What’s special about Dover?

• Dover is the second southernmost town in Australia.
• Ideal base for exploring the southwest World Heritage wilderness areas.

Head to one of the most popular nearby attractions, Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs, found further south along Southport Road. Or, choose to explore the Hartz Mountains National Park where you will find rugged mountain peaks and thick rainforest as well as picturesque lakes.

Tasmania’s southwest often faces Antarctic winds but Dover’s position on the D’Entrecasteaux Channel protects it. No matter what time of year you visit, however, bring a warm jacket and all weather gear. The town has a population of about 500 and the major industries are forestry and fishing – particularly Atlantic salmon, abalone and cray fishing, and nearby are apple orchards.

More things to do:

Fishing
Boating
Bushwalking

The story of Dover:

The town was originally named Port Esperance by the French explorer, Admiral Bruni D’Entrecasteaux, who charted the area in 1792. When the British arrived in 1804 they planned to use it as a penal probation station; today, the Commandant’s cottage (privately owned) near the caravan park on Beach Road is all that remains of this early plan. After the convict settlement the town developed as a working port, shipping Huon pine to the world.

Travel directions:

Dover is about 80 minutes’ drive south along the A6 Highway (83 kilometres/51 miles) from Hobart.