The sweeping stretches of white sand beaches, temperate rain-forested mountains and dramatic coastline of Bruny are a taste of the whole of Tasmania packed into one small island. Add some of the freshest seafood and best produce on offer and rain or shine, you have a recipe for a fabulous getaway.
Bruny Island is really two islands, joined by a narrow isthmus (‘The Neck’), populated by penguins. It is also bigger than many people realise – 70km from north to south. The roads are narrow and winding, not always sealed, so travelling around can take longer than you might think. Relax into Island Time, there’s no need to rush on Bruny.
Here are some of our favourites on the island:
- SEASONAL PRODUCE STALLS – during your exploring, you might come across local produce from fruit to olive oil and handmade sourdough loaves in an old fridge on the side of the road. Have some cash on you, payment is the good old fashioned ‘honesty system’ – pop the money into the container.
- GET SHUCKED OYSTERS Locally owned and grown in the bay, arguably (we think!) the best oysters in the world. Open 0930-1630 daily except Christmas Day & Boxing Day. Pick up a dozen or two to take to the house or enjoy a tasting in their restaurant.
- BRUNY ISLAND CHEESE CO. home of handmade gourmet and interesting cheeses. Sample some cheese and take a few with you to enjoy at the house. More delicious drinks and gourmet food items on the shelves.
- BRUNY ISLAND HONEY If open, flags will be flying (closed some months).
- THE ISTHMUS ‘The Neck’, where sand dunes and penguin colonies join North and South Bruny. Walk up to the Truganini lookout for stunning views. Between September – February from around dusk, fairy penguins can be seen on the beach from the viewing areas.
- BRUNY ISLAND CHOCOLATE FACTORY Fudge is their speciality, along with a selection of handmade chocolates.
- RASBERRY FARM Adventure Bay, look for the sign. 69 Lockley’s Road. Lovely jams and homemade muffins with coffee. Open 9-5pm (seasonal).
- BLIGH MUSEUM Adventure Bay. This small building built from convict bricks houses an extraordinary private collection of historical importance and interesting artifacts. Staffed by local volunteers, with a small entry fee. Worth every cent.
- PENNICOTT WILDERNESS CENTRE A stroll from the house. Seafood restaurant open during the day. This is where the famous wilderness boat trips depart. Dress warmly regardless of the weather. Add extra layers if the weather isn’t too good. The experience heading so far south in an open boat to where the Southern Ocean meets the Tasman sea, regardless of the conditions, is always exhilarating. Expect to see sea cliffs of the Fluted Cape, towering sea stacks and abundant sea life. Advance bookings are recommended: www.brunycruises.com.au Or telephone: 03 62344270 Restaurant: 03 62931465
- BRUNY ISLAND PREMIUM WINES Main Road Lunawanna: Bookings recommended
Tel: 0409 973 033 Closes at 5pm. Very good lunch stop in Australia’s southernmost vineyard. Currently opening Saturday nights. Enjoy sitting outside on a sunny day, almost in the vines! Fireplace in winter. - CAPE BRUNY LIGHTHOUSE definitely worth a visit. If you have time, for a small fee, take the lighthouse tour. The lighthouse dates to 1838 and was built with free convict labour. It is in pristine condition. Daily tours 10am -3.30pm in summer and 4 days a week in winter.
- HOTEL BRUNY Main Road, Allonah. The only bottle shop, pub, lunches and hearty dinners with a fireplace. Bookings recommended. Tel: 03 62931148
- NORTH BRUNY DENNES POINT Bruny Island Wild (Cafe & Art Gallery) Open Friday – Monday Brunches/Lunches.
- INALA CONSERVATION AREA & JURASSIC GARDEN situated at 320 Cloudy Bay Road, South Bruny, take a 1 hour guided nature tour or walk yourself around Inala’s Gondwanaland gardens. Seld-guided walks – open daily 9am – 5pm (closed Christmas Day). $10 adults (family prices available). No bookings required. For guide tours, please email inalajurrassicgarden@gmail.com
