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.
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.