Stanley

Photograph it, climb it or simply admire it – Stanley's towering landmark commands attention.

The Nut is a sheer-sided, flat-topped volcanic plug that towers 143m over the historic fishing town of Stanley on the north-west coast.

Limber up for the steep climb – it should take about 20min – or take the easy way up on the chairlift. Once there, take a spin around the summit track. In summer, keep an eye out for short-tailed shearwaters returning to their burrows at dusk.

Also at dusk, see little penguins march up the beach to their burrows from the viewing platform at Godfreys Beach. Stay quiet and be patient. 

Wandering the streets of this charming town lined with well-preserved cottages and public buildings is like stepping back in time. The Stanley Heritage Walk is a self-guided walk exploring the town’s architecture, history and culture. 

Time-travel to the 1830s on a visit to Highfield Historic Site. The chief agent of the Van Diemen’s Land Company built the Regency-era property on what was then a vast farm.

Continue the evocative historical vibe with a stay at the Ship Inn Stanley.

Where

Stanley is a 90min drive (125km) west of Devonport, and a 2hr 30min drive (225km) from Launceston. 

Insider tips

• Look for the big red cray crowning Hursey Seafoods, where you can dine on lobster and striped trumpeter reeled in by the company’s fleet – or simply grab a scallop pie.
• Poke around Joe Lyons Cottage,  the humble workers’ cottage where Australia’s only Tasmanian Prime Minister was born. 
• The Stanley Discovery Museum, staffed by volunteers, is a fascinating insight into the area's history and stories.