Hobart and Surrounds
Hobart is a historical port city framed by the River Derwent and backed by kunanyi (Mount Wellington). Located on the South-East coast of Tasmania, it is the main port and point of departure to Antarctica.
Originally a penal colony, Hobart has transformed into a popular travel destination, with a stellar food and wine scene, one of the most prestigious art galleries in the country (MONA) and easy access to some of Australia’s most beautiful scenery.
Things to do
Bruny Island
A short drive and ferry ride lands you at Bruny Island: a magnificent showcase of Tasmania at its best: sample its oysters, cheese and chocolate (specialities of the area), and explore bushwalking through the South Bruny National Park or a scenic boat cruise around the island.
MONA
Home of the Dark Mofo festival, MONA is Australia’s largest private museum. The collection at MONA ranges from Egyptian antiquities to modern, thought-provoking art. MONA can be reached by car or high-speed ferry from the Hobart CBD Waterfront. The museum includes a winery, restaurant, cinema and accommodation.
Royal Tasmanian
Botanical Gardens
A short walk from Hobart’s CBD, the Royal Botanic Gardens has some of the most significant historical architecture and trees dating from the nineteenth century. The gardens also house the world’s only sub-Antarctic Plant house, in which plants are grown in a climate-controlled environment including fogs, mists which mimic the climate of sub-Antarctic islands.
kunanyi/Mount Wellington
kunanyi/Mount Wellington borders Hobart to the west, providing a sweeping vantage point over the city and out to sea. A 20-minute drive from the CBD, kunanyi is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including platypus, echidna, pademelons and bandicoots. The park is also home to sub-alpine flora as well as beautiful waterfalls and springs.
Salamanca Market
Held in Salamanca Place in the heart of Hobart, the world-famous Salamanca Markets are a start attraction to find unique hand made and grown Tasmanian-made pieces, including glassware, ceramics and jewellery, as well as fresh produce.
Port Arthur
A UNESCO world heritage sight, Port Arthur Historic Site is around 90 minutes from Hobart by car. It is Australia’s most intact convict site and includes over 30 buildings to explore. You can join a guided tour or have a harbour cruise to take in the size and scope of this monumental site. The historic site also includes a restaurant open from 4pm daily.
Blow Hole And Tasman Arch
Located just over an hour’s drive from Hobart, the Tasman National Park is situated on the Tasman peninsula and contains breathtaking views with 300m high cliffs and diverse wildlife to explore. Home to seals, penguins, dolphins and even migrating whales, the park is also home to many birds. The park has many great walks as well as naturally occurring phenomena including the Tasman Arch and Blowhole, as well as Waterfall Bay and the Tessellated Pavement.
