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A comprehensive travel guide outlining the absolute best things to do in Hobart Tasmania. Explore all of the well-known Hobart attractions as well as some off-the-beaten-path hidden gems!

Hobart is Tasmania’s capital and one of Australia’s most historic cities. Situated on the estuary of the River Derwent and nestled beneath the towering Kunanyi, (Mount Wellington), Hobart is a favourite getaway destination for millions of Aussies and international visitors every year.

Hobart, Australia’s southernmost capital city serves as the major entry point to Tasmania. Therefore, this small city is a perfect base or starting place for travellers looking to explore this incredible island.

But, did you know that there are plenty of fun things to do in Hobart itself for both adventure travellers and brief visitors? In this guide, I’ll give you an up-to-date rundown on what to do in the city and surrounds to help you plan your epic Tassie trip.

31 Best Things to do in Hobart

In this guide to the 31 best things to do in Hobart, I aim to highlight all of the best Hobart attractions to help you better plan your Tasmania trip. I've also written comprehensively about many of these itinerary highlights based on my personal experience in the island state– so make sure to check out the individual posts for each as well.

Also, at the bottom of this post, I've included a detailed Hobart travel guide. This outlines everything you need to know about visiting Hobart including how to get here, when to go and where to stay.

Update: Make sure to read my detailed accommodation guide to find out where to stay on your next visit to Tasmania's capital city.

1. See Hobart from the top of Kunanyi (Mount Wellington)

Kunanyi, also known as Mount Wellington, dominates the Hobart landscape. No matter where you go, you'll see this powerful 1271-metre mountain soaring over the cityscape.

Kunanyi is very important to the people of Hobart. It protects the city from devastating winds, soaks in rain clouds and distributes fresh drinking water from the thousands of creeks and tributaries in Wellington Park.

If you ask anyone for ideas for things to do in and around Hobart, especially for first-time visitors, then a common answer will always be a trip up to the summit! Luckily, there are plenty of ways to reach the peak, known as The Pinnacle.

One option for the adventurers is to take one of the many walking tracks in Wellington Park. Below you'll find a link to what I believe is the best circuit loop to the summit.

Read More: Mount Wellington Hike: Circuit Walk to Mount Wellington Summit

If you're not a keen hiker but still want to experience one of the most popular attractions in Hobart, then it is also possible to drive or take a bus to The Pinnacle.

This bus service is known as the Wellington Explorer and departs from Franklin Square near Salamanca Place. There are plenty of stops along the way, including The Springs, which is a popular base on Mount Wellington for many hikes and walks.

MOUNT WELLINGTON SUMMIT BUS

2. Go Hiking in Wellington Park

The Pinnacle on the summit of Mount Wellington isn't the only awesome hike in Hobart. In fact, there are several dozen trails in the surrounding Wellington Park.

If you're up for short walks or even long, full-day hikes then I recommend heading to The Springs. From here, there is an information board outlining several of the best hikes and tracks in Hobart.

My favourite hike from Hobart: Wellington Falls and the Disappearing Tarn

STRICKLAND FALLS HOBART

3. Explore Hobart's Waterfalls

Just as there are loads of hikes, there are also plenty of waterfalls to explore near Hobart. The largest and one of my personal favourites is Wellington Falls, which requires a long, full-day out-and-back hike.

Otherwise, there are plenty of smaller but equally scenic waterfalls that are within walking distance of the Hobart suburbs. Some of these include O'Grady's Falls, Silver Falls, Secret Falls and Strickland Falls. You can read about how to get to each in the link below.

STRICKLAND FALLS HOBART

4. Take a Day Trip To Bruny Island

Bruny Island is perhaps the best and most-visited Hobart attraction. This adventure-packed 362 km² island is accessible via a 15-minute car ferry from Kettering, just half an hour south of Hobart.

From the iconic Neck Lookout to rugged coastlines to unique wildlife to world-class gourmet food and produce, it's no wonder why a visit to Bruny Island is on the top of many people's list of things to do in Hobart.

To be fair though, Bruny Island deserves much more than just a quick day trip. But still, if you're short on time then it's possible to book an organised tour from Hobart that manages to cram in a fair bit.

BRUNY ISLAND LOOKOUT, BEST THINGS TO DO IN HOBART ON A DAY TRIP

Related: The Fluted Cape Walk (Bruny Island


Free Tasmania Travel Guides

The Ultimate Tasmania Travel Resource

Looking for more Tasmania travel guides & adventure inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

5. MONA - The Most Unique & Strange Thing to do in Hobart

Mona is definitely one of the weirdest attractions in Hobart. The acronym MONA stands for "The Museum of Old and New". This quirky mix of ancient, modern and contemporary art is the largest privately-funded museum in the southern hemisphere. I'd argue that it's also the strangest.

So, if you're in Hobart town, make sure to plan a trip to MONA if you're up for the experience!

Book: Hobart Sightseeing Tour & MONA Ticket

MONA HOBART

6. Take a Day Trip to Port Arthur (Unesco World Heritage Site)

If you haven't noticed yet, Hobart is a great place to base yourself when exploring day trips to some of Tasmania's best areas and Tourist attractions. And, for history lovers, a trip to Port Arthur on the Tasman Peninsula is a must-do experience that's easy on a day trip from Hobart.

Easy tour: Port Arthur Day Trip From Hobart
Ticket-only: Skip the lines: Historic Site Ticket

The World-Heritage-listed Port Arthur Historic Site is a well-preserved penal colony site where thousands of convicts were sent during the early colonial period in Tasmania. A ticket to visit to the Port Arthur historic site includes a guided tour and allows visitors to explore the grounds, prisons, homes and messes of early convicts and colonists.

7. Go Camping in South Hobart

Are you travelling to Tasmania in a van or motorhome? We spent several months exploring Tassie in our van and let me tell you that it's one of the best ways to explore the island state.

If you'd like to find a nice campsite that allows a campfire, then I can highly recommend the Gordon Foreshore Recreation Reserve. This waterfront campsite is only 45 minutes south of Hobart and overlooks Bruny Island across the deep passage. The campsite at Gordon Foreshore runs on a donation-only principle which means staying here can also be one of the cheapest options near Hobart.

VAN TRAVEL WEEK 7 WE SEEK TRAVEL VAN
Our van at Gordon Foreshore Recreation Reserve, South of Hobart
HIKING THE FREYCINET PENINSULA CIRCUIT, WINEGLASS BAY CAMPSITE, THINGS TO DO IN FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK, TASMANIA

How to Save Money on Tassie Tours & Experiences

Looking to save some travel money on tours in Tassie?

I've partnered with Backpacker Deals to offer $5 off all tours and experiences in Tasmania using my code OLLY5 (and you don't have to be a backpacker to save).

8. Sip A Cascade At the Cascade Brewery

The Cascade Brewery is Australia's oldest brewery. Established and running since 1842, Cascade is also one of Tasmania's most iconic brands. The brewery is located just a short drive from Hobart central and visitors can join guided tours or just taste the beer at the Cascade Bar.

HOBART ATTRACTIONS AND THINGS TO DO, CASCADE BREWERY

9. Hop on a Wine Tour From Hobart (4 Wineries)

It's no secret that Tasmania is one of the best wine-producing regions in Australia.

But, if you're traveling to Hobart, you'll have more than a handful of vineyard options to choose from.

Thankfully, there's an awesome full-day Tasmanian wine tour available to book directly from Hobart (meet at Brooke Street Pier). This tour visits four of the best wineries in Tasmania's south, varying between:

  • Derwent Estate
  • Domaine A
  • Pooley Wines
  • Pressing Matters
  • Craigow Vineyard

The tour runs for 7.5 hours and includes 4-6 tastings at each vineyard, so come prepared for a fun-fueled day!

Book: Hobart 4 Winery Tour ($5 Off with Code OLLY5)

Full Day Hobart Wine Tour

10. Best of Hobart - Three-Hour Hobart Sightseeing Tour

For visitors to Hobart who would like to see as much as possible in a short window, I'd highly recommend the famous 3-hour coach tram sightseeing tour.

These trips run daily on both morning and afternoon trips. The coach tram is a converted historic tram that offers visitors a unique experience. It visits over 40 of Hobart's historical sites, landmarks, tourist attractions and city highlights.

Book: Hobart 3-Hour Sightseeing Tour By Tram

Also, the experienced guide is known for his in-depth and humorous commentary which makes this tour a great way to experience the best of Hobart in just three hours.

Things to do in Hobart, Hobart Attractions

11. See Hobart from Mount Nelson Lookout

While The Pinnacle lookout on Mount Wellington offers arguably the best views of Hobart, there is another lookout that is worth checking out too.

The Mount Nelson lookout features a historic signalling station that was used since 1811 to send messages from Hobart to the penal colony at Port Arthur. And, it's no wonder they chose it. This spot features uninterrupted and spectacular views of the city, Bruny Island and the Tasman Peninsula in the distance.

To get here, you'll can either use your own transport to drive up to Mount Nelson via Proctors Road, walk from Sandy Bay or take a bus.

12. Visit the Salamanca Markets

The Salamanca Markets are held on Saturday mornings at Salamanca Place near Hobart harbour (just below Battery Point). This market brings together artists, craftsmen, food stalls, farmers and many Tasmanian small business owners to sell their unique wares and famous street foods.

If you happen to find yourself in Hobart on a weekend, make sure to save time for the Salamanca Markets, one of the best markets I've been to in Australia.

HOBART ATTRACTIONS, SALAMANCA MARKET AT SALAMANCA PLACE

13. Take a Day Trip to Wineglass Bay & Freycinet National Park

Easily the most iconic beach in Tasmania and even maybe in Australia; Wineglass Bay is a must-visit for anyone coming to Tasmania. If you find yourself in Hobart for a few days, then it's possible to visit Freycinet National Park on a self-drive or an organised day trip.

Book: Wineglass Bay & Freycinet Day Trip From Hobart

Freycinet National Park is a hiker and bushwalker's paradise. There are beautiful coastal trails and incredible viewpoints like

I'd say that a visit to this jaw-dropping peninsula is one of the top things to do in Hobart and even in all of Tasmania!

MOUNT AMOS SUNRISE

14. Visit Mount Field National Park

Located approximately 1 and a half hours from Hobart is Mount Field National Park, one of Tasmania's most scenic parks. This lush, fern-filled rainforest is home to some of the tallest trees in the world. There are also several waterfalls to check out making Mount Field a prime attraction near Hobart.

You can get to Mount Field by driving to the Visitor Centre, where you will find information and trails to many of the waterfalls and tracks.

Read More: Three Falls Circuit & Tall Trees Walk in Mount Field National Park

If you don't have your own vehicle, then relax, I've got you covered. The below tour is one of the only offerings from Hobart that includes Mount Wellington and a trip to Russell Falls in Mount Field.

Book: Mt Field & Mt Wellington Day Trip

HORSESHOE FALLS MOUNT FIELD NATIONAL PARK TASMANIA

15. Marvel at Some of the World's Tallest Trees at the Styx Reserve

Near Mount Field is the Styx Forest Reserve. This is a special conservation area that is also home to some of the tallest trees in Tasmania. Some of these giant ash trees (eucalyptus regnans) are over 500 years old and stand over 90 metres in height!

Unfortunately, getting to the Styx requires your own transport as there are no tours or public transport options. However, if you find yourself with a car and looking for epic things to do near Hobart, definitely add the Styx Tall Trees walk to your list.

TASMANIAN GIANT TREES IN THE STYX VALLEY

Related: 7 Awesome Things to do at Strahan & the West Coast


16. Splurge at the Richmond Cheese Factory

Tasmania is well-known in Australia and around the world for its incredible produce. A great place to try Tasmanian-made dairy products and cheeses is the Richmond Cheese Factory (Wicked Cheeses).

They offer tasting tours and sell direct to the public some of their prize-winning cheeses like their creamy triple brie.

Explore More: Small-group Hobart Cheese and Wine Tour

HOBART CHEESE TOUR, THINGS TO DO, ATTRACTIONS

17. Visit the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens

A visit to the Botanical Gardens in Hobart is a great way to relax and learn about Tasmania's unique diversity of plants, flowers and trees. While not the first attraction on my list of things to see in Hobart, I'm very glad that I made the visit. The Antarctica room and seeing some giant Huon Pines were definite highlights.

Book: Private Tasmanian Botanical Gardens Walking Tour

HOBART BOTANICAL GARDENS

18. Walk down to the Harbour At Hobart's Waterfront

Conveniently situated between Salamanca and the city centre is Hobart's scenic boat harbour. Taking a stroll by the Hobart waterfront near the piers and Salamanca area is a great way to wind down an evening.

Constitution Dock is the most popular attraction at Hobart Harbour and from here you can see some of the Tasmanian ship icons like the Lady Nelson.

Other piers like Brooke Street Pier and Murray Street Pier are also just across from several bars and restaurants playing live music on the weekends. This is one of the best things to do in Hobart at night and great if you don't have a car.

HOBART HARBOUR TASMANIA

Related: Experience the Tahune Airwalk


19. Take a Boat Cruise To Bruny Island

While you're at the harbour, why not take the chance to book a boat cruise?

There are several options from short sails up the River Derwent to epic coastal cruises on Bruny Island. You will find a tour and information desk just near Constitution Dock but you'll also find most of the offerings online at Get Your Guide.

Tip: This is a popular activity and sells out often during the peak season!

Hobart attractions and things to do, boat cruise at Bruny

20. Experience Tasmania from Above on a Scenic Flight from Hobart

Perhaps one of the most epic and memorable things to do in Hobart is to take a scenic flight over one of Australia's most beautiful coastlines. This particular flight tour departs from Cambridge, just 15 minutes from Hobart and cruises over both the Freycinet Peninsula and Maria Island.

Also included on this epic 3-hour flight is a landing on Maria Island where you will be shown some of the best attractions and enjoy a complimentary lunch.

Book: Freycinet & Maria Island Scenic Flight

WINEGLASS BAY, FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK TASMANIA

21. Spend a Day on the Tasman Peninsula

The Tasman Peninsula is an easy and incredibly scenic 70-minute drive from Hobart. Unfortunately, most people head straight to Port Arthur and skip the rest of this beautiful part of Tasmania.

The Tasman Peninsula is a hiking and outdoor mecca! From powerful sea caves to soaring, jagged coastlines, the peninsula offers a wide range of outdoor activities for all levels. For hikers who are staying in Hobart for a while, then I highly recommend checking out The Three Capes Track!

TASMAN PENINSULA FROM HOBART

22. Experience Glamping in the Huon Valley

Located 30-40 minutes southwest of Hobart is Huonville and the Huon Valley. This region is famous for fresh farm produce including cheese, wine, apples, honey and more. A visit to the Huon Valley is a great way to spend a day trip away from the city.

If you have another night to spare, then I highly recommend checking out Huon Valley glamping. This is a luxury camping experience and definitely one of the most unique places to stay in Tasmania!

HUON VALLEY GLAMPING

23. Stock up on Fresh Produce at the Farm Gate Markets

Often overshadowed by the extremely popular Salamanca Markets is the fresh produce market on Bathurst Street (near Elizabeth Street) named Farm Gate Markets. This inner-city street is transformed every Sunday morning into a bustling farmers' market where visitors can stock up on local Tasmanian produce.

There are also always great street-food options and coffee carts, so spending a bit of time exploring the Farm Gate Market is a great bet.

24. See Abundant Wildlife on a Trip to Maria Island

Maria Island is known for its rich convict settlement history and abundant wildlife. For those visiting Hobart interested in seeing some iconic Tasmanian wildlife like wallabies, wombats, possums and even Tassie Devils, make sure you include a trip to Maria Island.

Book From Hobart: Maria Island Active Tour

There is a ferry that departs to Maria Island from Triabunna, approximately a 1 hour and 15 minutes drive from Hobart. However, if you don't have your own car you can still get to Maria Island on an organised day tour.

Read More: Maria Island Tasmania: 15 Incredible Things to Do

wombat on maria island

25. Eat Street

From the months of November to April, Franklin Square turns into a vibrant food and music scene every Friday night! Named Eat Street @ Frankos, this pre-booked, ticketed event only costs $5.50 but is well worth your time and money.

Food lovers in Hobart rejoice, Eat Street is one of the tastiest attractions and easily one of the best things to do in this incredible city.

Eat Street in Hobart, one of the best things to do in the city.

26. Go Mountain Biking

Hobart is Australia's best answer to New Zealand's downhill-loving Queenstown. The foothills of Kunanyi/Mt Wellington and the Queens Domain have several epic downhill tracks definitely worthy of checking out.

The most well-known track is the North-South Track. This begins from The Springs and connects to Glenorchy Mountain Bike Park for hours of downhill adventure.

If you don't have your own pushy, you can rent one from Roll Cycles or book a downhill bike tour on Viator.

Book: Hobart Mt Wellington Downhill Tour

SILVER FALLS TRACK TO THE SPRINGS

27. Hobart Evening Sunset Dinner Cruise Down the Derwent River

I've recommended a few tours and paid options in this list of things to do in Hobart. But, by far the most bang-for-buck experience you can buy is an evening sunset dinner cruise departing from Hobart harbour. This 3-hour sunset cruise includes a three-course meal and one alcoholic beverage as you cruise up the River Derwent.

Also, you'll be guided by an experienced skipper who points out all of the historic landmarks and buildings along the way. All this for less than $60, I'd say that's one of the best deals in the city!

HOBART HARBOUR, THIGNS TO DO AND TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN TASMANIA

28. Hobart City Kayak Tour

Looking for a unique way to experience the beauty of Hobart? This 2.5-hour kayak tour allows visitors to see Hobart’s waterfront from a different perspective.

This is a locally guided tour that will show you the best spots in Hobart from the water. What's even more unique is that you'll even get an on-water dining experience of fish and chips on your kayak included in the trip!

Book: City Kayak Tour

Hobart Kayaking

29. Wander Around Battery Point

If you're looking for beautiful streets, historic buildings, and some hidden-gem restaurants in Hobart, make sure to climb the colonial-era Kelly's steps to the lanes of Battery Point.

This is one of the most beautiful parts of the city and is one of the best places to immerse yourself in the rich history of Hobart, Tasmania. This suburb was named after the battery of guns that were mounted here in 1818 to serve as the city's coastal defence.

These days, you'll find amazing 19th-century stand-stone and weatherboard cottages and historic houses, a few quaint parks, and some great cuisine

HOBART TASMANIA

If you're looking for something free to do in Hobart, make sure to stop by the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery located right next to the Maritime Museum on Argyle Street.

The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery is just a short walk from many other Hobart attractions near the waterfront. Inside, you'll discover a great museum with fascinating old and new art, cultural and science exhibitions and a cafe.

Tasmania sure does have an impressive art scene, if that sounds like your crowd, make sure to add the TMAG to your Hobart to-do list!

31. Line Your Hobart Trip Up with These Events

If you're flexible on your travel dates, or looking for the best time to visit Hobart, consider lining your trip up with one of these events and music festivals.

Dark Mofo
Dark Mofo is a winter music festival that takes place at night. It's all about celebrating the darkness of the Tassie winter solstice. It's one of the most unique music festivals in Australia and gathers thousands to the scene.

Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race
The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is one of the world's best sailing events. Starting in Sydney, sailors make their way over the treacherous Bass Strait and finish in Hobart. This is a spectacular event, and if you find yourself in Hobart town (the finish line) around December or January, you have to come down to see the yachts!

Summer Festival & Taste of Tasmania
This is one of the largest festivals in Tasmania. The Taste of Tasmania is a massive food festival and is known as the biggest open-air restaurant in Australia!

Royal Hobart Show
If you're from Queensland or New South Wales, you'll already know about the Royal Easter Show and Ekka. Tasmania has its very own agricultural show in Hobart, known as the Royal Hobart Show.

New Years
New Year's Eve is always a great time in Hobart. There are yearly fireworks displays over the harbour, shooting out from the River Derwent. Usually, the best place to watch is at the Salamanca waterfront walkways and wharves or at Mawson Place, Parliament House Lawns, Prices Park, or AJ Park.

Dark Mofo music festival in Tasmania

Where to Stay in Hobart

The area closest to most highlights in Hobart is called “Salamanca Place“. This area has great restaurants and bars and is close to the markets, wharf, museums and the Elizabeth Mall.

However, Hobart is a relatively small city of just over 200,000 and consequently, most accommodation options in the inner suburbs provide easy access to most of the highlights.

  • Best Mid-Range Hotel: The Rivulet - The Rivulet is an awesome 19th century, heritage-listed manor. It offers some of the best suites in Hobart without a ridiculous price tag.
  • Best Budget Hostel: Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse - For budget travellers and backpackers, Montacute is by far the best place to stay in Hobart. This is a great hostel that is ranked as having the best vibe in the city.
  • Best Luxury Accommodation: The Grand Chancellor - Centrally located on the waterfront overlooking Constitution Dock, the Grand Chancellor Hotel is one of the most prominent accommodation options in Hobart.
  • ...15+ More in this Complete Guide on Where to Stay in Hobart
HOBART HOTEL, THE GRAND CHANCELLOR LUXURY ACCOMMODATION

Hobart Tasmania Travel Guide: All Your Questions Answered

As I mentioned at the beginning of this guide to the best things to do in Hobart, I've dedicated this section to help you plan and prepare for your upcoming trip.

Here, you'll find answers to things like where to stay, how to get around, the best time to visit and more!

When is the Best Time to Travel to Hobart?

The great thing about Hobart and Tasmania in general is that it makes for a great place to visit all year round. However, unlike many other parts of Australia, and due to the extreme distance from the equator, Tasmania experiences greater seasonality, or seasonal variation.

If I had to pick the best time to visit Tasmania, I'd have to choose Autumn or early Winter. Autumn offers a great mix of beach weather and occasional alpine snow. However, it'll really depend on what out of the many things to do in Hobart you are keenest for.

Seasons in Hobart

What this means is that the difference between Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter are all very noticeable. Below is a summary of what you might expect if you visit Hobart during different times of the year.

Summer: December-February
Summers in Hobart are comfortable and mostly warm. The average temperatures range from a dry 11.5 to 21°C. This is a great time to visit for swimming on day trips to the coast or on longer hikes in the surrounding mountains.

Autumn: March-May
Autumn is a great time to visit Hobart because you will experience many calm, sunny days with temperatures averaging between 9 - 17°C. The city turns a beautiful yellow and orange. Look for the Tasmanian Fagus, or Deciduous beech, which is the only deciduous tree (trees that shed their leaves for Winter) in Australia.

Winter: June-August
Winter is a great time to visit Hobart, especially for Aussies, who will get to experience a domestic trip that feels like you've left the country. Mount Wellington is often peaked with snow and temperatures range between 5 - 12.°C.

Spring: September-November
Spring is a beautiful time of year in Hobart. It's also the wettest time with average temperatures falling between 7 - 16.°C. Due to the increased rainfall, many of the waterfalls around Hobart are in peak flow during Spring.

Weather in Hobart

I don't usually comment too much on weather in blog posts about attractions or things to do, however, Hobart's weather is so unique that I feel that all visitors should consider it. The weather in Hobart is extremely localised. This makes planning activities to do in Hobart a little difficult.

To explain, it could be pouring with rain on Kunanyi, while Hobart is sunny and cloud-free less than 10 kilometres away. So, when planning your activities and must-see tourist attractions in Hobart, check weather forecasts (although often unreliable and unpredictable) at precise locations.

Getting to Hobart From the Airport

Both domestic and international visitors flying into Hobart land at the Hobart International Airport in Cambridge. This is approximately 19 kilometres from Salamanca (Hobart). Skybus offers a shuttle bus service from the airport for $19.50 per person.

Travel tip: If travelers are flying from Australia or New Zealand, then Flyparks is a great way to save on airport parking. You can book in advance and get great rates on Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and even Perth Airport Parking.

Van Travel in Hobart Tasmania

One of the best and most popular ways to travel in Hobart and Tasmania is to do so in a motorhome, caravan or camper. This is because Tasmania has what I believe to be the best "van life" facilities in Australia. Due to the wide range of things to do across the island, it's also really economical to travel this way since you'll have your own transport.

If you're travelling to Hobart and plan on bringing or renting your own van, then you might benefit from reading about our experience travelling around Tasmania for several months in our van.

CAMPING AT BRADYS LAKE TASMANIA

More Fun Activities, Sites & Things to do in Hobart Tasmania

With so many unmissable things to do in the city, it's hard to squeeze them all into a list of just 30. If you're up for more Hobart sightseeing and activities, check out the list below.

  • Salamanca Arts Centre
  • Wrest Point Casino
  • Princes Park
  • Henry Jones Art Hotel
  • Coal River Valley

Beyond Hobart - More Tasmania Travel Guides and Adventure Inspiration

I hope that this comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Hobart Tasmania has been useful for planning your adventures. Beyond Hobart, Tasmania has so much to offer in terms of adventure, must-see tourist attractions, hiking, nature and more.

I've spent several months exploring Tassie and along the way have photographed and documented hundreds of adventures. Below are some more of my favourites.

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How to Hike Mount Amos in Tasmania – Freycinet National Park (2023) https://www.weseektravel.com/mount-amos-hike/ https://www.weseektravel.com/mount-amos-hike/#comments Tue, 03 Jan 2023 02:46:21 +0000 https://www.weseektravel.com/?p=18647 A guide to walking the Mount Amos hike in Tasmania’s …

The post How to Hike Mount Amos in Tasmania – Freycinet National Park (2023) appeared first on We Seek Travel.

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A guide to walking the Mount Amos hike in Tasmania’s Freycinet National Park. Finding the trailhead, what to expect on the hike and inspiring photos from one of Australia’s most incredible summit viewpoints.

Mount Amos in Freycinet National Park is widely considered to be one of Australia’s best summit viewpoints. The mountain overlooks Wineglass Bay and the Freycinet Peninsula, a sweeping, Jurassic landscape that is guaranteed to leave you speechless.

But, before you can enjoy these world-renowned sunrise views, you’ll need to brace yourself for the Mount Amos hike.

While not long by any means, it does require a fair bit of rock and boulder scrambling to reach the summit. In this guide, I’ll provide a detailed account of the walk, including what you need to complete it, as well as some epic photos from the summit.

About the Mount Amos Hike

Mount Amos sits within the granite mountain range known as "The Hazards". This dramatic mountainscape dominates the horizon from the coles Coles Bay and the Freycinet National Park. While not the tallest out of the three main granite peaks, Mount Amos (454M) is the most accessible by walking and offers the best views.

Mount Amos is a very popular hike, but it is quite demanding. This is because the section near the top requires rock and boulder scrambling to traverse.

Also, there isn't a clear "trail" to reach the summit. Instead, hikers follow a route marked by yellow reflective arrows to the top. These are quite easy to follow but can still be a bit tricky in the dark— make sure to bring a good head torch!

SUNRISE AT MOUNT AMOS SUMMIT

It's clear that the Freycinet National Park Visitor's Centre does everything it can to warn people of the difficulty of this hike, you'll see a warning sign right near the trailhead. However, in all honesty, making it to the summit isn't that difficult for well-equipped hikers.

Still, hikers will need to prepare for a steep and sometimes slippery scrambling climb on hands and feet. You will also need to have a decent level of fitness.

When it comes to rock scrambling experience, I wouldn't go as far as to say that you need a great deal. In fact, the Mount Amos climb is probably a good introduction to rock scrambling peaks, especially those on similar Australian granite features. If you've ever attempted the Glasshouse Mountains hikes in Queensland, this one is much easier than those.

Since there are large, steep rock slabs to traverse, climbing Mount Amos in the wet, or if there is a chance of rain, is highly discouraged. The granite rocks become very slippery when wet.

MOUNT AMOS PANORAMA

Where is Mount Amos

Mount Amos is located within the Freycinet National Park, on the East Coast of Tasmania. This is roughly 200 kilometres from Hobart or 180 kilometres from Launceston, accessible by the long Coles Bay Road leading into the village of Coles Bay from the Tasman Highway.

Mount Amos Map location in Freycinet National Park

How to Get to the Mount Amos Trailhead

The closest and primary town near the park is known as Coles Bay, which is just 4.2 kilometres from the Wineglass Bay car park where the trailhead is. This is Freycinet National Park's main car park, catering to all of the hikes in the park, including Mount Amos and the Wineglass Bay Lookout track.

To get here, head towards the Freycinet National Park Visitor's Centre on Freycinet Drive near the start of Richardson's Beach. This is where you can pick up your National Park's pass if you haven't already. Next, continue down Freycinet Drive all the way until you reach a large car park with signs for all of the walks.

This is where you can park and begin the Mount Amos hike. Below I've included a map that features most of the walking tracks in the park. The parking icon represents the trailhead for the Mount Amos Track. As you can see, there are also toilets here if you need one.

Google Maps Pin: "Mount Amos Track"

Map of hikes in Freycinet National Park
Map of the walking trails in Freycinet National Park

National Parks Pass for Freycinet National Park

Mount Amos lies within the Freycinet National Park. Therefore, you'll need to purchase a parks pass online or at the Freycinet visitor centre. These passes are valid for entry to all of Tasmania's parks and the receipt must be displayed in your vehicle.

If you are spending a fair bit of time in Tassie, the annual pass offers the best value.

National Parks Pass Cost:

  • 24-hours: $40 per vehicle/$20 per person
  • Holiday Passes - up to 2 months: $80 per vehicle/$40 per person
  • Annual Pass all parks: $90 per vehicle (up to eight people)
sunset on a winding road in Tasmania

Car Rentals in Tasmania

Unfortunately, the cost of bringing your own car on the Spirit of Tasmania has skyrocketed in recent years.

Now, it is usually cheaper to rent a car on arrival. I recommend using RentalCars.com in Tasmania to compare rates for different vehicles across dealerships.

(Rentals are limited in Tasmania so it's a good idea to book in advance).

The Mount Amos Hike - Complete Guide

  • Hike Distance: 4 kilometres return
  • Duration: 2-3 hours return
  • Elevation: 434 m of elevation gain
  • Difficulty: Tasmanian Parks Grade 4: rock scrambling required
  • Mount Amos summit: 454 m AMSL

The Mount Amos walk begins from the south end of the Wineglass Bay car park. We decided to head up to see the famous view for sunrise, which meant a dark ascent with head torches.

As you can probably see, a few of the photos in this section were taken on the way down because it was difficult to take photos in the dark.

HIKING MOUNT AMOS IN THE DARK
Making our way up Mount Amos in the dark

Following the signs from the car park to the intersection where several trails split, we began the bushwalk.

Once we figured out which one was the Mount Amos track, we continued through the forest shrub for a short distance and crossed an elevated wooden platform. Quite soon after commencing, the track began to climb, following rooty and rocky ground and passing some large boulders.

The first section is quite easy to traverse and the reflective yellow arrows were great in helping us make our way through the forest in the dark.

MOUNT AMOS TRAIL
Breaking through thre trees to begin the steep incline

Soon after the ascent began, we were onto the granite feature. Again, there are yellow arrows everywhere so finding the best way to the top is quite straightforward. Admittedly though, we did have to stop and shine our torches around during some sections to make sure we were on the right path.

As we continued, we quickly realised that the ascent got steeper and steeper as we made our way up the rock face towards the summit of Mt Amos. These slippery rock slabs were easy to climb in the dry conditions, but I would imagine near impossible without fixed ropes in a downpour.

ROCK SCRAMBLING ON THE MOUNT AMOS TRACK
A challenging track if you're not prepared

The most difficult part of the Mount Amos hike was a steep section of scrambling just before the summit. While short-lived, this section is wide and water-eroded, making it extra slippery.

There are also fewer rocks to grab onto on the way up. My advice is to follow the fault lines (cracks) in the face to help you pull yourself up on your hands and feet.

MOUNT AMOS SUMMIT FROM THE GRANITE ROCKS
Mount Amos summit just beyond the scramble

Soon after the steep section, the trail flattens and makes its way around a large boulder and through a forrested tunnel before opening up to the summit of Mount Amos.

HIKING IN FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK AUSTRALIA
Free Tasmania Travel Guides

The Ultimate Tasmania Travel Resource

Looking for more Tasmania travel guides & adventure inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

The Summit: Mount Amos Sunrise View

The Mount Amos sunrise view is perhaps one of the most spectacular in Australia. The rocky peak looks directly over Wineglass Bay and the rest of the Freycinet Peninsula, offering a spectacular 360-degree view of the park.

MOUNT AMOS SUNRISE HIKE

This view is iconically Australian. The deep blues of the bay are crowned by a stretch of clear, turquoise water edging white-sand shores. In the distance, you see the green peaks of Mount Freycinet and Mount Graham, framing the background with their might. It's definitely one of my personal favourites in Australia!

We sat and waited for the sun to slowly ascend and light up the bay with beams of orange light. Sunbursts of colour appeared on the distant peaks and the white-sandy shores of Wineglass Bay turned to gold.

MOUNT AMOS SUNRISE

The Best View of Wineglass Bay

View tip: In my opinion, the best view to see the sunrise from the top of Mount Amos is just a bit further down from the summit.

If you carefully continue down past the large obvious boulder, you'll be rewarded with uninterrupted, panoramic views of Wineglass Bay— and perhaps even escape the crowds.

MOUNT AMOS SUMMIT PANORAMA

Descending to Wineglass Bay

Many people will tell you that the descent is more difficult than the climb up. However, if you have decent shoes on and the rock is not wet, then making your way down the granite face isn't too bad.

You also have the option of slowly coming down the steeper sections on your bum if you find it challenging. Really, there's no shame in it.

ROCK SCRAMBLING ON THE MOUNT AMOS HIKE

We completed the Mount Amos hike in just under two hours, with roughly 45 minutes at a fair pace on the way up and about an hour on the way down. However, as you can see from the photos, we ended up staying up at the summit for quite a while after the sunrise had passed.

Following this one, we headed on for the Freycinet Peninsula Circuit, which included a stop at the Wineglass Bay Lookout and camping on Hazard's Beach!

Tips for Hiking Mount Amos

Heading out for the sunrise hike to Mt Amos? Read these tips first!

  • Remember your National Parks pass and display the receipt or sticker on your vehicle
  • Leave an hour before sunrise for the best views
  • Plan the hike in good weather conditions
  • Don't climb Mount Amos in the wet or if it is going to rain
  • Wear sturdy walking shows, trail running shoes or hiking boots (trail runners are better in my opinion as you'll be able to scramble easier)
  • Continue on 100M from the summit for uninterrupted views of Wineglass Bay
MOUNT AMOS SUNRISE HIKE
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// Compare how the GeoPress stacks up against the best water bottle filters on the market.

Where to Stay Near Coles Bay For Walks in Freycinet

  • Picnic Island - Ever wanted to stay on a private island? What better place to do so than on Picnic Island, a beautiful island gem just off Coles Bay. Visitors will have the entire island to themselves with rustic waterfront cabins and a fully-equipped kitchen and living area.
  • Freycinet Lodge - Located in a waterfront location within Freycinet National Park, Freycinet Lodge offers luxury cabin-style accommodation, two restaurants and a bar. You’ll also get a buffet breakfast included. This is one of the best-located spots to begin your Freycinet National Park walks.
  • Eagle Peaks - Another great option is Eagle Peaks, which has good WiFi and free private parking near Coles Bay. This is a unit-style accommodation option featuring a dining and seating area, a fully-equipped kitchen, and great scenery at your doorstep.
PICNIC ISLAND ACCOMMODATION AUSTRALIA

Camping in Freycinet National Park

For those in caravans or vans, you'll be stoked to find out that there is an abundance of great camping spots in the area. The closest campsite to Mount Amos is the Freycinet National Park campground. However, this one is always in high demand and there's even a ballot system that operates in peak seasons.

Otherwise, you can try some of the others below:

  • Big4 Iluka
  • Swan River Campsite
  • River and Rocks Campsite (free)
  • The campground at Freycinet Paintball ($10)
WINEGLASS BAY, FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK TASMANIA

Should I Hike the Wineglass Bay Lookout Track or Mount Amos?

While the Wineglass Bay Lookout is spectacular, the views on offer at the Mount Amos summit are much better. This is because you'll be much higher, offering a better vantage point of the curling bay.

You'll also have much fewer people to crop out of your photos!

FAQs About Hiking Mount Amos

Is the Mount Amos hike dangerous?

This one is a little dangerous due the steep sections and the possibility of getting stuck in the wet. However, most well-equipped walkers with a bit of scrambling experience will breeze through this one.

What is the Mt Amos walking time?

Expect roughly 1 hour up and 1 hour down in good conditions. Plan for at least 3 hours return.

How high is Mount Amos?

The summit of Mount Amos is 445 metres above sea level, with the highest point in the granite Hazard range being 485 meters (Mount Dove).

Is Mount Amos near Cradle Mountain?

Mount Amos is located in Freycinet National Park, which is on the east coast of Tasmania, approximately 300 kilometers from Cradle Mountain.

After Mount Amos - More Epic Things to do on Tasmania's East Coast

I hope that this guide to hiking Mount Amos in Tasmania has been useful for you in planning your epic adventures in Freycinet National Park.

While you're here, why not stop by some of my other hiking and adventure guides. I've written extensively about loads of things to do on Tasmania's East Coast.

I guarantee you'll find some great travel and adventure inspiration!

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Bay of Fires Tasmania – Everything You Need to Know in 2023 https://www.weseektravel.com/bay-of-fires-tasmania/ https://www.weseektravel.com/bay-of-fires-tasmania/#comments Mon, 02 Jan 2023 09:44:34 +0000 https://www.weseektravel.com/?p=18582 Complete guide to visiting Bay of Fires Tasmania. A detailed …

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Complete guide to visiting Bay of Fires Tasmania. A detailed list of things to do, places to see, where to stay and more. Explore one of Australia’s most scenic coastlines with epic photos of the one and only; Bay of Fires.

The Bay of Fires in Tasmania hit the global travel stage in 2015 when it was mentioned in Lonely Planet’s Top 10 Places to Visit in the World. However, Tasmanians have long recognised the Bay of Fires as being one of the most beautiful spots in the country.

Perhaps one of the most unique features of the Bay of Fires is the incredible coastal colour pallet. Rich, deep-orange granite boulders scatter the coastline on the banks of fluorescent, turquoise waters. Sweeping white-sand beaches carve the coast as far as the eye can see and weathered, wind-swept bushland hangs onto the edge of its shores.

