Tasmania, the most southern state in Australia, combines rugged wilderness with a high level of sophistication, creating an atmosphere of never-ending welcome. This beautiful island has some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, along with an abundance of delicious food and wine available at various restaurants and cafés throughout the state. As a result, many individuals visit Tasmania multiple times because of the many wonderful experiences available to them while in this area.
Whether an individual prefers an adrenaline rush from participating in an extreme sport or relaxation through spending time in nature, Tasmania’s best attractions will provide them with an experience unlike any other. From towering snow-covered mountains to isolated resort lodges located along the coast, this list includes the ten must-see attractions in Tasmania.
1. Cradle Mountain-Lake St Claire National Park
This national park is located in the heart of Tasmania’s wilderness, which is characterised by stunning, jagged mountain ranges and crystal clear lakes, surrounded by dense, low-lying forest, alpine heathland and other types of moss. Cradle Mountain also contains famous hiking trails, including the Overland Track, which has been used by countless visitors from around the world.
Those who would rather not spend weeks on a single trail will be pleased to find several shorter hiking routes leading to picturesque viewpoints and gorgeous waterfalls. Look out for the many wombats and echidnas that call this national park home; they frequently venture near the tracks. When visiting Tasmania, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park will remind you of how small you really are in the great scheme of things.
2. Freycinet National Park
Freycinet National Park, located on the east coast of Tasmania, is an absolutely amazing location for anyone who loves to be outside in nature. Freycinet has some of Australia’s most stunning pink granite mountain peaks, with one of the most photographed beaches in the world, Wineglass Bay, located within the National Park. You can hike to the top of Mount Richard and see this impressive view, or travel down to the beach itself and swim in the strikingly clear blue ocean waters. For those who enjoy kayaking, there are many quiet places available to explore within the park and for birdwatchers, Freycinet will provide an abundance of opportunities to see both native and migratory species. The rocks glow with a beautiful, warm, rosy hue at sunset, and every angle looks like it is from a movie.
3. Hobart
Hobart is a valuable combination of old world and creative energy. A visit to Salamanca Market on Saturday is a must! You will be surprised by the live music, the local craft items, and the smell of the fresh pastries and breads filling the marketplace!
The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is the most well-known venue in Hobart and hosts many bold and thought-provoking exhibitions.
Battery Point is a great place to take a leisurely stroll to see some of the best colonial architecture and the views of the harbour.
Finish the day with some of the freshest seafood available at one of the waterfront restaurants. With the beauty of Mount Wellington serving as a backdrop, Hobart is the gateway to discovering the rich history and culture of Tasmania.
4. Port Arthur Historic Site
The convict history of Tasmania comes to life at Port Arthur, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site located on the Tasman Peninsula. The site offers a chance to see what life was like for convicts in a penal colony and the grisly conditions they lived in. There are guided tours available to walk through the ruins, but you can also take a ghost walk tour during the evening hours for added excitement! Even though the history of Port Arthur is rather grim, the site features beautiful gardens and rugged coastline to provide visitors with a sense of peace and contemplation in their visit to Port Arthur. This is one of Tasmania’s most powerful sites due to its haunting beauty and strong emotional impact.
5. Bruny Island
Bruny Island blends fantastic natural wilderness with gourmet food. You can reach this island from Kettering in about 30 minutes by ferry. The island boasts an abundance of its own farm-fresh oysters, handcrafted chocolates, and artisan cheeses. As you take the drive from North to South Bruny Island, you will be greeted with beautiful coastal cliffs, quaint and peaceful beaches and spectacular sites, such as The Neck lookout, where both views of the island are visible at the same time. Unique wildlife, such as white wallabies, fairy penguins and sea eagles, make Bruny Island their home. The landscape and the food scene combine to provide food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike an excellent destination.
6. Tarkine
The Tarkine region, located in north-west Tasmania, still appears as though it is untouched. Rainforest that is millions of years older than the Amazon and wild coastal cliffs make up the Tarkine region. Towering myrtle trees create a canopy over moss-covered paths and river systems through deep gorges. The Arthur River region in Western Tasmania is breathtaking. With the opportunity to cruise through wilderness that has remained unchanged for thousands of years. The Tarkine is also rich in Aboriginal culture and has a number of rare wildlife species. The Tarkine is considered to be a remote, raw experience that you will never forget.
7. Bay of Fires
The Bay of Fires is coated in brilliant colours: bright orange rocky cliffs, white sandy beaches and clear blue ocean waters. The Bay of Fires runs along the north-east coast of Tasmania. The Bay of Fires is fantastic for swimming, snorkelling and relaxing on the beach. Although the name of the location may sound dramatic, it truly describes the area well, because the bright sunlight reflects off the boulders covered with lichen and creates a vibrant glow along the entire coastline. You can camp under the stars or stay at the nearby eco-lodges for a quiet getaway. It is one of the most picturesque locations in Tasmania.
8. Mount Field National Park
Tasmania is known for its tall trees and fern-filled forests, and Mount Field National Park showcases them all as well as dozens of cascading waterfalls. Russell Falls is the number one attraction of the park with its multiple tiers and stunning surroundings filled with lush plants and trees. The mountain becomes a snow-covered haven in winter and is filled with wildflowers and birdlife in summer. It caters to many types of visitors, from the family-oriented traveller to the advanced hiker. Mount Field National Park provides recreational opportunities for all. With only a little over an hour’s drive from Hobart, Mount Field is an excellent day trip option, offering a different experience from those found within the capital city of Tasmania.
9. Launceston
Tasmania Launceston, located north of Hobart in Tasmania, is often seen as the northern jewel of Tasmania. Launceston contains many heritage streets, which in turn contain many cafes and boutique shops, along with art galleries. Just outside of Launceston is the Tamar Valley with its wineries. Cataract Gorge, located close to Launceston, is one of the many natural wonders of Tasmania. Visitors to Cataract Gorge can ride the chairlift, walk over the suspension bridge, and have a drink, enjoying the view of peacocks wandering around the beautiful gardens. The city of Launceston is small and quaint; however, it does offer a lot of character and some stunning views and fantastic food.
10. King Island
King Island is the hidden jewel of Tasmania; it is located in the Bass Strait, where the wild ocean meets luxury. The island produces multiple gourmet foods, including award-winning cheeses, fresh lobster, and grass-fed beef, and is known for its surfers and golfers. King Island has a rugged and windblown landscape, with many secluded beaches, dunes and jagged cliffs. While King Island may be off the beaten track, that is what makes it so special.
Kittawa Lodge
Kittawa Lodge, located on the west side of King Island, is the ultimate getaway on King Island. It is a true boutique natural luxury resort that provides an experience unlike any other. Every villa has views of the Southern Ocean, so guests can enjoy the beauty of King Island while relaxing in their own private accommodation. Guests will enjoy meals that are made from locally sourced ingredients, enjoy special experiences that are curated for them and can find solitude while on the property to relax. Whether one is discovering caves or waiting for storms to roll in while enjoying the beautiful views from the stone bathtub, Kittawa Lodge provides a Tasmanian experience that is raw, refined, and unforgettable.
Visiting Tasmania
Tasmania is a place that you will never forget; it is wild, soulful and has many unique and beautiful places to explore. Every region in Tasmania has something to offer, from mountain trails to stunning islands. While you may choose to come to Tasmania for adventure or choose to escape to an experience of luxury at Kittawa Lodge, there is one thing that is a guarantee regarding your trip to Tasmania: once you visit, you will want to return again and again to experience all that Tasmania has to offer.
