Explore a vast wilderness and rocky beaches, where Australia’s iconic wildlife roams undisturbed. Sample fat oysters or succulent steaks while sipping on local wine or beer by a fire. Browse art galleries and museums and take a road trip through charming villages where you can meet the friendly “Taswegians” at coastal farmers markets.
The capital Hobart is a jumble of colorful colonial buildings, set against the backdrop of the often snowcapped peak of Mount Wellington. Enjoy panoramic vistas of the Derwent River from its lookout, then tour the eye-catching Cascade Brewery down in the valley. Stop for lunch on one of the many café terraces of Salamanca Place on the waterfront. Take a ferry to MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), the city’s striking art museum that has everyone talking.
On your way east, learn all about Australia’s convict history at Richmond Village and Port Arthur.
Hit the coastal trails to the stunning Wineglass Bay on the Freycinet Peninsula.Drive north and arrive in the fishing village of Bicheno at dusk to spot penguins near a powerful blowhole.
Ski the slopes in Ben Lomond National Park or watch a setting sun light up the orange rocks in the Bay of Fires in the far northeast.
Head inland to the pleasant city of Launceston and explore Cataract Gorge. Beer lovers should tour the historic James Boag's Brewery while wine lovers can visit the vineyards in the scenic Tamar Valley.
Tasmania’s rugged north and west coasts are less explored, but have unique attractions, including historic Stanley, tulip farms on the Table Cape, moody waters at the “Edge of the World” in Arthur River, ancient Huon pine forests and the picturesque port of Strahan.
Always be alert to spot wallabies, platypuses and echidnas and even the elusive Tasmanian devils that roam the forests at night. Your best chance to spot grazing wombats is on the many trails of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park in the Central Highlands.
Tasmania may be small by Australian standards, but the island has made a big name for itself with its gourmet food, many artistic talents and wilderness conservation.
