Welcome to Beaumaris Beach Guest House

Toad Hall, 23km south along the Tasman Highway and Esk Main Road at 40 Main Street, St Marys (about 16 minutes by car), contains a stylishly presented and eclectic mix of antiques and vintage wares and curiosities from around the world displayed in groups with common themes.

Beaumaris Beach, directly across the Tasman Highway from the Guest House, is over 3km long.  The beach is backed by a band of vegetated dunes, which are part of the Scamander Conservation Area.  Yarmouth and Reedy Creeks reach the rear of the centre of the beach and occasionally break out across the beach.  The beach is not patrolled by surf lifesavers.  There is a car park with beach access south of Beaumaris, giving access to surf breaks and other areas popular with surfers.  This section of the beach is also not patrolled by surf lifesavers.  Pacific Gulls, Oyster Catchers and endangered Hooded Plovers are among the birds which can be seen on Beaumaris Beach.

Wrinklers Beach starts on the southern side of the Shelly Point rocks and stretches about 2km south to reach the mouth of the Scamander River.  The northern part of the beach has its own entry on the left of the Tasman Highway, just after the Highway crosses the ocean outlet for Wrinklers Lagoon and about 4km south along the Tasman Highway (3 minutes by car).  The central part of the beach can be accessed by a walkway at the end of Byatt Court, which is also on the left of the Tasman Highway and about another 750m further south.  The beach is backed by vegetated dunes and is exposed to southerly waves.  There are strong tidal currents at the mouth of the Scamander River when this is open to the ocean.  The best place to swim is in the area patrolled by the Scamander Surf Life Saving Club in Dune Street, Scamander, which is about 6km south of the Guest House along the Tasman Highway.

Shelly Point, about 2km south along the Tasman Highway (2 minutes by car), has its own entry on the left of the Tasman Highway and a car park behind the Point.  Shelly Point lies between two beaches – Beaumaris Beach and Wrinklers Beach.  It has submerged rocks and is not suitable for swimming.  There are surfing breaks at the point and to either side.  A variety of shells can be found on the beach.  The beaches on either side are not patrolled by surf lifesavers.  A free public telescope is mounted on a raised platform behind the Point, and can be used to spot whales as they swim past during their seasonal migrations.

Little Beach, about 23km south along the Tasman Highway (18 minutes by car) in the Chain of Lagoons, is one of the east coast’s hidden gems.  It is the perfect place for a picnic in the grassy dunes or a refreshing swim on a warm day.  Little Beach made the list of Australia’s 101 Best Beaches in 2017.  The beach lies in a small valley at the mouth of Little Beach Creek.  It is about 200 m long and is bordered by granite rocks.   Access tracks are on the left of the Tasman Highway when travelling south, near where the Highway crosses Little Beach Creek.

Dianas Beach runs north from Beaumaris Beach for 3km to meet Dianas Basin.  The wide mouth of Dianas Basin is usually closed to the ocean, but when it is open it has strong tidal currents.  Paddy’s Island lies about 1km off shore at the southern end of Dianas Beach, and is a nature reserve.  Beach access is from the Paddy’s Island car park (which probably has the best surf access), about 2km north of the Guest House along the Tasman Highway; or across a footbridge another 2km further north near Crockers Arm Creek; or from the picnic areas beside Dianas Basin about 1km further along Stieglitz Trail.  Dianas Beach is not patrolled by surf lifesavers.  Dianas Basin offers peaceful views, and opportunities for swimming, fishing and canoeing.

Peron Dunes, 14km north along the Tasman Highway and St Helens Point Road (10 minutes by car), is classified as a Vehicle Recreation Area and is used by all types of recreational vehicles including 4WD vehicles, dune buggies and all-terrain vehicles.  There is very soft sand at the entry to the Dunes.  Driving on Perron Dunes is difficult, and recommended for experienced four-wheel drive and motorbike users only.  Deep bogs, steep slopes, and soft sand are likely to be encountered.  Care is necessary to avoid accidents.  All vehicles must stay within boundary limits marked by signs about 1 km north-east and 3 km south of the entry point onto the beach.  Beyond the limits at each end of the access point, along the beach and within the dunes there are sensitive bird breeding areas.  The dunes are also a sensitive ecosystem which can be damaged by both foot and vehicle traffic.  This can lead to ‘blowouts’ and damage to the sensitive beach environment.  For this reason, vehicular use is restricted to an area set aside at Peron Dunes.  There are no camping areas at Peron Dunes.

Beer Barrel Beach, 16km north along the Tasman Highway and St Helens Point Road (12 minutes by car) has an exposed reef break with consistent surf, although in Summer tends to be mostly flat.  Surfing is best when the wind is from the northwest.  Waves are just as likely from local windswells as from distant groundswells and the ideal swell direction is from the southeast.  There are left and right breaking reefs, with good surf at all stages of the tide.  It is rarely crowded here, but beware of rips, rocks and isolation.

Bay of Fires stretches over 50 kilometres from Binalong Bay in the south (24km north of Beaumaris, along the Tasman Highway and Binalong Bay Road) to Eddystone Point in the north (60km from Beaumaris).  This part of Tasmania’s east coast is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful places in Australia, with orange lichen growing on white granite boulders along the water’s edge.  The northern section of the bay is part of Mount William National Park; the southern end is a conservation area.  Walk for miles along sugar-white sandy beaches, swim in the impossibly clear ocean, and feel like you’re the only person to have ever set foot here.  Other activities which can be pursued in the Bay of Fires area include camping, beach activities, boating, bird watching, fishing, and surfing.