After spending a fair bit of time exploring this unique Australian icon, I've formulated this comprehensive travel guide to the Bay of Fires Tasmania.

Here, you'll find inspiration and ideas for things to do, where to find the best beaches and rock pools, where to stay as well as information about camping and some photos that I hope will inspire your trip.

Where is the Bay of Fires in Tasmania?

Bay of Fires is located on Tasmania's North-East coast. The name refers to the long, 50 km stretch of pristine coastline from Binalong Bay in the south, to Eddystone Point on the northern end.

However, most people tend to visit the area between The Gardens and Binalong Bay for the most pristine beaches, clear-water rock pools and fun things to do.

Bay of Fires Map

Best Bay of Fires Tour from Hobart

If you're planning a trip to Tasmania, consider this epic 5-day adventure from Hobart which is one of the most popular guided trips in Tasmania.

This trip combines the rugged highlights of the east coast including the Bay of Fires and Freycinet National Park (Wineglass Bay) as well as wild rainforest and alpine highlights on the west coast including Strahan and Cradle Mountain.

How to Get to the Bay of Fires

To get to the Bay of Fires region, you'll need to head towards the town of St Helens, which is located approximately 165 kilometres from Launceston, or 252 kilometres from Hobart. St Helens is the main town on the east coast of Tasmania. This is a great place to stock up on food, get water, dump waste and book tours and activities in the Bay of Fires.

From St. Helens, you can get to the Bay of Fires by heading towards Binalong Bay, taking either Binalong Bay Road, C850 (sealed road) or Reids Road, C849 (unsealed road). When we visited, the main sealed road (C850) was closed due to flooding. So, we were forced to take the alternate unsealed road to access the coast.

Don't worry though, this road is fairly well-maintained and we had no trouble in our big van.

Binalong Bay is a small township within the Bay of Fires area. Most of the epic campsites, white sandy beaches, amazing rock pools and other attractions, activities, and things to do are found along the coast north of Binalong Bay, along Gardens Road (C848).

THE GARDENS BAY OF FIRES TASMANIA
sunset on a winding road in Tasmania

Car Rentals in Tasmania

Unfortunately, the cost of bringing your own car on the Spirit of Tasmania has skyrocketed in recent years.

Now, it is usually cheaper to rent a car on arrival. I recommend using RentalCars.com in Tasmania to compare rates for different vehicles across dealerships.

(Rentals are limited in Tasmania so it's a good idea to book in advance).

Bay of Fires Attractions Map

Below I've formulated a map with all of the highlights listed in this guide to the Bay of Fires Tasmania. It includes the best red rock pools, beaches, camping spots and points of interest.

All of the pins are colour coded to help you find the attraction you're looking for.

Bay of Fires Map

Travel Hack: Click on the map above and it will load on your Google Maps app. You can save it by clicking the grey star at the top, which will add it to "Your Places" on your Google Maps account. This way, you have a handy digital app on the go with all of the best things to do in the Bay of Fires– just refer back to this blog (or bookmark it) for the explanations & details!

Things to do in Bay of Fires Tasmania

Initially, we had only dedicated a short two days to exploring the Bay of Fires on our Tasmanian road trip.

However, we quickly realised that this would be much too short. In the end, we stayed here for over a week exploring all of the best things to do in the Bay of Fires. Below are some of the highlights that I could recommend for anyone visiting the area.

1. Bay of Fires Walks

Since the Bay of Fires coastline stretches over 50 kilometres, covering it all on foot would mean a multi-day hike.

Luckily, there are some reputable tour agencies that operate in the area and lead walkers to the best spots on organised walking tours. Below I've linked to one of the best in the region.

THE GARDENS BAY OF FIRES TASMANIA

Self-Guided Walks in the Bay of Fires

If you'd prefer to take your own, self-guided walks around some of the Bay of Fires highlights, then I'd suggest having a car. This way, you can drive to most of the spots and enjoy walks along the coast.

Some of my favourite short Bay of Fires walks include:

  1. Rock-hopping from Swimcart Beach to Sloop Reef
  2. Walking the stretch of Taylors beach to the Gardens
  3. Bay of Fires Coastal Walk north of The Gardens

Most of these tracks aren't official "trails" and won't be found on maps or in tourist brochures. However, if you check out the points mentioned on the map, you'll easily find great walking routes along the coast.

FANCY REEF THE GARDENS BAY OF FIRES

2. Swim in Incredible Orange Rock Pools

If you've looked up photos of the Bay of Fires on social media, then you know that there are some very scenic, crystal-clear water rock pools in the area. There are loads of awesome spots to discover and all make for a great swim and fantastic photo opportunities.

I recommend just driving around the coastline stopping at the many pull-over points and accessing the beach and headlands. You'll quickly discover that there are hundreds of beautiful rock pools surrounded by orange-ochre boulders.

However, to help you find some of the best Bay of Fires rock pools, I've pinned them on the map found above. I've also included some photos of the spots below with GPS coordinates to make it easy for you.

BAY OF FIRES ROCK POOLS

Why are the rocks orange at the Bay of Fires?
The ochre boulders scattered along the Bay of Fires coastline are orange due to a combination of algae and fungus known as lichens. These lifeforms live together in a symbiotic relationship and create the orange colour you see on the boulders.

My Favourite: Cozy Corner North Rock Pools

  • GPS Coordinates: 41°13'01.4"S 148°17'05.6"E

After spending long days exploring the best of the Bay of Fires coastline, I think I found my favourite spot.

At the north of Cozy Corner (Cosy Corner), you'll find a secluded hidden beach with large lichen-covered orange rocks on both sides. If you continue north around the headland, you'll soon see a wide and hip-deep turquoise pool hidden behind the huge headland boulders.

However, you'll need to plan your visit here during high tide as the water disappears during low tide.

BAY OF FIRES ROCK POOLS

Suicide Beach Rock Pools

  • GPS Coordinates: 41°10'19.2"S 148°16'51.4"E

While not a very nice name, the south end of this beach near The Gardens has some of the best rock pools in the Bay of Fires. While not very deep, the boulders here are super orange. This creates a beautiful scene where you can swim or simply sit and enjoy the view for hours.

SUICIDE BEACH BAY OF FIRES

The Lone Tree Pools

  • GPS Coordinates: 41°14'52.3"S 148°18'43.8"E

The Lone Tree is an iconic tree located at the end of Binalong Bay. Whilst a highlight in itself (especially for photographers) there are also some great rock pools here where you can swim.

Unfortunately, the water isn't quite as blue in Binalong Bay as it is further up the coast. Still, it's a great spot and I recommend stopping by if you make it to the town.

LONE TREE BINALONG BAY TASMANIA

Related: 11 Things to do on Bruny Island


The Gardens Rock Pools

  • GPS Coordinates: 41°09'44.8"S 148°17'03.1"E

The Gardens is a flatter region to the north of Binalong Bay and marks the end of the sealed road in the Bay of Fires. The area is a popular spot to stop and take photos. There are also some great orange boulders here to take photos of just to the right of the walking track leading from the carpark.

THE GARDENS ORANGE ROCK POOLS TASMANIA

Sloop Reef

  • GPS Coordinates: 41°12'33.3"S 148°16'48.1"E

Sloop Reef is one of the most scenic spots at the Bay of Fires. Here you'll find crystal-clear waters and amazing views of the coast line looking north.

This part of the coastline features a higher headland than the rest, where people often camp. The entire area around this headland has some great rock pools to swim in, as well as some secluded, white-sand beaches.

Sloop Reef Accommodation: The Cove

SLOOP REEF TASMANIA

You might be mistaken in thinking that the name "Bay of Fires" originates from the unique orange boulders scattered along the coast. However, the name stems from Captain Tobias Furneaux, who sailed past the Bay in 1773 and named it after the hundreds of aboriginal campfires that dotted the coast. Indigenous Australians named the bay Larapuna and recognised the place as an important area for gathering, fishing and conducting ceremonies. You can still see ancient piles of seafood waste known as "middens" all across the Bay of Fires.

3. Visit the Gardens

As mentioned above, the Gardens marks the end of the sealed road heading north from Binalong Bay. It's also a popular spot for people to stop and admire the coast. There are bird nesting sites here, as well as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Bay of Fires: Fancy Reef.

The coastline here is mostly flat and more cleared than what you'll find further south. You will also find large private properties with horses grazing next to the ocean.

THE GARDENS BAY OF FIRES

4. Go Surfing/Beach Hopping

By now, you've probably figured out that there are some ridiculously beautiful beaches in the Bay of Fires. One of the best things to do in the area is to go check some out.

For surfing, we noticed that Swimcart Beach and Cozy Corner had good breaks. Some other notable beaches in the Bay of Fires include:

  • Jeanneret Beach
  • Taylors Beach
  • Fancy Reef Beach
  • Suicide Beach
BAY OF FIRES BEACHES
SURFING AT BAY OF FIRES TASMANIA
HIKING THE FREYCINET PENINSULA CIRCUIT, WINEGLASS BAY CAMPSITE, THINGS TO DO IN FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK, TASMANIA

How to Save Money on Tassie Tours & Experiences

Looking to save some travel money on tours in Tassie?

I've partnered with Backpacker Deals to offer $5 off all tours and experiences in Tasmania using my code OLLY5 (and you don't have to be a backpacker to save).

5. Photograph the Lone Tree at Binalong Bay

I've already mentioned the Lone Tree in the rock pool section above. However, I consider a visit to the tree one of the best things to do in the Bay of Fires, especially for photographers.

In reality, the tree is not that special. It's simply just a twisted tree growing on some lichen-covered rocks. However, you have to admit that it makes for a great subject, especially when shooting frames at sunset.

Update: Unfortunately, as of November 2021, the lone tree at Binalong Bay is no more. I guess the Tassie winds were just too strong this time around. Rest in peace!

LONE TREE SUNSET BAY OF FIRES TASMANIA

6. Experience Some of Australia's Best Sunsets

There are so many reasons why this region suits its name so well.

One of those is that the sky absolutely lights up every single night! I'm not sure what it is, or if we simply got lucky, but we found that the Bay of Fires offered us some of the best sunsets we've ever seen.

BAY OF FIRES SUNSET TASMANIA
SUNSET CAMPING AT THE BAY OF FIRES, SWIMCART BEACH

7. Freedom Camp Right Next to the Beach

I honestly couldn't believe my ears when I was told that the majority of the campsites in the Bay of Fires are free. There are also loads to choose from, ranging from sandy, beachside spots to isolated camping near the lagoons.

The Bay of Fires is best enjoyed over several days. That way, you can truly experience just how much beauty this region has to offer. Even if you can't, at least staying for sunset is obligatory in my opinion!

BAY OF FIRES SUNSET TASMANIA

Bay of Fires Accommodation

Not planning on camping in the Bay of Fires and looking for a hotel or accommodation instead? Below I've summarised the best-reviewed and best deals you'll find for accommodation in the Bay of Fires Tasmania.

  • Driftwood at the Gardens - Driftwood is one of the best accommodation homes in the Bay of Fires offering three bedrooms, a TV, full kitchen and incredible ocean views from the balcony.
  • The Cove - Another incredible holiday home within 14 minutes of Swimcart Beach. The Cove offers three bedrooms and a full kitchen. Best of all, there's a great view of Sloop Reef from the balcony.
  • Bay of Fires Bush Retreat - The Bush Retreat is one of the closest accommodation options near Binalong Bay. It features a bar, garden and shared kitchen. You'll have the choice of booking bell tents (must see), large king rooms or a full family bungalow. This is the highest-rated accommodation option in the Bay of Fires!
Bush Retreat Bay of Fires

Useful Tips for Visiting the Bay of Fires

  • Stock up on food and supplies at St Helens as there isn't much on offer once you reach Binalong Bay.
  • You'll find drinking water and black water dump stations at St Helens Recreation Grounds.
  • A National Parks Pass isn't required to enter the Bay of Fires. However, if you're planning a visit further north past Ansons Bridge, you will need to buy a pass as this area is within Mount William National Park.
  • Try to get in early if visiting on weekends as the best campsites can fill up fast.
  • Bring mosquito spray as sandflies and mozzies can get brutal when the sun goes down

Camping at Bay of Fires

While I've touched briefly on camping at the Bay of Fires in the above section on things to do, I also thought I'd note the best places to camp.

We spent our first night in our van at Swimcart Beach but quickly moved to Cozy Corner South when we saw there was a free spot with ocean views. We ended up staying here for quite a while since it was truly just so magical. Other free campsites in the region include:

  • Dora Point
  • Sloop Reef
  • Grants Lagoon

For more campsites, make sure to check the Campermate App.

SWIMCART BEACH CAMP GROUND COZY CORNER
Free Tasmania Travel Guides

The Ultimate Tasmania Travel Resource

Looking for more Tasmania travel guides & adventure inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

Campsite Access

Most of these sites are accessible by 2WD vehicles. However, expect unsealed gravel roads leading from The Gardens Road to each site. You don't need to book any free campsites in the Bay of Fires as it works on a first-in-first-served basis.

There are plenty of flat spots in nearly all of the campsites for campervans, caravans and tents.

Fires are also permitted along the Bay of Fires coast but collecting firewood isn't. Therefore, it's a good idea to stock up in St Helens if you plan on having a fire. Also, all of the campsites we visited had drop-toilets.

Wildlife At the Bay Of Fires Conservation Area

Tasmania is a wildlife-spotters dream! And, the Bay of Fires having its own conservation area status makes it no exception to this. If you're looking to spot some iconic animals, look out for:

  • Sea eagles
  • Tasmanian devils (very rare)
  • Black cockatoos
  • Wallabies
  • Pademelons

Remember, most of the wildlife will come out early in the morning! This is the best time if you're looking to take some unique nature photos.

wallaby

More Photos of the Bay of Fires

Below are some more shots that I managed to snap during my visit to the Bay of Fires Tasmania. Let me know what you think!

COZY CORNER BAY OF FIRES
BAY OF FIRES TASMANIA TRAVEL GUIDE
BAY OF FIRES TASMANIA
BAY OF FIRES COASTLINE
BAY OF FIRES SUNSET
BAY OF FIRES SUNRISE WAVES
SUNRISE AT THE BAY OF FIRES

Read More: Tasmania Adventure Travel Guides

If you enjoyed this travel guide to the Bay of Fires Tasmania, why not check out some of my other adventure travel blogs from this incredible island? Below I've linked some posts that I think you'll enjoy, go on, have a read, I bet you'll find some travel and adventure ideas for your next trip in Tassie!

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36 Must-Do Hikes in Tasmania: The Ultimate Tasmania Hiking Guide https://www.weseektravel.com/hikes-in-tasmania/ https://www.weseektravel.com/hikes-in-tasmania/#comments Sat, 19 Feb 2022 05:00:00 +0000 https://www.weseektravel.com/?p=26432 A comprehensive hiking guide with a list of some of …

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A comprehensive hiking guide with a list of some of the best hikes in Tasmania! Discover some of Tasmania’s best short day walks and multi-day treks in this personalised list of epic Tassie walks to help you plan your trail-chasing adventures in the Apple Isle.

I think it’s fair to say that Tasmania takes the cake for being the best hiking destination in Australia. Besides the obvious fact that the nature here is incredible, what really drew me to Tasmania as a hiking destination is the diversity of the trails.

In Tassie, you can find yourself walking rugged coastal tracks, immersed in mind-blowing temperate rainforest and climbing icy mountain peaks– sometimes all on the same day!

I’ve spent several months exploring Tasmania, chasing the best hiking experiences available and photographing my adventures along the way. This Tasmanian hiking guide is a culmination of many incredible memories that I now want to share with you.

I’ve listed all of the best hiking trails in the state, including great Tasmania short walks and epic multi-day hikes and provided my stories to help you explore some of the same.

A Quick Foreword for This Ultimate Tasmania Hiking Guide

To be honest with you right off the bat, listing every single best hiking trail in Tasmania is impossible, or at least a life's mission! The truth is that there are just so many great walks and treks that there are bound to be a few I've missed here.

However, my goal is to create the best free Tasmania hiking resource you'll find online. I've personally hiked all of these trails and given my personal account to help you choose your adventures.

But, at the bottom of this post, you'll find a "hikes in Tasmania wish list" which rounds off some of the tracks and hiking trails that I've yet to hit but plan to soon. There's also a short section dedicated to helping you plan your Tasmania hiking adventures which aim to answer most of your questions.

First: The Best Tasmania Hiking Tours

While there are loads of hikes and epic bushwalks you can take on the Apple Isle, below are the top 3 organized tours you can book online.

  • From Hobart: Hike in Freycinet & Wineglass Bay - explore the best beautiful coastal trails on Tassie's east coast in a single day trip.
  • From Hobart: Maria Island Active Tour - awesome full day of hiking and exploring Maria Island– the best place in Tassie for wildlife spotting!
  • From Launceston: Cradle Mountain Day Tour - experience alpine Tasmania on an epic full-day walking trip in Cradle Country.
Hiking in Tasmania

Tasmania Hiking Guide: 36 Awesome Hiking Trails in Tassie

1. The Montezuma Falls Track

  • Hiking Distance: 11 kilometres return
  • Duration: 3 hours return
  • Elevation: 120 metres total elevation gain (gradual and mostly flat)
  • Duration: 3 hours return

This waterfall hiking trail is located near Williamsford, which is approximately two kilometres south of Rosebery in Tasmania's west.

Montezuma Falls has the crown for being Tasmania's highest permanent waterfall. This hike was one of my favourite in Tasmania, following an easy yet scenic forest track along an old mining route.

At the end, you'll be rewarded with a view directly below the sleepy, multi-tiered giant known as Montezuma Falls.

MONTEZUMA FALLS HIKE IN TASMANIA

2. The Nut

  • Hiking Distance: 2.9 kilometre circuit loop
  • Duration: 45 minutes - 1 hour
  • Elevation: 170 metres total elevation gain |
    The Nut height: 152 metres AMSL
  • Difficulty: Moderate (well-maintained but a little steep)

Climbing the Nut is a right of passage for hikers in Tasmania. While perhaps not the most scenic walking trail in the state, it could be considered one of the most unique.

The Nut is located in the northern township of Stanley and is the remains of a volcanic plug. This mounded hill now sits on the edge of the island overlooking the Bass Strait. This hike is fairly easy and I'd highly recommend it if you're visiting the northern parts of Tasmania.

THE NUT STANLEY

3. The Three Falls Circuit

  • Hike Distance: 6 km loop
  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Elevation: Mostly flat with short sections of easy stair climbing
  • Difficulty: Easy

The lower rainforest section of Mount Field National Park is truly one of Tasmania's best wet rainforests. And, easily the best way to experience all of its incredible natural scenery is to take the easy 6-kilometre loop hike known as the Three Falls Circuit.

This waterfall walk features some of Tasmania's most famous waterfalls including Russell Falls, Horseshoe Falls and Lady Barron Falls. You'll also get to check out the famous tall trees section of Mt Field National Park, making it one of the most rewarding short walks in Tasmania!

