Heritage Landing
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Heritage Landing Gordon River Boardwalk

4.8
·217 reviews·Southwest, Australia

Step into Tasmania's ancient rainforests and explore the haunting history of Sarah Island on a scenic Gordon River cruise.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for forest and river views

CrowdMedium
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Heritage Landing

Heritage Landing Gordon River Boardwalk

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for forest and river views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into Tasmania's ancient rainforests and explore the haunting history of Sarah Island on a scenic Gordon River cruise.

4.8
(217 reviews)

"A bucket list destination to visit, experiencing the uniqueness of the South West Wilderness of Tasmania."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Your Cruise Early

Gordon River Cruises are the main way to access. Book ahead to avoid disappointment! :ticket:

Short, Easy Walk

The boardwalk is flat and accessible, perfect for a brief forest immersion. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Huon Pines

Ancient Huon Pines

Boardwalk

Walk amongst trees thousands of years old, including the iconic Huon Pine, growing at a millimeter per year.

Reddit
Sarah Island Penal Settlement

Sarah Island Penal Settlement

Gordon River Cruise stop

Explore the haunting ruins of a former penal colony, established before Port Arthur.

Reddit
Pristine Wilderness

Pristine Wilderness

South West Tasmania

Experience unspoiled scenery, rugged peaks, wild rivers, and unique flora and fauna.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Accessing Heritage Landing

Heritage Landing is primarily accessible via boat tours, most commonly Gordon River Cruises. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular excursions. Reddit

Embrace the Wilderness

This destination is all about experiencing Tasmania's pristine South West Wilderness. Prepare for a short, flat boardwalk walk through ancient forests. The air is pure, and the ancient trees are a sight to behold. Reddit

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Best light for forest and river views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

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@abcnews
1.7M likes • 28.4M views

Book Your Cruise Early

Gordon River Cruises are the main way to access. Book ahead to avoid disappointment! Reddit :ticket:

Short, Easy Walk

The boardwalk is flat and accessible, perfect for a brief forest immersion. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

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445.8K likes • 2.5M views
The look on his face when they chant his name🥹 #feelgood #fyp #dreamscometrue #goodnews #flightattendant #flightattendants #airline #southwest #southwestairlines #training #surprise
@southwestair
435.1K likes • 3M views

Look for Wildlife

Keep an eye out for pademelons and other native fauna. Reddit :deer:

Respect the Environment

Help preserve this unique UNESCO World Heritage area for future generations. Reddit :evergreen_tree:

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@vasaviation
414.1K likes • 21M views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Your Cruise Early

Gordon River Cruises are the main way to access. Book ahead to avoid disappointment! Reddit :ticket:

Short, Easy Walk

The boardwalk is flat and accessible, perfect for a brief forest immersion. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Look for Wildlife

Keep an eye out for pademelons and other native fauna. Reddit :deer:

Respect the Environment

Help preserve this unique UNESCO World Heritage area for future generations. Reddit :evergreen_tree:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(217 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Heritage Landing for its stunning natural beauty and the opportunity to walk amongst ancient Huon Pines. The historical significance of Sarah Island, visited on the same cruise, is also a major highlight. However, some find the experience can feel crowded due to the shared nature of the boat tours. Reddit+1

"This is truly a bucket trip destination to visit. We took the 6 hour World Heritage Cruise with stops at Hell's Gate, The Penal settlement of Sarah Island established before the southern Penninsula Penal Settlement of Port Arthur but it is possible to access this unique destination by flying in with tours Greg Wells from Par Avion Tours who not only will share his knowledge of this area but share his music all based on history not only of our First Nation's Mimegin Mob but Piner local who used the beautiful Huon Pine Timber later working in unison with Bob Brown, our Tasmanian "David Attenborough who fought to preserve this landscape.

The uniqueness of the South West Wilderness of Tasmania containing unspoilt scenery, rugged peaks, wild rivers, unique flora and fauna, and a long and rugged coast, here you will see trees of 1000s of years of age. One such example are the 3000 year old Huon Pines, as Huon Pines only grows 1mm a year in height. And, you will experience the purity of the air thanks to all these ancient trees; Sassafrass, Myrtle, Huon Pine and Tasmanian Laurel growing along side one another just as they have for many , many years.

Sadly there are still places in the SW where trees are still being logged despite this area being classed by UNESCO as a unique due to the vast array flora that grow in harmony with the other.

It is my hope that tourists who come to visit our South West Coast not only become moved by what they see but assist us in the preservation for future generations to enjoy."

mary marsh

"While this place was interesting it is shared with a boatload of passengers which takes away from the natural setting in a major way. It’s a short, flat walk taken on a boardwalk through the forest. But feels very crowded. Trees are well signposted with interesting background of their aboriginal heritage."

Nicky Jurd

"We visited Heritage Landing via Gordon River Cruises.
It is a great stop and forest walk.
Recommended"

Allen Peterson

What People Like

Ancient Huon Pines
Pristine wilderness
Sarah Island history

What People Dislike

Can feel crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The primary way to reach Heritage Landing is by taking a boat tour, with Gordon River Cruises being the most popular option. These cruises depart from Strahan and include stops at key points of interest like Heritage Landing and Sarah Island. Reddit Private vessels may also be able to access, but confirm this with local authorities. Reddit

No, Heritage Landing is not accessible by road. It is situated within the remote South West Wilderness of Tasmania and can only be reached by boat. Reddit

Gordon River Cruises typically depart from the town of Strahan in Tasmania. Ensure you check the specific departure location and time when booking your tour. Reddit

