divine. A must try indeed. Pancakes were good too, but a bit too sweet. The shop has many options for wines, chocolates and jams. I bought the no sugar mixed berry jam and the blackberry jam with bourbon. There is a section for jam tasting so you know which ones to buy. The only downer is that it’s pricey. All food was $22 for a little bit and jams go upto $14.
Michelle Saldanha — Google review
A beautiful place to spend an hour or two for brunch. Wonderful people work here, and the quality of food is the highest even though it's served casually on paper plates. Don't let that fool you, it's simply a smart business call for this place. I recommend the blackberry bourbon jam, raspberry contreau jam and blackcurrant jam, I highly recommend the dessert wines as well... and those ice creams, scones and mingleberry pie. 😋 Well...just be prepared to come again, I sure did! 😂. What a splendid place, it really is a pure gem. Parking is available on the gravel site, this area seems quite wheelchair accessible from the carpark to the shop, and the toilets have little ramps to access, there are about two to three toilets near the carpark in tiny cute sheds, all clean and well kept. I appreciate the cleanliness, the quality and friendly service. Note: You can't order the wines online to have them delivered unfortunately so make this a 'must visit' when you come to Tasmania. We went around 10am, and found it was a quieter time before a lot more people arrived. They don't open every day, check their opening days before you go, and they are a smaller place, food may run out if you go too late. EFTPOS is accepted here. You can sit inside where there is air-conditioning or outside under shade.
Laura Cooper — Google review
Beautiful location and view. Delicious scones with real cream and boysenberry jam (so many other jams to choose from too!). Must stop.
Karen Miles — Google review
Nice stop over on the way to Freycinet from Hobart. We enjoyed the scones and their fresh jams. Nice view if you sit outside.
Gigi WY — Google review
A perfect little place to stop on the way to Freycinet. Not obvious from the highway that it’s worth the stop, but definitely do.
With a cute little cottage front, banks of flowers, plenty of parking and some lovely treats to be had, this is a perfect pit stop.
The signature berry pie is probably the most berry loaded thing I’ve ever had and was pretty delish. There are jams that can be sampled and bought, of course, too. (We ended up buying a blackberry jam)
Staff were friendly and chatty, and food came quickly. I only marked down cos coffee was only ok…
Jason Miller — Google review
Beautiful and peaceful view to stop and have a rest with a coffee or ice cream on the way to the east coast.
Spiky Bridge is an impressive structure located roughly 7km south of Swansea. It was constructed in the early 1840s by prisoners who used numerous jagged fieldstones found in the area. The bridge used to be part of a major east-coast road where trucks would frequently pass through, but it now sits adjacent to the highway.