What would the world look like if you were a bird soaring in the sky or an angel floating in heaven? If you happen to be flying above Australia, you might notice some of the most alluring views are actually in Tasmania (even though New South Wales has the highest peaks). Why? Well, this is an island with otherworldly mountain scenery, beautiful bays and pristine forests. The landmarks in Tasmania are simply breathtaking.
The mountains have legendary names such as Cathedral Mountain, Mount Olympus and King David’s Peak. Fortunately, there are no talking birds or angels around to dispute my list. What’s more, to back me up, Lonely Planet named Tasmania as one of the world’s top 10 regions to visit in 2015 and millions of readers of Travel and Leisure magazine voted in Tasmania as the best island destination in Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific region and the fourth-best island in the world. The good news is you don’t have to be an angel to enjoy Tasmania as there are plenty of ways to soak up the stunning scenery. From scenic flights to hiking to visitor platforms, here are my 10 best heavenly views of Tasmania.
13 Tasmania Landmarks
Natural Landmarks in Tasmania
1- Wineglass Bay
It sounds like you need a wine glass to enjoy this view and you wouldn’t be wrong.
Located in the picture-pretty Freycinet National Park, local aviation companies like Freycinet Air provide scenic sightseeing tours by seaplane.
Start the dream trip at the airfield in Friendly Beaches and prepare to be awestruck in this 30-minute looped tour over the white beaches and shimmering turquoise sea.
2- Mount Amos
Around the Freycinet Peninsula near the charming town of Coles Bay looms Mount Amos, one of the striking granite peaks collectively known as the Hazards. This iconic range defines the landscape of Freycinet National Park, a haven of natural beauty on Tasmania’s east coast.
Although you’ll need to schedule a few hours to trek to Mount Amos, the effort is rewarded with breathtaking, panoramic 360-degree views.
From the summit, you’ll gaze over the turquoise waters of Wineglass Bay, with its perfect crescent-shaped shoreline, as well as the rugged coastline and surrounding bushland.
Freycinet National Park offers much more than just Mount Amos. Tourists love exploring the park’s other sites, including the serene Friendly Beaches, the captivating red rocks of Sleepy Bay, and the picturesque Cape Tourville Lighthouse.
Whether you’re hitting the walking trails, kayaking its lakes or simply soaking in the stunning scenery, Freycinet National Park promises an unforgettable adventure.
3- Horseshoe Bend along the Gordon River
Yes, there is a place in the world where the river’s carved through an ancient canyon and its shape totally resembles a horseshoe.
So imagine your lucky stars plus the lucky horseshoe as you come upon this spectacular view. Of course, the way to experience the magical view is by a floatplane tour.
For more magical experiences in Tasmania read:
4- Cradle Mountain
While it’s revered as one of Australia’s iconic wilderness experiences, you could hike as high as you can on one of the trails at the Cradle Mountain National Park.
Better still, overnight at a remote eco-lodge like Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge.
You’ll want to pinch yourself at this luxury property because of its stark location and incredible amenities.
Guests enjoy a hike to explore Crater Lake as they reach the top of Marion’s Lookout and that’s just one excursion.
The other: hang out by Dove Lake for the most iconic spot to see Cradle Mountain in all its glory. You won’t be on the summit but you’ll definitely enjoy the immense beauty of Cradle Mountain by walking the Dove Lake Circuit.
5- Tasmania’s Totem Pole
On the Tasman Peninsula, deep inside Tasman National Park find Spiderman-looking guys clinging off the rock face.
No, it’s not a dream, it’s the real deal.
Rock climbers challenge themselves as they scale up the sheer rock face of this brilliant rock formation known as the Totem Pole.
A craggy cliff by the water’s edge, the views are out of this world from the top and has remained on the bucket list for many extreme rock climbers.
6- Mount Wellington
Urbanites from Hobart can flee the city stresses and escape to this lofty perch.
Mount Wellington is famous for a couple of reasons: it’s gorgeous year-round even when snow blankets the peak and there’s a fabulous observation deck that resembles something from a James Bond film.
Undeniably it’s the best seat in the house and the observation deck is one of the top places to visit in Hobart.
Adding to its allure, Mount Wellington is also home to the unique Organ Pipes, dramatic dolerite columns formed millions of years ago by volcanic activity.
These natural rock formations are a favorite among climbers and photographers, offering yet another reason to discover this iconic Tasmanian landmark.
7- Cataract Gorge
An explorer William Collins once called Cataract Gorge: ‘the most beautiful place in the world.’ Don’t take his word for it though – this is a must-visit place to discover.
Take a chair lift on what many insiders purport as the world’s longest single-span chairlift over the gorge or better yet use the retro suspension bridge and traipse along to the other side.
Beneath your feet, the entire time is the South Esk River with its powerful flow.
8- Federation Peak
Sharp crevices are part of the allure but the other – for extreme rock climbers who take to this popular peak in Southwest National Park – is the unparalleled view from this summit.
Capture outstanding views of Lake Geeves from this perch.
9- Mount Ossa
Looming 1617 metres above sea level, the first time Tasmania’s highest mountain was climbed happened in the 1830s.
The curious hiker and climber will want to commit a few hours ascending this snow-covered peak.
Located midway along The Overland Track, the jagged spire of rock is breathtaking as it pierces the sky.
You feel as if you are walking through the clouds into heaven as a blanket of clouds drapes between the peaks.
10- Russell Falls
In the heart of Mount Field National Park, Russell Falls is one of Tasmania’s most iconic natural wonders.
This breathtaking multi-tiered waterfall is surrounded by lush rainforest, featuring towering tree ferns and moss-covered trees.
Easily accessible via a short walking trail, it’s a must-see destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Mount Field National Park is Tasmania’s oldest national park and Russell Falls offers a serene and unforgettable experience in one of the state’s most picturesque settings.
11- The Neck
The Neck on Bruny Island is an iconic natural landmark, a narrow isthmus connecting the island’s northern and southern regions.
Its highlight is the wooden staircase leading to a lookout platform, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of shimmering beaches and turquoise waters.
The Neck is also a wildlife haven, home to a penguin rookery where little penguins return to their burrows at dusk. Combining scenic beauty and unique wildlife experiences, The Neck is a must-visit destination for Bruny Island explorers.
Famous Landmarks in Tasmania
12- Gordon Dam
You can’t beat the views from this sky-high tall dam.
The tallest dam in Tasmania is a must-see at this popular tourist attraction; and to boot, one of its biggest claims to fame was when the world record basketball shot was brilliantly perfected.
Be forewarned the countless steps on this overly steep staircase is not recommended for people afraid of heights.
Adrenaline seekers, on the other hand, will have a field day lacing up the sneakers and preparing for that awesome moment.
13- Port Arthur Historic Site
Port Arthur Historic Site is a must-visit scenic spot in Tasmania, with great views of the Tasman Peninsula’s rugged coastline.
Once a 19th-century penal settlement, features beautifully restored buildings that transport visitors back in time.
Famous landmarks at Port Arthur Historic Site include the haunting Separate Prison, the Gothic-style church ruins, and the Commandant’s House.
Strolling through the tranquil gardens and ruins, visitors can immerse themselves in the stories of convicts and settlers, making Port Arthur a place of both beauty and profound history.
Discover more Famous World Landmarks:
- 30 Australian Landmarks
- 20 New Zealand Landmarks
- 22 African Landmarks
- 21 Egyptian Landmarks
- 20 Jordan Landmarks
- 10 Tasmanian Landmarks
- 20 Antarctica Landmarks
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