Port Sorell - North Coast, Tasmania.
Once the largest town on Tasmania’s north coast and a thriving port developed by the Van Dieman’s Land Company, Port Sorell is located on the estuary of the Rubicon River just a 20 minute drive east of Devonport.
The first settlement on the site was a fishing and sealing port known as Burgess but in 1822 the then Lieutenant-Governor William Sorell renamed it in honor of himself apparently. Regrettably there is virtually nothing left of the towns past history, everything having been destroyed by bushfires over the years. The closest you’ll get to an historic site in Port Sorell these days is to stand on the bowling green at Watch House Hill, once described by one unkind soul as Watch House Sand Dune, and reflect on the convict prison which once stood there.
Today Port Sorell is a much sought after, uncomplicated sea-side escape comprised of a few shops and fibro beach-shacks dotting the surrounding sand dunes. The fishing is great, both from the local jetty or off-shore, water activities abound and a walk along the magnificent beaches or through the nearby Asbestos National Park is bound to have you singing the praises of Mother Nature.
Port Sorell is one of a string of popular holiday spots along Tasmania’s north coast and is all about a relaxed and basic escape, far from any hustle & bustle or unnecessary complexities. For “main-stream” activities such as shopping and resort style living you’ll need to head to nearby Shearwater which boasts a modern shopping complex, more great beaches and the Shearwater Country Club.
This Tassie Local snapshot was produced by Footloose Photographic & Media Solutions
Things to see around - Port Sorell
Port Sorell - North Coast, Tasmania
