Moulting Lagoon:
Moulting Lagoon Game Reserve is a wetland of state, national and international significance, it is one of ten Ramsar sites in Tasmania. It has been listed because of its importance as a breeding ground for Black Swans as well as other wetland birds and a key destination for migratory birds, like the Greenshank (that can be seen from around September to March).In addition to its natural significance, the lagoon is important for cultural values. It was regularly visited by Tasmanian Aboriginals of the Great Oyster Bay Tribe, and today it is used for a variety of recreational and commercial activities, including duck hunting and oyster farming. Access to the Lagoon is either at the mouth near Swanwick, where it is possible to walk along the shore at low tide. At the end of River and Rocks Road, where there is also a small campground. Another access point is at the end of Flacks Road (10km north of Coles Bay) where there is an interpretation sign plus a short shoreline walk to Pelican Rocks. This is a great place for bird watching while providing a unique view back to The Hazards.
Bicheno:
Bicheno is a small coastal fishing and holiday town, with beautiful beaches and coastal scenery. There is the coastal track that takes in Waubs Bay, The Gulch and the blowhole. Take a walk up the hill to Whalers lookout where there are two lookouts that take in the town along with the coast, The Gulch and Governor Island.Bicheno has an IGA supermarket, Hardware store, a Bakery and many restaurants, cafes and take away options. There is a Visitor Information Centre in Bicheno for up to date information on the local area. There are great diving opportunities at the Governor Island Marine Reserve, where you can explore granite boulders and rock shelves. The Bicheno Dive Centre is the place to go, where they offer a range of diving packages.
Other activities in and around Bicheno:
Douglas Apsley National Park:
Douglas Apsley National Park is a 16 000 ha park that was declared in 1989 and is one of the few largely uncleared dry Eucalypt forests in Tasmania. Douglas Apsley National Park is found 15 mins north of Bicheno. The park offers deep river gorges and waterfalls that can be explored by half day, day or multi day walks. There is a 3-4 hour return walk to the Apsley Gorge or you could simply enjoy a relaxing swim at the Apsley Waterhole.
The Leeaberra track provides a three day walk from at Thomsons Marshes in the North of the park to the Apsley Gorge in the south. See the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service for further information www.parks.tas.gov.au.
Swansea:
Swansea is a historic town with old colonial buildings that overlook Great Oyster Bay. To the north is Nine Mile Beach, with the Freycinet Peninsular and Schouten Island to the east and Maria Island to the south east. It is ideal for fishing, swimming, or just relaxing on the numerous beaches in the area. There is a city walk that takes in some of the colonial buildings as well as the Loontitemarrelehoiner track around Waterloo Point which is also a Shearwater colony. There are beaches to the South of Swansea: Cressy, Spiky and Kelvedon beaches are close to the Tasman Highway. Adjacent to Spiky Beach there is also the convict built Spiky Bridge.
Swansea has two IGA supermarkets, a hardware store, the Swansea Bark Mill and Tavern, plus a variety of shops, restaurants and cafes. There is a museum of local history located at the Glamorgan Community Centre. Meredith House provides Bed and Breakfast accommodation and studio apartments. Meredith House is a restored colonial building that has provided accommodation for over 100 years.
Wineries and Vineyards:
There are numerous wineries between Swansea and Bicheno, including: Spring Vale Winery, Milton Winery, Freycinet Vineyard, and Devils Corner Vineyard. For a fantastic tour of our local vineyards you can’t beat The Long Lunch Tour Co.
Bay of Fires:
The Bay of Fires is gaining ever greater recognition as a great tourist destination. It is located in the north east of Tasmania between Eddystone Point and Binalong Bay. The Bay of Fires can be accessed from Binalong Bay just 10mins north of St Helens. From here you can marvel at the contrasting colours of the white sandy beaches, the clear blue water and the red granite rocks. Along with long coastal walks and bird watching there are great opportunities for surfing, diving, fishing and kayaking.
Maria Island:
The island is entirely national park and is rich in natural and cultural history. The island offers something for all visitors, from historic ruins, sweeping bays, spectacular coastal cliffs and mountains. There are no motor vehicles or shops on the island. There is camping and basic accommodation at Darlington. Access is by ferry from Triabunna, for ferry information contact Maria Island Ferry and Eco Cruises on 0419 746 688 or see www.mariaislandferry.com.au