Georges Bay, St Helens, 12km north along the Tasman Highway (12 minutes by car) is a recreational only fishing area known for its diverse species including garfish, trevally, King George whiting and bream.  It is a Shark Refuge Area, so there is no taking of sharks, skates or rays other than elephantfish.  Netting is also prohibited in the Bay.  Fishers from boats can also catch calamari and Australian salmon, tiger flathead, striped trumpeter, morwong, tuna, blue-eye trevalla and mako shark.  The offshore waters offer deep sea and game fishing action.  Fishing charters in St Helens supply everything you need – and records are waiting to be broken!

Bay of Fires Winter Arts Festival is usually held over the first weekend of June each year.  It has been cancelled for 2020 in line with community expectations.  The Festival includes activities both north and south of Beaumaris in Binalong Bay, St Helens, Four Mile Creek, St Marys, and Scamander.  It includes all forms of the arts from painting, sculpture and music, with open studios, arts trail, an art market and much more.  The winner of the $20,000 Bay of Fires Art Prize is announced on the Friday night, and the weekend has plenty of arts-inspired activities to keep everyone busy, young and old.

Bicheno Food and Wine Festival, 63km south along the Tasman Highway (45 minutes by car) is an annual event showcasing produce from East Coast Tasmania - wine, cider, beer, spirits, and food.  Meet local wine makers, brewers and distillers, chefs and food producers, attend a masterclass, buy some of the delicious local fare and relax on the grass whilst listening to a great selection of local and visiting musicians, viewing the surfboard exhibition, or watching surfboards being shaped.  Entry is by pre-purchased tickets, and then on a one-out-one-in basis from about 1pm.  Gates open at 10:30am, last food and drink sales are at 5:30pm, and the event closes at 6pm.   It is planned to hold the Festival at Lion's Park in Bicheno on Saturday 21 November 2020 – and there are to be Partner Events nearby in Bicheno all of that weekend.

Break O’Day Triathlon, 12km north along the Tasman Highway at 32 Georges Bay Esplanade, St Helens (12 minutes by car), is held on the first weekend in March and aims to provide a highly professional triathlon for all levels.

Christmas in St Helens, 13km north along the Tasman Highway (13 minutes by car), is celebrated with a presentation of Carols by Candlelight in early December on a date to be announced at the foreshore (bring your own chairs); then a Santa visit and lolly run by the St Helens volunteer fire brigade on the Saturday before Christmas Day, 19 December 2020; and then the Christmas Eve Street Parade on 24 December 2020 from 5pm in Cecilia Street, St Helens.

Devil’s Corner Sunday Music Sessions, 83km south along the Tasman Highway and Sherbourne Avenue (1 hour by car) at The Hazards Vineyard, combines a mini artisan market, wood-fired pizzas and fresh seafood made to order with live music and all-day tastings from the cellar door team.  It is usually held in November on a Sunday to be announced, from 12noon to 3pm.

Fingal Valley Festival, 44km south along the Tasman Highway, Esk Main Road, and Brown Street (30 minutes by car) at the Fingal Recreation Ground showcases the skills used in mining.  The main attractions of the festival are the world coal shovelling championships and the world roof bolting championships.  Other attractions include veterans’ cycling, children's entertainment, yard dog trials, sheep shearing, wood chopping, food stalls, and live music.  The date has yet to be announced for 2021.  It is usually held on a Saturday in February or March.

Globe at Night is an international citizen-science campaign which aims to raise public awareness of the impact of light pollution on the night sky.  Globe at Night invites ordinary people to become citizen-scientists, and to measure and share their observations on the night sky in their area.  It is easy to get involved – all you need is a computer or a smart phone with internet access.  Then use the Globe at Night website at https://www.globeatnight.org/finding to help find the constellation for that month in the night sky, and the latitude and longitude of the location from which you are making your observation.  Go outside more than an hour after sunset at a time when the Moon is not up, and after waiting about 10 minutes for your eyes to become accustomed to the darkness match what you can see with one of the seven magnitude charts shown on the website.  Note the amount of cloud cover, and report what you have seen.  In 1919 there were 10,197 reports lodged by individuals who participated around the world!  Globe at Night dates for 2020 are 16 to 25 January, 14 to 23 February, 14 to 24 March, 14 to 23 April, 14 to 23 May, 13 to 22 June, 12 to 21 July, 10 to 19 August, 9 to 18 September, 8 to 17 October, 7 to 16 November, and 6 to 15 December.

St Helens Athletics Carnival, 14km north along the Tasman Highway (15 minutes by car) is conducted in January each year at the St Helens Sports Complex in Tully Street by the St Helens Athletic club, and has been held annually since January 1954.  The date has yet to be announced for 2021.  Events are held in three main disciplines of running, chopping and cycling, attracting crowds of over 1,000 visitors to St Helens in the middle of the holiday season.  The Carnival includes a licensed bar area and a golf “Hole in One” competition; and has also developed a Car and Bike Show as a separate event the following weekend.  Prizemoney awarded during the Carnival almost reaches $20,000 each year.

