Honestly, I have lost count of how many times I recommended Tasmania to someone and got nothing but a blank stare. “Tasmania? You mean…Is that in Africa?”. Okay, nope, listen up. Tasmania is Australia’s best-kept secret and one of the most underrated travel destinations around the world.
I don’t even know where to start – if you’re looking for the ultimate remote destination that effortlessly combines staggering (and I mean staggering) landscapes, with a little bit of historical charm, gorgeous azure beaches lapped by powdery white sands and jaw-dropping mountains then definitely head over to Tasmania.
It’s kind of the unsung hero of Australia – and it definitely punches well above its weight when it comes to natural beauty and wildlife. It’s a haven if you’re an outdoorsy person (or planning to be…New Year’s resolutions, am I right?) since it’s perfectly perched amidst lush greenery, wildlife, and isolation!
If you plan on going on a road trip around Tasmania for a week, then expect to spend one day chilling by a historical port, the other by azure beaches and the other walking through waterfall-punctuated forest trails. And the cherry on top? There’s usually no one else in sight, so it’s like booking your own private vacation for yourself.
From Cradle Mountain to Port Arthur to Wineglass Bay – there’s plenty to see and do during your trip to there. Just make sure you’ve got a car on you. Rent one from the airport or rent one out online before you travel there.
Day One: Hobart.
Photo by Jonathon Young on Unsplash
Hobart, the brilliant capital city, is where you’ll start. The city is actually surprisingly old when you think of it as more of an Australian city (remember, we are not in Europe) and it has got plenty of things to do and see.
There is a really nice café called Jackman & McRoss that I recommend for breakfast and coffee. You’ll need a good breakfast, trust me!
If you want to start off your day on a calm start, spend a little bit of time walking around Sullivans Cove (if you’re here on a Sunday then you’ll be able to be part of their arts & crafts market with over 300+ stalls.).
Your afternoon should be spent at one of the top attractions in Tasmania – Mount Wellington. This place is unreal, think clouds rolling just under where the peak is (talk about an incredible introduction to Tasmania), gorgeous waterfalls to admire, and beautiful treks to wander around in.
After a long day, head over to restaurant strip at North Hobart for a drink or two at one of the bars and restaurants there.
Day Two: The Tasman Peninsula.
Photo by Tony Harman on Unsplash
The perfect juxtaposition between history & rugged landscapes: The Tasman Peninsula. Start at the Port Arthur (which is the “historical part”) and learn all about that old prison from the mid-1800s (which may or may not be haunted, okay?). I don’t know how to put this in the nicest way possible – but if you’re into serial killer documentaries (Mindhunter fans, anyone?) then you will love this place. You will learn all about the serial killers and murderers that used to live there, and if you’re feeling just a little bit adventurous then you could always try a night tour.
For the rest of the day, you can walk along the Cape Hauy walking track. It is, without a doubt, one of the best hikes in all of Tasmania. Staggering panoramic vistas with soaring cliffs rising from the middle of clouds, gorgeous waterfalls nestled amongst the mountains and pretty rock formations – beauty, beauty, beauty!
Day Three: Freycinet National Park.
Photo by Tim Swan on Unsplash
The adventure begins! Just kidding, it has already begun from yesterday’s hike. (guys, seriously, plan accordingly and workout before you head off to Tasmania. You don’t want to be sleeping most of the time.)
Start at Coles Bay, where you’ll be met with gorgeeeeous views. Your Instagram followers will be texting you trying to figure out where you are. Explore Wineglass Bay for beautiful views as you trek around and then choose any of the secluded beaches. The beaches seriously look like something out of a Maldives postcard – transparent azure waters, white sand, and the sunsets are definitely worth the wait.
Day Four: Bay of Fires.