Book: Mt Field Day Trip From Hobart (top-rated in Hobart)

THREE FALLS CIRCUIT HIKE AND TALL TREES WALK IN MOUNT FIELD NATIONAL PARK TASMANIA

4. Dove Lake Circuit at Cradle Mountain

  • Hiking Distance: 5.7 kilometres (loop)
  • Duration: 2-3 hours
  • Elevation: 130 metres total elevation gain (undulating)
  • Difficulty: Easy

Cradle Mountain is one of the most famous hiking areas in Tasmania, and for good reason. This scenic alpine region features some of the most iconic Tasmanian hiking trails including Cradle Mountain summit and the Overland Track.

If you're after a relatively easy day walk in Cradle Country, look no further than the Dove Lake Circuit Track. This beautiful lakeside loop circumvents the lake and ducks into dense alpine rainforest while also offering excellent views of the surrounding peaks.

How to get here: How to Get to Cradle Mountain

CRADLE MOUNTAIN FROM LAUNCESTON, HIKING IN CRADLE COUNTRY, TASMANIA
HIKING THE FREYCINET PENINSULA CIRCUIT, WINEGLASS BAY CAMPSITE, THINGS TO DO IN FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK, TASMANIA

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5. Bridal Veil Falls and Champagne Falls Track

  • Hiking Distance: 5.2 km circuit
  • Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours
  • Elevation: 300 metres total elevation gain
  • Difficulty: Easy-moderate

There are so many great hikes and walking tracks in Tasmania's Cradle Country. However, its popularity often means that the trails are a little crowded. If you're up for a great waterfall hike without the crowds, consider checking out the Bridal Veil Falls and Champagne Falls track.

You'll find this walk near the Lemonthyme Wilderness Retreat on the way up to Cradle Mountain. It's a little bit of a detour to get here, but let me assure you that the trip is more than worth it. Especially if you're a waterfall fan as this track offers two on the same loop track!

Stay near the trail: Lemonthyme Wilderness Retreat

BRIDAL VEIL FALLS TASMANIA
CHAMPAGNE FALLS TASMANIA

6. The Mount Wellington Hikes

Mount Wellington is is one of the most well-known mountains in Tasmania. That's because this culturally significant peak sits above the capital city of Hobart. The international airport is often the first port of call for visitors to Tasmania and therefore many travellers choose to explore and stay in Hobart first.

Luckily, there are loads of different walking tracks and scenic trails at the foothills of Mount Wellington and towards the peak. Many decide to head to the famous "Springs", a starting point for several short-medium length walks.

My favourite hiking trail on Mount Wellington is one to the summit, which incorporates many of the highlight tracks into a convenient loop back to The Springs.

Book a bus instead: Wellington Bus All-Day Pass (cheapest online)

MOUNT WELLINGTON HIKE, SUMMIT HIKE

RELATED POST: 26 Awesome Things to do in Hobart


7. Leven Canyon Lookout

  • Hiking Distance: 1.9 km circuit loop
  • Duration: 1 hour
  • Elevation: 149 metres elevation gain
  • Difficulty: Easy

The Leven Canyon is located in Northern Tasmania, approximately 50 kilometres south of Devonport. This beautiful canyon lookout track is a great bang-for-time microadventure for those on a road trip in the north.

The views from the top are fantastic, and better yet, this Tasmanian hiking trail is a circuit loop, meaning you'll get more views and less doubling-back!

LEVEN CANYON TASMANIA

8. Nelson Falls Track

  • Hiking Distance: 1.4 kilometres return
  • Duration: 45 minutes
  • Elevation: N/A
  • Difficulty: Very easy

Jetting across the island state and we've arrived in the unmissable Western Wilds. The Strahan and West Coast region has a lot to offer but one of my favourite short hikes, the Nelson Falls track, just should not be missed.

Nelson Falls is located just outside of Queenstown after the the beautiful 99-bends road on the edge of Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. It's a perfect road-side stopover hike for those driving to and from Queenstown and Derwent Bridge.

The waterfall track features amazing examples of native Tasmanian temperate rainforest and the waterfall itself is in my opinion, one of the best in the sate!

NELSON FALLS TASMANIA
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Looking for more Tasmania travel guides & adventure inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

9. Hogarth Falls Track

  • Hiking Distance: 2.1 kilometres return
  • Duration: 45 minutes - 1 hour return
  • Elevation: N/A
  • Difficulty: Very easy

The Hogarth Falls hike is another notable waterfall trail in the south of Tasmania. This hike is one of the easiest day walks on this list, but considered a must-visit for those stopping by Strahan.

One great thing about this Tasmanian waterfall hike is just how easily accessible it is. Visitors will find the car park to the waterfall track just a few minutes drive from the main ferry port in Strahan. The truth is that you can even walk here from town!

HOGARTH FALLS TASMANIA

10. Quamby Bluff

  • Hiking Distance: 7 kilometres return
  • Duration: 3-5 hours
  • Elevation: Total elevation gain: 523 metres |
    Quamby Bluff height: 1227 metres
  • Difficulty: Moderate - Hard

Quamby Bluff is a 1227 metre peak north of the main escarpment of Tasmania's Great Western Tiers range. It's a very prominent mountain and can be seen from the Bass Highway connecting Launceston and Devonport.

This walk is great as Quamby Bluff is also one of the easiest mountains to climb in the Great Western Tiers of Northern Tasmania. While the difficulty steps up a little on this hike compared to others on the list, it's still a very doable day walk for most!

QUAMBY BLUFF TRACK
QUAMBY BLUFF WALK TASMANIA
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11. Hartz Peak Track

  • Hiking Distance: 8 kilometres return (out-and-back)
  • Duration: Official time: 4 hours
    My recommended time: 2.5 hours
  • Elevation: 519 metres total elevation gain
    Hartz Peak: 1253 m AMSL
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Hartz Peak is a beautiful mountain located in the easily-accessible Hartz Mountains National Park in the South of Tasmania. The alpine surrounds will make you feel like you are deep in uncharted Tassie wilderness but in reality, this is one of the easiest summit walks you'll find in Tasmania above 1200 metres.

Views from the top extend far beyond the Harts Range and deep into some of the most iconic mountains in Tasmania such as Precipitous Bluff and the Arthur's Ranges.

HARTZ PEAK AND HARTZ LAKE

12. Arve Falls Track

  • Hiking Distance: 0.8 kilometres return
  • Duration: 10 minutes
  • Elevation: N/A
  • Difficulty: Very easy

On the way into the Hartz Mountains National Park, you'll pass the short walking track to Arve Falls, one of the quickest and easiest waterfall hikes in Tassie.

This waterfall is also one of the most unique in the sate as it sits near 1000 metres above sea level, resulting in it often being surrounded by a blanket of snow.

This quick, 10-minute easy walk is a must if you're visiting the Hartz Mountain to hike Hartz Peak.

ARVE FALLS TASMANIA

Related: 26 Incredible Waterfalls in Tasmania


13. Bay of Fires Lodge Walk

  • Hiking Distance: Varies
  • Duration: 2-5 days
  • Elevation: N/A
  • Difficulty: Easy - Moderate

The Bay of Fires is one of the most beautiful regions in Tasmania and arguably in all of Australia. While not typically a hiking destination, in true Tassie outdoor fashion an entire array of guided lodge walks have been set up to explore the region on foot.

I've written a comprehensive guide to the Bay of Fires region which includes some recommendations for hikes and guided walking companies, so check that out if you're planning a trip here and looking to do some guided walks.

ORANGE ROCKS AND BLUE WATER AT BAY OF FIRES TASMANIA

14. Pelverata Falls Track

  • Hiking Distance: 6 kilometres return
  • Duration: Official: 3 hours, easily completed in under 2 hours return
  • Elevation: 290 metres total elevation gain
  • Difficulty: Moderate

The Pelverata Falls hike offers a great opportunity to get out and explore the natural sounds of the Huon Valley. This is also a dog-friendly waterfall hike that leads to one of Tasmania's tallest waterfalls!

The track is well-maintained and generally fairly easy. At the end, you'll arrive at a steel viewing platform beneath the falls.

VIEWING PLATFORM UNDERNEAT WATERFALL AT SNUG TIERS NATURE RECREATION AREA

15. Adamsons Falls Track

  • Hiking Distance: 6.8 kilometres return (from trailhead)
    Our distance: 9.8 kilometres from the Chestermans Road/Coal Hill Road fork
  • Duration: 2.5 -3.5 hours return
    Our time: 2 hours 45 minutes from the Chestermans Road/Coal Hill Road fork
  • Elevation: 265M total elevation gain (undulating)
    370M for us
  • Difficulty: Difficult (muddy, fallen trees everywhere)

Deep in the far south of the state is the trailhead to one of my absolute favourite waterfall hikes in Tasmania. The Adamsons Falls hike is an epic adventure and definitely a waterfall that you have to earn. This hiking trail enters into Southwest National Park, one of Tasmania's most rugged and unforgiving regions.

Getting out here is also quite a challenge in itself. Unfortunately, we were limited in how far we could get our big van so we were forced to extend the walk by a few kilometres.

The track is also very overgrown, wet and cold, making navigation challenging. This, combined with the relative remoteness and lack of phone reception also adds to the danger so make sure that you are prepared if you commit to this Tasmanian hiking trail.

ADAMSONS FALLS TASMANIA

16. Duckhole Lake Track

  • Hiking Distance: 4.4 km return
  • Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Elevation: Mostly flat
  • Difficulty: Easy

The Duckhole Lake track is another short hiking trail in the deep south on the edge of Southwest National Park. This walk is much more pleasant and easy-going than Adamsons, Falls (although definitely not as epic!).

This mostly boarded track winds its way into the forest towards Duckhole Lake, which is actually a sinkhole that has been filled by rainwater. There are usually a few ducks swimming in this natural rainforest pool and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a platypus or two as we did.

The Duckhole Lake track and the Adamsons Falls track are great walks to check out for those visiting the Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs.

DUCKHOLE LAKE TASMANIA, SINKHOLE HIKE

17. Cape Raoul Track

  • Hiking Distance: 16.4 KM return (18 KM including a short side-trip to the Shipstern Bluff Walk)
  • Duration: 3.5 - 5 hours return
  • Elevation: 645 m total elevation gain (undulates)
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Driving over to the wild and raw Tasman Peninsula and you'll find yourself with a plethora of epic Tasmanian coastal hiking trails. One of my personal favourites is the Cape Raoul Track, a fairly long but scenic trail leading to the often-neglected Third Cape.

The walk is a fairly long walk and begins by gently climbing up the eucalypt forest and then descending down to the long plateau reaching out to Cape Raoul. Additionally, hikers will have the option to take a short detour to a viewpoint over Shipstern Bluff, one of the most notorious big-wave surf breaks on earth!

Book: Incredible Port Arthur & Three Capes Panorama by Seaplane

CAPE RAOUL TASMANIA

18. Three Capes Track

  • Hiking Distance: 44.6 km
  • Duration: 2 or 3 days
  • Elevation: 1853 metres total elevation gain
  • Difficulty: Moderate (entry-level multi-day hiking)

The Three Capes Track is the first overnight hike in Tasmania on this list, and also one of the most popular! That's because this track has recently received an expensive overhaul with long boardwalks and awesome huts.

The Three Capes Track is located on the Tasman Peninsula and traverses scenic heathland, lush temperate rainforest and the jagged, towering coastal cliffs of Cape Pillar and Cape Hauy.

Typically, this 3-4 day walk is targeted at entry-level overnight hikers as a paid experience. However, it is also possible to complete the walk for free (besides the national park fee), by organising your own transport and camping at the several dedicated sites.

CAPE PILLAR ON THE THREE CAPES TRACK TASMANIA

19. Collins Cap Trail

  • Hiking Distance: 8.2 KM return
  • Duration: 2.5 - 3 hours return
  • Elevation: 660 metres total elevation gain |
    Collins Cap: 1098 metres AMSL
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Collins Cap is a mountain peak located within Wellington Park, just outside of Collinsvale near Hobart. This walk is a fairly short yet steep hike finishing at Collins Cap, where you'll be rewarded with awesome views over Collinsvale, Collins Bonnet, the lush Derwent Valley and the whole Mount Wellington plateau.

There's also a very picturesque waterfall on the way up called Myrtle Gully Falls, an added bonus for this one!

COLLINS CAP WALK

20. Snug Falls Track

  • Hiking Distance: 2.9 kilometres return (out-and-back)
  • Duration: 40 minutes - 1 hour
  • Elevation: 145 metres total elevation gain, all on the way back up
  • Difficulty: Easy

The Snug Falls track is a great, short, dog-friendly waterfall hike near Snug, just 24 kilometres south of Hobart. The Snug Falls walk is fairly easy walk in Tasmania's southeast leading to the base of an awesome waterfall within a basin clearing.

Unfortunately, the waterfall wasn't flowing that well when we visited, and I've been told that this is due to it being very season-dependent. However, we still really enjoyed this track and spent a fair bit of time enjoying the serenity by the large pool.

SNUG FALLS WATERFALL HIKE IN TASMANIA

21. Wellington Falls: Disappearing Tarn

  • Hiking Distance: 20 km return (Fern Tree)
  • Duration: 5-7 hours
  • Elevation: 950 m total elevation gain
  • Difficulty: Moderate but a long day hike

One of the longest day-hikes available on Tasmania's Mount Wellington is the Wellington Falls walk. This one follows the the Pipeline Track, Silver Falls Track and then the Milles Track all the way to an impressive waterall. Along the way, you'll experience vastly changing lanscapes including temperate rainforest, huge boulder fields and even alpine conditions.

There's also an illusive and seasonal tarn which you might be lucky enough to spot on the way up known as the Disappearing Tarn.

WELLINGTON FALLS HIKE TASMANIA HOBART

22. Tarkine Walks

The Tarkine, or Takanya, is Australia's largest body of temperate rainforest. It's a very wild, wet and undeniably beautiful region that is unfortunately under threat! Logging and mining companies are expanding in the region at the cost of this rich, biodiverse global treasure.

I believe that the more people that get to explore this beautiful landscape for themselves, the stronger the movement to protect it will grow. That's why I'm encouraging you, keen hikers to go and explore (respectfully), the Tarkine Rainforest.

Since Takanya is largely managed by Tasmania's Forestry industry (logging), there are not many well-known or well-established hiking trails. However, I have covered a few my comprehensive guide to the Tarkine Drive. Some of my favourites include the Trowutta Arch walk, Lake Chrisholm and the Milkshake Hills.

Book: Tassie in 3 Days - Includes West Coast (Tarkine)

LAKE CHRISHOLM TRACK TARKINE RAINFOREST HIKES IN TASMANIA

23. Styx Tall Trees Walk

  • Hiking Distance: 1 kilometre loop
  • Duration: 20-30 minutes
  • Elevation: Mostly flat
  • Difficulty: Very easy

Many people visit Tasmania to witness one of the last, truly wild places on earth. A visit to the Southern Forests of Tasmania allows you a glimpse of some of the tallest and biggest trees in the Southern Hemisphere. The Styx Tall Trees Conservation offers the chance to see some of the absolute tallest eycalypt regnans!

This area is located near Maydena, approximately an hour's drive from Hobart. If you're planning a visit out to Mt Field National Park (you should), then a detour to the Styx fits in well!

TASMANIAN GIANT TREES IN THE STYX VALLEY

24. The Fluted Cape Walk

  • Hiking Distance: 7.2 km (circuit loop)
  • Duration: 2-3 hours
  • Elevation: 345 m total elevation gain |
    315 M AMSL at the cape lookout
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Bruny Island is an adventure paradise with some of the best hikes to do in Tasmania. One of the most rewarding on the island is the Fluted Cape Walk, offering excellent coastal views and abundant wildlife spotting opportunities!

The Fluted Cape track is a well-maintained loop hike that starts and finishes at the Adventure Bay car park and climbs to the top of the Fluted Cape, overlooking the dramatic Bruny Island coastline.

Book a trip to Bruny: Bruny Island Day Trip From Hobart (best in Tas)

FLUTED CAPE WALK ON BRUNY ISLAND, TASMANIA

25. Waterfall Bay, Devils Kitchen & Tasman Arch Track

  • Hiking Distance: 3.4 km return
  • Duration: 1 hour return
  • Elevation: Mostly flat
  • Difficulty: Easy

Looking for another short hike on Tasmania's Tasman Peninsula? Consider checking out the Waterfall Bay track. This scenic trail is a great easy out-and-back track passing several famous geological formations including the Tasman Arch and Devils Kitchen.

The track is wide, easy to follow and mostly flat for the duration. There are plenty of spots to spot on the track to admire incredible coastal views and the unique geological phenomena that make the Tasman coast so famous.

Book: Port Arthur Historic Site Ticket

WATERFALL BAY TASMANIA

26. Maria Island Circuit

  • Hiking Distance: 50 km (including a side-trip to the Isthmus, Bishop and Clerk pinnacles & Mount Maria summit)
  • Duration: 3 days
  • Elevation: 1935 m total elevation gain
  • Difficulty: Moderate but long, entry-level multi-day hike

Maria Island is widely known as one of Australia's best island sanctuaries. Many visitors make the trip every year to see the incredible wildlife diversity, to learn about Tasmania's convict history and to hike its epic granite and bushland peaks.

Also, since there are no cars on the island, Maria is a hiking and bushwalking paradise. The best walk available is a full traverse of the island known as the Maria Island Circuit. This was one of my personal favourite and most iconic hikes in Tasmania! Although it's fairly long, you don't have to take the full 3 days. I've written, in detail, about all the hiking options on Maria in the blog post linked below.

Alternative: Active full-day walking tour of Maria Island

MARIA ISLAND SELF GUIDED HIKE, COASTAL HIKING TRACK

27. Bishop and Clerk Track

  • Hiking Distance: 11 km return to Darlington via Fossil Cliffs
  • Duration: 3-5 hours
  • Elevation: 630 m elevation gain
  • Difficulty: Moderate (TasParks Grade 4)

Another great Tasmanian walking track on Maria Island's northern coastline is the Bishop and Clerk Track. This rewarding coastal walk leads to a series of prominent dolerite columns overlooking the Tasman Sea.

These columns got their name due to their resemblance of a hat-wearing bishop beside a clergyman.

Hikers can summit these towering columns for incredible views over Maria Island.

BISHOP AND CLERK VIEWPOINT MARIA ISLAND

28. Mount Maria Summit Track

  • Hiking Distance: 12.4 kilometres
  • Elevation: 620 metres elevation gain
  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate

The Mount Maria track is a steep climb to the highest peak on Maria Island. This track departs from a fork on the Maria Island walk and continuously climbs for 6.2 kilometres to an altitude of 720M AMSL. If you're not walking the Maria Island Circuit, it is possible to rent a bike and drop it at the fork.

Although the views are great, and the peak is higher, I believe the view from the Bishop and Clerk pinnacles are better. In saying that, you will get to see the southern end of the island and the beautiful isthmus from Mount Maria.

MOUNT MARIA SUMMIT VIEW

29. Freycinet Peninsula Circuit

  • Hiking Distance: 46 km (walked in a "figure-eight" with Mount Freycinet summit & Bryans Beach track)
  • Duration: 2 or 3 days
  • Elevation: 1800 total elevation gain
  • Difficulty: Tasmanian Parks Grade 3 (entry-level multi-day trekking)

The Freycinet Peninsula Circuit is an epic circuit track around Freycinet National Park on the East Coast of Tasmania. Here, you'll discover one of the most beautiful regions of Tasmania including white, sandy beaches to rocky mountain summits.