St Helens Market has reopened under COVID-19 guidelines.  The Market has stalls with fresh local produce, plants, arts and crafts, homemade clothing and jewellery, biscuits and cakes, jams and sauces, bric-a-brac, furniture, and books.  There is also a barbeque.  The Market raises funds for Search and Rescue and other community services and charities in the Break O’Day area.  It is held from 9am to 1pm every Saturday morning from November to Easter; and from 9am to noon on the second and fourth Saturday mornings between Easter and October.  It is usually held in Portland Hall in Cecilia Street, St Helens (13km north along the Tasman Highway) at present.

St Mary’s Christmas Market, 23km south along the Tasman Highway and Esk Main Road (16 minutes by car) to be held from 1pm to 5pm on the last Friday in November, 27 November, at the St Marys Hall.  Local artisans offer unique handmade gifts, Christmas treats and trinkets while live musicians play holiday tunes.

Targa Tasmania aims to provide the world’s most desirable tarmac rally competition and must-have driving experience for all car enthusiasts.  Commencing in 1992, Targa has provided high quality tarmac rally events in unique destinations within Tasmania, Victoria and Queensland, including competitive races and touring events, around the end of April each year.  After careful consideration for the health and welfare of everyone involved in Targa Tasmania, and of those who call Tasmania their home, organisers have cancelled Targa Tasmania for 2020.

Ten Days on the Island was established by the Tasmanian Government in 2001 to develop and deliver a State-wide cultural festival of national significance that provides opportunities for Tasmanian artists and companies to present their works to a wider audience, provides opportunities for the Tasmanian community to be exposed to national and international artists and companies of the highest quality, and assists in providing the state of Tasmania with a legacy of expert professional arts infrastructure.  It is a biannual event, with the next festival scheduled for 2021 on dates to be announced.

Wheels, Wine and Dine is held from 9am to 3pm at the Georges Bay Esplanade, St Helens (12km north along the Tasman Highway).  The date has yet to be announced for 2021, but it is usually held on the Saturday of the Australia Day holiday weekend around 26 January.  Wheels, Wine and Dine features fine foods, craft beers and wines, children’s entertainment, live music, an outdoor dance floor, Lions Carnival Corner, helicopter rides, fireworks and much more.

Marking Time, 23km south along the Tasman Highway and Esk Main Road (16 minutes by car) at the Gone Rustic Studio and Gallery, 37 Main Street, St Marys, is an exhibition of works by textile artists responding to emergence from the COVID-19 pandemic.  The exhibition is open from 2 to 30 October 2020, with exhibits to be registered by 30 July 2020 and received by 20 September 2020.  Exhibits will also be shown on-line.

The exhibit reflects the works of artists who love to stitch, no matter what their level of expertise, and reflect on daily observation and stitch activity.  The stitches - or marks - visually record the responses of the artists as they venture out of social isolation day by day.  Their work is simple and uncomplicated, responding to their enjoyment of the outdoors for a few minutes daily to observe and record, and then spend a short time afterwards in contemplation and stitching.

Recycled and vintage materials will be incorporated as much as possible, in line with the gallery's zero waste policy.

Surfside Hotel Restaurant is about 400m south along the Tasman Highway (2 minutes by car) at 269 Tasman Highway, Beaumaris.  Subject to restrictions imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19, the restaurant offers lunch and dinner.  The bar is open from 4pm.

Eureka Farm, about 9km south along the Tasman Highway (6 minutes by car) at 89 Upper Scamander Road, Scamander, has been growing fruits and berries since 1993 and sells these with their own brand of jams and chutneys through their shop on the property and using distributors across Tasmania.  A seasonal variety of cakes and ice creams are also available with coffee and tea on the farm.

Ironhouse Point Brewery, Winery and Distillery, about 28km south along the Tasman Highway (18 minutes by car) at 21554 Tasman Highway, offers four handcrafted unpasteurised brews made without additives or preservatives to traditional recipes using quality ingredients and water sourced from its own spring.  It has 60 hectares of vines located on rolling hills overlooking the Tasman Sea, producing sparkling, sauvignon blanc, chardonnay and pinot noir wines – and has just released its own vodka.  Reservations are preferred for lunch and dinner and can be made by telephoning (03) 6372 2228.  This number can also be used to check on availability and access during the restrictions imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Elephant Pass Pancake House, about 31km south along the Tasman Highway, Esk Main Road, and Elephant Pass Road (22 minutes by car) is at 824 Elephant Pass Road, St Marys.  It is 450 metres above the Tasman Sea.  Ocean and forest views combine with one of the most charming old-world restaurants offering a menu of European-style savoury and sweet crepe-pancakes.  Subject to the restrictions imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19, the Pancake House is usually open every day of the year except Christmas Day, between 8am and 5pm – but ring them on (03) 6372 2263 to confirm before arriving.

The Hazards Vineyard, about 83km south along the Tasman Highway and Sherbourne Avenue (1 hour by car) at 1 Sherbourne Avenue, Apslawn, has stunning views over Great Oyster Bay to the Hazards at Freycinet and is the home of the Devils Corner range of wines.  The site office, which doubles as a cellar door, opened in January 2013 to coincide with the new look labels for Devils Corner, which feature the artwork of Tasmanian artist, Rebecca Birrell.  Wines included in the Devil’s Corner range are NV Chardonnay and Pinot Noir Sparkling, 2012 Riesling, 2012 Pinot Grigio, 2012 Chardonnay, 2012 Sauvignon Blanc and 2012 Pinot Noir.  Subject to restrictions imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19, tastings are offered daily at the Vineyard from 10am to 5pm.

