Often forgotten about, the small Island off the south coast of Australia known as Tasmania is home to a huge range of stunning landscapes, great towns and incredible national parks. Many travellers don’t make it across the Tasman Sea to this part of Australia and they certainly miss out. Check out these 10 best places to visit in Tasmania to help fuel your wanderlust and to make sure you don’t miss out either.
1. Cradle Mountain
The setting of Tasmania’s most iconic image, Cradle Mountain is located in the Island’s Central Highlands region and is every bit as spectacular in real life as it is in the photos. Set within a National Park, the area boasts a ton of great day walking trails, as well as beautiful lakes, great views and stunning surrounds. One of the most popular tourist spots, this is definitely one of the best places to visit in Tasmania.
2. Port Arthur
Australia’s original penal colony, Port Arthur, is situated in the south of Tasmania is a must-see for those visiting this part of the island. The town started off as a convict prison, but is now one of the island’s most significant heritage areas with some awesome ruins to discover and museums to explore.
3. Freycinet National Park
With pure white beaches and amazing views, the Freycinet National Park is certainly one of the best places to visit in Tasmania. Wineglass Bay and Coles Bay, with their picturesque settings, are 2 of the most famous spots here and there is heaps of amazing hiking opportunities to enjoy. Freycinet is also a great place to see the fabled Tasmanian devil … good luck!
4. Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
Along with Freycinet National Park, the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park is another must on any Tasmanian itinerary. This region was gouged out by glaciers thousands of years ago and what’s left is now a rugged and remote terrain, largely untouched by human activity. With pristine forests, towering peaks, incredible rapids and spectacular gorges, the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park is a wild area, popular with rafting and canoe enthusiasts and is a designated World Heritage site.
5. Hobart
With endless activities, awesome markets and a stunning setting, Hobart really is the beating capital heart of Tasmania. This historic city, with Mount Wellington in the background, the ocean lapping at its feet and the River Derwent on the doorstep, is definitely is one of the best places to visit in Tasmania. Try your hand at paddle-boarding, sample local produce at Salamanca Market or stroll the Botanic Gardens – Hobart has it all.
6. Tamar Valley
50 km northwest of Launceston, the Tamar Valley has more than 30 wineries famed for their pinot noir and chardonnay grapes and is regarded as one of the 10 wine routes in the world. Cellar door tastings are a great activity to enjoy here – so don’t expect to be driving too far!
7. Bay of Fires
Famous for its white sand beaches and the orange-coloured markings on its granite boulders, the Bay of Fires is an ideal spot for relaxing, unwinding and getting into the pace of life on Tasmania! Once named the world’s hottest travel destination by Lonely Planet, swimming, boating, fishing, kayaking and walking are all popular things to enjoy here, along with some world – class diving and snorkeling opportunities.
8. Devonport
Coming to Tasmania from mainland Australia, Devonport is likely to be your first stop. That’s because the Spirit of Tasmania boat terminal is located here and the thriving city that surround sit is definitely one of the best pales to visit in Tasmania. Attractions include the Maritime Museum, the Don River Railway, the Science Centre and of course the Tasmanian Reptile Centre, so don’t miss out on this fun and lively destination.
9. Huon Valley
Located in the south of Hobart, the Huon Valley is a rural community full of tourist-friendly delights. Known for its great wine and delicious seafood, the stunning natural surrounds of this area make it a nature lover’s paradise. Bushwalkers are well catered for with waterfalls, valleys and forests providing plenty of gorgeous scenery. Those in campervans are also looked after with a good range of caravan parks and great driving routes to choose from.
10. Mole Creek
Great for wildlife spotting and wonderful walking, the tiny town of Mole Creek is the perfect Tasmania destination. Don’t miss exploring the famous caves here or tasting some of the delicious locally produced food either. This small, close-knit and friendly community make the perfect holiday hosts.
So those are 10 of the best places to visit in Tasmania – which was your favourite?
