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Bicheno Travel Guide

The East Coast

Overview

The east coast of Tasmania is essentially a microcosm of Australia—offering gorgeous white sandy beaches, beautiful sunny weather, freshly caught seafood dishes and locally grown fine wines. If you’re looking for a relaxing Tassie getaway, far from the hustle and bustle of things, then this is your spot. Bring the rods, camping gear and binoculars—for there is a wealth of sea and birdlife here you simply won’t want to miss!

Bicheno

There’s a lot to see and do in this family seaside holiday town. Foodies will delight in the superb selection of seafood on offer, from crayfish and abalone to delicious Australian salmon. The area is also popular for its excellent deep sea fishing spots, and for its nearby coastal wineries.

Attractions

Douglas Apsley National Park

This is an exceptionally diverse area with waterfalls, eucalypt forests and heathlands. The Apsley Waterhole is a great spot to cool off and have a picnic. Short strolls from the Waterhole take in the lovely Apsley Gorge, with its soothing streams and native wildlife, including many endangered bird species.

Rocking Rock

Just to the south of Bicheno is the Rocking Rock—a giant 80-tonne slab of granite balanced so that it sways with the movement of the tide. Right beside the rock, visitors can marvel at a true natural wonder— the Bicheno Blowhole—a veritable geyser shooting water up to 20 metres into the air. A footway extends from Redbill Point north of Bicheno to the Blowhole in the south.

East Coast Natureworld

The East Coast Natureworld setting is home to Tasmania’s native wildlife, including birds, animals, reptiles, and mammals in their natural habitat. Walk in to a nature’s oasis, beautifully maintained to keep these wild animals and birds in a sustainable environment. A great opportunity to see a Tassie Devil up close!

Bicheno Motorcycle Museum & Restoration

A treat for biking enthusiasts, this museum displays vintage motorcycles as well as ones currently being restored to their former glory, all courtesy of a unique glassed-in workshop. Vintage spare parts, road and dirt bike tyres, motorcycle clothing and accessories are also available for purchase. Open 7 days a week.

Need to know

Accommodation

Bicheno’s family-friendly seaside setting offers excellent lodging choices—beachfront bungalows, luxury hotels and resorts and even fully furnished apartments with well-appointed rooms and kitchens. This holiday town also has many economic accommodation options, ideal for budget travellers, including free campsites along the coast in parks and reserves.

Getting there

Bicheno is located about two hours by car from both Hobart and Launceston via the National Highway 1, B34. The short drive is well worth the trip. Douglas Apsley is located about halfway up the coast of Tasmania, just two and a half hours from the town of Launceston. The popular Apsley Waterhole is on the most southern tip of the park and can be easily accessed via Rosedale Road off of the Tasman Highway. Unfortunately, vehicle access at the northern entrance can be hit or miss, so it's important to check with the park service department to ensure the availability of accessible roads. If you don't check ahead of time, you can generally get into the park on the E-Road and leave your car 1 km from the start of the E-Road and walk into the park.