Lease 65 Oyster Farm is 17km north along the Tasman Highway, at 444 Binalong Bay Road, St Helens (17 minutes by car).  The Lease produces some of the best Pacific Oysters in Tasmania.  When their sign is out visitors can buy unopened or opened oysters; and can inspect the equipment used to maintain and to harvest the oysters.  The Lease does not have space for eat-ins, so plan to take the oysters to the beach with you for a picnic.

Priory Ridge is a boutique vineyard 18km north along the Tasman Highway, at 280 Ansons Bay Road, St Helens (20 minutes by car).  The vineyard is six hectares of north-facing hill-sides on a rich Devonian granite soil which is unique in Tasmanian vineyards and so gives a special ‘terroir’ to the wine.  Priory Ridge produces aromatic whites and full-bodied reds from hand-picked grapes that are fermented in their own yeasts, including Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, and small quantities of Pinot Gris, Traminer and Chardonnay.  Subject to restrictions imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19, the Cellar Door is open from 11am to 4pm between 1 September and 10 June.  Telephone ahead to confirm opening hours, on (03) 6376 1916 or on 0408 479 699; or for opening times outside these dates.  Priory Ridge is closed on New Year’s Day, Easter Friday and Easter Sunday, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day.

Pub in the Paddock is 41km north along the Tasman Highway, at 250 St Columba Falls Road (37 minutes by car), and is one of the oldest hotels in Tasmania and the home of Priscilla the beer drinking pig.  The hotel was first licenced in 1880.  Subject to restrictions imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19, it  usually offers meals for lunch and dinner, and morning and afternoon teas.  The Pub usually opens about 10:30am.  It closes at 4pm on Sunday and Monday; at 10pm on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday; and at 11pm on Friday and Saturday.  Bookings on (03) 6373 6121 are recommended during the Winter months as hours may vary in response to the level of patronage.

Pyengana Dairy is 44km north along the Tasman Highway and St Columba Falls Road (40 minutes by car).  The current Dairy began making cheddar cheese in 1992, based on a recipe that had been used by farms in the Pyengana Valley since the late 1800s.  Pyengana Real Milk was first bottled at the Dairy in 1995; and the Café was opened in 2002.  Subject to restrictions imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19, the Dairy is open 7 days a week, from 9am to 5pm between October and March; and from 10am to 4pm between April and September.  It is closed on Christmas Day.  Weekday visitors can usually watch the cheesemakers at work handcrafting Pyengana cheeses between 8am and 2pm subject to milk availability (call ahead on (03) 6373 6157 to confirm if you wish to be sure the cheesemakers will be at work when you visit).  Cheese tastings are available, and cheeses and other Tasmanian products can be purchased to take with you or can delivered to your home at a later date by arrangement.  The Café menu includes a gourmet cheese platter with a matching Tasmanian wine or beer, and can be enjoyed on the deck overlooking the picturesque Pyengana valley.

Sterling Heights Vineyard, 16km north along the Tasman Highway and Ansons Bay Road (17 minutes by car).

Scamander River Golf Club, 5km south along the Tasman Highway at the Scamander Sports Complex in Coach Road, Scamander (5 minutes by car), has a picturesque and well-maintained par 72, nine-hole course with large greens and well grassed fairways and roughs.  Course length is 5,778 metres.  The fourth hole is the longest par 5 in Tasmania.  Subject to restrictions places to prevent the spread of COVID-19, golf carts and clubs are available for hire and green fee players are welcome anytime.  Competition days are Tuesday (ladies), Wednesdays and Saturdays.  The clubrooms offer bar service and meals each Friday evening, restrictions permitting.

St Marys Golf Club, 24km south along the Tasman Highway and Esk Main Road at Gray Road, St Marys (17 min by car), is a flat, easy to walk, nine-hole, 18-tee par 68 course.  The club also includes a horse track, football and cricket oval and a lawn bowls green.

Malahide Golf Club, 50km south along the Tasman Highway, Esk Main Road, Brown Street, and Matthina Road at Mangana Road, Fingal (35 minutes by car) is reported to be one of the best 9-hole courses in Australia.  Picturesque and beautifully maintained, it follows a gently undulating landscape with few hills.  Subject to restrictions aimed to prevent the spread of COVID-19, it is open all year round and bookings are not necessary with visitors welcome.  Men’s competition is held on Saturday at 11am and Ladies' competition on Wednesday at 11am.  The Clubhouse has a bar and snack facilities, and barbecue facilities are also available.

St Helens Golf Club, 15km north along the Tasman Highway and Medeas Cove Esplanade at Argonaut Road, St Helens, (18 minutes by car) is a challenging 18-tee, nine-hole, par 71 course, with a clubhouse and fully stocked bar, set in picturesque bushland on the boundary of the town.  Subject to restrictions aimed to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the course is open to the public every day with competition days held on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday.