Photo by Roxanne Desgagnés on Unsplash
Spend your fourth day by the Bay of Fires. Don’t worry – there will be no fires. It’s just that the rocks are this gorgeous shade of red and orange and the contrast with the white sands is beautiful (there is a volcano metaphor somewhere out there….think about it and let me know). The striking shoreline is beautiful as well and you can really spend a decent amount hopping from one beach to another or from one walking trail to the other.
Day Five: Launceston.
Photo by Jack Cain on Unsplash
This is Tasmania’s second biggest city and has plenty of cool (and quirky) things to do. If you love yourself a little bit of cheese, then you can try out Pyengana for award-winning cheese and ice cream, and if you like wine then you can stop by the Josef Chromy vineyard! There are a lot of local wineries you can explore.
If you feel like you’re missing out on some history (and Port Arthur wasn’t enough), then try out the Queen Victoria Museum which has a lot of information about the railway heritage and Tasmania’s wildlife as well.
You also need to visit Cataract Gorge Reserve while you’re at Launceston. It’s one of Tasmania’s best attractions and it features the world’s longest single span walking trail – plus swimming pools, gorgeous gardens and it’s the best place to have a sunset BBQ at. Pack accordingly!
Day 6: Cradle Mountain.
Photo by Laura Smetsers on Unsplash
You will need to hit the road quite early if you’re planning on really taking in the beauty of Cradle Mountain and the surroundings. By quite early, I mean 5 am….Sorry. The Cradle Mountain National Park will take up all of your day, and it has every single natural attraction you could possibly want, Chiseled mountain peaks, waterfalls, jaw-dropping attractions, an enchanted forest, you can even ride a horse along the gorgeous Dove Lake. It is literally something out of a fairytale.
If you’re looking for an easy walk, try out the Dove Lake Circuit. And don’t forget – hiking and photography there go hand in hand. Make sure to take lots of pictures!
A few fun facts to get you excited:
- Tasmania has the world’s cleanest air (alright, maybe if you come from Sweden you wouldn’t be too excited but as someone who lived in both Cairo and Barcelona, I truly appreciate this)
- 45% of Tasmania is protected in National Parks.
- Tasmania is as big as Ireland (and to think that it’s not that known!)
- The Tasmanian devil, which is only found in Tasmania, is the world’s largest carnivorous marsupial
Don’t forget your pass!
A huge part of the island is a protected area, so make sure you purchase either a day pass for AUD16.50 per person/day, or an 8-week-pass for $60 if you’re planning on visiting most of the national parks on the whole island.
What to pack:
Tasmania’s weather is crazy – expect to experience the 4 seasons in one day. That means that you need to be smart enough for when you’re packing.
- Get yourself a waterproof and windproof jacket no matter when you’re traveling.
- Hiking boots (please break into them before!)
- Mosquito repellent.
- A comfortable backpack.
- A hat, sunscreen, and a scarf.
- But also a beanie and thick socks for your boot.
- Portable water bottles.
- Portable Charger.
- Car insurance + Car Charger.
- A thermal mug and durable snacks.
Where to stay:
I’ve compiled a list of places you can stay in per “location”.
When you’re staying in Hobart.
When you’re staying in Hobart, there are a few hotels that definitely stand out – specifically when it comes to “luxurious” places to stay at. Salamanca Inn, Hadley’s Oriental Hotel, The Henry Jones Art Hotel, and Islington Hotel are some of your top options there.
When you’re staying at Tasman National Park.
You could stay at the Abel Tasman Lodge, Retanui Lodge or Awaroa Lodge. If you’re looking for something a little bit more luxurious, then definitely choose Stewarts Bay Lodge.
When you’re staying at Freycinet.
Freycinet Lodge, Saffire Freycinet and Edge of the Bay Resort have always been some of the best places to stay at Freycinet.
When you’re staying at Bay of Fires.
Bay of Fires Bush Retreat is where I recommend staying at Bay of Fires.
When you’re staying at Launceston.
You could stay at The Sebel Launceston, Mantra Charles Hotel and Balmoral on York.
When you’re staying at Cradle Mountain.
One place and one place only: Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge.
