7 Incredible Places in Australia and New Zealand to See Autumn Colours
Opens in a new tab or windowCapture the magic of autumn leaves.
Read more on Travel InsiderOpens in a new tab or windowPack more into your trip with checked and carry-on baggage included in every fare.
With clear air, gourmet food, wine and natural beauty - it won’t take long to realise that there’s something truly special about staying in this maritime city and the breathtaking region beyond. If you fly directly into Devonport, there are plenty of accommodation options in town, only 10km from the airport. Absorb the regional vibe in one of the quaint bed and breakfasts or deluxe cottages while taking in the view of the Mersey River, or enjoy a farm stay or country cottage in the surrounding countryside. Motels, hotels and self-contained accommodation options are also available, catering for a wide range of travel budgets.
Bursting with fresh flavours, friendly locals and spectacular, jaw-dropping scenery, there’s plenty to see and do in and around Devonport.
A great place to start is at the Mersey Bluff Lighthouse, with its candy-striped facade offering a striking contrast to the coastal views below. Take a ride on the historic Don River Railway or browse the collection at the Devonport Regional Gallery. Don’t miss the Bass Strait Maritime Centre to learn about the natural history of the Bass Strait and its islands.
Turn the region’s finest food and wine into an itinerary to suit your tastes by following the Tasting TrailOpens in a new tab or window from Devonport, winding past cellar doors and farm stalls, cafes and providores. The trail spans more than 37 entrepreneurs who grow, make, create and serve their produce.
Base yourself in Devonport for easy exploration of Cradle Mountain, Mole Creek Caves, Narawntapu National Park and the storied town of Stanley, a 90-minute drive from Devonport along a scenic coastline. Stanley’s most prominent landmark is The Nut, a sheer-sided bluff rising from the water’s edge. Climb the walking trail to the summit, or take the chairlift for 360-degree views.
A little further afield and a short road trip away, explore the West Coast. Hop aboard the West Coast Wilderness Railway for a nostalgic heritage rail journey into cool, temperate rainforest, or join a cruise along the Gordon River and explore Sarah Island, an historic penal colony with a dark story to tell.
Capture the magic of autumn leaves.
Read more on Travel InsiderOpens in a new tab or windowWhether you’re going in winter, spring, summer or autumn, these are the best times to visit Launceston to make the most of all it has to offer.
Read more on Travel InsiderOpens in a new tab or windowMake tracks to the stunning Cradle Mountain and Lake St Claire National Park to stretch your legs and fill your lungs with crisp alpine air in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Witness feeding time at a Tasmanian Devil sanctuary, walk the Dove Lake Circuit or explore the network of scenic mountain trails including the six day Overland Track - one of Australia’s most famous hikes. To reward all that walking, why not spoil yourself with a stay at the iconic Cradle Mountain Lodge where you can enjoy some downtime in the Waldheim Alpine Spa.
Blessed with cool climate conditions, the produce and seafood thrive in Tasmania making it a foodies delight. Take the popular drive along the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail. Wind your taste buds through country roads, farmers’ markets and scenic towns to experience the gourmet flavours of North West Tasmania. Head to Launceston to House of Anvers chocolatier, Ashgrove Cheese and the Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm, then finish with a craft beer among the hop vines at Seven Sheds brewery in Railton.
From the airport: Devonport airport is located 10km from the city centre. Taxis and car hire are located outside the terminal.
In and around the city: the best way to get around Devonport is to walk or cycle. There's also taxis, hire cars or public transport with Merseylink. For longer trips through the state, Tassielink and Redline Coaches operate an extensive timetable to most major Tasmanian towns.
Disclaimer: Photo: Mersey Bluff Lighthouse, Tourism Australia and Graham Freeman
Disclaimer: ^ Qantas Frequent Flyer members will earn 3 Qantas Points per A$1 value unless otherwise specified, for hotel stays booked through qantas.com/hotels, except Classic Hotel Rewards and Airbnb bookings. Points Club members will earn 25% more Qantas Points, and Points Club Plus members will earn 50% more Qantas Points. Qantas Points will be credited to your account at least 8 weeks after check-out. Qantas Points may be earned by the member in whose name the booking is made. Members will not be able to earn points on additional charges paid to the accommodation provider for extras (including cots, breakfasts and other incidentals) on check-in or check-out (as applicable).
Disclaimer: ~ Qantas activities are provided by Viator. Conditions apply.
Disclaimer: ++ Status Credits are earned on eligible Qantas, Jetstar, oneworld® member and oneworld connect® airlines only - see the Airline Earning Tables and Qantas Frequent Flyer program Terms and Conditions for details. Status Credits may not be earned on some fare types and booking classes.
Disclaimer: ∆ Meals, beverages, entertainment offerings vary between flight times.
Disclaimer: + The number of destinations is correct as at 25 January 2024 but is subject to change.
Disclaimer: #You must be a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program to earn and redeem Qantas Points. A joining fee may apply. Membership and Qantas Points are subject to the Qantas Frequent Flyer program terms and conditions.