Dunalley

Dunalley is a small fishing village approximately 57 km east of Hobart on the Arthur Highway and 20 minutes from Sorell. It is located on the narrow isthmus which separates the Forestier and Tasman Peninsulas from rest of Tasmania. The Denison Canal, with a swing bridge for road traffic, has been cut between Dunalley Bay and Blackman Bay to allow boats easy access between the two bays. It was originally hand dug. The project started in 1901 and was completed in 1905. In 1965 a new hydraulic swing bridge replaced the original bridge. Today it is common for Sydney-Hobart yacht racers returning to Sydney to use the canal as a convenient shortcut. Dunalley is a great place to stop when travelling to and from the Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur. You can enjoy a picnic by the canal, a game of chess on the mosaic chess board or simply relax and enjoy the view watch the boats pass in the canal. Dunalley has a number of small shops, attractions and a Hotel. Established in 1866, this Hotel is a landmark in Dunalley. It is positioned on the main highway to Port Arthur. Dunalley is a quiet fishing village known for its super-fresh seafood. Located on the way to Port Arthur near a narrow strip of land that connects the Forestier and Tasman Peninsulas with the rest of Tasmania, Dunalley is peaceful and pretty with beautiful bayside scenery. It also features the impressive Denison Canal, originally dug by hand over a century ago to connect the two surrounding bays. A bridge over the canal gives boats easy access between them and according to local legend, a bottle of beer was the local gatekeeper’s fee. Walk along the main jetty to enjoy the views of bobbing boats and waterways or have a coffee or meal in the nearby waterfront cafe, housed in a big old timber building that also features a cellar door, an art gallery and antiques and collectables store. The local pub serves up some of the famous local seafood and offers accommodation too.

Things to Do and Places to Visit in the Dunalley Area

Driving Time:
From Hobart: 49 mins
From Launceston: 2 hrs 37 mins

Population: 313 (2006)
Established: 1866
Elevation: 5 m
Location: 53 km E of Hobart
Local Council: Sorell | Visit Council Website

Tourist Attractions In and Around Historic Dunalley