Central Highlands —Tasmania

Central Highlands is a mountainous area in Tasmania, with most of its nearby towns administered by the local government area of the Central Highlands Council.

Visitors to this area will not be disappointed, with the abundance of natural and manmade attractions ready to delight and provide them with hours of fun and enjoyment.

Golfing enthusiasts will surely derive much enjoyment in visiting the Australasian Golf Museum in Bothwell. Located along Market Place, this establishment features an extensive collection of items related to the golfing sport, the most comprehensive in the southern hemisphere. Prominent golfing personalities in Australia are also featured.

Central Highlands, like the rest of Tasmania, is an outdoor enthusiast’s haven.

Avid fishermen, in particular, frequent the Bronte Lagoon because it is sufficiently stocked with trout. The lagoon is located within a wooded area, providing opportunity for visitors to enjoy nature at its best.

A nearby, similar attraction is the Dee Lagoon, also well stocked with trout. Fishermen, however, need to procure a license before proceeding to their favorite pastime. The lagoon also has facilities for camping.

When in Miena, visitors can also stop by Arthurs Lake, which is popular for angling. During clear weather, the lake is also ideal for boating and camping.

The Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, located in Derwent Bridge, is composed of several great rivers and mountain ranges. This national park is also included in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and is ideal for bushwalking, bird watching, and animal viewing.

Bush walking can also be done at the Donaghys Lookout, also situated in Derwent Bridge. Following a nature trail will lead visitors to enjoy spectacular views of mountain tops and forested areas. This attraction can be accessed via the Lyell Highway.

Animal lovers will surely derive much enjoyment when they visit Something Wild, a wildlife sanctuary at the National Park. This establishment specializes in rehabilitating injured animals with its extensive forested area providing a suitable habitat. Visitors can also get to experience close encounters with some of the animals endemic in the area.

The romantic at heart will surely feel at home at Prospect Villa and Garden in Hamilton. Located along Hamilton Plains Road, the garden is a relaxing place to make leisurely strolls in. The villa is also a beautiful structure, made in the style of early colonial architecture.

The historic Glen Clyde House is actually a complex of gallery, garden, and café. Also located in Hamilton, the gallery was built in the early 19th century as a coach inn. The artworks featured in this establishment are all made by
Tasmanian artists. Visitors can choose from a range of paintings, pottery, woodcraft, iron work, and leather craft. Other historic buildings located nearby are the St Peters Church built in 1838 and the Old Schoolhouse, which was constructed in 1856.

The Central Highlands also participate in the Australia Day Celebration every January with lots of merrymaking and activities designed for the whole family.

Every second week of August, the area also comes alive with Gemfest, when gem experts and enthusiasts converge to celebrate the mining industry and share their similar interest.