The states and territories of Australia

Tasmania

With a size of 68,491 square kilometres, 19 national parks, 1617 beaches, 334 islands, the Tasmanian devil, the world's cleanest air, glistening lakes, rainforests, fruitful vines, and some of the world's best hiking trails - Tasmania is nature's open-air playground. 
 

Where should you visit in Tasmania?

Say G'day to kangaroos and other wildlife
© Jarrad Seng
Explore Picnic Island
© Luke Tscharke

The 26th largest island in the world is often compared to the beauty of the South Island of New Zealand but has its own unique personality and natural wonders, all waiting to be explored. Would you like to conquer the lap around Tasmania? It is approximately 1500 kilometres long and there are so many gems to discover along the way. Let's go!

Wildlife on a path
Encounter an abundance of unique Australian wildlife
© TravelEssence
Along the way, enjoy fresh local produce
© Paul County

Hobart and surroundings

Hobart

Hobart, a place that is rich with history, heritage, and charm. Tasmania’s capital city and Australia’s second-oldest city. This Aussie gem is home to approximately 40% of Tasmania’s population.

Hobart lies on the Derwent River, at the foot of the 1271 metre high Mount Wellington. A small city boasting a dynamic food scene and a range of outdoor activities. Hobart is renowned for MONA, a museum boasting fabulous art. It is the largest privately funded museum in the Southern Hemisphere.

Visit the Mona Wine Bar
© Mona and Matt Newton
Watch the sunset in Hobart
© Luke Tscharke

The perfect mix of culture, creativity, and history

For local weekend markets, visit Salamanca Place. It is also a fantastic place to wander around and if you like a view over the city and harbour, conquer Mount Wellington. Visit whiskey bars, taste craft beer or take a wander through Hobart’s waterfront and try local produce at the many restaurants on offer.

A market with stalls and people and Mount Cook in the background
Meet the quirky locals at the Salamanca Markets
© Poon Wai Nang
Dine at local cafes and enjoy the coffee culture
© Lusy Productions

Howden

Slow down and soak up the laid-back vibes in Howden. This small and charming place is a suburb in the capital of Hobart. Lying on the banks of Stinkpot Bay, it is best known for its green surroundings.

Discover deserted beaches and fairy penguins

You can find a beach five minutes walk from the centre, a place where you can admire the boats in the bay. The beaches are often deserted by people, but penguins and crabs find their way over the beach at certain times of the year.

Admire Tasmania's unique range of birds

Besides Fairy penguins and crabs, there is a good chance that you will encounter a variety of unique birds in the vicinity of Howden. The Peter Murrell Conservation Area, a ten-minute drive from Howden, is also a place where you can go bird watching.

Keep an eye out for the Scarlet robin
© Arwen Jayne
Penguin family |Australia wildlife
Fairy penguins can be found in Howden at certain times of the year
© TravelEssence

The Southern Lights

Did you know Tasmania has a light show similar to the northern lights in Europe? If you would like to see a spectacle of nature, the southern lights are sure to impress! Plan your trip for the month of September as this is when the lights are the most visible and intense. The Tasmanian winter is another good time to see this spectacular array of colours. Nearby Hobart, you can find many good spots to view these vibrant lights.

Be enchanted by the Southern Lights - Aurora Australis
© Simon Kruit

Port Arthur

Approximately 97 kilometres southeast of Hobart, you will find a quaint town that is an ideal base to discover Australia's convict history. Step back in time and visit the World Heritage Listed, Port Arthur Historic Site. A place where you can find 11 remnant penal sites, built by the British Empire. Or admire the natural attractions found in the area such as stunning coastal landscapes and towering cliffs.

