The Dial Range and surrounds sit on Tasmania’s Central Coast in the North West – a part of the region where everything is close, but still feels a little undiscovered.
At its centre is the Dial Range, one of the best spots for bushwalking, mountain biking and coastal views on the North West Coast. Just minutes inland, mountains rise straight from farmland to Bass Strait, with tracks and lookouts that deliver big views without the crowds.
From here, it all connects. Coastal towns like Penguin and Ulverstone offer an easy place to slow down, while inland you’ll find Gunns Plains and Leven Canyon – dramatic, lesser-known and well worth the adventure.
You can go from beach to bush to lookout in under an hour – then keep exploring. Whether you’re travelling by caravan, motorhome or booking a stay, it’s an easy place to base yourself and see more.
If you’re looking for a place that feels like a local secret, this is it.
Only five minutes from Penguin, The Dial Range sits just inland from the coast, but it feels a world away. Forested trails lead up to rocky peaks, with wide-open views across farmland and out to Bass Strait. It’s quiet, easy to access, and delivers a lot for very little effort.
The range is one of the best spots for bushwalking on the North West Coast, with tracks that suit everything from short walks to more solid hikes. It’s also a great place for a mountain bike ride, with easy pedals through the foothills and more challenging options if you want to push a bit further.
Keep an eye (and ear) out while you’re out there – the mix of forest and open areas makes it a good spot for birdwatching, with plenty of native species moving through the range.
A short 20-25 minute drive inland from Ulverstone, Gunns Plains adds another layer to the Central Coast experience – think underground caves, native wildlife and a taste of local produce. A great day out.
One of Tasmania’s most accessible cave systems is Gunns Plains Caves, these limestone chambers are home to glow worms, flowing streams and impressive rock formations. one hour guided tours run regularly and take you through a series of caverns that feel a world away from the coast.
You’ll also find Wing’s Wildlife Park where you can get up close to native animals – from Tasmanian devils to kangaroos – adding a family-friendly stop to the mix.
The surrounding farmland is part of the region’s paddock-to-plate story. Small-scale vineyards Leven valley Vineyard and producers dot the area, making it an easy place to slow down and sample what’s grown nearby.
If you’re chasing one of the most impressive natural views on the North West Coast, the Leven Canyon delivers.
Just 40 minutes from Ulverstone, this dramatic gorge drops nearly 300 metres to the Leven River below, with lookouts perched high above the canyon. It feels wild and remote – but it’s surprisingly easy to get to.
What to expect:
Why add it to your trip? It’s a completely different perspective to the coast and the Dial Range – bigger, deeper and a bit more dramatic. An easy detour that feels like a proper experience.
Once you come down from the Dial Range, the Central Coast shifts pace. Along this stretch of North West Tasmania, coastal towns like Penguin and Ulverstone offer an easy contrast to the rugged hills – with calm beaches, riverfront walks, cafés and space to slow down.
A classic coastal town with plenty of personality. Known for its iconic Big Penguin, there’s more here than just the photo stop. Wander the main street for local shops, cafés and small producers – including a craft brewery and wine bar – then follow the foreshore walking path for easy coastal views.
Swap your holiday read at the local Tardis library or take a stroll along the foreshore with the audio walk. It’s the kind of place where you grab a coffee, have a browse, and end up staying longer than planned.
Set on the Leven River, Ulverstone has a laid-back, easy feel. Walking tracks follow the river and coastline, making it perfect for a morning stroll or a slow afternoon. There’s plenty of green space, calm beaches and a strong local community vibe. It’s less about ticking things off and more about taking your time. Must visits include Leven River Cruises, The Hive, Pedal Buggies or wondering the quint town.
Good food is never far away here.
This part of the North West is home to a strong paddock-to-plate culture, where what’s grown locally ends up on your plate not far down the road. From casual cafés in coastal towns to small producers and farm gates inland, it’s easy to build great food into your day.
Take your time, follow the Tasting Trail, and make a few stops along the way – whether that’s for a coffee, a long lunch or something to take with you.
Stop by Mount Gnomon Farm, Leven Valley Vineyard, Penguin Beer co. or Rusty Roof Vineyard, Turners beach Berry Patch, Cradle Coast Olives, Tasmanian Pickled Onions – produce crafted right here t the foothill of the Dial Range.
Adelie Wine Bar pours boutique Tasmanian wines, whisky and local produce in a cosy Penguin space perfect for relaxed evening drinks.
Cradle Coast Olives grows and presses premium Tasmanian olives, offering tastings, farmgate sales and a relaxed rural experience near Penguin.
Tasmanian Pickled Onions produces Tassie’s famous hand-peeled pickled onions, with tastings, vineyard views and café dining just outside Ulverstone.
If you’re planning to stay a little longer, this is an easy place to base yourself.
Everything is close — which means you can settle in and explore the Dial Range, coast and inland attractions without needing to move around too much.
If you want to wake up close to it all, camping on Tasmania’s Central Coast is an easy win. From beachfront sites to quiet bush settings, it’s a relaxed way to base yourself while exploring the Dial Range and surrounds.
Right on the coast, this is as easy as it gets — beachfront sites, walking distance to town, and a great base for both the Dial Range and coastal exploring.
Quiet, low-cost camping at Pioneer Park Camping Ground with basic facilities, open space and a relaxed rural setting.
Beachside holiday park in BIG4 Tassie Getaway Parks Ulverstone with cabins, camping, family facilities and easy access to beaches and adventure.