The Trail of the Tin Dragon is about 80km long and highlights alluvial tin mining activity in the area of Pyengana during the late 1800s, and the influence of the large numbers of Chinese miners who came to that area.  Relics of the era can be found along the Trail, including stampers and the remnants of the Anchor Tin Mine.  Various endemic plants including the giant man fern and buttongrass plains, can also be seen.  Ralph Falls, St Columba Falls, and Halls Falls are all on the Trail, as is the Blue Tier Reserve.  The Pyengana Dairy Factory and the Pub in the Paddock are also near this Trail.

The Trail of the Tin Dragon follows the Tasman Highway.  It starts with a reflection on the experience of the Chinese miners in the older streets of St Helens.  The Pyengana interpretation station provides information on the Anchor Mine and the Mountain of Tin.  Remnants of an old iron ‘siphon’ can be seen at the river junction on the road to St Columbia Falls.  The cemetery at Moorina contains a memorial erected by the Chinese community to the Chinese miners whose remains are buried there, and a restored burning tower overlooking the picturesque valley.  In Derby, The Tin Dragon Interpretation Centre and Cafe include interpretive displays, videos, and the story of the 1929 flood.  The Derby Schoolhouse Museum is next door, and the Ginko Memorial Garden overlooks the valley nearby.  At Branxholm, see the Bridge which was central to the miners confrontation in 1877, and at the top of the hill overlooking Branxholm at the intersection of Ruby Flat Road and the Tasman Highway read the interpretation marker to learn about Ah Moy.  The Trail ends at the Temple of Guan Di in the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, Royal Park, Launceston.

Flagstaff Trails, about 9km north along the Tasman Highway and Flagstaff Road (10 minutes by car), are a network of 11 stacked loops:

Ø  Trailhead, an easy 300m, is a small loop on the northern side of the Trailhead which provides the start and end to most of the northern trails including Townlink, Rock Lobster, Wedged-in, Humpback and Pearla.

Ø  Over There, an easy 280m, is a fun and short loop aimed to get the kids primed for a mountain bike trail ride.  It also provides the start and end to the southern trails including Swell Done and Eagle Eye.

Ø  Swell Done, an easy 845m, is a small entry-level trail designed to take beginner riders out into the bush on a nice rolling trail.  Riders experience a similar sensation to the rolling swell of the ocean.

Ø  Eagle Eye, an easy 1.2km, is a great warm up loop for riders to get their eye in before venturing further into the network.  This trail introduces beginner riders to some rollers and other small features of a mountain bike trail to build confidence in the company of family and friends.

Ø  Humpback, an easy 1km, aims to provide a taste of what the network has on offer.  It is an ideal beginner loop, designed to build bike handling skills.

Ø  Pearla, an easy 1.8km, includes berms and rollers, and gives access to the greater trail network of trails at intermediate level.

Ø  Town Link, an easy 3.8km, is a shared-use two-way trail allowing riders and walkers to easily traverse between St Helens and the Trailhead.  It passes through the Boggy Creek Valley, where the resident Sea Eagle nests.

Ø  Seeya Later, a more difficult 4km, starts with amazing views overlooking St Helens then swoops down through berms and along a flowing trail.  A shuttle service is available to access this trail from Flagstaff Road, departing regularly between 9am and 1:30pm.

Ø  Wedged-in is also a more difficult 4.4km and sits slightly higher in the hills, wedged amongst large granite outcrops as it weaves in and out of gullies.  Eagles can be seen soaring on thermal drafts when riding on the open ridgelines.  There are also a few technical features off to the side of the main ride line.

Old Salty Dog is a more difficult 6.2km, starting with spectacular coastal views from high on Loila Tier then following some fast gravity-fed ridgelines linked by a mellow climbing link midway.  This is a changing terrain with big granite features and deep moss-covered gullies.

Bay of Fires, about 44km north along the Tasman Highway, Lottah Road, and Poimena Road (54 minutes by car), is a 42km more difficult one-way adventure trail like no other.  Starting 751m above sea level high up on the Blue Tier in sub-alpine terrain, the trail provides endless vistas of the surrounding mountain ranges and stunning coast line.  The trail ducks under majestic myrtle trees, huge tree ferns, and Giant Ash trees.  The descent is shaped in perfect dirt, following a forestry road to cross Ansons Bay Road into a contrasting untouched terrain where the trail winds and climbs through monolith granite boulders.  Glimpses of the Bay of Fires lead to the final descent across endless ridge lines before reaching the pure white sands of Swimcart Beach.  Allow at least 4.5hrs to complete the entire trail, and as there is some climbing an e-bike is recommended.  Parts of the trail do not have mobile telephone reception, so travel with a friend or leave clear details of your plans before starting out.  A shuttle service operates to the trail head from St Helens, and then collects riders from Swimcart Beach.  It can also drop or collect riders at the Ansons Bay Road crossing, allowing the option to ride the top or the bottom half of the trail.  The service departs at 9:30am and returns at 4:30pm – contact Gravity Isle Shuttles on 0474 371 365.

Some find few sights more romantic than the sky filled with stars at night.  Others wonder at the vastness of the universe, or enjoy discovering so many more stars than can be seen in the light-polluted cities of their homes.  We are still learning where to find the best views of the sky nearby – but take a moment to stroll outside after sunset for a glimpse of what can be seen, or ask us for other suggestions.

Scamander River, about 6km south along the Tasman Highway (4 minutes by car), is popular with anglers and has many good fishing spots dotted along its banks.  Sea bream can be found near the bridges at Scamander.

