The perfect gateway to the rugged north west where the Bass Strait separates Tasmania from mainland Australia. This vibrant and creative port city makes a perfect stopover, or use it as your base to explore the path less travelled.
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Across the north west Coast of Tasmania you have a range of accommodation options — from cabins, cottages and hotels to luxurious resorts.
Cradle Mountain is an easy drive from Burnie, and home to Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge. Immerse yourself in the surroundings for the ultimate nature experience, or embark on one of the many walking trails. If it's a quiet coastal holiday you’re after, the idyllic Boat Harbour with its beautiful beach is a great base if you have a car — or stay in a self-contained apartment or an Airbnb.
The quaint, historic town of Stanley, established in the early 1800’s, will take you by surprise, like walking through living history. With pure air and excellent views across the Bass Strait, this town provides a range of accommodation options from cabins, apartments, hotels, luxury Airbnbs and holiday homes for a relaxing seaside getaway.
Visit the Penguin Observation Centre where every evening around dusk from September to March volunteers offer free talks while you watch fairy penguins waddle up the beach back to their igloo-like nests.
For an easy drive, just north of Burnie is Boat Harbour — a small sleepy seaside village with an unspoilt white sand beach and rocky headlands on either side. This is a great spot to explore the rock pools or to take in the views across the Bass Strait and destress from city life. Just half an hour further north is the picturesque coastal towns of Stanley, home to the remains of an ancient volcanic plug, the Nut. Ride the chairlift to the top of the Nut and take in the 360 degree views over the Bass Strait, or if you like an athletic challenge, take the steep hike which is about a 20-minute walk.
Emilie Ristevski, known for her Hello Emilie Instagram account, and her partner photographer Jason Charles Hill, took a jaunt to Tasmania for a weekend full of wintry delights – think hiking, hot-tubs and helicopters.
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The famous peak in Tasmania’s wild west is as close to untouched nature as you’ll find in the world. You just have to brave the fickle weather.
Read more on Travel InsiderOpens in a new tab or windowBurnie is surrounded by natural beauty and picturesque gardens. A short drive away you can enjoy the tranquility and natural wildlife of Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens maintained by dedicated volunteers to preserve the Rhododendron species. Further up the road is picturesque Guide Falls where you will discover the peaceful sounds of tiered, cascading waterfalls, within a leisurely walk. Stop by Guide Falls Farm, a working farm and home to Grazing's restaurant where you can feast on the delicious seasonal menu while learning what paddock to plate dining really means.
Taste some of Tasmania’s finest produce whilst exploring this region on the Tasting Trail, a must for passionate foodies. Whether you’re into sweet treats, fresh produce, fine wines, or other delicious delights this self-guided epicurean adventure will take you to award-winning cellar doors, farm stalls and food festivals.
North West Tasmania has a number of magnificent walking tracks within a short drive from Burnie, perfect to take in the pure air and immerse yourself amongst nature and wildlife. Fern GladeOpens in a new tab or window is less than 4km from Burnie and an easy 1km walk.
Rocky Cape National Park is just north of Boat Harbour Beach with stunningly diverse landscapes and walking trails ranging from 20 minutes to 4 hours.
For the experienced walker, the 90 minute drive to Cradle Mountain is a must for the world famous Cradle SummitOpens in a new tab or window overland track. Find amazing views over dozens of mountains and lakes. Make sure you obtain a park pass to visit the national parks.
Tasmania is famous for its quality food and drink, and Burnie is no exception. In town you can sample the local cuisine at Bayview RestaurantOpens in a new tab or window, a fine-dining experience with sweeping views of the Bass Strait.
For somewhere more casual, Yachties Bar CaféOpens in a new tab or window is located on the beach, or just out of Burnie you will find Hellyers Road DistilleryOpens in a new tab or window — Australia's largest boutique whisky distillery overlooking the picturesque Emu Valley.
For berries as fresh as they come and only a 25 minute drive away, visit The Berry PatchOpens in a new tab or window at Turners Beach and enjoy berry picking followed by a leisurely lunch at the on-site cafe.
From the airport: Burnie's Wynward airport is located 20kms west of the centre of Burnie. Regular taxi services meet every arriving flight.
If you're planning to hire a car, book ahead. Avis and Hertz both have desks in the airport terminal.
Around the region: If you have a car, there are many villages, picturesque landscapes and activities to be found within a short drive or Burnie.
You can reach Boat Harbour in around 30 minutes or Stanley in an hour or travel a little further to discover Cradle Mountain or Strahan, each around a 90 minute drive away.
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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.
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