16th August 2024
Coastal Dreams: From Ulverstone to Stanley and the Beaches in Between
Tasmania, with its wild landscapes and pristine shores, offers some of the most scenic drives in the world. One such journey that captures the spirit of this island is the coastal drive from Ulverstone to Stanley. Winding roads, spectacular ocean views, and charming stopovers await those who embark on this adventure. Let's dive into this delightful route, complete with beach day trips and gastronomic delights!
Ulverstone: Your Starting Point Your journey kicks off from BIG4 Tassie Getaway Parks Ulverstone.
The town is renowned for its beautiful beaches and lush parks. Before you hit the road, spend some time exploring this coastal gem. Perhaps take a morning stroll along the Leven River or visit the local markets if they're on.
Penguin: The town of penguin is worth a quick visit for the quirky main street with penguins of course!
Wynyard: Open seven days a week, the Wonders of Wynyard is a must-visit when in town. This center offers a nostalgic look at the region’s industry, heritage, and maritime history, including the construction of the Table Cape lighthouse in 1888.
Explore the art gallery featuring local works and a gift shop filled with local produce. The highlight is the Ransley Veteran Car Collection, showcasing over 14 restored vehicles, including the world's equal-oldest Ford, the 1903 Model A.
Fossil Bluff: A real geological wonder, these coastal sandstone cliffs feature bands of prehistoric fossils, rise a little way north of the Inglis River Estuary at Freestone Cove. For visitors there’s a lookout on the cliff-top 30 metres above the Bass Strait, where you can survey Wynyard, the sea, Table Cape and the river mouth.
Boat Harbour Beach: Your Midway Oasis As you drive towards Stanley, a mandatory pit stop is the stunning Boat Harbour Beach. Boat Harbour Beach is simply stunning, offering the perfect blend of powder-white sand, aqua-blue crystal-clear water, and picturesque surrounding rocks and nature. It’s the ideal spot to relax, have a picnic, or indulge in some water activities. On sunny days there’s a shimmering pool of clear, light blue water to bathe in. At low tide you can wander along the bay and see what you can find in the rock pools, and children can run wild at a playground constructed in the sand. The gentle waves here are perfect for swimming, and if you're a surfer, there are some spots that might just pique your interest.
Adjacent to the beach is the ever-welcoming Seekers Cafe at Boat Harbour Beach. Here, you can indulge in delectable treats, ranging from fresh seafood to creamy lattes. The cafe, with its cozy ambiance and ocean views, offers a perfect respite from your journey. Take a walk on the stunning beach after lunch.
Table Cape Tulip Farm: A Riot of Colors Continuing on from Boat Harbour Beach, make your way to the Table Cape Tulip Farm. Depending on the season, you'll be greeted by vast fields painted in vibrant hues of tulips. This year, the farm is open 26th of September until the late October. It's a photographer’s dream and an utterly enchanting sight to behold. The farm not only offers views of blooming flowers but also panoramic vistas of Bass Strait and Table Cape Lighthouse, making it a double treat!
Alchymia Distillery: Alchymia Distillery is a family-owned operation dedicated to creating premium spirits using traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients. From their small-batch gin to their artisanal liqueurs, every bottle is a labor of love, crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Visitors to Alchymia Distillery are treated to more than just a tasting experience. The distillery offers guided tours where guests can learn about the distillation process, from grain to glass. Wander through the gleaming copper stills, inhale the fragrant aromas of botanicals, and witness firsthand the care and precision that goes into creating each batch of spirits.
Stanley: The Coastal Charm As you approach the end of your drive, Stanley, with its iconic The Nut and rich colonial history, welcomes you. Find your base for a few days in BIG4 Tassie Getaway Parks Stanley. This quaint town is perfect for history buffs, foodies, and nature lovers alike. Climb or take the chairlift up The Nut, delve into Stanley’s historical sites, and when hunger strikes, treat yourself to some of the freshest produce and seafood in their local eateries.
The coastal drive from Ulverstone to Stanley is more than just a journey between two points. It offers glimpses of farming lands, pristine nature, rich heritage, and the warm hospitality of its towns.