Points of Interest in Tasmania

Discover Tasmania’s Premier Destinations

Freycinet National Park

A Splendid Tasmanian Escape

Located just a 2.5-3 hour drive from Hobart, Freycinet National Park offers a diverse range of activities, including:

• Outdoor Adventures: Kayaking, snorkeling, diving, and swimming.
• Wildlife Spotting: Look out for White-bellied Sea Eagles, Australasian Gannets, and Tassie Devils.
• Natural Beauty: Admire the dramatic Hazards peaks and enjoy beach picnics.
• Local Delights: Savor local food and wine, especially as the Hazards turn pink at sunset.

Visitor Information:

• Pass Options: Includes access to all Tasmanian National Parks.
• Activities: Various walks and scenic drives.
• Nearby Towns: Coles Bay (nearest holiday town) and Swansea (largest nearby town).
• Visitor Center: Open year-round from 9am-4pm.

Hobart

Tasmania’s Charming Capital

Hobart is a blend of historical charm and modern attractions. Key highlights include:

• Cultural Sites: Explore the renowned MONA museum and historic Port Arthur.
• Gastronomy: Indulge in local Tasmanian whisky, fresh seafood, and gourmet dining.
• Outdoor Activities: Hiking and biking at Kunanyi/Mount Wellington, sailing around Bruny Island.
• Shopping: Unique stores offering local designs and artisan crafts.

Visitor Information:

• Historical Sites: Theatre Royal, the oldest theatre in Australia.
• Transportation: Convenient options including buses, cabs, and the Melbourne-Devonport ferry.

Launceston

A Gateway to Natural Beauty and Culture

Nestled around the Tamar River, Launceston offers a perfect mix of nature and urban experiences:

• Wine Trail: Tamar Valley Wine Trail for Tasmanian wines.
• Accommodations: Boutique hotels, B&Bs, and hostels with river views.
• Attractions: Cataract Gorge, Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, Grindelwald Swiss Village.
• Dining and Nightlife: Seaport Marina, live music, clubs, and pubs.

Visitor Information:

• Location: 200 km from Hobart.
• Activities: Hiking, cultural exploration, and diverse dining options.

Wineglass Bay

One of the World’s Top Ten Beaches

Located within Freycinet Peninsula, Wineglass Bay offers:

• Outdoor Adventures: Short walks, 4-day tours, sea kayaking, rock climbing, scenic helicopter flights.
• Wildlife and Flora: Over 500 plant species, diverse wildlife, and offshore sightings of seals, dolphins, and whales.
• Historical Significance: Rich history from Pydairrerme people to national park status in 1916.
• Culinary Delights: Fine Tasmanian cuisine, especially seafood, complemented by cool-climate wines.

Visitor Information:

• Accommodations: From campsites to luxury hotels, with options in Coles Bay and Freycinet.

Bruny Island

A Blend of Natural Beauty and Cultural History

Accessible via a ferry from Kettering, Bruny Island offers:

• Diverse Landscapes: Open pastures, rainforests, and The Neck.
• Historical Sites: Visits by James Cook and rich Aboriginal history.
• Wildlife and Activities: Seals, dolphins, penguins, white wallabies, guided tours at Cape Bruny Lighthouse, and coastline explorations with Bruny Island Cruises.
• Gourmet Experiences: Fresh berries, handmade cheese, oysters, single malts.

Visitor Information:

• Accommodation: Varied options from day trips to 4-day tours.

Tasman Peninsula

A Natural and Historical Wonderland

Easily accessible via the Arthur Highway, the Tasman Peninsula features:

• Natural Sites: Tasman Arch, Devils Kitchen, Blowhole, Remarkable Cave.
• Wildlife: Sea eagles, whales, fur seals, wombats, wallabies.
• Historical Significance: Port Arthur, Coal Mines.
• Activities: Stunning beaches, sea cliffs, rock formations, and lush forests.

Visitor Information:

• Accommodation: Options range from camping to upmarket motels.

Mount Wellington (kunanyi)

Iconic Views and Outdoor Adventures

Rising 1,271 meters above sea level, Mount Wellington offers:

• Breathtaking Views: Hobart, Bruny Island, South West Wilderness.
• Activities: Bushwalking, bike riding, horse riding (with permits), dog walking, 4WD adventures.
• Historical Significance: Named Table Mountain by George Bass, dual name in 2013.

Visitor Information:

• Accessibility: Pinnacle Road, public transportation to Fern Tree.
• Nearby Attractions: South Hobart suburb, Cascade Brewery.
• Visitor Tips: Summit can be cold and windy; pack appropriate clothing.

Russell Falls

A Natural and Historical Gem in Mt. Field National Park

Located in Tasmania’s first national park, Russell Falls offers:

• Natural Beauty: Two-drop waterfall with a total height of 34-58 meters.
• Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, cave exploration, picnicking, and camping.
• Wildlife: Eastern quoll, eastern barred bandicoot, and endemic birds.
• Flora: Tall tree ferns, swamp gums, alpine species at higher altitudes.

Visitor Information:

• Accessibility: 1 h 9 min drive from Hobart.
• Accommodation: Nearby towns include Westerway, Ellendale, and New Norfolk.

Image Credits:

1,2,4: Tourism Tasmania
2: Dan Fellow
3: Paul Flemming
4:  Brian Dullaghan