What Tasmania lacks in size, it makes up for in its natural and historic treasures. Pint-sized ‘Tassie’ is pristine and picturesque, with a craggy, rolling landscape dotted with verdant national parks, a bounty of native wildlife, historic settlements, and gourmet food and wine trails. Joining a tour or day trip through this fascinating state ensures an in-depth discovery of its treasures. Whether you’re a foodie, nature lover, adventure seeker or history buff, you’re guaranteed to leave The Apple Isle utterly enchanted.
Don’t miss these Tasmania attractions
- MONA – The Museum of Old and New Art
- Wineglass Bay
- Cradle Mountain National Park
- Bruny Island
- Port Arthur
A cultural and gourmet delight
Tasmania’s capital Hobart is a cosmopolitan hub of eclectic tastes and vibrant cultural scenes. Its highlight is internationally acclaimed MONA – the Museum of Old and New Art. The museum is regarded by many as the pinnacle of modern art in Australia and you can spend a whole day at the site exploring the gallery and onsite winery.
Food culture flourishes on the Apple Isle, with farmers markets, cafes, fine-dining restaurants and wineries galore. Gourmet day trips are one of the best ways to discover this increasingly sophisticated destination, and Hobart offers some mouth-watering day tours. There are plenty of world renowned wine trails to explore and you can join tours through the Tamar Valley from Launceston, while Coal River Valley is within a short drive of Hobart.
Colonial history and rugged beauty
On the outskirts of Hobart is the notorious penal colony of Port Arthur. Tour its historic ruins or join a late-night ghost walk of one of the harshest convict outposts in Australian history. Over on the west coast, Tasmania’s first penal station, Sarah Island, is a short ferry ride from Macquarie Harbour. Walking tours give a sense of the history and austerity of the environment, while the tales of convict life and thrilling escapes leave many visitors spellbound.
Tasmania’s rugged beauty is perhaps best viewed in locations like the Cradle Mountain National Park, Freycinet National Park, the Henty Sand Dunes and Lake St Clair. Luxury coach tours provide comprehensive coverage of the entire Tasmanian isle. Tours range from four days exploring the eastern and western coastlines to 10-day round trips of the entire island.