Discover Tasmania’s North West Travel Guide
Travel Guide : Australian Rowing Championships
Whether you’re spectating or competing in this year’s Rowing Championships at Lake Barrington in Tasmania’s North West, we’ve got the perfect travel guide to make your visit unforgettable. Our stunning region offers everything from lush, volcanic farmland to pristine, untouched wilderness, to rugged coastlines all within easy reach.
Discover Tasmania’s rich cultural heritage and indulge in some of the best food and wine experiences the country has to offer. To help you make the most of your time here, we’ve put together a collection of ideas to inspire your perfect day out in North West Tasmania.
Sheffield – 20 minutes
Just 20 minutes from Lake Barrington, at the foot of Mount Roland is a little township called Sheffield —famously known as the ‘Town of Murals.’ Sheffield offers everything you need for a convenient and enjoyable visit. With its main street offering boutique shops, eateries, and essential amenities, it’s the perfect spot to visit during the championships. While you’re there, don’t miss Tasmazia and the Village of Lower Crackpot — whimsical mazes and miniature village that’s fun for all ages, or Almost Heaven Clydesdales, where you can enjoy a unique experience exploring Sheffield in a Clydesdale horse and cart carriage.
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Devonport – 40 minutes
Crowned Australia’s Top Tourism Town in 2024, Devonport is only 40 minutes from the rowing course. Start your day by visiting Tiagarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre, one of the oldest Aboriginal operated cultural centres in Australia. Dive into maritime history at the Bass Strait Maritime Centre, then hop aboard a one of the vintage locomotive at the Don River Railway. End your day with the From Sky to Sea sound and light show, a stunning narrative of Devonport’s history and landscapes. Starting from the darkest hour of night with the palawa story of creation, the show progresses through dawn in the mountains, the journey of the Mersey River, and fields of vibrant poppies and farmlands.
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Cradle Mountain – 50 minutes
One of Tasmania’s most iconic natural attractions, Cradle Mountain, is essentially at your door step being only 50 minutes from Lake Barrington. Explore superb hiking trails, like the Dove Lake Circuit, and take in the unbelievable scenery. Visit Devils @ Cradle – a sanctuary dedicated to the breeding and conservation for three of Tasmania’s unique threatened carnivorous marsupials; the Tasmanian devil, the Spotted-tail quoll, and Eastern quoll. Of course, you can drive yourself to the mountain to begin your adventure, or alternatively for a more tailored experience, book a private tour with eGuide Tasmania, a local tour business renowned for their bespoke itineraries and exceptional knowledge of the region. From scenic drives to wildlife encounters, eGuide makes exploring Cradle Mountain effortless and unforgettable – perfect for individuals, families, or groups.
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Gunns Plains – 60 minutes
An hour from Lake Barrington, you will find a fun family day out in Gunns Plains, with the ultimate trifecta of activities for the whole family. Go underground and explore the Gunns Plains Caves magnificent formations, including calcite shawls and flowstone, and glow worm display. Next, visit the family-owned multi-award-winning Wings Wildlife Park where you can see over 150 different species of Australian native wildlife including the Tasmanian Devil, exotic and farm animals, aquatic creatures, birds, reptiles and more! Finish the day at the family-friendly Leven Valley Vineyard where you can indulge in some of Tasmania’s cool climate wines – don’t forget to try the Rose!
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Ready to Explore?
No matter where you stay—be it Sheffield, Devonport, or near Lake Barrington—you’re never far from unforgettable sights, tastes, and adventures. Get ready to uncover the best of Tasmania’s North West.