The circuit is great if you're looking to see the most you can during your visit. This is because it covers most of the famous trails including the Wineglass Bay lookout track, Hazards Beach track and a climb to the top of Mount Freycinet summit— the tallest peak in Freycinet.

It's possible for hikers to walk this circuit in either two or three days. We decided to walk it in two, with a rather short first day and quite a long second day. All of the main campsites are on the beaches at either Cook's Beach, Hazard's Beach or the south end of Wineglass Bay.

FREYCINET PENINSULA CIRCUIT, TASMANIA

30. Mount Amos Summit Hike

  • Hike Distance: 4 kilometres return
  • Duration: 2-3 hours return
  • Elevation: 434 m of elevation gain |
    Mount Amos summit: 454 m AMSL
  • Difficulty: Tasmanian Parks Grade 4: rock scrambling required

Mount Amos in Freycinet National Park is widely considered to be one of Australia's best summit viewpoints. The mountain overlooks Wineglass Bay and the Freycinet Peninsula, a sweeping, Jurassic landscape that is guaranteed to leave you speechless.

While not long by any means, it does require a fair bit of rock and boulder scrambling to reach the summit. Therefore, it is best to be prepared.

I highly recommend making the extra effort to get up to Mt Amos for sunrise. This viewpoint spot was absolutely magical and ended up on the top of my personal list of best hikes in Tasmania!

2 Day Trip: Epic Wineglass Bay & Bay of Fires Trip (from Hobart, includes Mount Amos hike)

MOUNT AMOS PANORAMA

Complete Review: Staying at a private island resort in Freycinet (Picnic Island)


31. Cape Tourville Lighthouse Walk

  • Hiking Distance: 600 m loop
  • Duration: 15-20 minutes
  • Elevation: Flat
  • Difficulty: Very easy

It's a shame that Cape Tourville is often overshadowed by many of the other popular walks and lookouts in Freycinet National Park. While all are equally astonishing, visiting the Cape Tourville Lighthouse on the easternmost cape of Freycinet is a must for anyone fond of an epic lookout.

The Cape Tourville lighthouse and lookout loop is a very easy, mostly flat loop walk on a raised boardwalk. It is suitable for anyone and is wheelchair accessible.

The views from the lookout include a glimpse of Wineglass Bay, the amazing Hazards, the southern Freycinet Peninsula, Mount Freycinet, as well as a rocky outcrop abundant with seals known as "The Nuggets". 

CAPE TOURVILLE LIGHTHOUSE WALK IN TASMANIA

32. The Apsley Gorge Trail

  • Hiking Distance: 6 km return (out-and-back) | 8 km if rock-hopping back along the river
  • Duration: 2 hours return (out and back), apparently 4-5 hours if rock-hopping
  • Elevation: 315 m total elevation gain
  • Difficulty: Relatively easy (Tasmania Parks Grade 2 or Grade 3 if taking the river circuit)

The Apsley Gorge Circuit is a scenic bushwalking track located within the Douglas-Apsley National Park, just outside of Bicheno. It's one of the few walking tracks in the park and is a great choice if you're looking for a swim and to enjoy the serenity and crystal clear waters of the Apsley River.

This circuit can be completed as an out-and-back hike to the gorge or as a longer and more difficult circuit walk.

Unfortunately, due to recent flooding, the full circuit was impossible when I visited. Regardless, I had a great time on the shorter section and the views were still more than worth the low effort out here.

APSLEY GORGE WALKING TRACK

33. The Evercreech Falls & White Knights Walk

Evercreech Forest Reserve is an incredibly underrated forest area in North Eastern Tasmania offering two scenic rainforest walks and great opportunities for free camping.

Both loops are short but very picturesque, showcasing the very best of the natural beauty of the region. The Evercreech Falls loop is a little longer and wraps around the creek to the base of a small rainforest waterfall.

The second trail, the "White Knights of Evercreech" features five of Australia's largest White Gums, or Manna Gums (Eucalyptus viminalis). They stand over 90 metres tall and some of the thicker ones are over 300 years.

RIVER CROSSING EVERCREECH STATE RESERVE
EVERCREECH FALLS WATERFALL TASMANIA

34. Halls Falls Trail

  • Hiking Distance: 2.5 km return
  • Duration: 1 - 1.5 hours
  • Difficulty: Easy

The Halls Falls trail features a set of multiple cascading waterfalls located on the Groom River near Pyengana in the East of Tasmania. This short waterfall circuit leads to several viewing points of the waterfalls, as well as a rock-pool area and a historic, 19th-century weir.

The track is mostly an in-and-out trail but you will have the option of taking a loop back to the car park from about halfway to the falls. The surrounding nature here is a little drier than what you might in the surrounding region. There is a good mix of Aussie eucalypts and temperate rainforest myrtle trees and tall man ferns along the length of the track.

HALLS FALLS HIKE IN TASMANIA

35. Saint Columba Falls Track

  • Hiking Distance: 1.2 km return
  • Hike Duration: 20-30 minutes return
  • Elevation: Mostly Flat
  • Difficulty: Easy

St Columba is considered one of Tasmania's tallest permanent waterfalls. It's an absolutely magnificent sight and definitely should be added to your list of must-do walks in Tasmania. The walking track down to its base is an easy, short rainforest stroll surrounded by tree ferns and temperate rainforest flora.

At the end, you'll find a steel viewing platform providing the best view of the waterfall. When we visited, it was absolutely roaring and it was impossible to even stand on the platform a testament to just how wild this waterfall is!

ST COLUMBA WATERFALL, TASMANIA

36: Federation Peak

  • Hiking Distance: Official: 40 km
    Recorded to Berchevaise Plateau return: 64.92 KM
  • Duration: 2-5 days
  • Elevation: Total elevation gain roughly 1800 m
    Federation Peak: 1274 m AMSL
  • Difficulty: Very Difficult, experience mandatory;
    Tas Parks: T5 level - wilderness track

This final hike on this list of epic trails in Tasmania is not for the faint of heart! Federation Peak is the iconic Tasmanian spire mountain located deep in the Southwest National Park wilderness. Nicknamed Feddy or Fedder, this 1274 metre peak is nowhere near the tallest mountain in Tasmania but holds the fiercest reputation.

Usually attempted over 2-5 days, we tried in 3 in the midst of Winter and were unsuccessful at the summit due to icy, wild conditions. We were very well prepared for the hike but the unfortunate truth for us was that weather is king out here!

If you're an experienced bushwalker looking for a real mental and physical challenge, this is one of the best you'll get in Tasmania.

FEDERATION PEAK WALK
HIKING TO FEDERATION PEAK IN TASMANIA
FEDERATION PEAK TASMANIA

More Guided Tasmania Hiking Tours

I'm a huge fan of independent, raw adventures. All of the hikes on this list were completed independently with our own transport. However, for those that would prefer to learn more about the regions they're hiking in and be led by some of the best walking guides in Australia, then Tassie is an excellent place to book guided walks.

Below I've linked to some of the most reputable and best guided walk tours in Tasmania. You can book all of these online and the inclusions are listed on the booking page.

WATERFALL HIKES IN TASMANIA

More Hikes in Tasmania: The Wishlist

Obviously, hitting every single hiking trail in Tasmania is just not possible unless you dedicate an entire lifetime to the pursuit! I compiled this comprehensive Tasmanian hiking guide after my first trip to the Apple Isle and I'll definitely be back to tick off some that I didn't have time for.

Below is a list of a few more epic Tasmanian hikes that are on my wish list! Each have links to corresponding guides by other bloggers and outdoor writers.

CRADLE MOUNTAIN WATERFALL TRACK

How to Get to the Trailheads: Best Way to Get Around in Tasmania

Having your own car to explore the beautiful island of Tasmania is by far the best way to get around. If you're fortunate enough to drive in on the Spirit of Tasmania car ferry, then that is definitely the best way to go. Otherwise, I really recommend renting a car. That's because many of these Tassie hiking trails are remote and public transport is very limited.

However, if you haven't yet had a looked for a rental, then you might be in shock! Tasmania is the most expensive place to rent a car in Australia. In fact, I haven't seen prices that crazy anywhere else in the world after many years of travelling full-time.

With that said, there. area few ways to get a good deal. Below I've linked to the best resources to use to rent a car in Tasmania to save you some coin.

  • RentalCars.com – a rental car comparison site. Great way to compare rates and availability across companies.
  • Spaceships Vans – this one’s for the backpackers and budget travellers. One of the most affordable camper van options in Australia. I’ve had great experiences with them in New Zealand and Australia and always recommend them.
VAN TRAVEL IN TASMANIA

READ ABOUT OUR ADVENTURES: The Van Journal in Tasmania


Best Areas to Visit in Tasmania For Hiking and Bushwalking

Initially, a lot of people misjudge just how big Tasmania is! It's a mecca for adventure and of course, there are so many different regions offering different experiences for hikers.

Below is a list of different parks and regions featured in this Tasmania hiking guide. If you're planning a trip to Tasmania, make sure to check out my list of the best areas to stay to get better deals on accommodation in each region.

  • The North (and Northwest)
    - Mount Roland, Leven Canyon, Arthur River, The Tarkine, Arthur-Pieman
  • East Coast
    - Mount William National Park, Bay of Fires, Freycinet National Park, Douglas Apsley National Park
  • Tasman Peninsula
  • Maria Island
  • South Tasmania
    - Southwest National Park, Bruny Island, Mount Wellington, Mount Field, Hartz Mountains
  • Central Tasmania
    - Central Plateau, Cradle Mountain, Walls of Jerusalem National Park
  • West Coast
    - Franklin Gordon Wild Rivers, Granite Tor, West Coast Range, Mount Murchison
HIKING THE FREYCINET PENINSULA CIRCUIT, WINEGLASS BAY CAMPSITE, THINGS TO DO IN FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK

About the Tasmanian National Park Fee

Unlike many other Australian states, visiting a Tasmanian National Park requires a paid permit. Visitors usually purchase these online or at any of the NP Visitor Centres throughout Tasmania.

National Parks Pass Cost:

  • 24-hours: $40 per vehicle/$20 per person
  • Holiday Passes – up to 2 months: $80 per vehicle/$40 per person
  • Annual Pass all parks: $90 per vehicle (up to eight people)

These passes are valid for entry to all of Tasmania’s parks and the receipt must be displayed in your vehicle. If you are spending a fair bit of time in Tassie, then I recommend picking up the Annual pass as it covers your vehicle and up to eight people in your party.

More Tasmania Travel, Hiking and Adventure Guides

That wraps up this comprehensive Tasmania hiking guide featuring 36 Must-do Hikes in Tasmania! If you enjoyed this free hiking resource, make sure to check out some of my other guides, featuring more hiking trails, waterfalls, adventures and all-around great travel inspiration.

Also, I do my best to regularly update the information for these Tasmanian hiking trails and the independent guides for each. However, as you might expect this is quite a task!

If you find something that needs updating or if you have some suggestions or feedback, please leave a comment or reach out to me!

Tasmania Story: Why You Need to go Hiking!

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62 Best Things to do in Tasmania: 2023 Travel Guide (Australia) https://www.weseektravel.com/things-to-do-tasmania/ https://www.weseektravel.com/things-to-do-tasmania/#comments Tue, 08 Feb 2022 21:06:00 +0000 https://www.weseektravel.com/?p=26915 The Ultimate Tassie Travel Guide featuring 62 of the absolute …

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The Ultimate Tassie Travel Guide featuring 62 of the absolute best things to do in Tasmania! Explore some of the most iconic Tasmanian attractions as well as some epic hidden gems.

Tasmania (Lutruwita) is Australia’s island state and is home to several world heritage sites, including some of the rawest wilderness areas on earth. With so much to explore, Tassie truly is a traveller’s playground and a great place to visit for those who love everything history, outdoors, and of course, adventure!

After spending many months exploring this incredible island, I’ve compiled the most comprehensive list of things to do in Tasmania that you’ll find online.

Here, you’ll find some of the most iconic Tasmania attractions, as well as some epic, off-the-beaten-path adventures to get you going for your next trip. Furthermore, at the bottom, you’ll also find a detailed Tasmania travel guide listing everything you need to know– from where to stay, to tips on booking and what you’ll want to bring.

Tasmania Map (With the Top Attractions & Things to See)

Before we get into this epic list of things you need to do and see in Tasmania, Australia, here's a quick map to orientate yourself.

I've pinned all of the best activities and attractions featured in this Tasmania travel guide.

Tasmania Travel Map

Tip: click the map to load all the activities and highlights on your Google Maps app. You can also bookmark this page to use it as your Tasmania Travel guide when travelling around this incredible island.

62 Best Things to do in Tasmania

So, planning your travels to Tasmania? Let me help you with this epic travel guide to the 62 Top Things to do in Tasmania! Make sure you also don't miss this guide to the best places to stay too!

1. Visit Cradle Mountain National Park

Cradle Mountain is one of the most iconic National Parks in Tasmania and perhaps in all of Australia! This unique alpine region is incredibly scenic and offers a plethora of awesome day walks and multi-day hikes.

Some of the best hikes include the famous Dove Lake Circuit, Cradle Mountain Summit and the multi-day Overland Track. Cradle Mountain also offers great opportunities for wildlife spotting, with plenty of wombats, wallabies and even Tasmanian Devils calling this region home.

Getting to Cradle Mountain is a little bit tricky if you don't have your own car, but very doable by booking organised transport.

CRADLE MOUNTAIN DOVE LAKE CIRCUIT TASMANIA

2. Jump On Board a World Heritage Cruise on the Gordon River

Before I visited, I was constantly told that one of the absolute best things to do in Tasmania was to jump on a Gordon River Cruise.

These trips depart from Strahan, on the northern tip of Macquarie Harbour and serves as a terminus for the Gordon River. There are several different cruise options but by far, the best-rated and most cost-effective one is run by World Heritage Cruises. These are the iconic red boats sailing into the Gordon River, one of the wildest places in Tasmania!

Alternative: Gordon River Sunset Dinner Cruise

THINGS TO DO IN TASMANIA - GORDON RIVER CRUISES

3. Climb Mount Amos For Sunrise

Are you looking for the most incredible sunset viewpoint in Tasmania? Mount Amos is the answer!

Mount Amos is a granite peak on the Hazards Mountain Range overlooking the Freycinet Peninsula and the iconic Wineglass Bay. The climb up is a little steep. However, let me tell you that the views are absolutely worth it!

Actually, I'd say that a sunrise hike up to Mount Amos was my favourite thing to do in Tasmania!

MOUNT AMOS, FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK HIKE, TASMANIA
sunset on a winding road in Tasmania

Car Rentals in Tasmania

Unfortunately, the cost of bringing your own car on the Spirit of Tasmania has skyrocketed in recent years.

Now, it is usually cheaper to rent a car on arrival. I recommend using RentalCars.com in Tasmania to compare rates for different vehicles across dealerships.

(Rentals are limited in Tasmania so it's a good idea to book in advance).

4. Marvel at the Bay of Fires Beaches

The Bay of Fires in Tasmania hit the global travel stage in 2015 when it was mentioned in Lonely Planet’s Top 10 Places to Visit in the World. However, Tasmanians have long recognised the Bay of Fires as being one of the most beautiful spots to visit in the country.

Honestly, a trip to Tasmania is incomplete without visiting the Bay of Fires and Binalong Bay! In this region, you'll find rich, deep-orange boulders scattering the coastline on the banks of fluorescent, turquoise waters. These truly are some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia!

BAY OF FIRES SUNSET TASMANIA

Sweeping white-sand beaches carve the coast as far as the eye can see and weathered, wind-swept bushland hangs onto the edge of its shores– it's a photographer's playground!

I'd consider checking out the Bay of Fires as a Tasmania must do for anyone!

There are lots of things to do and see in Tasmania's Bay of Fires. Below I've linked to a comprehensive guide featuring some of the must-do attractions and highlights.

BAY OF FIRES TASMANIA

5. See Some of Australia's Best Waterfalls

I think the theme is getting pretty clear now in this Tasmania travel guide. Many of the attractions and highlights are found in nature! And, for waterfall lovers, there is more than plenty to discover. In fact, I visited over 26 different waterfalls on my recent trip and still, there were some I missed!

Below are some of my favourites that I consider must-visits.

PHILOSOPHER FALLS TASMANIA

6. Explore Hobart

Okay, I think it's time to get out of nature and into the city (only for a moment). Hobart is the capital city of Tasmania and consequently the largest in the state. In saying that, it's much smaller than a typical Australian city.

Hobart is often the first destination that people visit in Tasmania and as you might expect, there are plenty of things to do! Some of the main attractions include:

  • Mount Wellington
  • MONA
  • Salamanca Market
  • Live Music at one of the old bars in the harbour
  • The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
  • Cascade Brewery
  • East Street

The city rests on the banks of the River Derwent and on the slopes of Kunanyi (Mount Wellington). There's plenty of rich culture and history to discover, as well a few attractions worthy of your Tasmania trip.

Read More: Where to Stay in Hobart

WHERE TO STAY IN HOBART, HOBART HARBOUR AND ACCOMMODATION
HIKING THE FREYCINET PENINSULA CIRCUIT, WINEGLASS BAY CAMPSITE, THINGS TO DO IN FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK, TASMANIA

How to Save Money on Tassie Tours & Experiences

Looking to save some travel money on tours in Tassie?

I've partnered with Backpacker Deals to offer $5 off all tours and experiences in Tasmania using my code OLLY5 (and you don't have to be a backpacker to save).

7. Climb Kunanyi (Mount Wellington)

Kunanyi, or Mount Wellington is the resident mountain above Hobart. Its power and influence over the region have been recognised long before colonial settlement. It controls the weather, soaking up clouds and trickling fresh drinking water down to the city.

As you might expect, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure here! There are loads of waterfalls and walks to check out but none as popular as Mount Wellington summit! You can either walk here from The Springs, or catch a ride on the Wellington Explorer.

Book a Full-day Bus Pass: Mount Wellington Explorer Hop-On/Off

MOUNT WELLINGTON SUMMIT BUS
Mount Wellington Explorer Bus

8. Visit Bruny Island

Bruny Island is often recommended as a must-visit destination for travellers arriving to Tasmania. The truth is, this 362-square-kilometre island encapsulates a lot of what Tasmania is all about. Here, you’ll find abundant wildlife, sweeping vistas, awesome trails and of course, world-renowned produce.

Some stand-out activities and attractions on this iconic Tasmanian island include the Fluted Cape walk, the Mars Bluff archway, the Neck Lookout, the world-renowned Bruny Island cruise and the rare chance to spot an albino wallaby!

Book a trip: Bruny Island Sightseeing Tour From Hobart (top-rated in Tas)

BRUNY ISLAND LOOKOUT, BEST THINGS TO DO IN HOBART ON A DAY TRIP

9. Climb "The Nut" in Stanley

Stanley is a historic town situated at the base of “The Nut”, the remains of an ancient volcanic plug. Climbing this strange geological phenomenon is one of the most unique things to do in Tasmania and a great reason to make a trip out to Stanley!

For those not too keen on taking the steep steps, jump on The Nut Chairlift, which only operates in the warmer months.

