Tasmanian Adventure

Australia’s Southern-most city, Hobart originally began life as a remote penal colony but is now a sophisticated destination that boasts world class art and a celebrated food scene. Take the ferry to MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) and be immersed in this spectacular architectural creation that showcases the art collection of David Walsh – a native of Hobart and professional gambler. With bars, restaurants and a winery onsite, you can easily make a day of this quirky museum. If you are in town over the weekend, then a visit to Farm Gate Market is a must. Grab breakfast from a street vendor or gather fresh produce for a picnic – either way your meal won’t have travelled far. Sat on a stunning riverfront location at the foot of Mount Wellington – Hobart also offers plenty of chances to get outdoors. Take a hike in time to see sunrise from the summit, paddle the harbour from the water with a kayak tour, or enjoy a relaxed stroll in the Botanical Gardens.

Surrounded by no less than 19 national parks and perched on the edge of Macquarie Harbour, the pretty village of Strahan is the perfect place to explore Tasmania’s wild west. This land of glass like rivers, epic sand dunes, and verdant rainforest, is waiting to be discovered. Hike from the centre of town to the pretty Hogarth Falls and you may spot platypus swimming in the creek. A relaxing way to spend an afternoon or evening is a lunch or dinner cruise aboard the Gordon River. You’ll sail through the surprisingly beautiful Hells Gates before making a stop at notorious Sarah Isand -once Australia’s harshest prison. Your cruise will make a stop along the tranquil Gordon River, giving you the chance to kayak amongst this stunning landscape. Travel north to the epic 90 mile beach, an endless sandy beach that has been pummelled by the Southern Ocean. Brave adventurers may want to raft the King River rapids, or ‘surf’ the Henty dunes. There is of course the option of simply sitting back and enjoying Strahan’s beautiful views with a glass of something local.

A land of soaring peaks and mirror like lakes, Cradle Mountain is just the tip of the beautiful Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Walk around Dove Lake for unmatched views of the mountain or go one better and hike to the summit of this glorious landmark. For an unforgettable experience you can fly over this pristine wilderness in a helicopter, or ride through it on horseback. Having acquainted yourself with Cradle Mountain, take the opportunity to meet another Tasmanian icon at Devils Cradle – a working conservation centre which is home to some elusive Tasmanian Devil. The Cradle Mountain Wilderness Gallery brings the outdoors inside, with its collection of art installations and art exhibitions celebrating Tasmania and Cradle Mountain. For the ultimate in luxury we recommend a stay at the sumptuous Cradle Mountain Lodge.

Named as a UNESCO city of Gastronomy in 2021, Launceston, Tasmania is rightly proud of its foodie title. This Northern Tasmanian city will not only wow you with its gastronomic delights, but also with its blend of arts, history and natural beauty. Take a short stroll from its characterful city streets and you will arrive at the stunning Cataract Gorge – a 65-million-year-old gorge that was carved by one of Launceston’s three rivers. Enjoy short hiking trails in this urban wilderness or ride a chairlift to the top of the gorge. Travel into the Tamar Valley to taste your way around Tasmania’s premier wine region. The cool climate here makes for perfect Pinot Noirs and sparkling wines. Back in town you can munch your way through some of the cities exquisite farm to fork style restaurants or get to know the locals at the weekly farmer’s market. Before you leave Launceston make sure you have a look at the fabulous Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery. Its diverse collections means there’s something for everyone.

Discover the beauty of the Freycinet Peninsuala – a land of pink hued mountains, emerald-coloured forests and crystal-clear turquoise bays. Scale the challenging Mt Amos for breathtaking viewpoints of Tasmania’s iconic wine glass bay, or enjoy short hikes through this most scenic of national parks. A kayak tour is special way to see the beauty of Freycinet from the water, or why not take a lunch cruise. With the chance to spot native penguins and seals, this is a relaxed way to discover the beauty of Eastern Tasmania. The luxurious Freycinet Lodge is a destination its own right and makes the ultimate base to explore this wonderful national park from.

Once home to Australia’s most notorious prison, Port Arthur is now a fascinating open-air museum and world heritage site. Over 30 buildings can be explored, many of which were built by the prisoners that were sent here between 1830 and 1877. Set amongst landscaped gardens and surrounded by the wilds of the Tasman Peninsula, it’s a location that is hauntingly beautiful. Take a tour with an expert guide who will bring the prison to life with stories of the men that lived, worked and served here. A brighter experience is a the nearby Port Arthur Lavender Farm. Soak up the views of rolling lavender fields before enjoying a lavender tea in the café. For something a little stronger, head to the cellar door at the acclaimed McHenry whisky distillery.