For the best overall lakeside town in Tasmania, choose Bothwell. It combines the historic charm of Australia’s oldest inland town with direct access to the Clyde River and nearby Lake Meadowbank, plus a working distillery and golf course. It suits travelers who want a genuine, quiet base with easy day trips to the Central Highlands’ larger lakes.
What to Look For
When choosing a lakeside town in Tasmania, the criteria that actually matter are:
- Water access – Can you swim, kayak, or fish directly from the shore, or is the lake mainly for scenery? Some lakes are drinking-water catchments with restricted access.
- Accommodation options – Look for lakeside cabins, holiday houses, or caravan parks. Some towns have only a handful of B&Bs, so book early in peak season.
- Facilities – Check for a general store, café, or pub. Remote lakes may have no services, so you’ll need to bring supplies.
- Seasonal weather – Highland lakes can be cold and windy even in summer. Lower-altitude lakes (like those near the coast) are milder but less dramatic.
- Activities beyond the lake – Hiking, wineries, historic sites, or national parks add value if you plan to stay more than one night.
Bothwell – Best Overall
Strengths: Bothwell is a historic town with sandstone buildings, a golf course, and the Nant Distillery. It sits on the Clyde River, which feeds into Lake Meadowbank (a popular spot for trout fishing and kayaking). The town has a pub, café, and several self-catering cottages. It’s also a gateway to the Central Highlands, with Great Lake and Arthurs Lake about 40 minutes away.
Trade-offs: The lake itself is not immediately at the town center – you’ll drive a few minutes to reach the water. The town is small, so nightlife is nonexistent.
Who it suits: History buffs, anglers, and families who want a comfortable base with character and easy access to multiple lakes.
Strahan – Best for Scenery and Cruises
Strengths: Strahan sits on Macquarie Harbour, technically a large estuary rather than a lake, but it offers the famous Gordon River Cruises and stunning wilderness views. The town has a lively waterfront, a brewery, and the West Coast Wilderness Railway. You can kayak, fish for trout, or take a boat to Sarah Island.
Trade-offs: It’s a longer drive from Hobart (about 4.5 hours). The harbour is not a swimming lake – it’s cold, deep, and tidal. Accommodation is pricier than inland towns.
Who it suits: Travelers who want a scenic, activity-packed stay with boat tours and a touch of history, and who don’t mind the distance.
Derwent Bridge – Best for Remote Wilderness
Strengths: Derwent Bridge is a tiny settlement at the southern end of Lake St Clair, the deepest lake in Australia and the end of the Overland Track. It has the iconic Derwent Bridge Wilderness Hotel (with a famous ceiling of carved quotes), plus a general store. You can walk the lakeshore, hire a kayak, or take a scenic flight.
Trade-offs: Very remote – no mobile reception, limited food options, and the hotel is the only real accommodation. Winter can be harsh, with snow and icy roads.
Who it suits: Hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking solitude. Not for families needing convenience or luxury.
St Helens – Best for Coastal-Lake Combo
Strengths: St Helens is a fishing town on the east coast, but it’s also the gateway to the famous Bay of Fires. Just inland, you’ll find the Chain of Lagoons – a series of shallow lagoons and lakes perfect for kayaking and birdwatching. The town has a supermarket, pubs, and plenty of holiday rentals.
Trade-offs: The lagoons are not deep-water lakes for swimming or motorboating. The town is popular in summer, so expect crowds.
Who it suits: Families and anglers who want both ocean beaches and calm inland lakes, plus easy access to the Bay of Fires.
Great Lake (Miena) – Best for Trout Fishing
Strengths: Great Lake is Tasmania’s largest freshwater lake, and the small settlement of Miena is the hub. It’s a top destination for trout fishing, with plenty of boat ramps and fishing huts. The lake is also great for sailing and windsurfing. The area has several self-contained cabins and a general store.
Trade-offs: The lake is exposed and can get very windy. Swimming is possible but cold. The town is basic – no pub or café, just a store and a few accommodation options.
Who it suits: Serious anglers and water-sports enthusiasts who want a no-frills base on a big, wild lake.
How to Choose
Start with your budget. Bothwell and St Helens offer the most affordable accommodation, while Strahan and Derwent Bridge are pricier due to their tourism draw. Next, think about your main activity: if you’re fishing, Great Lake (Miena) is unbeatable; if you want boat cruises and scenery, choose Strahan; if you prefer hiking and solitude, Derwent Bridge; for a mix of history and lakes, Bothwell; for a coastal-lake combo, St Helens.
Common trade-offs: remote lakes lack services but offer peace; developed towns have amenities but can be crowded. Also, consider the season – highland lakes are best in summer (Dec-Feb), while coastal areas like St Helens are pleasant year-round but busier in peak.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim in Tasmanian lakes? Yes, but most are very cold, even in summer. Lakes like Great Lake and Lake St Clair are glacial, so bring a wetsuit or be brave. Some smaller lakes, like Lake Meadowbank, are slightly warmer.
Do I need a fishing licence? Yes, for freshwater fishing in Tasmania. You can buy a licence online or at some tackle shops. Trout season runs from August to April.
Are there any lakeside towns with public transport access? Limited. Strahan has a bus service from Hobart, but most lakeside towns are best reached by car. Renting a car is recommended.
Can I rent a kayak or boat at these lakes? Some places offer rentals, like Lake St Clair (kayaks) and Great Lake (boat hire). But many lakes have no rental facilities, so bring your own or check ahead.
Which lake is best for families with kids? St Helens and Bothwell are the most family-friendly, with safe swimming spots (in the lagoons or the Clyde River) and nearby amenities. Avoid remote lakes if you need constant entertainment.
What’s the best time to visit? Summer (December to February) is the most comfortable for outdoor activities. Autumn (March-May) is great for fishing and fewer crowds, but bring warm layers. Winter is cold and many highland roads can be icy.
Bottom Line
For most travelers, Bothwell is the best all-round lakeside town: it’s historic, affordable, and close to several lakes. If you want dramatic wilderness and cruises, pick Strahan. For a remote escape, choose Derwent Bridge. Base your final decision on your primary activity and how much you value convenience versus solitude.
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