THE NUT AT STANLEY, TASMANIA

10. Explore the Tarkine Drive

The Tarkine, or Takanya, is Australia's largest temperate rainforest. It's a global treasure with abundant wildlife and rich biodiversity. If you've got the time on your next trip to Tasmania, then I highly recommend taking the scenic Tarkine Drive.

I've written a guide to the Tarkine drive, which covers all of the best things to see and do on the road with some hidden gems not to miss! This region is wild, resulting in fewer tourists and very little tourism infrastructure. Tread lightly, respect the rainforest and enjoy this magical place!

RAINFOREST TREES IN TASMANIA

TRAVELLING IN AUSTRALIA? DON'T MISS: Complete Visitor's Guide to Cairns


11. Visit Launceston

Launceston is Tasmania’s second-largest city and is commonly rated as one of the most liveable cities in Australia. Lonnie, as Taswegians call it, is a hub of history, culture, food and nature.

As with most of the quaint little cities of Tasmania, there are a lot of things to do, see and explore. This city also serves as a great hub for travellers looking to explore the region. Plenty of guided tours operate out of Lonnie and there are also many great, heritage-listed accommodation options.

BRIDGE IN LAUNCESTON, THINGS TO DO IN TASMANIA, AUSTRALIA

12. Go Hiking

As you would have undoubtedly noticed by now, one of the must do things in Tasmania is to hit the trails! Truthfully, there are just so many epic hikes that it would be almost impossible to name them all! Furthermore, the variety you'll get from trail to trail is just astounding.

One moment, you might be wandering through dense rainforests and the next trekking up alpine peaks!

I've dedicated a huge blog post (linked below) to my favourite hikes in Tassie. But, here are a few I'd say should belong in any decent Tasmania travel guide!

13. MONA

Easily one of the strangest things to do in Tasmania is a visit to MONA. This is Hobart's Museum of Old and New, but is far unlike any museum I've ever seen before.

This quirky mix of ancient, modern and contemporary art is the largest privately-funded museum in the southern hemisphere. If you're up for a one-of-a-kind experience in Tasmania that you're bound to remember, consider checking out MONA on the banks of the Derwent River.

While you'll find MONA listed in most Tasmania travel guides, I wouldn't say that it's a must-do. However, if you're up for one of the weirdest attractions on the island, go check it out!

Book: Hobart Sightseeing Tour & MONA Ticket

MONA HOBART
MONA - One of the wierdest highlights in this Tasmania Travel Guide

14. See abundant Wildlife on Maria Island

Maria Island has been referred to as “Noah’s Ark in Australia”. It truly is one of the best places in the country to see abundant native wildlife.

As soon as you hop off the ferry, you’ll undoubtedly be greeted by a wallaby or wombat, often both. Other common sights include kangaroos, geese, ringtail possums, pademelons, potoroos as well as a wide range of snakes, lizard and frogs.

The island is also rich in history and offers visitors an opportunity to learn about its dark convict past.

FLUFFY WOMBAT IN TASMANIA

15. Spot Tasmanian Devils

Australia, being a remote island in the Pacific, is home to some of the most unique animals in the world. You'd expect then that a remote island off an island would be home to even stranger creatures. And, you're right!

The Tasmanian Devil is the world's largest carnivorous marsupial and is found only in Tasmania. These little guys really live up to their name and are one of the feistiest creatures I've ever seen. Unfortunately, the Tasmanian Devil is endangered, with populations plummeting nearly 80% in the past 20 years due to the very serious Devil Facial Tumour Disease.

Unfortunately, I didn't spot one in the wild after months of hiking in and exploring Tasmania. With that said, you could get lucky. Apparently, some of the best places to spot them are on Maria Island and the Tarkine Rainforest.

Otherwise, check out Devils@Cradle (below), to see a Devil on your visit to Cradle Mountain. This is a sanctuary protecting Devils where you can learn about the conservation efforts helping to protect them.

Book a ticket: Devils@CradleDevils at Cradle

Tasmanian Devil

16. Derby's Floating Sauna

Derby's Floating Sauna is a luxury experience borrowing a page from our Scandinavian friends.

Situated on the calm waters of Lake Derby, this sauna in the heart of a former mining town is the perfect experience on a quick stopover on the way to the East Coast.

The floating sauna has taken off on Instagram as one of the best things to do in Tasmania during the colder months. Warm up in the sauna then take a cold plunge in the fresh waters, if you're game! croch

There are also loads of mountain bike trails in this region, another reason why Derby is worth a visit!

DERBY SAUNA IN TASMANIA

17. Explore the Tasman Peninsula

The Tasman Peninsula is just a short 70-minute drive from Hobart and is well known for dramatic coastal landscapes and a rich convict history.

I've recommended the Tasman Peninsula in this Tasmanian travel guide as there are just so many activities and things to do in this part of the state.

Whether it be one of Tasmania's best multi-day hikes, a visit to Port Arthur's Historic Site or a Tasman Island Boat Cruise, you simply won't regret visiting this incredible region. In my opinion, witnessing the Tasman Peninsula is one of the best things to see in Tasmania (especially from above).

CAPE PILLAR ON THE THREE CAPES TRACK IN TASMANIA, TASMAN PENINSULA

18. Visit The Port Arthur Historic Site (UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE)

The Port Arthur Historic Site is one of Tasmania's five UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites. Located on the Tasman Peninsula, this convict site is one of the earliest and most intact in the country.

This huge, 100-acre site has over 30 historic buildings and ruins to explore and to learn about the lives of many of Australia's ancestors.

Skip the line: Port Arthur Historic Site Entry Ticket (Cheap online)

This is a paid activity in Tasmania which means you'll need to book an entry ticket. However, I'd say that it's definitely worth it as with entry, you'll also get a guided walking tour, a harbour cruise and access to the Port Arthur Gallery, house museums and gardens. The money also goes to the upkeep of the site.

PORT ARTHUR HOUSE

19. Jump Aboard The Tasmanian Wilderness Railway

Back over to the West Coast, the West Coast Wilderness railway is a Tasmanian attraction that is well-regarded as one of Tassie's icons.

This historic rail line journeys through deep Tasmanian wilderness and allows visitors to experience the rugged, yet undeniably beautiful terrain on board a historic steam train.

There are several options to take, undeniably one of the best is the “Rack and Gorge” line departing from Queenstown and running through to the incredible King River Gorge and the isolated station in Dubbil Barril.

This is one of the most scenic trips and takes roughly 4 hours.

STRAHAN WILDERNESS RAILWAY

20. Cruise at Wineglass Bay

Undeniably, one of the most iconic activities and experiences in Freycinet National Park is the incredible Wineglass Bay cruise by Pennicott Wilderness Journeys. This trip is one of the classiest ways to experience the tranquil waters of Wineglass Bay and runs for approximately 4 hours.

Trips depart from Coles Bay and you’ll even get a ploughman’s-style lunch included. A bay cruise offers one of the best opportunities to spot abundant wildlife including sea birds, dolphins, seals and even penguins and whales.

WINEGLASS BAY, FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK

21. Marvel at the Little Blue Lake

Little Blue Lake is quickly becoming a popular pit stop among those on a Tassie road trip. That’s because Little Blue Lake is easily accessed on the road towards the East Coast of Tasmania Mount William National Park.

Little Blue Lake is a scenic pit stop for photos and to admire the aquatic remnants of Tasmania’s alluvial tin mining past. The water colour here is quite mind-blowingly blue, which makes for some pretty great photos.

TASMANIA LITTLE BLUE LAKE

22. Hike the Three Capes Track

Besides the Overland Track, The Three Capes Track is perhaps Tasmania’s most popular multi-day hike. If you're looking for a Tasmania activity in the great outdoors, then the Three Capes is a great option, especially for those who aren't too used to multi-day hiking. That's because it's a great entry-level hike without too much elevation.

The track features gentle coves, scenic heathlands, lush forests and of course, spanning views of the most remarkable coastal vistas in the country. If you're a fan of the outdoors, then this is definitely one of my most recommended Tasmania must do activities you'll want to add to your own list!

Usually, walkers need to register and pay for this hike as the normal route requires a boat transfer and hut accommodation. However, if you're like me and prefer to do things independently, then check out my guide below on how to do it with just a regular National Parks Pass.

CAPE PILLAR ON THE THREE CAPES WALK IN TASMANIA

23. Witness the Aurora Australis

Did you know that Tasmania is one of the best places in Australia to witness the Southern Lights or Aurora Australis?

This phenomenon occurs in Tasmania due to its low latitude, offering a chance to see charged solar wind particles bombard the atmosphere. Admittedly, the Aurora Australis isn't as magnificent as the famed "Northern Lights" like you might see in Norway or Iceland.

However, I'd say that if you're making a trip to Tasmania in the Autumn or Winter months, then I'd definitely recommend adding it to your list of things to do.

The Southern Lights are a little unpredictable. With that said, this Facebook Group is awesome and will definitely help your mission.

Great Photo by Andrew Shea

24. Browse the Famous Salamanca Markets

Back to Hobart now and the next featured activity in this Tasmanian travel guide is the world-famous Salamanca Markets.

These markets are held every Saturday morning at Salamanca Place near Hobart harbour. It brings together artists, craftsmen, food stalls, farmers and many Tasmanian small business owners to sell their unique wares and famous street foods.

If you happen to find yourself in Hobart on a weekend, make sure to save time for the Salamanca Markets, one of the best things to do in Tasmania for visitors looking to pick up a meaningful souvenir.

HOBART ATTRACTIONS, SALAMANCA MARKET AT SALAMANCA PLACE

25. Walk Above the Canopy At Tahune Adventures

The Tahune Airwalk is one of Tasmania’s most popular adventure and tourist attractions. Located in the Tahune Forest alongside the Huon River in the South, this adventure park offers a few worthwhile attractions including the famous Tahune Forest Airwalk and cantilever, walking trails with long swinging suspension bridges, hang gliding and rafting.

Unfortunately, the destructive fires of 2018-2019 devastated the Tahune Forest. However, it's great to see that it is slowly recovering with the help of the team at The Tahune Airwalk team!

Book: Hastings Caves & Tahune Airwalk From Hobart - $5 OFF with code OLLY5

TAHUNE AIRWALK TASMANIA

26. Explore The Hartz Mountains

Standing at 1253 metres, Hartz Peak is the tallest point on the Hartz Mountain range in southern Tasmania. However, this range is one of the most accessible 1000 metre+ ranges in Tasmania due to the well-maintained road in from Geeveston.

A visit to the Hartz Mountains National Park is a must-do for those checking out the South, especially if you want a glimpse of alpine Tasmania without much effort.

HARTZ PEAK AND HARTZ LAKE

27. Walk Through the Cataract Gorge

The standout highlight in Launceston is its famed Cataract Gorge. If you're planning a visit to Tasmania's second largest city, then make sure you add this one on your list of things to do and see.

This beautiful river and gorge is the number one attraction in Launceston and features hiking trails, the world’s longest single-span chairlift and a riverside swimming pool.

There are also daily cruises operating down the gorge which is great if you're short on time!

CATARACT GORGE - BEST THINGS TO DO IN LAUNCESTON

28. Spot a Rare Tassie Quoll

Here's one you might not have seen in a Tasmania travel guide before. Due to its isolated nature, Tasmania is a hotspot for rare creatures found nowhere else in the world.

One of the many elusive marsupials is the Eastern Spotted Quoll. Unfortunately, these little guys have become very rare in mainland Australia and Tasmania is now one of their final places of refuge.

Spotting a quoll is a fairly difficult task as they are nocturnal. We were lucky enough to spot the sleepy bugger below on the way out to Dip Falls but they are said to roam in most forests and National Parks in Tasmania.

SPOTTED QUOLL TASMANIA TRAVEL GUIDE

29. Walk the Three Falls Circuit

Just an hour and a half from Hobart, travellers will find the incredible Mount Field National Park. This park is one of the most scenic in the state and the highlight is the Three Falls Circuit and Tall Trees walk.

This easy, 2-hour loop includes stops at some of Tasmania's best waterfalls; Russell Falls, Horseshoe Falls and Lady Barron Falls. Additionally, a short segment of the track offers opportunities to see some of Tasmania's tallest trees.

Book a day trip: Mt Field Trip From Hobart

THREE FALLS CIRCUIT WALK AND TALL TREES WALK IN MOUNT FIELD NATIONAL PARK TASMANIA

30. Discover Some of the World's Tallest Trees

For a little island, Tasmania does things BIG. Tassie is home to Australia's tallest trees and if you're planning to hit some of the many hiking trails, you're bound to stumble upon a few sleeping giants.

The best places to see large trees in Tasmania are:

  • The Styx Tall Trees Reserve
  • Dip Falls Reserve
  • Evercreech State Reserve
  • The Tarkine
WHITE KNIGHTS OF EVERCREECH

31. Venture to the Styx Tall Trees Reserve

If seeing Australia's tallest trees is on your list of fun things to do in Tasmania, then one of the best places to do so is the Styx Tall Trees Reserve. You'll find this small protected pocket isolated in a large logging region.

The road is a little tricky but manageable by most cars in good weather. Due to the Styx's close proximity to Mount Field National Park, it's a great idea to head here on a quick return detour.

TASMANIAN GIANT TREES IN THE STYX VALLEY THINGS TO DO AND ATTRACTIONS IN TASMANIA

32. Drive the 99 Bends Road to Queenstown

It’s no secret that Tasmania has some of Australia’s most scenic roads, from epic mountain passes to unmatched coastal routes.

However, there is one particular spot on the West Coast that might just take the cake as Tassie’s most mind-blowingly beautiful road. It's known as the 99 Bends, a curvy, winding road of perfect tarmac that snakes its way over the mountains above Queenstown.

If you're heading out to the Far West, check out my guide to finding the 99 Bends, or watch my video below for some inspiration.

99 BENDS TASMANIA

33. Explore Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Staying on the West Coast, for now, make sure you venture through the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park! You can get here via the scenic road between Lake St Clair National Park and Queenstown.

Highlights in this wild National Park include:

NELSON RIVER NATURE TRAIL TASMANIA, GORDON WILD RIVERS NATIONAL PARK

34. Visit the Tasmanian Central Plateau

Looking for travel inspiration and ideas to get off the beaten path in Tasmania? Consider adding a road trip through the Central Plateau to your list of things to see and do in Tasmania.

The Central Plateau is a remote conservation area that is the largest space of alpine land in Tasmania. There's a lot to do and see here, but don't expect any decent phone reception or even to see many people– perfect if you're looking to go off-grid for a while. One of my favourite camping spots in the Central Plateau is Brady's Lake, a quaint little spot only really known for fishing.

Also, here's a link to a good map with some highlights for this often-overlooked region of Tasmania if you're planning a road trip.

CAMPING AT BRADYS LAKE TASMANIA

35. Hike Around Maria Island

Maria Island has already been featured in this travel guide to the best things to see and do in Tasmania. However, I think the Maria Island Circuit deserves a mention of its own.

This 2-3 day circuit loop encompasses the best highlights of the island and is in my opinion, the absolute best way to take in this world-class destination. Alternatively, you can also rent a bike and ride around the island.

If you're not too keen on walking the whole island, there are plenty of short walks around the main town of Darlington too!

Alternative: 1 Day Active Tour on Maria

MARIA ISLAND SELF GUIDED HIKE, COASTAL HIKING TRACK THINGS TO DO

36. the Freycinet Peninsula Circuit in Freycinet National Park

If I had to pick one multi-day coastal hike in Tasmania it'd have to be the incredible Freycinet Peninsula Circuit.

Hiking the Freycinet Peninsula Circuit is by far the best way to experience the mind-bending beauty of Tasmania’s Freycinet National Park. From stints across white, sandy beaches to steep climbs up rocky mountain summits, consider dedicating a bit of time to exploring this unique Tasmanian icon properly!

VIEW FROM MOUNT FREYCINET TASMANIA

37. Visit the Wild Southwest

If it's wilderness you seek, you won't find a wilder National Park in Australia than the notorious Southwest National Park. Exploring Southwest National Park was one of my favourite things to do in Tasmania, and one I think should be in every Tasmania travel guide.

This region has been spared by much of the early logging onslaught for just that reason– it was simply too wet and difficult to work in this park. Therefore, much of the park remains untouched wilderness.

FEDERATION PEAK TASMANIA HIKE

Easy day walks are far and few between here. Instead, hikers only venture out here for challenging missions like Federation Peak, Mt Anne and the fabled Eastern Arthurs and Western Arthurs Traverses.

If you're not prepared for any serious hiking, Adamsons Falls offers a great taste of the raw nature of the Southwest while still being manageable in a few hours. That being said, even this one is fairly remote and overgrown!

FEDERATION PEAK HIKE TASMANIA

38. Get Off the Beaten Path in the Western Wilds

After spending so much time travelling over the past few years, I've realised that sometimes, one of the best things to do, especially in Tasmania, is just to rent a car and drive– get off the beaten path.

One of the best regions to do this is in the Western Wilds. Head to the mining town of Tullah, explore the Tarkine and find yourself a secluded spot by Lake Rosebury. If you find some great spots for yourself, let others know in the comments below or share links to your social photos!

AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH OF TULLAH, TASMANIA

39. Experience Boat Harbour

If you're after beautiful, white-sand beaches and beautiful, calm turquoise waters but would rather skip on the crowds, then check out Boat Harbour in the northern part of Tasmania.

Boat Harbour is one of my favourite beaches in Tassie and I consider this beautiful coastal spot one of the best hidden gems in the state!

TASMANIA BOAT HARBOUR

40. Stop By the Edge of the World

The Edge of the World is a lookout spot with a Herculean name, found on the far-reaching end of Tasmania's west coast.

The Edge of the World is a fitting name for the rugged region of Tasmania’s desolate northwest. Here, visitors will find nothing but a small plaque separating them from the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean.

This spot is worth adding to your own list of things to do in Tasmania, especially if you're already planning a road trip to the Tarkine or the West Coast.

THE EDGE OF THE WORLD TASMANIA

41. Explore the Tamar Valley Wine Region

The Tamar Valley is one of the richest wine regions of Tasmania, a state already known for incredible local produce and gastronomic delights.

The best way to experience the Tamar Valley Wine Region is to jump on a wine-tasting tour from Launceston. These trips are private, small-group activities stopping by four wineries for tasting and lunch (included).

BREWERY IN TASMANIA
Girl drinking wine at Markus Divinus winery

Alternative: Winery Tour from Hobart

Thankfully, there's an awesome full-day Tasmanian wine tour available to book directly from Hobart (meet at Brooke Street Pier).

This 7.5 hour tour visits 4 of the best wineries in Tasmania's south and includes 4-6 tastings at each.

42. Explore Hastings Caves & Thermal Springs

On a visit to the deep South, make sure to add the Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs to your list of things to do in Tasmania. This is probably the primary attraction in the region and also one of Tassie's largest cave systems.

You'll need to book a tour to enter the cave but I'd highly recommend it! The tour also gives visitors access to the natural thermal springs which was a big deal breaker for us during the cold Tassie Winter visit!

Book: Hastings Caves & Tahune Airwalk From Hobart

HASTINGS CAVES AND THERMAL SPRINGS TASMANIA

43. Discover the Iron Blow Lookout

The Iron Blow lookout is a cantilevered lookout that stretches roughly 10 metres over a large open mining cut known as the Iron Blow, near Gormanston in Tasmania's west.

