Stanley

The historic fishing village of Stanley is thought by many to be the most picturesque town in Tasmania and has been crowned as Tassie’s Top Tourism Town several years in a row.

Stanley is nestled at the foot of “the Nut”, an immense flat topped, volcanic plug rising 150 metres and visible 30 km away. With sheer cliffs on three sides and connected to the mainland by a 7 km isthmus, the Nut is possibly Tasmania’s most-photographed landmark. You can walk or take a chairlift to the top for spectacular views over Bass Strait.

Stanley is a registered historic town, rich in cultural heritage, arts and crafts. A wealth of colonial buildings house visitor attractions, including artists’ galleries, craft workshops and accommodation.

The grand facades of its larger buildings reflect Stanley’s original status as the centre for regional government, while quaint cottage terraces line the split-level main street with sweeping views over the wharves, beach and the rest of the town.

Nearby is the Highfield House Historic Site, the beautifully restored home of the Chief Agent of the Van Diemen’s Land Company, with its outhouses, chapel and stables.

Commercial fishing is a major part of the local economy and the range of fish, even from the local wharf, is extensive. In the local restaurants, the fish will be today’s catch, whether served as classic fish and chips or as a modern degustation menu.

Stanley is also close to the Tarkine Wilderness Area, some of Tasmania’s best wilderness and the Tarkine Drive.

Stanley is a one-hour drive 75 kilometres west of Burnie.