      
|
||||
|
Devonport  (pop ~24,000), the largest city on Tasmania's north-west coast, is approximately one hours drive from Launceston.
Tiagarra, the Tasmanian Aboriginal Cultural and Arts Centre, has dioramas showing the lifestyle of the Tasmanian Aborigines from the region, and is close to Aboriginal rock carvings. "Tiagarra" means "keep" in the Tasmanian Aboriginal language. The Don River Railway and Museum (below) has the largest collection of vintage steam locomotives and carriages in the state. A must for train enthusiasts, the railway offers 30 min scenic rides to Coles Beach daily. The town of Don can be reached either by car or via a 12 km (7½ mi) walking track.
Devonport is the closest city to the Mersey-Forth hydro-electric scheme. Partly due to the location of the ferry terminal, Devonport has a wide variety of accommodations, including three 4½-star and nine 4-star facilities (RACT rated) plus back-packer accommodation.
© 1995-2010 |
|||
Historic buildings in the Devonport area range from workers cottages to the stately Home Hill (pictured right), former residence of Australia's only Tasmanian Prime Minister, Joseph Lyons. Home Hill is classified by the National Trust. Devonport's maritime history is celebrated at the Maritime Museum, which features a large collection of model ships. Devonport's seafaring connection continues today through the Spirit of Tasmania, the only passenger ferry operating across Bass Strait.
Close to Devonport is the Tasmanian Arboretum in Eugenana. Although this has some native animals such as platypus, the feature is the 47 ha collection of native trees. Also near Devonport is Braddon's Lookout, offering a view of the coast. Those wanting to take in even more of the scenery can book on one of the sight-seeing flights at Devonport airport.