This fun concrete park has an open bowl, boxes, ledges, banks and steps, is beside the Scamander Surf Life Saving Club, and has views across the nearby beaches and Scamander River.

Beaumaris is the small settlement in which this Guest House is located on the north-east coast of Tasmania.  It was named after the Welsh town of Beaumaris, which was originally a Viking settlement but then took its name from the castle commissioned to be built there in 1295 when Edward I of England completed his conquest of Wales.  The Norman-French builders named the castle “beaux marais”, which translates as "beautiful marshes".  Beaumaris, Tasmania, is mostly beach-side properties, many of which are holiday or rental accommodation.  In the 2011 census the population of Beaumaris was 282, comprised of approximately 48.9% females and 51.1% males.  The average age of the population of Beaumaris was 51 years of age at that time.

Scamander, about 6km south along the Tasman Highway (4 minutes by car), is a small town at the mouth of the Scamander River and a popular holiday destination with wide, sandy beaches and views of the ocean. Recreational activities include surfing, swimming and fishing for sea bream in the river.  The wide river mouth has been a challenge to bridge builders – the first bridge was made of timber in 1865, but it collapsed around May in 1875 while a large herd of cattle was being driven across it.  The second and third bridges were washed away in floods in 1889 and 1911.  The next bridges succumbed to flood and shipworms, with the last timber bridge collapsing in 1929.  A truss bridge was built in 1936 and is still used by pedestrians and bicycles today.  The concrete bridge that carries the Tasman Highway was officially opened on 26 June 1991.  On the evening of 11 December 2006, 18 houses and a restaurant were razed by a bushfire that swept around Scamander.  On 30 January 2009 Scamander recorded Tasmania's highest ever temperature to that date, at 42.2oC.  The 2011 census recorded the population of Scamander as 719, with approximately 48.4% females and 51.6% males.  The overall average age of this population was 46 years.  Scamander has a doll museum, and a nine-hole golf course.  Services available in the town include the Scamander Post Office, the Resort Hotel and Bottle Shop, a small supermarket, a petrol station including a mechanic, a fast food shop, a surf shop, and a café, book and video shop.

St Marys, about 23km south along the Tasman Highway (16 minutes by car), is a small township sitting under an impressive rocky outcrop.  It offers spectacular scenery and great bushwalking in the surrounding mountains, forests and valleys.  The buildings of its main street reflect its former days as a convict working station; and the original railway station is now a quirky museum of local relics and oddities.  St Marys also has some great cafés, shops selling local craft, and the St Marys Pub which was built in 1916 in the centre of the town.  The 2011 census recorded 800 people living in St Marys, with an even division between females and males and an average age of 46 years.

St Helens, about 13km north along the Tasman Highway (13 minutes by car), was voted Tassie's Top Tourism Town 2020 and is the largest town on the north-east coast of Tasmania.  It is located on Georges Bay, recognised as the game fishing capital of Tasmania.  It is also known for the quality of the oysters which grow on nearby leases.  St Helens began as a whaling base in the early 1800s, and then became an important port after tin was discovered in the region.  It is now a popular tourist and holiday destination; and the offices of the local Break O’Day Council.  The 2011 census gave the population of St Helens as 2,173, with approximately 51.0% females and 49.0% males and an overall median age of 51 years.  St Helens has studios for the community radio station Star FM, which broadcasts on 93.7mHz for Pyengana, Binalong Bay, St Helens and Beaumaris; 98.5mHz for Bicheno, Swansea, Coles Bay, and Lake Leake; and 100.3mHz for Scamander, Falmouth, Four Mile Creek, St Marys, and the Fingal Valley.  Star FM presents contemporary music from the 1960s through to the today and has specialty shows in the evenings.  A number of shops can be found in St Helens, including supermarkets, cafés and restaurants, clothing stores, petrol stations, and art galleries.

Pyengana, about 40km north along the Tasman Highway and St Columba Falls Road (36 minutes by car), is a quiet rural village surrounded by some of Tasmania's most beautiful dairy country and set in a forested landscape dominated by the Blue Tier section of the North East Highlands.  Like many villages in the area it first developed in support of local tin mining, but is now visited by tourists seeking some of Tasmania’s most spectacular views.  At the time of the 2006 Census the population of Pyengana was 124 and was comprised of 58.5% males and 41.5% females.  The average age of this population was 41 years of age, 4 years above the Australian average at that time.

Grey Mares Trail, about 20km south along the Tasman Highway and Esk Main Road (15 minutes by car) is a 600m walk along a formed track with five steps immediately before the viewing platform, and is rated as ‘easy’.  The trail winds through a forest of tall straight trees to reach a lookout platform with a view of the top section of the Grey Mares Tail Falls.  Ferntree Glen Creek drops in this section some 20 metres, with the Falls continuing about the same distance again a little further below.  There is a good view down the valley just before the lookout platform.  Beware of falling tree branches during strong winds.  Gray Mares Trail is on the right of Esk Main Road just after the top of St Marys Pass when travelling from Beaumaris, about 500m before reaching Lower German Town Road.  There is a small picnic area beside the parking area, between the start of the Trail and Esk Main Road.

