Burnie
· AU

Burnie

Burnie, Tasmania, Australia

Nestled on the stunning northwest coast of Tasmania, Australia, Burnie is a charming coastal town that offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities. With its rich maritime heritage and vibrant …

#Burnie#Tasmania#Australia#Coastal town#Port city
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Burnie.

Top Hotels in Burnie

Top Flights to Burnie

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Burnie.

Tours

Explore the Makers' Workshop

A contemporary museum with interactive displays and workshops featuring local artisans and their crafts.

Guided Tour of Burnie Regional Museum

Learn about the history of the region through engaging exhibits and historical displays.

Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden

Explore a large collection of rhododendrons and other exotic plants in a beautiful valley setting.

Visit Little Penguin Observation Centre

Watch the little penguins return to shore at dusk, an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Explore the Burnie Art Gallery

A vibrant gallery showcasing local and international art in a variety of media.

Shopping

Shop at Burnie Plaza

A bustling shopping center offering a range of retail outlets from fashion to home goods.

Outdoor

Discover Burnie Park

A lovely park with beautiful gardens, duck ponds, and a play area for kids, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.

Visit Fern Glade Reserve

A serene nature reserve famous for its lush ferns and platypus sightings. Ideal for nature walks.

Trek up to Round Hill Lookout

Hike to this scenic lookout for a panoramic view of Burnie and the coastline.

Kayaking at Emu River

Experience the serenity of the Emu River by kayak, perfect for all skill levels.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Burnie.

Currency
$ | AUD | Australian Dollar
Population
19,000
Languages
English, English
Average weather
Burnie
Jan
sun
22°13°
Feb
sun
22°13°
Mar
cloud
21°12°
Apr
cloud
18°10°
May
rain
15°8°
Jun
rain
13°6°
Jul
rain
12°5°
Aug
rain
13°6°
Sep
cloud
15°7°
Oct
cloud
17°8°
Nov
cloud
19°10°
Dec
sun
21°12°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Burnie.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Burnie, located in Tasmania, Australia:

  1. Scenic Beauty: Burnie is known for its stunning natural beauty, with rugged coastline, beautiful beaches, and picturesque landscapes. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Bass Strait and the surrounding hills.

  2. Outdoor Activities: Burnie offers a range of outdoor activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. From hiking and bushwalking in the nearby reserves to fishing, surfing, and paddleboarding along the coast, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors.

  3. Wildlife Encounters: Tasmania is home to unique wildlife, and Burnie is no exception. Visitors can spot native animals such as wallabies, echidnas, and a variety of bird species in the surrounding areas.

  4. Cultural Experiences: Burnie has a rich history and vibrant arts scene, with galleries, museums, and local markets showcasing the region's cultural heritage. Visitors can also enjoy live music performances, theater productions, and community events.

  5. Food and Drink: The region is known for its fresh produce, including seafood, cheese, and artisanal products. Visitors can sample local delicacies at cafes, restaurants, and food markets throughout Burnie.

Overall, traveling to Burnie offers a mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and culinary delights that make it a compelling destination for visitors to Tasmania.

Enjoy your trip to Burnie!

What to know

There are several potential cons to consider when traveling to Burnie in Tasmania, Australia:

  1. Weather: Burnie experiences a temperate oceanic climate, which means it can be quite wet and cool throughout the year. Visitors may encounter rainy and windy conditions, particularly in the winter months.

  2. Limited attractions: Burnie is a smaller city compared to other destinations in Tasmania, so it may not offer as many tourist attractions or activities. Visitors looking for a bustling nightlife or a wide variety of entertainment options may find Burnie lacking in comparison to larger cities.

  3. Accessibility: Burnie is located in a relatively remote area of Tasmania, which may make it less convenient to reach compared to other more centrally located cities. Transportation options to and from Burnie may be limited, especially for those relying on public transportation.

  4. Limited dining options: While Burnie does offer a selection of restaurants and cafes, the culinary scene may not be as diverse or extensive as in larger cities. Visitors who are food enthusiasts may find themselves wanting more variety in dining choices.

  5. Seasonal fluctuations: Due to its reliance on industries like forestry and manufacturing, Burnie's economy can be sensitive to fluctuations in global markets. This may impact local businesses and could potentially affect the overall experience for visitors.

Overall, while Burnie offers its own unique charm and attractions, visitors should be aware of these potential cons when planning a trip to the area.

Burnie is a city located on the northwest coast of Tasmania, Australia. It has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. Here is an overview of Burnie's history, significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

History:

  • Burnie was established in 1827 by the Van Diemen's Land Company as Emu Bay. The settlement was part of the company's efforts to explore and develop the northwest region of Tasmania.
  • The town was renamed Burnie in 1847 after William Burnie, a director of the Van Diemen's Land Company.
  • Burnie developed as a port town due to its strategic location on the coast, facilitating trade and transportation.

Significant Events:

  • The construction of the Emu Bay Railway in the late 19th century was pivotal for Burnie’s development, connecting the town to the mineral-rich regions inland, particularly the Mount Bischoff tin mine.
  • In the 20th century, Burnie became an industrial hub with the establishment of a large paper mill by the Australian Pulp and Paper Mills (APPM) in 1938, which became a major employer in the area.
  • The closure of the paper mill in 2010 marked the end of an era for Burnie's industrial manufacturing, leading to economic diversification efforts in the region.

Historical Figures:

  • William Burnie, after whom the town is named, played a role in the early development of the area as part of the Van Diemen's Land Company.
  • Prominent businessmen and industrialists contributed to Burnie's growth, particularly in the timber and paper industries.

Important Landmarks:

  • Burnie Arts and Function Centre: An integral part of Burnie's cultural scene, hosting various performances and events.
  • Makers’ Workshop: A tribute to Burnie’s paper-making history, it showcases local artisans and provides insights into the town’s industrial past.
  • Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden: A popular tourist attraction, known for its beautiful collection of rhododendrons and other flora.
  • Fern Glade Reserve: A natural reserve where visitors can enjoy the native flora and fauna, including platypus sightings.
  • Burnie Regional Museum: Offers exhibits and displays about the town's history, including its industrial heritage.

Burnie continues to be an important regional center in Tasmania, with a focus on tourism, education, and service industries following the decline of its traditional manufacturing base.