Holiday houses in Devonport

The busy coastal city of Devonport is known as the gateway to the northwest of Tasmania and beyond. The region around the city produces an abundance of fresh local produce and has a number of natural attractions. Located both on the Mersey River and the Bass Strait coast of Australia, Devonport offers river, ocean, and mountain views, and is on the doorstep of some of Tasmania's most famous landmarks, including the spectacular Cradle Mountain. There are many excellent beaches nearby offering an array of water activities for all ages. The city also benefits from numerous walking and cycling tracks passing many points of interest, including Aboriginal rock carvings on the coastal trail to The Bluff, and the trail leading to the Mersey Bluff Lighthouse, famous for its distinctive vertical red striped day mark. Devonport is also a major port: the Spirit of Tasmania ferry arrives daily here from Melbourne.

During the summer months, Devonport is filled with sunshine, perfect for beach time and enjoying the water sports on offer. The city also hosts summer farmers markets and festivals, including the well renowned Devonport Jazz Festival, which takes place in July and attracts musicians from far and wide. April and May are good months for exploring the city and beyond as the trees transform with autumn colours. Although cooler, winter is a lovely time to be in Devonport, watching beachfront storms while sitting in front of an open fire. If you are planning on a winter stay, bring plenty of layers, as it can get very cold. Whenever you decide to visit, you will find a range of accommodation in Devonport to suit.

Don River Railway

Take a five-minute drive from the city to the village of Don, renowned for its vintage railway. The museum and workshop are home to Australia's largest steam locomotive collection, and you can enjoy a ride on one of the vintage engines. Trips run hourly to and from Coles Beach from Monday to Saturday, while on Sundays you can take a ride onboard a steam train.

The Spirit of the Sea

Head to the mouth of the Mersey River and see the Spirit of the Sea bronze statue, which sits proudly at the entrance to the Port of Devonport. Weighing 700 kilograms, it was installed in 2009 as a symbol of protection for the city. At the lookout you can stare into Bass Strait for miles, and watch as the ships come and go, including the Spirit of Tasmania.

Tasmanian Arboretum

Take the short 15 minute drive to the Tasmanian Arboretum in Eugenana, where you will discover 66 hectares of landscape displays, including Tasmanian woody plants. You can walk along old railway formations and see an abundance of local birds, and if you are lucky, you may even spot a Platypus at Founders' Lake. There are many picturesque walks you can take, with the Limestone Heritage Walk a highlight.