Port Arthur Historic Site
Visit historical sites in Port Arthur
© Alastair Bett
A brown historical building set amongst green trees
Get a bird's eye view of this historical part of Australia
© Pete Harmsen

Mount Field National Park

Uncover a beautiful and diverse landscape, approximately 64 kilometres northwest of Hobart. Mount Field National park is Tasmania's first national park and is renowned for its unique wildlife, hiking trails, and spectacular views. An ideal day trip from Hobart, this part of Tasmania is bursting with nature including eucalyptus, fern forests, and some of the world's tallest trees.

A smal brown quoll in the green forest
Say G'day to the Eastern quoll
© Ash Thomson Photography
A forest of green trees
Marvel at stunning rainforest landscapes
© Tourism Tasmania/ Michael Walters Photography

Tasman Peninsula

Surrounded by soaring cliffs, stunning coastlines, national parks, blowholes, and caves is the Tasman Peninsula. Located approximately 75 kilometres southeast of Hobart with a size of 660 square kilometres, this part of Tasmania boasts some of the best walking tracks in the state. An easy drive from Hobart, there are many things to discover here including Pirate's Bay Lookout, Cape Pillar, and the Eaglehawk Neck.

Aerial view of a white sand bay, turquoise water and green forested hills
Discover the natural beauty of Tasman National Park
© Jesse Desjardins
A dolphin swimming in the water in Kaikoura
Spot frolicking dolphins

South East Tasmania

South East Tasmania is known for its wildlife, spectacular landscapes, and rich history. The region consists of three parts: the Kettering and Cygnet peninsulas, the idyllic Bruny Island, and the coastline along the Huon Highway. You will find several nature parks, where you can see the famous Tasmanian Devil. On Bruny Island, you can spot dolphins, penguins, and white wallabies.

Swim in crystal clear water
© Jamie Douros/ Camille Helm
Spot white wallabies on Bruny Island
© TravelEssence

Discover the remote and rugged wilderness

In Hartz Mountain National Park, you can discover an unspoiled wilderness with glacial lakes, swamps, rugged mountain peaks, and dense rainforests. The park is located approximately 80 kilometres away from the capital Hobart, Australia's third oldest city.

Enjoy the assortment of locally grown produce

The hills are covered with orchards, and cherries, apricots, and excellent wines are produced here. The area also has several special caves, possibly the most astounding caves in Australia.

Sample Tasmania's delicious range of produce
© Chris Phelps
Stop by the local farms and meet the locals
© Paul County

Bicheno

Unravel pure coastal bliss in Bicheno. A seaside village on the east coast of Tasmania, 185 kilometres northeast of Hobart. Watch in awe as Bicheno’s resident population of blue penguins return after a day of fishing out at sea. A spectacle of nature as they waddle up the beach to their burrow.

Taste some of the best fish and chips in Australia

Visit a place that is renowned for its delicious fresh seafood! Sample some freshly caught produce at the Gulch - a local fish and chip takeaway, that has won an award for serving the best fish in chips in Australia. This local business uses only by-catch, which makes their product sustainable.

Try the award-winning local fish and chip takeaway
© Adam Gibson
Savour freshly caught crayfish
© Adam Gibson

Enjoy one of nature's greatest shows

The Blowhole at Bicheno is arguably the best in Tasmania, especially when there is swell from the Tasman Sea. Whalers Hill is approximately ten minutes walk to the peak, a perfect place to have a picnic.

Visit the famous Bicheno Blowhole
© Robert King Visuals

Bruny Island

Discover a wonderful assortment of wildlife including wallabies, pademelons, quolls, potoroos and unique birds on Bruny Island. A nature lovers paradise, located off the southeastern coast of Tasmania. The gem is 362 square kilometres in size and can be easily reached by ferry, departing Kettering. Enjoy the views of the Tasman Sea from the Bruny Island Lighthouse or discover the coastline by boat.

Where the rough ocean meets the calm waters

Make sure you stop at the 'Neck', this is where north and south Bruny are connected by a thin stretch of land - on one side there is a quiet channel and on the other side is the rough ocean. South Bruny is more populated than the north, and in Adventure Bay, you can find a small grocery store and a few cosy cafes.