Below, you’ll find a deep, metal-rich pool of water in a surrounding, otherworldly landscape. You can get here by driving the epic 99 bends road out of Queenstown in the Western Wilds.

This is another lookout attraction that doesn't often make the rounds in most lists of things. todo in Tasmania, but a spot that I thought was really underrated!

IRON BLOW MINE LOOKOUT TASMANIA THINGS TO DO

44. Admire the View at Leven Canyon

Are you looking for one of the most bang-for-time lookout hikes in Tasmania? The Leven Canyon lookout is a short circuit loop in the Northern End of the state.

The metal viewpoint overlooks the Leven Canyon, a jurassic landscape with a horseshoe bend that is great for photos.

LEVEN CANYON TASMANIA TRAVEL GUIDE

45. Camp at Lake Mcintosh

After spending close to four months driving around Tasmania in our self-converted van, I'd say we have a pretty good idea about the epic camping spots on offer!

One of the standout highlights is a free camping spot beside Lake McIntosh, near the Tarkine township of Tullah. There are multiple spots to pull up, enjoy a campfire and admire the views of the surrounding granite peaks. Best of all, there's almost always never anyone else around!

Read More: Van Journal Week 14: The Western Wilds

Lake Mcintosh, Tasmania things to do

46. Check out Evercreech State Reserve

There have been plenty of hidden gems in this Tasmanian Travel Guide so far. If these are the sort of tips you're looking for in a list of things to do in Tasmania, then I've got another one for you.

Located in the far North East is the remote forest reserve known as Evercreech State Reserve. This is another great free camping spot adjacent to a beautiful temperate rainforest creek, complete with a waterfall and a short circuit loop beneath the world's tallest White Gums.

EVERCREECH FALLS TASMANIA

47. See the Remarkable Cave

Stretching all the way back over to the Tasman Peninsula now, next in on the list of things to do in Tasmania is the newly-reconstructed viewpoint for the Remarkable Cave.

This pristine sea cave is one of the best sandstone sea caves in Tasmania. The cliff has been hollowed over millions of years of heavy sea pounding and on a day with a big surge, expect to get wet!

You'll find this one conveniently close by to other attractions including the Port Arthur Historic Site, the Cape Raoul Track and the Mount Brown track.

REMARKABLE CAVE TASMANIA TRAVEL GUIDE

48. Stay a Night on Picnic Island

Picnic Island is a small private isle just off Coles Bay near Freycinet National Park. If you've been following my travels for a while, you'll know that I'm not usually the type to go for luxury accommodation. However, when the owner invited us for a night's stay on this incredible off-grid island paradise, I couldn't refuse!

Staying on Picnic Island was one of the most magical experiences we've had in Tasmania. I've written a complete guide on what to expect if you're planning on staying here, so go check it out for more photos!

PICNIC ISLAND TASMANIA

49. Visit Apsley Gorge National Park

An often overlooked National Park, Apsley Gorge is a beautiful spot, conveniently located next to Bicheno.

While you won't find a tonne of hiking trails in this park, the Apsley Gorge and River circuit is definitely one to add ot the list. There are scenic gorge lookouts and even a big swimming hole to cool down in.

This is considered an off-the-beaten-path location that isn't found on many travel guides, which is why it's often missed by first-timers looking to travel in Tasmania.

APSLEY GORGE, DOUGLAS-APSLEY NATIONAL PARK, TASMANIA

50. Give a Helping Hand to Bob Brown

Tasmania's history is unequivocally unique in that it is rifled with a dark and definitive divide between activists and industry. Tassie's unique location and resources have meant that its economy has relied on logging and mining for centuries.

Unfortunately, this has led to undeniably tragic environmental loss and contamination over the years. The Bob Brown Foundation is a leading organisation attempting to restore the natural balance and protect world treasures like the Tarkine Rainforest from further permanent loss.

If you're visiting Tasmania and you're looking for something to do that contributes to the cause, reach out to the foundation. Many efforts have long passed the stage of petitions and lobbying and require boots-on-the-ground action.

There are many ways to help out, check out their website to find out how.

TARKINE RAINFOREST, TASMANIA TRAVEL GUIDE

51. Experience One of the World's Most Scenic Coastal Flights

Tasmania's East Coast easily takes the cake in my opinion, as the most dramatic coastline in Australia, or perhaps even in the world! Could you think of a better way to witness the marvel of the Freycinet Peninsula, Maria Island or the Tasman Peninsula than from the seat of a scenic flight plane?

If it's on your bucket list and you find yourself in Hobart, definitely don't look past this once-in-a-lifetime Tasmania travel activity.

WINEGLASS BAY, FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK TASMANIA, SCENIC FLIGHT

52. Walk on the Tessellated Pavement

While you will find some iconic 19th-century cobblestone streets in Hobart, the Tessellated Pavement actually refers to a natural, geological phenomenon found on the Tasman Peninsula near Eaglehawk Neck.

This geometric pattern pictured below is found in only a few places on earth. It's caused by rare conditions that caused the rocks to fracture and then erode by sea waves to form a tile-like pattern.

This Tasmania attraction is worth a visit as it's only a quick stop-over and short walk from the carpark.

Tip: visit at low tide!

Tessellated Pavement, Attractions in Tasmania

53. Explore the Huon Valley

The Huon Valley is Tasmania's prized produce region beginning just 30 minutes from Hobart and extending to the southernmost tip in Australia. The region is rich in history and culinary delights. Taste local honey and famous Tasmanian Pinot Noir at the many markets and farm-to-table restaurants.

Stay in the Huon Valley: Find the Best Places to Stay

Swans in the Huon Valley, Tasmania

54. Visit Shipstern Bluff

The Shipstern Bluff is a world-famous big-wave surf break found on the southern coast of the Tasman Peninsula. While my photo below certainly doesn't do it justice, this break is actually considered one of the heaviest waves in the world.

Every year, when conditions are just right, dozens of the world's best big-wave surfers fly to Tasmania to compete in the Red Bull Cape Fear competition. If you're in Tasmania between March and July, keep an ear out, as the competition is often called within a week's notice!

SHIPSTERN BLUFF WALK IN TASMANIA AUSTRALIA

55. Learn About Raptors at the Raptor Refuge

Another great Tasmania attraction for wildlife lovers is the Raptor Refuge near the small town of Kettering, just south of Hobart, near Snug Falls.

This inspiring refuge is dedicated to caring and protecting Tasmania’s large birds of prey. There's an education centre here with informative tours to learn about Tassie's raptors and what the refuge is doing to protect them.

Raptor Refuge, Tasmania Tourist Attraction

56. Go Glamping

Have you ever tried glamping? New accommodations are always being explored and this one is a fresh new accommodation movement that appeals to a hybrid of outdoor/luxury travel.

One of the best glamping setups in the country can be found at Huon Valley Glamping. If you're looking for a unique and fun thing to do in Tasmania, definitely check them out!

HUON VALLEY GLAMPING, WHERE TO STAY IN TASMANIA

57. Stay at Old Macs Farm

Another unique attraction and place to stay in Tasmania is Old Macs, located just a few minutes drive out of Launceston. This one is more suited to those travelling to Tasmania in a caravan or camper, as they offer excellent sites on their huge farm!

Old Macs have a variety of activities that are great for families, including animal petting, restaurants and a scenic lake to walk around.

OLD MACS FARM IN LAUNCESTON TASMANIA AUSTRALIA

58. Go on a Cascade Brewery Tour

Did you know that Hobart is home to Australia's oldest brewery? The Cascade Brewery has been producing beer since 1832. It was first established by Peter Degraves when Hobart had 55 licensed pubs for a population of just 10,000!

It's pretty clear that they were successful and still continue to attract thousands of visitors to their working brewery every year.

Book: Hobart Hop-on-hop-off bus to Cascade Brewery

HOBART ATTRACTIONS AND THINGS TO DO, CASCADE BREWERY

59. Visit Gordon Dam

Visitors will find Gordon Dam, also known as the Gordon River Dam, found deep in South West Tasmania. The road out here is one of the most scenic in the country, and an excellent region to explore for hiking and generally just getting off-grid.

The Gordon Dam is an undeniably impressive curved arch dam with a controlled spillway across the Gordon River. It's quite impressive, and makes for great photos if you're willing to take the scenic drive out!

Stay Near Strathgordon: Pedder Wilderness Lodge

60. Go Whitewater Rafting on the King River

As you'd expect from one of Australia's adventure capitals, there's an abundance of epic white water rafting activities on offer for travellers in Tasmania.

One of the best-rated trips runs on the Grade-4 King River on Tassie's West Coast. If you're looking to book things to do in Tasmania, check out the particular trip below combining a white water rafting trip down the King River Gorge with the spectacular steam train journey on the West Coast Wilderness Railway.

This is one of the most cost-effective ways to combine two of the West-Coasts highlights in a single day of adventure!

White Water Rafting King River Tasmania things to do

61. Spot a Wild Platypus

The final wildlife-related attraction in this Tasmania travel guide is the unique platypus, native to the island.

I've grown up in Australia, spending a lot of time in the outdoors and I've never seen as many platypuses as I did during my time travelling in Tasmania. The ones you'll find here are also a lot larger and fluffier than those in the rest of Australia due to the cold conditions.

Some of the best places to spot these furry, duck-billed, egg-laying marsupials is at Duckhole Lake, Lake Chrisholm and the local park in Geeveston.

WILD TASMANIAN PLATYPUS

62. Go on a Ghost Tour

Even when visiting during daylight hours, there's an undeniably eerie feeling within the walls of the Port Arthur Historic Site. Learning about its dark past and the intimate stories of personal convict experiences is remarkably interesting yet unsettling.

For believers of the paranormal, one of the spookiest things to do in Tasmania is to join in on an evening ghost tour of the premises. This is a guided tour of the premises at night, offering visitors a unique experience to say the least!

Book a place to stay in Port Arthur: Port Arthur Booking

Book: Port Arthur Tour

PORT ARTHUR PRISON

Where to Stay - Must-See Places in Tasmania

Don't make the mistake of thinking that Tasmania is a small island! We travelled around Tassie for over 4 months and we still feel like we just scratched the surface!

There are just so many amazing places in Tasmania to see, and you'll be doing yourself a favour if you pick accommodation in at least one or two regions.

In fact, there are so many places to explore in Tassie that I have written a separate independent accommodation guide covering all the best areas and places to stay. Otherwise, there's an accommodation and area summary of that article below.

1. Stay in Hobart

The area closest to most highlights in Hobart is called “Salamanca Place“. This area has great restaurants and bars and is close to the markets, wharf, museums and the Elizabeth Mall.

However, Hobart is a relatively small city of just over 200,000 and consequently, most accommodation options in the inner suburbs provide easy access to most of the highlights.

  • Best Mid-Range Hotel: The Rivulet - The Rivulet is an awesome 19th century, heritage-listed manor. It offers some of the best suites in Hobart without a ridiculous price tag.
  • Best Budget Hostel: Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse - For budget travellers and backpackers, Montacute is by far the best place to stay in Hobart. This is a great hostel that is ranked as having the best vibe in the city.
  • Best Luxury Accommodation: The Grand Chancellor - Centrally located on the waterfront overlooking Constitution Dock, the Grand Chancellor Hotel is one of the most prominent accommodation options in Hobart.
  • ...15+ More in this Complete Guide on Where to Stay in Hobart
HOBART HOTEL, THE GRAND CHANCELLOR LUXURY ACCOMMODATION

2. Stay at Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain is Tasmania's most popular alpine region to visit. There are loads of hikes here but only a few places to stay.

  • Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village - Located right on the edge of the World Heritage Listed National Park, The Wilderness Village offers self-contained accommodation in a rainforest setting.In terms of distance to the park, this is as close as it gets. It's a 5-minute walk to the Visitor Centre and a 10-minute drive to the start of the popular Overland Track.
  • Lemonthyme Wilderness Retreat - An award-winning boutique wilderness lodge with an on-site restaurant and is tucked away in a peaceful rainforest, approximately 40 minutes from the Cradle mountain National Park. This is a great retreat for travellers in Tasmania that want to get away from it all and spend some time in nature. Nearby you'll also find Bridal Veil and Champagne Falls– two of my favourite waterfalls in Tasmania.

3. Stay on Bruny Island

Bruny Island is a wildlife, nature and culinary experience. This beautiful slice of Tassie is accessible via a short car ferry ride just south of Hobart. The best places to stay are around Adventure Bay.

  • Adventure Bay Holiday Home - This is the best-rated holiday and vacation home on the island. It is conveniently located right in Adventure Bay, close to the Fluted Cape and the cruise terminal.
  • Bruny Island Escapes and Hotel Bruny - Bruny Island Escapes have several cottages throughout Bruny all featuring a private balcony, log fireplace and full kitchen facilities.
NECK BEACH TASMANIA

4. Stay in the Huon Valley

The Huon Valley is a beautiful region of farmland beginning just 30 minutes from Hobart and extending to the southernmost point of Australia. The region is named after the Huon River, the fifth-longest in the state and an essential water source for the historic farming developments in the area. There are plenty of places to stay here, offering a quiet option in pristine farmland.

HUON VALLEY WALLABY - TASMANIA TRAVEL GUIDE

5. Stay in The Tasman Peninsula (Port Arthur)

The Tasman Peninsula is an often overlooked area to stay in Tasmania as many people opt to take day trips from Hobart. However, I'd say it's worth checking out for at least 3 days to see the highlights.

  • Stewarts Bay Lodge - a beautiful lodge set on over 22 acres offering a private beach area with an onsite restaurant.
  • Port Arthur Villas - comfortable villa-style accommodation just 750 metres from the historic site.
  • NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park - the best holiday park for travellers on a budget or looking for a caravan park to hook up their rig.
CAPE HAUY TASMANIA TRAVEL GUIDE

6. Stay in Launceston

Tasmania's second-largest city is well worth a visit and serves as an excellent base for day trips to the central region and the East Coast.

  • Peppers Silo - This riverside, historic building has been revamped with modern interiors accommodating to travellers looking for a luxury experience. The hotel is conveniently located nearby many attractions including the Victoria Museum and the James Boag Brewery.
  • Hotel Verge - In terms of location, this one is spot on. You'll also get access to a restaurant, free parking (a big plus in Lonnie), a fitness centre and even a garden.
  • POD Inn - Capsule hostels are more popular than ever. For those on a budget and looking for a cheap, convenient and comfortable stay in Launceston, consider checking out the Pod Inn.
AUTUMN IN LAUNCESTON

7. Northwest Tasmania

Northwest Tasmania has wild, rugged coastlines and is home to Australia’s largest stretch of temperate rainforest; the Tarkine. There are lots to explore in this region and the best areas to stay are in Stanley, Boat Harbour and Penguin.

Stay in Penguin
A quaint coastal town with a unique name.

Stay in Boat Harbour
One of the most beautiful and underrated beach towns in Tasmania. A must visit!

Stay in Stanley
Famous for the iconic nut but offers great seaside accomodations.

THE NUT VIEW

8. Strahan & the West Coast

The most popular place to stay in Western Tasmania is in Strahan. There's just so much to see and do in this region and it's definitely worth at least a couple of days. Activities like the Gordon River Cruise and the rack and pinion railway are must-dos when travelling in Tasmania.

Below are a couple of my recommended places to stay in nearby Strahan, as well as one in Queenstown.

Wheelhouse Apartments - Strahan
Unique apartments located in Strahan, each with river or lake views. These apartments are some of the best-rated online for Western Tasmania!

The Boat House - Strahan
Another Strahan favourite, this affordable holiday accommodation option features river views and includes a kitchen and living area.

Penghana B&B - Queenstown
If you're after the best place to stay in Queenstown, check out this 1898 National Trust Mansion B&B which is just 2 minutes drive from the Wilderness Railway & the Heritage Tours.

9. Stay in Devonport

Devonport is the third largest city in Tasmania and serves as the gateway for those entering the island state via the Spirit of Tasmania ferry. Compared to Hobart and Launceston, Devonport is much quieter. However, Devonport is known to have both calmer and warmer weather.

hotel in Tasmania

Bay of Fires Accommodation

Not planning on camping in the Bay of Fires and looking for a hotel or accommodation instead? Below I've summarised the best-reviewed and best deals you'll find for accommodation in the Bay of Fires Tasmania.

  • Driftwood at the Gardens - Driftwood is one of the best accommodation homes in the Bay of Fires offering three bedrooms, a TV, full kitchen and incredible ocean views from the balcony.
  • The Cove - Another incredible holiday home within 14 minutes of Swimcart Beach. The Cove offers three bedrooms and a full kitchen. Best of all, there's a great view of Sloop Reef from the balcony.
  • Bay of Fires Bush Retreat - The Bush Retreat is one of the closest accommodation options near Binalong Bay. It features a bar, garden and shared kitchen. You'll have the choice of booking bell tents (must see), large king rooms or a full family bungalow. This is the highest-rated accommodation option in the Bay of Fires!
Bush Retreat Bay of Fires

11. Where to Stay Near Coles Bay (Freycinet)

  • Picnic Island - Ever wanted to stay on a private island? What better place to do so than on Picnic Island, a beautiful island gem just off Coles Bay. Visitors will have the entire island to themselves with rustic waterfront cabins and a fully-equipped kitchen and living area.
  • Freycinet Lodge - Located in a waterfront location within Freycinet National Park, Freycinet Lodge offers luxury cabin-style accommodation, two restaurants and a bar. You’ll also get a buffet breakfast included. This is one of the best-located spots to begin your Freycinet National Park walks.
  • Eagle Peaks - Another great option is Eagle Peaks, which has good WiFi and free private parking near Coles Bay. This is a unit-style accommodation option featuring a dining and seating area, a fully-equipped kitchen, and great scenery at your doorstep.
PICNIC ISLAND ACCOMMODATION AUSTRALIA
COZY CORNER BAY OF FIRES, TASMANIA TRAVEL GUIDE
MOUNT AMOS SUNRISE
PORT ARTHUR PRISON IN TASMANIA

More Top Tasmania Travel Guides

This comprehensive list comes from many months of exploring Tasmania and documenting my own adventures. I've also written comprehensively on many of the attractions featured on this list, which you'll find links to throughout.

However, if you'd prefer detailed Tasmanian travel guides to each destination, check out my other articles below. Otherwise, let's rip in!

HIKING THE FREYCINET PENINSULA CIRCUIT, WINEGLASS BAY CAMPSITE, THINGS TO DO IN FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK, TASMANIA

So, that wraps up my long list of all the awesome things to do in Tasmania! But, keep reading. This Tasmania travel guide continues with a few tips, resources and suggestions that I'm sure will prove helpful for planning your travels in Tassie.

The Best Tasmanian Travel Tours and Activities

If I had to pick five of the best bookable Tassie activities and tours, it'd be the five below. I've linked to the best prices you'll find below for each to save you the time looking!

The best part is, you can book these online in advance. This ensures you get the best price and will save you from missing out if they sell out on the day.

WEST COAST SCENIC ROADS

How to Get to Tasmania

Before you get out and explore all the Tasmania attractions and highlights, you might be interested to know how to actually get here!

There are two options for getting to Tasmania, book a flight, or take the Spirit of Tasmania Ferry from Melbourne Harbour.