St Patrick’s Head, about 23km south along the Tasman Highway, Esk Main Road, and Gillies Road (17 minutes by car) is an unrated walk of about 5km along unformed track with markers, taking about 2.5 hours.  The vigorous short climb across an area with steep drop-offs to the trig station at the summit of the Head does not need to be attempted to gain views of the Tasman Sea from Bicheno to St Helens, the Fingal Valley, the Ben Lomond plateau, and the layers of the Great Western Tiers.  The entry to the track is not clear, and various sites give information which is no longer current.  We have asked those who live nearby to provide us with clear directions, and encourage intending walkers not to cross private property to access the trail.  There has been an intentions book at the trailhead information booth, and walkers are encouraged to use this book if it is still in this booth.

South Sister Walks, about 30km south along the Tasman Highway, Esk Main Road, and German Town Road (28 minutes by car), are six marked trails showcasing wet and dry sclerophyll forest with pockets of temperate rainforest including sub-alpines around the summit (832m); and panoramic views of the east coast, north to Flinders Island and south to the Fingal valley and Freycinet Peninsula.  Various endangered flora species can be easily identified on the walks.  Shops in St Marys can provide information on the walks, which are:

1. South Sister main track to Summit (Fire Tower) Lookout at 832 m, a fairly steep walk to the summit giving breathtaking 360-degree views which are definitely worth seeing;
2. Track to Derrick's Marsh and Nicholas Range, an easy walk that follows the old road to Derrick's Marsh and beyond, with beautiful mountain views;
3. Floral Loop, a beautiful track through Wet Sclerophyll forest highlighting South Sister's amazing understorey with its diverse flora and fauna, many of which flower during Spring and Summer;
4. Old Logging Track, which loops though a previously logged area and shows how the understorey does not recover well after logging;
5. Brookeriana track, following the Telstra telephone line from the South Sister Road to North Sister and skirting above the Brookeriana Reserve through dry sclerophyll forest; and,
6. North Sister Summit, a harder walk which is steep and rugged in places, traversing the western side of the peak before going up a gully and a rock scramble to the summit.

Apsley Gorge, about 65km south along the Tasman Highway and Rosedale Road (45 minutes by car) is an 8km circuit rated as ‘medium grade’ which includes river and ridge walking, waterholes and a beautiful gorge.  The clear waters of Apsley Waterhole are a short stroll from the signposted car park at the entrance to the walk from Rosedale Road.  After crossing the waterhole’s outlet, the track turns left to follow the multi-day Leeaberra Track walk and climbs through dry sclerophyll forest to the top of the ridge before descending rapidly into Apsley Gorge.  Crossing the river and turning left to the first line of cliffs will lead to the gorge’s most spectacular pool, at the base of a low waterfall.  During times of high water levels (such as August to November), walkers should turn back to return along the track from this point.  If water levels are low return to the Apsley Waterhole by scrambling and rock-hopping down the river.  Watch for snakes in warm weather.

Evercreech Falls and the White Knights, about 75km south along the Tasman Highway, Esk Main Road, Mathinna Road, Evercreech Road, and Egans Road (1 hour by car) is a 2.1km walk on well-formed track with few steps which passes through fabulous rainforest, making this one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks.  Evercreech Falls cascade gently down a steep slope then drop about 4m at the base.  The area is a magnificent haven for different varieties of fungi.  Continuing on the loop track past the Falls will return the walker to the barbeque area, but requires a short walk through the rivulet at the end – so return along the path after seeing the Falls if you do not wish to do this.  The second loop walk from the barbeque area passes through dry forest to reach a viewing platform from which the 90m white gum trees known as the ‘White Knights’ can be viewed.  The forest reserve has gas barbeques, Eco toilets, seating and a parking area.  Evercreech Rivulet Falls are a difficult 800 metres upstream from Evercreech Falls.  With no track leading to these Falls they are only recommended for very experienced bushwalkers with specialised skills such as navigation and emergency first aid.

Ironbark Falls, about 20km north along the Tasman Highway, Argonaut Street, Trafalgar Track, and Transit Track (24 minutes by car) is a rough unformed track of up to 15km with no markers or signposts, and is recommended for very experienced bushwalkers with specialised skills such as navigation and emergency first aid.  Ironbark Falls itself is a small waterfall situated on Constable Creek, surrounded by a rather sparse eucalyptus forest that is similar to the outback areas of the Northern Territory and Queensland.  There are several other small waterfalls in the area which are also worth looking at if water flows are good, including Echo Falls and Ferntree Falls, although this will mean the walk may take over 3 hours.  Access to the Falls is along unnamed tracks which are only suitable for experienced drivers of 4WD vehicles.  As the area is generally flat, with only some small hills to climb down surrounding the creeks, exploring the region by foot can be easy.  Ironbark Falls is best visited in the wetter months, typically between August to November, when water flow along Constable Creek is more likely.  A GPX file suitable for GPS devices is at https://waterfallsoftasmania.com.au/waterfalls/ironbark_falls and gives directions to the Falls.

Halls Falls, about 37km north along the Tasman Highway and Anchor Road (35 minutes by car), is a scenic 90-minute return stroll through dense centuries-old tree ferns and towering eucalypt forest to a weir built by timber workers in the late 19th century and a small but charming cascading waterfall on the Groom River.  The mainly flat track passes above and below Halls Falls and its charming rock pools, presenting many excellent photo opportunities.  It is only steep at the brief descent to the base of the Falls.  The track has a number of side branches to various local sites.  There are also immense tree stumps, all that remains of the tall trees felled over a century ago by early settlers.

