Port Arthur Blog

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Explore the region

By Bay Retreat on November 29, 2010 in

The Tasman Peninsula’s dramatic environment created the ideal natural prison for Port Arthur’s convicts. 300-metre high sea cliffs, deep ocean and thick forests made escape an almost impossible prospect. The only land passage north from Port Arthur was found at Eaglehawk Neck, a narrow strip of land flanked by ocean and forest. For the convicts, this too was impassable—heavily guarded by soldiers and site of the notorious Dog Line. This extraordinary place, once so forbidding, is now one of the most beautiful and accessible destinations in Tasmania.

Things to do

View of Tasman Island, near Port Arthur, from the air Port Arthur is just one part of the Tasman Peninsula story and there are countless options for experiencing everything this area has to offer.
  • Join a coastal cruise to see soaring sea cliffs and amazing wildlife
  • Discover stunning natural formations like Remarkable Cave, The Devil’s Kitchen, the Tessellated Pavement and Tasman Arch
  • Walk along secluded beaches
  • Hike along bush tracks to see breathtaking, cliff-top views
  • Visit the Coal Mines Historic Site, where the first working mine in Tasmania was established
  • Visit the Eaglehawk Neck Historic Site, home of the infamous Dog Line
  • Tour the Convict Trail, via Nubeena, Premaydena, Saltwater River, Koonya and Taranna

Accommodation

Take two days, a week or even longer to immerse yourself in the huge range of experiences available in the Port Arthur area. Choose your preferred style of accommodation, from quaint and comfy to cool and classy, including authentic, convict-era cottages and homes, motels, hotels and cabins.

Food and wine

Tasmania’s global reputation for fresh local produce and fine, cool-climate wine is well deserved. You can sample some of the island’s gourmet delights in the Tasman Peninsula region’s many cafés, restaurants and vineyards, or pack a picnic of local delicacies and dine al fresco on a stunning beach, hillside or lush forest. Felons Bistro, the Port Café and Museum Coffee Shop are all located at the Port Arthur Historic Site and are open daily. To make your reservation, call 1800 659 101.

Visitor Information Centre

You’ll find a Visitor Information Centre within the Visitor Centre at the Port Arthur Historic Site. See our friendly staff for suggestions and assistance with accommodation bookings and activities. Telephone +61 (0)3 6251 2371

Short Break Itinerary

Take a few days to explore the region following the Convict Trail Itinerary

Packages

A number of companies partner with the Port Arthur Historic Management Authority Site to offer touring packages that include the Historic Site.
A beach on the Tasman Peninsula, near Port Arthur
A beach on the Tasman Peninsula, near Port Arthur

Port Arthur and the Tasman Region

The Port Arthur and Tasman Tourism Association (PATTA) website has comprehensive information on things to do and see in the region. Managed by local tourism operators, the site includes activities, accommodation, attractions, food and wine and local services. Download a copy of the Tasman region brochure, or pick up a copy from Visitor Information Centres around Tasmania and from local operators.

Hobart and Surrounds

Port Arthur and the Tasman Peninsula are a must-see part of the Hobart and Surrounds region. There are many other experiences and activities available to make an extended stay in the region a great holiday experience.

About Tasmania

Begin your discovery of Tasmania here. Discover Tasmania, the official tourism website for Tasmania, offers everything you need to plan your holiday. Explore the state’s five unique regions, find out what's on, uncover local secrets and book your accommodation or activities online.
The Sea Cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula are the highest in the Southern Hemisphere and afford stunning views and walks.
The Sea Cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula are the highest in the Southern Hemisphere and afford stunning views and walks.

Other useful websites