Today I want to share an amazing experience I recently had on my trip to Tasmania. We discovered you What to see in Stanley, a charming coastal town in northern Tasmania, a a point that cannot be missed on your trip through Tasmania!
What to see in Stanley- Tasmania
A place without ostentation that relies on its own beauty and authenticity to win you over from the first moment. Its streets, full of colonial-style establishments, will envelop you in its warm hospitality and welcoming atmosphere.
Stanley is named after Edward Smith-Stanley, known as Lord Stanley, who was then Secretary of State for War and the Colonies and later Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on three occasions. Until 1842, the town was also known as Circular Head, a name given to it by Matthew Flinders.
Exploring the Town of Stanley
An obvious starting point is the Stanley Discovery Museum & Genealogy Center, on Church Street. It has been operating in the parish hall of St Paul's Church since 1973 and has maps and information available.
The first thing you'll notice when you arrive in Stanley is its picturesque town, which seems to have stopped in time. You can tour the town through its cobbled streets admiring its fabulous little houses and colonial buildings perfectly preserved.
One of the things to do in Stanley is to visit the historic Highfield HouseSituated 6 km west of Stanley, this is an elegant Regency house and outbuildings that was designed by surveyor Henry Hellyer for Edward Curr, the first chief agent of the Van Diemen's Land Company.
Construction began in May 1832 and later additions to Highfield were designed by J. Lee Archer and built during 1844-45 for the company's second agent, James Alexander Gibson. The property was leased in 1857 and in 1983 became a historic site managed by the Parks & Wildlife Service.
What to see in Stanley- The Nut State Reserve
Stanley is a quiet coastal town nestled under the Nut, a huge flat-topped volcanic massif rising 150 metres from the shore and the main attraction to see in Stanley. It is located on the northwest coast of Tasmania, 125 kilometres west of Devonport and 225 kilometres from Launceston.
On the south side of The Nut, overlooking Sawyer Bay, is a plaque explaining the geological and historical significance of this remarkable landmark: Discovered by Bass and Flinders in 1798, The Nut rises abruptly 143 metres from the sea to a relatively flat summit. Geological surveys in Tasmania have confirmed that The Nut is the remnant of an ancient volcano.
If you're fit and motivated, you really should hike up The Nut. This is what people who feel up to it do when they get to Stanley. Be aware, though, that the hike is steep, and you can always opt for the more comfortable option of the Stanley Chairlift.
Opening hours: The Stanley Chairlift is open daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm (weather dependent). Click here for pricing and details.
🌐https://parks.tas.gov.au/explore-our-parks/highfield-historic-site
The Nut - Info for visiting
Opening hours: The Stanley Chairlift is open daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm (weather dependent). Click here for pricing and details.
🌐https://parks.tas.gov.au/explore-our-parks/highfield-historic-site
Stunning Beaches
Among the things to see in Stanley, there is one thing that stands out, Stanley's beaches are simply stunning. The crystal-clear waters and stretches of golden sand make them ideal for relaxing and enjoying the sun. Godfreys Beach is one of my favourites, perfect for a quiet stroll and enjoying its tranquility.
📍 Stanley Visitor Information, 45 Main Road, Stanley, tel: 1300 138 229 or (03) 6458 1330.
Opening hours: Open every day from 10.00am – 5.00pm
What to see in Stanley- Dreamer Tip
One of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen (and in Australia they are all amazing) was at Godfreys Beach in Stanley. If you can stay, get some Fish & Chips and enjoy dinner while watching the incredible sunset!
