If Tasmania isn’t yet on your bucket list of places to visit, maybe it’s best to grab a pen and add it now. Australia’s smallest state, this island is situated 300km south of the mainland, and it’s a location shrouded in mystery and lots and lots of rich history. From the vast wilderness and the most amazing natural wonders, including wild rivers, alpine lakes, and breathtaking peaks, to its people, (did you know that Aboriginal people inhabited the island for up to 40,000 years before the British colonization?) Tasmania is truly an understated jewel in the earth’s crown.
Plus, Tasmania is also a haven for the foodie. Home to some of the freshest seafood, fruits, cheeses, and wines, there’s much more to this Australian state than meets the eye.
So, here are the top 3 things to do in Tasmania if you’re ready for an adventure.
1. Head to a Tasmanian Winery
Wine may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Tasmania, but believe it or not, it has a rich legacy of winemaking. The island is the home of Australian wine, and because of that, it has some of the best wineries in Tasmania.
And if you’re one for learning the history of wine and seeing where your favorite grape comes from before you drink it, Tasmania is the perfect spot. From the Bay of Fires Winery (one of the northernmost wine regions) to Clover Hill Winery (which is famed for its excellent Chardonnay), there’s a range of unique destinations with breathtaking views and interesting backstories.
2. Go to Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park
Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park is a sight to behold, literally. Located in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area to the north, expect to see glistening lakes, glacier-carved mountains, beach forests, and the big one – Mount Ossa, standing at 1,616 meters high and producing some of the most breathtaking views.
When you visit this part of the World Heritage Area, you’ll most definitely want to take a hike to embrace the true natural wonders. You’ll need to spend a full day here to explore as much as you can, so make sure you have enough time!
Who knows, you might even see a famous Tasmanian devil!
3. Go to the Capital, Hobart
After your long hike, you’re probably going to want a bit of a culture fix, right? Hobart is Tasmania’s capital, and it’s definitely worth a visit. What was once a sleepy town with a haunting convict history has now been transformed into a hub of culture and vibrancy. Hobart has the perfect location, too – it’s set between the ocean and the peak of kunyani/Mount Wellington. New Instagram pic, anyone?
And for the foodies, there’s plenty to do and try. The waterfront and restaurant strip in North Hobart is bustling with restaurants, contemporary cafes, and a generally dynamic atmosphere.
There’s also the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery and MONA: Museum of Old and New Art where you can find Tasmanian landscape art prints for traditional and modern art lovers.
Take a Trip to Tasmania
If you’re the sort of person who likes to mix culture, food, and wine with the outdoors, Tasmania is the place to visit. A small island with a big history, you’ll find you probably run out of time to do all the things you have planned.
But, by starting with these three recommendations, you’ll get a small taste of this magnificent island. And just under three hours away from Australia, there’s absolutely no reason you can’t come back if you can’t do it all.
