Port Arthur is a town located in the Tasman Peninsula in Tasmania. The town was named after George Arthur, former Lieutenant Governor of the Van Diemen's Land. The town holds the distinction of being a penal settlement and therefore boasts of a rich cultural heritage.

One structure that harkens back to this time in town's history is the Port Arthur's Historic Site. This convict site is composed of numerous buildings and restored houses built in the 19th century. The site is open to the public and features picnic facilities so visitors can linger for a while and soak in the historical significance of the site.

Near the town is what remains of the Point Puer Boys Prison, the British reformatory exclusively designed for juvenile male convicts.

Visitors should also drop by the Model Prison, which is situated across Settlement Creek. On-site information will provide enlightenment on how the penal system was imposed in this facility, including the promotion of isolation among prisoners.

Examples of historic structures that were built in the 19th century are the Commandant's House, the Guard Tower and Military Complex, the Hospital, and the Asylum.

Visitors can also take ferry trips to the Isle of the Dead, where the convicts from Port Arthur were buried. A book was even written by Richard Lord on fascinating stories connected with the convicts buried in the Isle.

After exploring the sites and structures related to the convict settlement of the area, visitors can then proceed to experience the other attractions offered by Port Arthur.

The beaches of Port Arthur provide ideal settings for swimming and snorkeling. There are also plenty of opportunities for scuba diving and sailing. However, some visitors may choose to spend their time strolling along these white sand beaches, preferring to enjoy the laidback and casual lifestyle that this town espouses.

Port Arthur is also a gateway for the Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park, which focuses on preserving and managing the population of this native animal that serves as icon of the whole state. The park is also home to numerous species of birds and bird shows are held regularly. Visitors can also participate in feeding Tasmanian devils during designated hours of the day.

Rugged individuals who wish to try unique experiences should visit the nearby Tasman National Park. Apart from bushwalking and animal viewing, the park is also a popular rock climbing destination. Natural attractions of the park include waterfalls, caves, and sheer cliffs that afford visitors spectacular views of the coastline.

Horse riding can also be experienced at the Campbell's Trail Rides in Koonya. This establishment offers rides for both children and adults across rural areas and bush land.

Those yearning for a game or two of golf can visit the Tasman Golf Course, located in Point Puer. This golfing facility offer spectacular scenery of the coastline to each player of this 9-hole golf course.

Port Arthur is also replete with several restaurants that offer seafood dishes as their specialty. Only the freshest catch of the day are used in providing sumptuous meals for visitors and locals alike. There is also a wide range of Port Arthur accommodation available around the town which include hotels, motels and hostels - everything you need to ensure your stay is a comfortable one.

Find out More...