By Travel Daydream: Tasmania
I have spent so much of the last eleven years on the road that I feel like trips back to my native Australia are the vacation.
While I’m #blessed to be able to call such exotic locales as Tanzania, Vietnam, and China home – there’s still a wealth of places in Australia I am dying to explore.
I’ve written before about my desire to explore the Northern Territory or take the Great Aussie road trip, but one destination is first and foremost in my eyes: Tasmania.
Often overlooked by international travellers, Tasmania is a stunning island boasting some of Australia’s most breathtaking natural beauty.
Don’t believe me? Read on!
10 Amazing Things to do in Tasmania
As Australia’s only island state, Tasmania can sometimes seem a bridge too far for international tourists.
Thankfully, it’s possible to fly directly from major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. You can also take the ferry from Melbourne to Tasmania!
Once you’re on the island, there is a wealth of options to keep you entertained.
Find a great Hobart hotel, plan your itinerary, and get out there!
#10 – Hike the Overland Track
Ever since hiking the Kumano Kodo Iseji in 2017, I’ve been somewhat obsessed with finding the next big hiking adventure for Richelle and me.
The Overland Track is one of Australia’s most famous hikes and with good reason. A 65km hike from Cradle Mountain to Lake St. Clair, the Overland Track takes you through a variety of landscapes including temperate rainforest, rolling hills, and alpine mountains.
The extra-ambitious can extend their hiking by trekking to the summits of Cradle Mountain and Mount Ossa, while others choose to extend their hike by following the shores of Australia’s deepest lake, Lake St. Clair.
There aren’t B&Bs or ryokan along the trail, but a series of maintained huts give you a place to unroll your sleeping bag and cook your dinner.
The Overland Track isn’t one for casual hikers, but if you’re well-prepared and looking to experience Australia’s natural splendour, it’s a must-see.
#9 – Spot the Aurora Australis
The Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) might be one of the most famous natural displays on earth, but precious few people are aware that it has a southern equivalent.
The Aurora Australis (Southern Lights) is every bit as spectacular as the famous Scandinavian display, and it can be seen from locations in Tasmania such as Cockle Creek in the south or even Mt. Wellington in Hobart.
It’s not something you should plan your whole trip around, but carving out some time to see the dancing lights isn’t a bad idea!
#8 – Relax in rural Tasmania
When people look for things to do in Tasmania, they’re directed to its vibrant cities and its astounding national parks. However, one shouldn’t overlook Tasmania’s significant rural charm.
Whether it’s stopping off in a quaint little town for a bite to eat on your way somewhere else or an extended stay at a cute B&B, rural Tasmania offers that dinky-di Aussie charm you won’t find in the cities.
My fiancee and I very nearly planned our upcoming wedding at my cousin’s property, Oatlands Manor. I’m still dying to get down there and get away from it all!
#7 – Experience Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)
Listed by Lonely Planet as one of the top attractions in the world, the deliciously quirky Museum of Old and New Art (MONA for short) is a must-see while you’re in Tasmania.
Even if your first reaction upon hearing the words ‘art gallery’ is to roll your eyes and say “that’s not my scene”, MONA might just change your mind.
The museum is carved into ancient sandstone and boasts an astonishing collection of modern art.
MONA aims to confront and confound its visitors with collections depicting everything from reproductive organs to global politics to (I’m not kidding) poop.
#6 – Explore the Bay of Fires
One of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in Australia, the dramatically named Bay of Fires has enchanted people from all across the world.
White sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and the fiery coloured stone that lend the region its name combine to make the Bay of Fires one of Australia’s hottest up and coming destinations.
Visitors can swim, go on bushwalks, or simply relax and enjoy the region’s immense natural beauty. It is truly one of Australia’s most stunning locales.
#5 – Go on an Aussie safari in the Tarkine region
You don’t need to go to Africa to go on safari!
Visitors to the rugged Tarkine region of Tasmania can experience an Australian safari including animals such as quolls, platypus, echidnas, bandicoots, sugar gliders, and the famous Tasmanian Devil. It’s also a world-class destination for birders.
Whether you explore it on foot, by kayak, or in luxury on a riverboat, the region is one of Australia’s most stunning wilderness areas.
#4 – Take a dip in Wineglass Bay
The name Freycinet National Park may not immediately ring any bells, but Wineglass Bay just might.
Considered one of the top ten beaches in the world, Wineglass Bay is that perfect combination of impossibly clear water and powdery white sand. Combined with the stunning granite peaks that border the beach, it’s a recipe for a perfect beach escape.
Visitors can experience the region in barefoot luxury or in bare-bones camping. Activities in the region range from sunbathing and bushwalking to rock-climbing, sea kayaking, and fishing. There really is something for all walks of life.
#3 – Uncover Port Arthur’s haunted past
Australia’s best-preserved convict site, Port Arthur stands as a haunting reminder of Australia’s dark colonial roots.
For those with an interest in Australian or British Colonial history, there are few places that offer a more complete picture of Australia’s past.
Taking a ghost tour of Port Arthur is one of the most popular things to do in Tasmania. If that’s not your style, visiting by day offers a range of activities including carriage tours, extended boat tours, or just soaking in the history at your own pace.
#2 – Travel through Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park
I mentioned both Cradle Mountain and Lake St. Clair earlier in this piece, but the Overland Track probably isn’t for everyone.
For those who don’t see the appeal in five to six days of hiking through the Aussie wilderness, Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park is nonetheless worth your time.
Comprising a startling variety of landscapes, the park feels like true wilderness. Signs of civilisation are few and far between, giving you a chance to experience what it must have felt like for Australia’s early explorers.
With a huge variety of day treks to be taken, multiple days could be spent within the park without seeing it all!
#1 – Discover Hobart
Last, but certainly not least, Tasmania’s capital is worthy of your time.
Home to the aforementioned MONA, Hobart has plenty to offer regardless of your tastes.
Like shopping? The Salamanca Market on Saturdays takes place in gorgeous colonial architecture.
Hiking more your speed? Head up Mt. Wellington for a glimpse of the Aurora Australis or a breathtaking view of Hobart.
Fancy a pint? The Cascade Brewery Company is one of Australia’s most popular beer brands.
Hungry? Hobart is a cosmopolitan city with flavours from around the world, but also some of Australia’s best seafood.
Wanting a day trip? Hobart is a great base to explore nearby national parks, wine regions, and islands.
In short, Hobart is one of Australia’s most criminally underrated cities and a fantastic base from which to explore the island of Tasmania.
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What Are You Waiting For?
Tasmania is very much on my radar for after we’ve tied the knot next year, but if Australia is in your plans for the year to come – make sure you make some time for Tasmania!
Your Say
Have you been to Tasmania? What did you think?
What are your favourite things to do in Tasmania? Did I miss anything?
I always check back over these comments, so let me know your suggestions and I’ll get them added!