The duration of the boat trip varies depending on the specific cruise itinerary. Gordon River Cruises often offer full-day excursions that include Heritage Landing and other significant sites. Reddit

Strahan is accessible by car and coach services from major Tasmanian cities like Hobart and Launceston. There is no direct public train service to Strahan. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You don't buy tickets specifically for Heritage Landing itself, but rather for the boat tour that takes you there. Booking a cruise with operators like Gordon River Cruises is essential. Reddit

Prices for Gordon River Cruises can vary depending on the season, package, and inclusions. It's best to check the official website of the cruise operator for the most up-to-date pricing information. Reddit

Discounts may be available for certain groups, such as seniors, children, or families. Keep an eye on the cruise operator's website or contact them directly to inquire about potential offers. Reddit

Typically, a cruise ticket includes the boat journey, access to onboard commentary, and stops at key attractions like Heritage Landing and Sarah Island. Some packages might include meals or other amenities. Reddit

It is generally understood that Heritage Landing is primarily accessible via organized boat tours like Gordon River Cruises. Access via private vessels might be possible but should be confirmed. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The boardwalk at Heritage Landing is a short, flat, and elevated pathway that winds through the ancient rainforest. It's designed to protect the delicate ecosystem while allowing visitors to experience the forest up close. Reddit

The walk along the boardwalk is relatively short, usually taking about 20-30 minutes to complete at a leisurely pace. It's a brief but impactful immersion into the wilderness. Reddit

The boardwalk is generally flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for strollers. However, due to its natural setting, some areas might present minor challenges. It's advisable to check with the cruise operator for specific accessibility details. Reddit

You'll see a variety of ancient trees, including the magnificent Huon Pine, Sassafras, Myrtle, and Tasmanian Laurel. The Huon Pines are particularly notable for their age, some dating back thousands of years. Reddit

While the cruise itself provides commentary, specific guided walks on the boardwalk might not always be available. Some visitors suggest it would be beneficial if more information about the plants was shared. Reddit

🎫 🌳 Nature & Environment

The South West Wilderness is a UNESCO World Heritage area renowned for its unspoiled scenery, rugged peaks, wild rivers, unique flora and fauna, and ancient forests. It's a vital ecosystem with trees thousands of years old. Reddit

Huon Pines are unique to Tasmania and grow incredibly slowly, with some trees being thousands of years old. They are a symbol of the ancient and resilient nature of the Tasmanian wilderness. Reddit

While sightings are not guaranteed, you might be lucky enough to spot native wildlife such as pademelons. The purity of the air and the diverse plant life are also significant natural features. Reddit

Despite the area being classified as unique by UNESCO, there are unfortunately still areas in the SW where logging occurs, which is a concern for conservationists. Reddit

Thanks to the abundance of ancient trees like Huon Pines, Sassafras, Myrtle, and Tasmanian Laurel, the air quality in this region is exceptionally pure. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love the great outdoors, Heritage Landing offers a chance to immerse yourself in one of Tasmania's most pristine natural environments. The ancient rainforests, particularly the Huon Pines, are a major draw. The pure air and untouched scenery provide a truly restorative experience. Reddit

While the boardwalk is short, it's packed with botanical wonders. Keep an eye out for native wildlife like pademelons. The journey itself, through the dramatic Gordon River, is also a scenic highlight, offering stunning views of the rugged South West Wilderness. Reddit

History Buffs

Heritage Landing is often visited as part of a broader tour that includes the Sarah Island Penal Settlement. This historical site offers a stark glimpse into Tasmania's convict past, predating even Port Arthur. Exploring the ruins provides a tangible connection to the harsh realities faced by early European settlers. Reddit

The cruise itself can also be seen as a journey through history, following routes that have been significant for both Indigenous peoples and European explorers and settlers. The commentary often touches upon the rich history of the region, including the use of Huon Pine timber. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Gordon River Cruise Experience

The journey to Heritage Landing is an integral part of the experience, typically undertaken via the Gordon River Cruise. These cruises offer a comprehensive exploration of the region, often departing from Strahan. The boats are designed to navigate the Gordon River, providing commentary on the historical and natural significance of the areas you pass. Reddit

During the cruise, you'll witness the dramatic landscapes of the South West Wilderness, including rugged peaks and the pristine river. A key stop is the Sarah Island Penal Settlement, a haunting reminder of Tasmania's convict past, where you can explore the ruins and learn about its harsh history. The cruise also includes the short, accessible boardwalk walk through the ancient rainforest at Heritage Landing. Reddit

While the cruise offers a fantastic overview, some visitors have noted that the experience can feel crowded with a large number of passengers. The commentary is informative, but some wish for more in-depth guided information about the unique flora encountered on the boardwalk. Reddit

Tasmania's Ancient Rainforests

Heritage Landing is a gateway to the ancient rainforests of Tasmania's South West Wilderness, a region recognized for its exceptional biodiversity and ecological significance. The boardwalk allows visitors to step directly into this unique environment, surrounded by trees that have stood for millennia. The air here is remarkably pure, a testament to the health of this ancient ecosystem. Reddit

The star of the show is undoubtedly the Huon Pine, a species endemic to Tasmania that grows at an astonishingly slow rate of just 1mm per year. Seeing these ancient giants, some estimated to be over 3,000 years old, is a profound experience. Alongside the Huon Pines, you'll find other iconic Tasmanian rainforest species like Sassafras, Myrtle, and Tasmanian Laurel, all growing in harmony. Reddit

This pristine environment is a crucial part of Tasmania's natural heritage, and its preservation is a significant concern. Visitors are encouraged to tread lightly and appreciate the delicate balance of this ancient ecosystem, understanding that its survival is vital for future generations. Reddit

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