One of the most remote travel destinations, Tasmania, is home to half a million people, but it boasts with more than 68,000 km² of surface, a large part of it providing stunning scenery. Whether you are an art lover, a nature-lover enthusiast, or you simply enjoy excellent food, this natural gem is at your disposal with its world-heritage-listed places and local products decorated with many awards. Want more specific reasons to visit Tasmania? Here they are:
1. A walk above the clouds on Mt Wellington
If you end up in Southern Tasmania, under no circumstances should you miss out on reaching the 1271-meter tall summit of Mt Wellington? It towers over the city of Hobart, Australia’s most southern city, offering a splendid view of the city and the southern region.
Even though it’s recommendable to climb it on a clear day for the view, you can make use of a cloudy day, too – you will think you’re above the clouds, and that’s a unique feeling, don’t you think?
During winter, the mountain is usually covered in snow, so maybe you’ll get a chance to make a snowman on the summit. Just bear in mind that, if you’re driving to the summit in winter, you may need to put tire chains or the road could be shut.
2. Hobart, a charming historical city
While on the south, You should definitely see Hobart on foot, not just from the summit of Mt Wellington. It’s one of Australia’s oldest cities, which is evident through the 19th-century sandstone warehouses turned into restaurants, cafes, and art studios. You can even spot colonial mansions and peculiar cottages during your sightseeing.
The famous historic harbor, Battery Point, will take you back to the past times. Hobart waterfront will amaze you with its numerous boats and floating fish shops – a perfect spot to try some fabulous seafood.
If you’re spending the weekend in Hobart, then don’t miss Salamanca Market – it opens on Saturday morning and closes at 3 p.m. Containing more than 300 stalls, the market is a great spot to buy souvenirs, try local food and feel the atmosphere of this lovely city. There are a few parks and gardens nearby where you can have a picnic after you’ve bought some local products on the market.
3. A lovely mix of wildlife and history in Maria Island National Park
In case you love hiking, you don’t want to miss out on this one because it’s one of the best Australian hiking destinations off the East Coast of Tasmania. Once you get there by ferry, you can choose between numerous walking and cycling tracks, some of them reaching stunning sandy beaches and others taking you to the cliffs and peaks with wonderful views of Freycinet National Park.
The wildlife here is incredible – go birdwatching or be on the lookout for wallabies, wombats, kangaroos, and Tasmanian devils – all of them are unique for Australia are will make you admire the wonders of natural life.
If you want a lesson in history, visit some of the 14 convict buildings and ruins made for the convict probation period in Darlington. All of them made it on the World Heritage list.
You can camp on the island or get a bunk room, but it’s possible to make it a one-day trip.
4. Wineglass Bay – get enchanted by its wild beauty
All top Tasmania holidays include this place – its gorgeous scenery and world-famous beaches make it a priority for any tourist in Australia.
Wineglass Bay is situated in Freycinet National Park, so you’ll be expected to do a lot of walking to see natural beauties because there’s no road access. It may sound exhausting, but it’s actually a great adventure that allows you to soak in the atmosphere and reconnect with nature. To reach the bay, every track will take you about an hour to get there – and be ready for a truly active walk. The alternative is to see the bay by sea kayak to get a different view of the scenery.
It’s possible to camp in the park – that way; you could go further into the park on foot and continue discovering its wonders. The park is accessible via Coles Bay on the East Coast of Tasmania.
5. The abundance of bright colors in Bay of Fires
If you enjoy active holidays, this should be on your top list of travel destinations. Bay of Fires is incredibly beautiful due to its fluorescent blue sea, fine white sand, and orange-tinged rocks are surrounding them – it’s the colors that make this place magical. The name itself refers to Aboriginal coastal fires, which Captain Tobias Furneaux saw while sailing past the area back in 1773.
The entry point into this area is Binalong Bay at the southern end. This is where the action is – you can go game fishing, hiking or surfing – be sure you’ll be exhausted at the end of the day but full of amazing energy nevertheless. If you’re more for a relaxing holiday, then simply enjoy the lovely beaches and admire the scenery. There is a campsite nearby where you can stay for a day or two. From there, you can reach a couple of elevated areas that provide you with stunning views. Binalong Bay is 2.5 hours away from Launceston on the East Coast of Tasmania.
6. Explore the underground of Hastings Caves
In case you enjoy something different, Hasting Caves are the right choice for you. Besides them, you’ll get the chance to take a dip in a swimming pool filled with thermal springs water.
Hastings Caves were formed a couple of millions of years ago and are dolomite caves by type, being home to columns, stalactites, stalagmites, and shawls. Don’t be afraid of narrow spaces – the caves are pretty spacious, plus, you’ll be visiting them with a tour guide.
Thermal spring water in the pool is at a wonderful 28-degree, which is perfect for a relaxing swim after the exploration of the caves. You’ll have all the essential facilities there, including a toilet and BBQs. Spend a day there – it’s only a 90-minute drive south of Hobart.
7. Iconic Tasmanian views from Cradle Mountain
One of the most famous locations in all of Tasmania is The Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. It is a heaven for nature enthusiasts who want the opportunity to explore the wilderness on their own. There are over 20 self-guided walking tracks, some of them 20 minutes long, while others could take you more than 9 hours to reach the final destination. The most famous track is Overland Track – it involves a 6-day walk through the heart of stunning mountainous terrain.
During hiking, you will probably be lucky enough to spot wombats in the wild – they are out in the open all year round. In case you’re taking the hike in the winter, you may even post them rolling around in the snow.
In case you’re getting to Cradle Mountain by car, be prepared for a 2.5-hour drive from Launceston or a 1.5-hour drive from Devonport. There are also tours from Launceston in case you don’t have your own car.
Final thoughts
Australia has so many natural beauties that one can not miss the opportunity to explore. Not to mention Tasmania is one of the most unique regions in the world. You shouldn’t miss it if you get the chance to explore it – just choose a region and go for it – you won’t regret it.