An assortment of activities to indulge in

Conquer the Fluted Cape Walk, a six-kilometre hike that takes approximately three hours. Or if you prefer, take a scenic flight over the area. In the summer, you can go swimming, snorkelling, surfing, kayaking or boating. Explore the island by bike or go on a guided tour and learn more about this amazing part of Australia.

A strip of land separating a quiet channel and an ocean
Unravel the beauty of 'The Neck'
© Jess Bonde
A hand taking an oyster off a natural wooden board
Sample local oysters
Unique encounter with dolphins | New Zealand wildlife

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North Tasmania

Launceston

Launceston, Tasmania’s second-largest city, is a funky place bursting with little cafes and local art. A vibrant hub for food, wine, nature, and culture. A place where the country meets the city with one of the best-preserved early cityscapes in Australia. Here, you can find elegant Colonial and Victorian architecture and century-old parks. Visit the local harvest market which is held every Saturday, showcasing the region’s finest locally-grown produce.

Taste Tasmania produce at the local cafes
© Chris Phelps
Shop at the large assortment of local stores
© Kelly Slater

Are you a nature and wine lover?

A short stroll from the city, you can find Cataract Gorge, a slice of Launceston wilderness. Renowned for being close to Tamar Valley, a wine region that is situated along the Tamar River. Growing here is Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Chardonnay. Go winery hopping, visit little boutique wineries, and indulge in some wine tasting.

Go vineyard hopping and sample some of Australia's best wine
© Kelly Slater
Stay at unique accommodation in the heart of the city
© Anjie Blair

Little Blue Lake

Get off the beaten track and discover one of Tasmania's most beautiful places, Little Blue Lake. Located in the northeast, approximately 122 kilometres from Launceston, nearby the town of Gladstone. Admire the rich colour and white sandy edges all surrounded by gum trees. Pack a picnic and enjoy the tranquillity of this unusual landscape.

Be enchanted by the beauty of Little Blue Lake
© Melissa Findley

Cradle Mountain

Forming the northern end of Cradle Mountain, Lake St Clair National Park, it is a part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage area. It is one of Tasmania’s most renowned natural environments. A wild landscape featuring ancient rainforest, alpine heathlands, icy streams cascading out of mountains, glacial lakes, and a wealth of wildlife.

A world filled with wonderful wildlife

A place where you can spot possums, pademelons, wallabies, and wombats. If you are lucky, maybe even the rare Tasmanian Devil. Visit the sanctuary in Cradle Mountains and learn more about these fascinating creatures! Cradle is the starting point for the world-famous Overland Track, a sensational six-day trek. There is something in Cradle Mountain to captivate everyone.

Watch the sky light up with the Milky Way
© Tourism Tasmania Masaaki Aihara
Have close encounters with adorable pademelon
© Tourism Tasmania Rob Burnett

Lake St Clair

A nature lover and hikers paradise, Lake St. Clair is located at the end of Cradle Mountain. This natural wonder is Australia's deepest lake and has been carved out over millions of years by different ice ages. The Aboriginal people of the area called the lake Leeawuleena, meaning sleeping water. This region is one of the last real wildernesses in the world and is therefore listed as a World Heritage Site.

Nature at its best

Here, you will find overwhelming, unspoilt nature with valleys, forests, rivers, lakes, and waterfalls. It is also home to Tasmania's highest peak, Mount Ossa, with a staggering height of 1617 metres. With pine and eucalyptus forests, tropical rainforests, savannahs, and grass plains, this place is a paradise.

A lush green rainforest with trees covered in moss
The cool temperate rainforest covers 10% of Tasmania
© Tourism Tasmania/ Paul Sinclair
Spot platypus in fresh creeks and billabongs
© Ash Thomson Photography

Central Plateau

Discover a place that covers 12% of Tasmania's landmass. With the best trout fishing in the southern hemisphere, sub-alpine moorlands, the Walls of Jerusalem National Park, and many lakes. The Central Highlands features World Heritage wilderness and is a haven for fishing enthusiasts. As well as nature, you can enjoy the local whiskey distilleries and fresh Tasmanian produce.

