Once a town for workers who built many of Tasmania’s Hydro electricity schemes, Tarraleah has been transormed into a tourist destination in the heart of Tasmania’s Highland wilderness. With easy access to Lake St Clair, Cradle Mountain and en-route to Strahan, Tarraleah is a centre for a variety of outdoor activities.

The area is noted for its alpine lakes and mountains, and many hydro-electric dams, canals and giant steel pipeways. Tarraleah is located along the Lyell Highway, and is only a short distance from both Lake King William and Bronte Lagoon. Lake Lipootah and Bradys Lake are also close by. Tarraleah is also home to one of the highest altitude golf courses in Australia.

Where is it?

Tarraleah is  in the Central Highlands of Tasmania, 126 kilometres (78 mi) north-west of the state capital Hobart, and slightly closer to Queenstown.

The Township

The township was originally built in the 1930s by the Hydro Electric Commission to house Tasmania’s pioneering hydro electricity officers and management. Nive Road Post Office opened on 11 October 1934 and was renamed Tarraleah in 1935. Tarraleah no longer has residents living in the art Deco houses along the main road.

After a multi-million dollar redevelopment, the former Hydro construction village has become a300-acre (120 ha) estate that comprises Tarraleah Lodge with accommodation, dining options. Fresh water trout fishing, boating, bushwalking, mountain biking and kayaking are all popular activities in and around the township.

Fishing and Highland Lakes Tour

Tarraleah offers a range of great guided fishing tours during the fishing season which runs from September to April. When Fishing season is open we’ll be advertising tours for fly fishing, troll fishing and fly tying workshops. Come back when the fish are fat.

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Bradys Lake Cruise

Experience the highland lakes exploring the canals and river banks on Captain Kims Bradys and Binneys Boat Cruise. Board the pontoon boat at Bradys lake and join the Captain for a fascinating 2 hour boat cruise on the Bradys Binney chain of lakes. Hear about the history of the area and listen to the Captains’ tales. Explore the fascinating wildlife surrounding Tarraleah on this relaxing lake cruise with Captain Kim. Sit back, sip mulled wine, and find out about the history of Tarraleah, the development of hydroelectricity and the engineering feats of the 1930’s. The Lake Cruise runs 3 times a day at 10.30am, 1pm and 3pm. Duration : 2 hours. Maximum 5 people.

Butlers Run Bike Ride Tour

This is an all dirt road ride through bush that commands beautiful views, dense bush a waterfall, and the biggest syphon you will ever see! Your trip begins by bus and after 5 mins you are dropped off at the start of your ride. Your guide will lead you through the wilderness alongside one of the canals that feeds the power station. Great views across the bush before  you stop for afternoon tea.

Hidden Highlands 4Wd Adventure Tour

A day in the highlands visiting national parks, farms, heritage sites, waterfalls and scenic lookouts from the comfort of our own 4WD vehicle. Meet the locals and discover only they know about. This tour can be tailor-made to your interests including a visit to an animal orphanage, a leisurely walk in the Tasmania wilderness, pancakes by the ponds, or an exhilarating jet boat ride. Lunch and morning tea included but not all entry costs. Chat to our friendly staff to create your own itinenary.