While everyone’s talking about mainland Australia and how Sydney is one of the most exciting cities in the world and Melbourne is the most livable urban spot on the planet, not enough praise and attention is given to our not-so-little island just off the south coast.
Tasmania is truly a sight to behold and a unique place under the stars every traveller with a thirst for exploration and adventure should visit at least once in a lifetime. Here are the top five things you can do only in Tasmania that will inspire you as a traveller.
Explore Hobart and the MONA museum
Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, is a historic city that has successfully preserved its cultural heritage while creating a modern, thriving urban setting that attracts over a million of tourists every year and just makes it a fun place to live. Here, you have a myriad of activities to choose from, so why not start with the local food scene.
The famous Salamanca Market is home to extraordinary eateries, artisan gift shops, and hundreds of stalls where talented locals proudly display their latest creations – from hand-carved woodwork to delicious freshly-baked pastries, the Salamanca Market has it all. The MONA museum is another attraction you shouldn’t miss, as the quirky interactive art displays make for a truly unforgettable experience.
Drive along the Bay of Fires in the north east
By far one of the most amazing experiences in Tasmania is revelling in the never-ending beauty of the world-renowned Bay of Fires. Well, it’s not never-ending exactly, but it does stretch some 50 kilometres along the east coast and is truly a sight to behold. The breathtaking views of the ocean, the crystal-clear waters, the honey-hued beaches, and the scenic routes along the bay all make for a road trip of a lifetime.
You’ll need a vehicle for this one, as the distances are vast and you’ll need a way to transport your cycling and trekking gear. Fortunately, there’s reliable cheap car hire all around Tasmania, so you should have no problem driving up to the bay from Hobart or Launceston. Once there, you can choose from a myriad of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, fishing, or just basking in the clear waters of the ocean.
Revel in the beauty of Aurora Australis
Only a handful of places in the world will grant you the unique opportunity to see the southern lights, and Tasmania’s Mount Wellington overlooking Hobart is one of them. This is an unforgettable experience that will make you question your role in this universe, and the purpose of it all as you stare up into the endless unknown.
Climb up to Mount Wellington lookout point during night-time and witness the beauty that is Aurora Australis, complete with its stunning view of the Milky Way and the countless stars that dot the galaxy we call home. Be wary though, once you hike back down to civilization you might find yourself to be a changed human being.
Visit the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo
There are “normal” zoos, and then there’s the Devil Unzoo in Taranna. Being the first of its kind in the world, this zoo is built around the idea that animals should be allowed to roam around freely in their natural habitat. You are encouraged to walk among the animals, thinking carefully about how you should approach your four-legged friends.
The zoo is home to numerous animal species found nowhere else on earth, and is truly an exciting experience you shouldn’t miss. You can experience close encounters with the local wildlife, visit the Tasmanian native garden, as well as the local art gallery filled with original art.
Trek through the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
If you were looking for a trekking adventure of a lifetime, then Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park is the place to be. This is a place where true nature enthusiasts will feel right at home, as the breathtaking beauty of the ancient rainforests interspersed with lush grasslands and lakes, all culminate towards the famous Lake St Clare itself.
Within its borders are numerous wildlife species including Tasmanian devils, quolls, platypus, and echidna. History buffs can enjoy a myriad of historic Aboriginal sites dotting the national park, represented by preserved stone tools, caves, and rock shelters. You can take a guided tour of the Aboriginal cultural heritage from Lake St Clair.
Tasmania always seemed to reside in the shadow of its popular northern states, but that doesn’t mean that this paradise island doesn’t have something unique to offer to every traveller. With this guide in hand, go ahead and experience your Tasmanian adventure of a lifetime.