Tasmania has an abundant of wildlife to discover
Enjoy the view along Highland Lakes Road
© Tourism Tasmania/ Adrian Cook

Devonport

Where the Bass Strait meets the Mersey River, along the north coast is Devonport. Located approximately 100 kilometres northwest of Launceston, this town is known as the 'Gateway to Tasmania' due to it being the arrival and departure point for the Spirit of Tasmania car ferry from Melbourne. Highlights include Mersey Bluff, Don River Railway, the Bass Strait Maritime Museum, and Home Hill. Nearby, you will also find the Tasmanian Arboretum or go biking along the coastal trail to The Bluff. Here, you can encounter Aboriginal rock carvings.

Marvel at a field of poppies
© Tourism Australia
Visit Bluff Beach in Devonport
© Tourism Australia

North West Tasmania

The north of Tasmania is one of nature's spectacles. Featuring deserted wilderness, national parks, and charming small towns on a coastal route. Located directly on the coast is Burnie, a port city where the craft of the paper mill comes to life. Here, you can see how paper is made and dine at restaurants serving local specialties. The north is known for its local products: the fresh vegetables are grown in fields that together form a grand 'patchwork'.

Stop by local antique stores
© Alastair Bett
Enjoy a hot cup of coffee - Tassie-style!
© Osborne Images

A nature lover and foodies haven

During the Cradle To Coast Tasting Trail, you will discover and taste the best of Tasmania. You can also choose to drive along the spectacular coastline. The coastal routes take you along Penguin, a picturesque seaside resort where penguins walk down the street. Penguins are also found at Ulverstone, this town lies at the mouth of the Leven River. It is known for its abundant birdlife and picnic spots.

Stop for fresh local produce at the road stalls
© Paul County
Visit an array of wineries and cellar doors
© Chris Phelps

East Coast of Tasmania

Postcard picture-perfect, the East Coast Of Tasmania is sublime and boasts incredible natural beauty. Stretching 220 kilometres, along the Great Eastern Drive, you will find an abundance of wonderful things to do and see here. Explore deserted beaches, hinterland, charming towns, and much more. From St Helen's in the north to Orford in the south, you could spend days exploring this great part of the country.

Get closer to nature at Apsley Gorge
© Simon Sturzaker
Feeling adventurous? conquer St Helen's mountain bike trails
© J Da Seymour Photomedia

Coles Bay

An ideal base to access a range of angling opportunities, and the gateway to Freycinet National Park, Coles Bay is a pretty seaside town. Located 173 kilometres, southeast of Launceston, there is no shortage of things to do and see. Relax on deserted beaches, fish, kayak, sail, or try quad biking. Or if you are a foodie and wine lover, join a wine tour and taste an assortment of local gourmet produce.

Brown boulders and rocks with a curvaceous beach of white sand and blue waters in the distance
Uncover the secrets of Wineglass Bay
© TravelEssence
Australian wildlife | Australia holiday
Have close encounters with unique marine life

Maria Island

Featuring the perfect blend of history, wildlife, and stunning landscapes, Maria Island is located off the east coast of Tasmania. You can reach the island by a 30-minute ferry ride, that departs from the small town of Triabunna. With a size of 115.5 square kilometres, you can discover a World Heritage Listed Australian Convict Site, the Painted Cliffs and long sandy beaches. Truly, a special part of Australia.

Dabble in some Australian history at the Convict Barn and Clinker Store
© Stu Gibson
Be astounded by empty white sand beaches
© Stu Gibson

Freycinet

Located on the east coast of Tasmania, 125-kilometres north-east of Hobart is Freycinet. A natural wonderland that features white pearled beaches, rare flora and fauna, secluded bays, and an assortment of birds. Take a short stroll to the iconic Wineglass Bay or visit the pink granite peaks, The Hazards.

