Devonport has been named Tasmania’s TOP Tourist Town for 2023.
Eight towns from Richmond to Glenorchy went head-to-head for the top spot, which was judged by tourism experts and over 3,000 public votes.
Tourism Industry Council Tasmania CEO Luke Martin said the entrants included some of Tasmania’s much loved and well-known destinations, along with some emerging tourism hot spots.
“We had Coles Bay from the East Coast, Richmond and Glenorchy in the South, Strahan and Queenstown out West, Devonport and Stanley in the North-West and Low Head in the North,” Mr Martin said.
“The competition was all about promoting local pride in Tasmania’s regional towns, all while showcasing the unique experiences that can only be found in these areas.”
“Each entrant produced fantastic written submissions which included a short video exploring the sights and sounds of their town and local regional, along with an accompanying editorial and itinerary detailing what visitors can do over a couple of days visiting their town.”
The towns were split into three categories based on their population sizes, where their submissions were then judged by an expert panel.
Stanley was Tasmania’s tiny town winner, while Queenstown is the top small tourist town.
The towns will now go up against the rest of Australia’s best in the national awards.
Tiny Town Category Winner – Stanley
Nestled at the base of the Nut, a cooled lava pond from an extinct volcanic plug, lies the charming town of Stanley.
Its historic cottages create a picturesque frame around the town’s two stunning beaches.
On a scenic peninsula in Bass Strait, it boasts some of the cleanest air in the world, thanks to the roaring forties.
The town offers Tasmania’s finest culinary delights, from locally caught seafood to Cape Grim Beef and locally grown produce.
As you gaze at this breathtaking landscape, the hero is the ancient land itself. Stanley is a small haven that packs a powerful punch.
Small Town Category Winner – Queenstown
Queenstown, a remote West Coast town in Tasmania, offers an unforgettable experience for adventurous travellers.
Once one of the richest mining towns in the world, Queenstown is now home to a vibrant arts precinct, century-old steam train, and breathtaking mountain views.
Visitors can explore the town’s history through murals, museums, and art galleries, while thrill-seekers discover mountain bike tracks, bouldering fields and access to many of Tasmania’s unique rainforest hikes.
The town’s biennial Unconformity Festival showcases all genres of artists, performers, and storytellers.
While the journey to Queenstown may be challenging, it’s worth the wait to experience this Tasmanian gem.
Top Town Category Winner – Devonport
Known as the gateway to the Apple Isle, Devonport, Tasmania’s third largest city is situated on the extraordinary North-West Coast, living lightly by the sea and beautiful Mersey River.
The city boasts a brand-new waterfront precinct and plenty of parklands to explore.
Central to the Cradle Country region, Devonport is a great base with an abundance of day trips within reach.
The city is ideally suited to families with endless walking and cycling tracks to get around and see all the attractions.
There are many reasons to stay, experience and share the passion and pride locals have for their city.
