Tasmania’s southern region is packed to the brim with things to do in and around the state’s capital, Hobart. We recommend you hire a car to get the most out of this region, particularly as your list of ‘must do’s’ is going to be huge! If you want the full experience of Tasmania without having to drive, the Tasmanian Travel and Information Centre can offer many options of getting you around the Southern Tasmania region. Bus and shuttle tours, cruising and even sailing are included in the many choices of seeing and experiencing this magnificent region.
A Hobart based itinerary will almost always take in a trip to the summit of kunanyi/Mt Wellington, Saturday’s famous Salamanca Market and the thought provoking Museum of Old and New Art (Mona) but you will want to set aside enough time to explore and experience as much culture, history, produce and nature as you can pack into your time in this great state.
A great day trip from Hobart is the Coal Valley and quaint historical village of Richmond. Here you will find award winning modern cheeseries, romantic cellar doors in convict era buildings and restored luxury hotels. Try the famous Tasmanian scallop pie, drop into the lolly shop for an Esmerelda and wander down to the historic bridge with an ice cream in the afternoon. Further afield, you can explore the convict history of the Tasman Peninsula (oh, and there’s gin on that peninsula too) or spend a day or four bushwalking along breathtaking coastline.
The Southwest region will gift the adventurous with untouched wilderness and days of bush walking with barely another soul on your journey. The less experienced bush walker can still enjoy and participate in the regions activities from the air or the water.
The Huon provides an insight into our Apple Isle namesake of the twentieth century as well as giving us Bruny Island, a tiny landmass, with so much to explore. A week on Bruny Island will change you, leaving you recharged and reconnected at the same time. Back on the mainland, you’ll find sheep whey vodka, amazing cheeses, wineries and cider houses that will appeal to your pagan roots.
The Derwent Valley is the birthplace of the Derwent River that runs through Hobart into the Tasman Sea. It breathes life into its own stories of hydro power with small hydro villages dotted along the Western Wilds journey whilst also being home to Mt Field and Russell Falls. Maydena, situated just outside the National Park is now home to the recently opened gravity focused mountain bike park with world-class trails offering something for everyone, from families through to elite riders.
To make the most of your time in our beautiful part of the world, please let us help you with your itinerary to ensure everything on your list is achievable.