Wineglass Bay is world-renowned for its beauty

At Wineglass Bay, you will find a lookout that boasts one of Tasmania’s most photographed views. There are a variety of walking tracks to explore, suitable for all fitness levels. Some trails lead to secluded bays, squeaky-clean beaches, and bird-filled lagoons. Or get closer to nature and discover the area from another vantage point, in a kayak.

Two people walking on a beach in Tasmania
Feel like you have Freycinet all for yourself
© Stu Gibson
Meet the Tasmanian devil!

Picnic Island

Off the coast of Freycinet with the pink granite, Hazards mountain range as your backdrop is Picnic Island. A place filled with interesting history and wildlife. Spot dolphins, whales, penguins, and unique birds. Spend your day kayaking, hiking, swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing. Here, you can enjoy an exclusive experience - the island can be booked privately for up to 10 people. Let's go!

Pop over to Picnic Island
© Luke Tscharke

Bay of Fires and St Helens

Dramatic landscapes, spectacular nature with forests, beaches, and an abundance of animal life. You'll find all of this in the Bay of Fires, the pristine coastal area on the edge of Mount William National Park.

Get active in nature

The area is renowned for its excellent walking trails. Take a stroll over sandy beaches, past secluded bays, and coves. Or get even closer to nature by kayaking down the Ansons River.

A playground for holidaymakers

Bay of Fires has unique red rock formations that contrast brightly with the white sand and azure blue sea. The rusts owe their bright red colour to the formation of lichen. For shopping or a visit to an art gallery, you should go to St Helen's. This is the largest coastal town in the area and is also well-known for the oysters that grow here.

A wooden deck in the bush
Enjoy the outdoor Aussie lifestyle
© Flow Mountain Bike
Are you searching for an active holiday?
© Stu Gibson

Binalong Bay

Arguably the prettiest town in Tasmania, Binalong Bay is the perfect base to explore the spectacular Bay of Fires. Snorkel in natural rock pools, kayak, hike, or go mountain biking. Take a wander along the 1.6 kilometre stretch of beach and admire the big red rocks and green ocean underneath a bright blue sky. Keep an eye out for wildlife on Jeanneret Beach and Swimcart Beach. Here, the outdoor opportunities are endless!

Be enchanted by a stunning coastline that doesn't seem to end
© J Da Seymour Photomedia
Wander along the pearly white sand beach of Binalong Bay
© J Da Seymour Photomedia

West Coast

Tasmania's western coast is one of the most remote and arguably one of the most beautiful places in the world. The West Coast is invariably different from the east coast, the nature is distinctly rugged, and the rainforest is untouched. The area has several small towns where you can still find fragments of the gold rush.

Choose from a variety of activities in the heart of nature

Corinna is a historic mining village on the banks of the Pieman River. An area that is characterised by the unspoiled piece of ancient rainforest. Here, you can find several routes for kayaking, hiking, boating, fishing, and bird-watching. Take a cruise on a historic ship on the Pieman River or go and discover Gordon River. Strahan and Macquarie are rich in history, including Sarah Island, which is a harbour that used to house convicts.

Visit Nelson Falls nearby Queenstown
Be astounded by the fascinating landscapes of the West Coast
© Donovan Simpkin

Strahan

Discover one of Tasmania's harbourside villages, Strahan. This gem sits on the edge of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage area and features a rich historical past. An ideal base to explore the surrounding nature, there are plenty of outdoor adventures on offer. Take a trip to the nearby Sarah Island, or take a cruise and discover the untouched wilderness of the West Coast. Be sure to try the local seafood and world-class, Pinot Noirs and sparkling wines.

Discover the historical past of the convicts in Strahan
© Ollie Khedun
Relax at Lettes Bay in Strahan
© Ollie Khedun

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