Blue Tier Giant Walk, about 41km north along the Tasman Highway, Lottah Road, and Lehners Ridge Road (41 minutes by car), is an easy to moderate walk along a hand-built 3.5km loop track passing the Chapel Tree, with a side trail to the Big Tree.  It presents stunning valley and fern-forest views, crosses a stone arch bridge over an agricultural water race, and passes many tall trees including the ‘Cradle Tree’.  The Big Tree, a swamp gum or giant ash, is about 60 metres tall and is the widest living tree in Australia.  It has a girth of almost 20 metres at chest-height; and a hollow which began to form when the tree was around 150 years of age.  Giant ash are the tallest flowering trees in the world, and in the Blue Tier area provide nesting places for rare or endangered birds including the wedge-tailed eagle, the white goshawk, and the pink robin.

Moon Valley Rim Walk, about 43km north along the Tasman Highway, Lottah Road, and Poimena Road (55 minutes by car), is a 3.4km loop rated as ‘moderate’.  It starts at the Poimena day use area.  The walk leads directly to the summit of Mt Poimena along a gently graded track through open tea tree and beech groves with guide posts to follow.  After enjoying panoramic views of the Blue Tiers area and the coast, walkers continue through scattered boulders to descend along the edge of Moon Valley to the historic Gough Battery tin mine.  After exploring battery and adjacent sites the trail follows Sun Flats Road back to the trailhead and picnic area.

St Columba Falls, about 49km north along the Tasman Highway and St Columba Falls Road (46 minutes by car), is at the end of a 600m well-formed track with few steps and a relatively easy walk.  A drop of over 90 metres makes St. Columba Falls one of Tasmania's tallest waterfalls and the constant flow of water over the Falls throughout the year makes this a popular place to visit.  The walk to the Falls starts in the St Columba Falls State Reserve, with picnic and toilet facilities but limited parking along the road.  The walk is well maintained, but presents a steady climb back from the base of the Falls to the carpark.

Ralph Falls, about 58km north along the Tasman Highway, St Columba Falls Road, Forest Lodge Road, Mount Victoria Road, and New River Road (1 hour by car), has a 4km loop walk with purpose-built lookouts overlooking Ralphs Falls and Cashs Gorge.  Ralph Falls is one of Tasmania's 60 Great Short Walks, and is an ideal visit for families.  It has a drop of 90 metres over sheer cliff face, making it one of Tasmania's highest waterfalls.  Access is provided from Mt. Victoria Forest Reserve, which has a picnic area, barbeque facilities, and toilets.

Winifred Curtis Reserve about 8km south along the Tasman Highway (10 minutes by car) is a private reserve dominated by coastal Black Peppermint forest or woodland, chiefly containing Black Peppermints, but with other eucalypts such as White Gums, Black Gums, Blue Gums and Ironbark.  The understorey has a high diversity of legumes (such as Showy Bossia and Running Postman), heaths (such as Common Heath, White and Pink Beardheaths) and shrubs (such as several wattle species, Blue Dampiera, Twiggy Daisybush, and several guineaflowers).  There are also Grasstrees, many herbs, sedges (such as Sand Swordsedge), some native grasses and lilies.  This type of forest supports many species of plants and animals, including many honeyeaters.  It is spectacular when in flower.  The endangered New Holland Mouse can be found in this kind of habitat.

Henderson Lagoon has an entrance about 9km south along the Tasman Highway (6 minutes by car).  The Lagoon has clear waters and seven kilometres of well-marked walking trails.  There are hundreds of varieties of native flora (including four which are classified as rare in Tasmania) and around 80 species of woodland and marshland birds on and near the Lagoon.  The nearby heathland supports many orchids, with 35 species recorded in the area.  Aboriginal heritage sites exist on the sand spit between Henderson Lagoon and the beach, and should be treated with respect.

East Coast Natureworld, about 57km south along the Tasman Highway at 18356 Tasman Hwy, Bicheno (36 minutes by car) sits in 150 acres of natural parkland and lagoons and is the perfect place to experience Tasmania's unique animals, birds, reptiles including quolls, the Tasmanian devil, wombat, koala, bettong, possum, pademelon, wallaby,  Whitney the Wombat, Teddy the Koala, Tasmanian Bettong, Golden possum, Pademelon, Bennett’s wallaby.  The Tiger Snakes are fed at 10:45am each day in the warmer months, but ring on (03) 6375 1311 to confirm if you specifically wish to see this.  Entry fees apply.  Natureworld is open 9 to 5 daily except on Christmas Day.  The grounds are wheel chair and pram friendly.  Food and drink are available from the Gallery Café, and there is a range of souvenirs with a wildlife theme.  There is an extensive display of Tasmanian wildlife photography.

Serpentarium Wildlife Park Tasmania, about 15km north (17 minutes by car) at 5 West Street, St Helens, is an indoor reptile exhibit which presents exotic captive-bred reptiles in a museum setting.  There is opportunity for keeper-assisted handling of some of the reptiles.  Displays include gemstones, cultural indigenous artefacts, billboards and presentations.  There is also a microscope research station, an outdoor rope climb play area, and a café.  The Park is open between 10:00am and 5:00pm each day.  A range of admission fees apply.