Boasting magnificent views of Great Oyster Bay, Swansea is a charismatic seaside settlement along Tasmania’s East Coast. It’s one of the oldest towns on the island state, packed with historic buildings, craft boutiques and inviting cafes.
Things to do in Swansea
Embark on a self-guided historic walk through the streets of Swansea, stopping to admire the mid-19th-century Schouten House, as well as the Georgian architecture of Meredith House. Photograph the bluestone-and-brick Morris’s General Store, still functioning after more than 100 years.
Swansea is the gateway to Freycinet National Park, renowned for the picture-perfect sands of Wineglass Bay. Tackle the 45-minute hike that leads up and over the Hazards to take in the expansive views across the national park, then continue down onto the beach to swim in the refreshingly cool waters.
A short drive south of Swansea is the quirky Spiky Bridge, built by convicts in 1843 using local stones. It was designed without the use of mortar or cement, with the stones laid vertically to give the bridge a spiky appearance.
Want to sample Tassie’s cool-climate wines? Stop in at Devil’s Corner, which boasts magnificent views towards the Hazards of Freycinet National Park. Taste the wines and olive oils produced at Freycinet Vineyard or enjoy lunch overlooking the lake at Milton’s Vineyard.
Getting around Swansea
Swansea is around 90 minutes’ drive from both Hobart and Launceston and around 30 minutes from the resort town of Bicheno. The historic streets and sweeping waterfront promenade are pleasant to explore on foot.