The Spirit of Tasmania

This is Tasmania's very own car-ferry transport crossing the Bass Strait between Melbourne and Devonport, twice daily. The trip takes roughly 9-11 hours and there are options for booking morning (day sails) and evening (overnight) trips.

One thing that I noticed is that seats and car spots fill up very quickly and it's a good idea to book at least a few weeks in advance.

Unfortunately, this option often ends up being more expensive than just flying in. However, the ability to take your own car across is appealing since car rentals in Tasmania is notoriously expensive.

Spirit of Tasmania, How to Get to Tasmania (Travel Guide)

Fly to Hobart or Launceston

There are several airports to fly into domestically from within Australia. Launceston and Hobart are the two largest airports.

Consequently, if you're planning to tour around Tasmania, definitely check prices for both airports as Launceston is often cheaper. If flying internationally, your only option will be Hobart Airport but the international routes to Hobart are quite limited.

Compare flight prices to Tasmania using Skyscanner or CheapOAir to guarantee you find the best rates.

HOW TO GET TO CRADLE MOUNTAIN TASMANIA

Getting Around in Tasmania

By far, the best way to get around in Tasmania to fully explore all the epic things to do on the Apple Isle is to do so in a car or campervan. That's because there are limited public transport options operating between major cities and remote attractions.

Usually, visitors without a vehicle will base themselves in either Hobart, Launceston, Burnie or the Huon Valley and book organised trips to see the different Tasmania highlights and attractions.

Rent a Car

Unfortunately, car rental prices in Tasmania are some of the most expensive I've seen in Australia. However, that doesn't mean you can't find a good deal.

I recommend searching RentalCars.com, which is a rental car comparison site similar to Skyscanner. Great way to compare rates and availability across companies.

If it's a campervan you're after, consider these options:

  • Spaceships Vans: Budget, backpacker-style campers. There's a depot in Hobart - the cheapest option.
  • Jucy Vans - Another budget/backpacker option with a bit more variety to choose from. Also has cheap cars. You'll have to pickup and drop off in Melbourne.
DRIVING A VAN IN TASMANIA, TRAVEL GUIDE

About the Tasmanian National Parks

Undeniably, Tasmania is most famous for its beautiful nature and wildlife and therefore you'd expect that the best things to do and see are found in the protected National Parks.

An important thing to note is that National Parks in Tasmania require a permit to enter. Therefore, you’ll need to purchase a parks pass online or at the many visitor centres. These passes are valid for entry to all of Tasmania’s parks and the receipt must be displayed in your vehicle when parking.

If you are spending a fair bit of time in Tassie, the annual pass or the Holiday Passes offer the best value.

National Parks Pass Cost:

  • 24-hours: $40 per vehicle/$20 per person
  • Holiday Passes – up to 2 months: $80 per vehicle/$40 per person
  • Annual Pass all parks: $90 per vehicle (up to eight people)
STARTING THE FARMHOUSE CREEK TRACK TO FEDERATION PEAK

How Much Does it Cost to Travel Tasmania?

One of the most important thing when planning a trip is your budget. Therefore I've included this short Tasmania travel guide to my recommended/estimated costs for varying budgets.

Like most places in Australia, travel in Tasmania is relatively expensive but can also be done cheaply. Below are a few figures to help you understand what you're in for.

  • Average Mid-Range Hotel: $90-100
  • Average Backpacker dorm: $25-$40
  • Cost of a Meal in a Mid-range Restaurant: $16-$30
  • Cost of Rental Car: $70-$200 per day

In saying this, if you've read my blog before, then you probably know that we like to travel fairly cheaply. Living in a van in Tasmania and sticking mostly to free, outdoor activities with the occasional splurge on adrenaline tours and experience was actually quite cheap.

We budgeted around $120 a week on groceries, $60 on fuel, $80 on camp-site fees (there are actually a lot of free sites) and about $140 a week on miscellaneous activities.

This $400 was for two of us living frugally but enjoyably and shows that budget travel in Tasmania can be done! In fact, some weeks we spent less than $200 when hiking and freedom camping!

CAMPING IN TASMANIA

When is the Best Time to Travel to Tasmania?

Defining the best time to visit Tasmania will highly depend on what kind of things you want to do.

However, the general consensus in most official and unofficial Tasmania travel guides is that the summer months between December and February are the best time to visit. This season brings less rain and overall much more enjoyable weather. Expect 25-30 degree summer days as a norm for much of the state.

Conversely, for hiking, I'd say that late Spring or early Autumn is actually a better time as the mountains will often be powdered with snow, producing more dramatic landscapes and tolerable conditions.

Winter in Tasmania is quite brutal (by Aussie standards) but undeniably beautiful. Temperatures drop far below zero in many parts of the state and rain and heavy wind is prevalent. Keep in mind that Tassie Winter tends to kick in later than the rest of Australia. Taswegians have told me that the coldest months usually fall in August and September, which is technically early spring!

FEDERATION PEAK TASMANIA
BAY OF FIRES ROCK POOLS

Tasmania Travel Packing List: Some Essentials

Wrapping up this Tasmania travel guide, before you get off and tick off all the must do activities, here are a few recommendations for things to bring.

JULIUS RIVER TRACK

More Tasmania Travel Guides and Adventure Inspiration

That concludes my Tassie Travel Guide featuring 62 best things to do in Tasmania!

It's been an absolute blast exploring and documenting my adventures in Tassie and I sincerely hope that I have in some way inspired you to go out and enjoy this incredible part of Australia.

If you feel like I've missed out on something during my adventures and you feel it deserves a spot on the list, please leave a comment or reach out to me directly!

Otherwise, while you're here, make sure to check out some of my other useful travel guides to Tasmania and other parts of Australia for more highlights, attractions and inspiration for things to do!

Story: Planning a Tassie Trip

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Montezuma Falls Tasmania – How to Hike to Tasmania’s Tallest Waterfall? https://www.weseektravel.com/montezuma-falls-tasmania/ https://www.weseektravel.com/montezuma-falls-tasmania/#comments Tue, 23 Nov 2021 03:24:00 +0000 https://www.weseektravel.com/?p=25432 A complete waterfall guide to visiting Montezuma Falls Tasmania, the …

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A complete waterfall guide to visiting Montezuma Falls Tasmania, the tallest in the state! Includes information about how to get here, details on the Montezuma Falls hike as well as photos and an account of what to expect.

Yes, Montezuma Falls is the highest permanent waterfall in Tasmania. This incredible, sleepy giant is located on Tasmania’s Wild West Coast and is accessible via an easy yet very scenic forest track.

In this waterfall guide, I hope to answer all of your questions about visiting Montezuma Falls in Tasmania. I’ll include details about how to get here including the hike and post some awesome photos from my trip.

About Montezuma Falls in Tasmania

Montezuma Falls height: 104 metres

Montezuma Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall found at the end of an easy 1.5-hour forest hike along a historic former tramway. The area is managed by "Sustainable Timber Tasmania", (formerly Forestry Tasmania) but is open to the public.

Unfortunately, due to a long history of mining in the region surrounding Rosebery, the rivers and creeks are contaminated with heavy metals and are not safe for drinking. I found this to be a particularly tragic reality considering just how wild and bio-diverse this region is.

MONTEZUMA FALLS TASMANIA

Where is Montezuma Falls?

The waterfall track is accessible via Williamsford, which is approximately two kilometres south of Rosebery in Tasmania's west. The trailhead is approximately 63 kilometres from Strahan or 35 kilometres from Tullah. This area is mostly a mining region, so the towns are quite small and remote.

You'll also likely lose reception on the way to Montezuma Falls after passing Rosebery. Therefore, I suggest saving this blog or loading the map directions below beforehand.

  • Google Maps Pin: "Montezuma Falls Trailhead"
Map GPS Coordinates of Montezuma Falls, Tasmania
Free Tasmania Travel Guides

The Ultimate Tasmania Travel Resource

Looking for more Tasmania travel guides & adventure inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

How to Get to Montezuma Falls

The easiest way to navigate to Montezuma Falls in Tasmania is to plug in the GPS coordinates or Google Maps pin above. However, if you prefer guided directions, I've also got you covered.

Whether you're coming from the West Coast or in the direction from Tullah, you'll want to first head to the western side of Rosebery on the Murchison Highway (A10). Just outside of Rosebery, head towards Williamsford Road and continue up this steep, winding road for a few kilometres. There are signs along the way that indicate the directions to Montezuma Falls. But, basically you'll want to stay on Williamsford Road until you see a sign to pull over on your right near Scotts Creek.

Here, you'll find a huge, cleared car park beside the trailhead with good signage and accommodating 25+ cars.

TRAILHEAD FOR MONTEZUMA FALLS

WIlliamsford Road is unsealed for much of the journey. However, the road is in good condition and passes private residences so you shouldn't have to worry in good weather, even if you have a big van or camper.

Tip: There's a small fuel station in Rosebery which would be wise to fill up at since you won't find another until Strahan or Queenstown.

MOUNT MURCHISON FROM TULLEY, TASMANIA
TULLEY TASMANIA
Wild Scenic Roads near Tulley

Guided Tour Option

Whilst being quite a popular waterfall in Tasmania, Montezuma is quite remote. Consequently, you won't find many guided tours that visit this far-reaching corner of Tasmania.

\In saying that, if you find yourself in Hobart, there is a very high-rated 5-day tour that includes a visit at Montezuma, as well as many of the other major highlights in Tasmania.

Tip: If you don't have your own vehicle in Tassie yet, make sure to compare prices on RentalCars.com.

Otherwise, if you're visiting Tasmania's Wild West without a car, check out the below hand-picked must-do activities in the region.

sunset on a winding road in Tasmania

Car Rentals in Tasmania

Unfortunately, the cost of bringing your own car on the Spirit of Tasmania has skyrocketed in recent years.

Now, it is usually cheaper to rent a car on arrival. I recommend using RentalCars.com in Tasmania to compare rates for different vehicles across dealerships.

(Rentals are limited in Tasmania so it's a good idea to book in advance).


Self-drive Guide to: The Tarkine Drive


The Montezuma Falls Hike

  • Hiking Distance: 11 kilometres return
  • Duration: 3 hours return
  • Elevation: 120 metres total elevation gain (gradual and mostly flat)
  • Difficulty: Easy

The Montezuma Falls walk begins at the trailhead mentioned in the directions above. It is mostly flat, with a wide track following the old North East Dundas Tramway. There are signs the entire way and it is extremely easy to follow.

While this waterfall hike is a little long at 11 kilometres return, I've rated it as easy as it really is a walk in the park. There were a couple of awesome elderly ladies that we met along the way who I'd say were in their 70s and they didn't seem to have a problem with the Montezuma Falls hike at all.

MONTEZUMA FALLS HIKE

Along the way, you will cross a couple of old wooden bridges and pass through narrowly carved passages through the mountains. While you are constantly reminded of the mining heritage, the nature is quite breathtaking. Beautiful rainforest consisting of large leatherwoods, myrtles, giant tree ferns and sassafras dominates both sides of the track.

Check out my Strava for a detailed representation of the trail.

SCENIC LIGHT RAYS ON THE MONTEZUMA FALLS WALK
SCENIC LIGHT RAYS ON THE MONTEZUMA FALLS WALK, NORTH EAST DUNDAS TRAMWAY
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SMALL WATERFALL ON THE OLD MONTEZUMA FALLS WALK
TASMANIAN FOREST
NORTH EAST DUNDAS TRAMWAY

Also Nearby: Philosopher Falls


About the Famous Montezuma Falls Suspension Bridge

Approximately 5 kilometres along the Montezuma Falls walk, you'll come across the famous suspension bridge. This bridge is one of the most impressive I've seen in Tasmania and makes for some great photo opportunities directly adjacent the waterfall.

Unfortunately, the Montezuma Falls suspension bridge has suffered some damage due to flooding and tree fall recently. As a result, the bridge is closed. I'm not sure if there are any immediate plans by "Sustainable Timber Tasmania" to rectify the bridge.

Update 2023: The bridge has now been repaired and is back open!

Don't worry though, you don't need to cross the bridge to reach the 104 metre Montezuma Falls. We stopped by the bridge, snapped some photos and continued on to the base of the multi-tiered forest giant.

MONTEZUMA FALLS SUSPENSION BRIDGE

Arriving at the Base of Montezuma Falls

Walk just a few hundred metres up from the suspension bridge and you'll find yourself at the base of Montezuma Falls, Tasmania's highest permanent waterfall.

The view from the bottom is great, with plenty of space to put down your pack and take some photos. Looking up, Montezuma Falls spills down the steep cliff in several stepped tiers and finishing on top of a few large boulders.

MONTEZUMA FALLS TASMANIA
MONTEZUMA FALLS TASMANIA

Depending on the season, this waterfall can range from a gentle pour to a powerful waterfall which is almost impossible to get close to.

When we visited Montezuma Falls in winter, we were fortunate enough to find it somewhere in between However, while we did wait around for it to clear, the fog was so thick that we couldn't make out the top of the waterfall. Either way, we were really happy as it created a beautiful, moody scene.

MONTEZUMA FALLS TASMANIA
MONTEZUMA FALLS TASMANIA
MONTEZUMA FALLS TASMANIA

Mining Tunnels

Less than a kilometre on the way back (or on the way to the waterfall), keep an eye out for the entrance to an old mining tunnel. It's possible to walk into this claustrophobic tunnel chasm, which ends at a barrier about 10 metres in.

OLD MINING TUNNEL ON THE MONTEZUMA FALLS TRACK, TASMANIA

More: the Montezuma Falls 4WD Track

In this waterfall guide, I focused on the trail hike to Montezuma Falls. However, there is also a 4WD track providing an alternative route to reach the waterfall.

They say that this particular 4WD track is quite difficult to cover and that if it has been raining, don't even think about it. Unfortunately, I didn't get a chance to check out this section but if you are interested, my friends from The Caravan of Courage have recorded a Vlog as they tackled it on an electric motorbike. I've embedded it below!

Where to Stay In Tasmania's West

The most popular place to stay in Western Tasmania is in Strahan. There's just so much to see and do in this region and it's definitely worth at least a couple of days. Activities like the Gordon River Cruise and the rack and pinion railway are must-dos when travelling in Tasmania.

Below are a couple of my recommended places to stay in nearby Strahan, as well as one in Queenstown.

Wheelhouse Apartments - Strahan
Unique apartments located in Strahan, each with river or lake views. These apartments are some of the best-rated online for Western Tasmania!

The Boat House - Strahan
Another Strahan favourite, this affordable holiday accommodation option features river views and includes a kitchen and living area.

Penghana B&B - Queenstown
If you're after the best place to stay in Queenstown, check out this 1898 National Trust Mansion B&B which is just 2 minutes drive from the Wilderness Railway & the Heritage Tours.

Explore Tasmania: More Hiking and Waterfall Guides

That wraps up this quick guide to exploring Montezuma Falls Tasmania. If you enjoyed this waterfall hike, then I'm sure you'll love some of the other epic and off-the-beaten-path spots to explore in the area. I've spent several months photographing and documenting some of the best, so make sure to check them out!

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Visiting The Neck Lookout on Bruny Island, Tasmania https://www.weseektravel.com/the-neck-bruny-island/ https://www.weseektravel.com/the-neck-bruny-island/#respond Wed, 01 Sep 2021 21:39:40 +0000 https://www.weseektravel.com/?p=26400 A travel guide to visiting the Neck Lookout on Bruny …

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A travel guide to visiting the Neck Lookout on Bruny Island, Tasmania. Find out everything you need to know about Bruny’s most iconic viewpoint.

The aptly named “Neck Lookout” overlooks the Bruny Island Neck, a sandy isthmus connecting the north and south ends of Bruny Island in the south of Tasmania.

In this guide, I’ll answer all your questions about visiting this awesome lookout spot and include a few photos from my trip that I hope will inspire you to visit.

NECK BEACH TASMANIA

How to Get to the Neck Lookout on Bruny Island

In order to get to the Neck Lookout, you'll first need to get to Bruny Island. Ferries depart from Kettering, approximately 30 minutes south of Hobart. The ferry is quite quick and allow you to take a vehicle fairly cheaply. Therefore, the best way to explore this beautiful slice of Tassie is to drive here yourself.

Once you arrive at the Roberts Point Boat ramp, follow Lennon Road until it merges onto Bruny Island Main Highway heading south. Eventually, you'll reach The Neck, with the narrow stretch of sand and large, signed car park impossible to miss.

Alternatively, you can also book a very popular full-day tour of Bruny Island from Hobart that also includes a stop by the famous Neck Lookout!

Below I've pinned the exact location on Google Maps to help you find it.

  • Google Maps Pin: "The Neck Lookout"
The Neck Lookout on Bruny Island

If you don't have your own vehicle yet, you might be in for a shock. That's because Tassie has some of the most expensive car rental prices in Australia. To help you save a few bucks, I've included the best resources for booking a car rental in Tasmania below.

sunset on a winding road in Tasmania

Car Rentals in Tasmania

Unfortunately, the cost of bringing your own car on the Spirit of Tasmania has skyrocketed in recent years.

Now, it is usually cheaper to rent a car on arrival. I recommend using RentalCars.com in Tasmania to compare rates for different vehicles across dealerships.

(Rentals are limited in Tasmania so it's a good idea to book in advance).


RELATED: The Fluted Cape Walk on Bruny


The Neck Lookout

The Neck Lookout is the best way to take in the scenic coastal vistas of this unique isthmus. Once you reach the car park, you'll need to climb 279 timber steps to reach the outpost viewpoint above.

Let me tell you though, that this view is worth the hype, and the climb! At the top, you'll get a 360-degree vantage point overlooking the golden sands separating the beautiful D’Entrecasteaux Channel (on the left) from the Tasman Sea (on the right).

The wooden boardwalk and stairs also extend over to Neck Beach, an impossibly long stretch of sand that is home to native birds including short-tailed shearwaters and fairy penguins.

THE NECK ON BRUNY ISLAND
Free Tasmania Travel Guides

The Ultimate Tasmania Travel Resource

Looking for more Tasmania travel guides & adventure inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

The Neck Reserve Camping Area

If you're travelling around Tassie by camper like we did, then you should know that it's also possible to camp near The Neck Lookout on Bruny Island. This campsite is called The Neck Reserve Camping Area and you'll find it just a bit further south from the lookout.

Camping Tasmania has a great resource guide with up-to-date information.

CLOUDY BAY TASMANIA
Camping at South Bruny

More Activities and Things to do on Bruny Island Tasmania

Did you know that one of the most popular things to do on Bruny Island is to watch the penguins return to their burrows in the sand and dunes at the Neck Beach? September to February is the best time to see them returning at around dusk.

But, it doesn't end there. Below are my hand-picked links to some of the best activities and experiences available on the island.

Below are two of the best accommodation options for Bruny Island in 2023.

Adventure Bay Holiday Home
This is the best-rated holiday and vacation home on the island. It is conveniently located right in Adventure Bay, close to the Fluted Cape and the cruise terminal.

It features two bedrooms, a kitchen, a living area and outdoor areas. This is easily one of the best value-for-money options on Bruny.

Adventure Bay holiday Home

Bruny Island Escapes and Hotel Bruny
If you'd prefer to stay in a cosy cottage, then make sure to check out Bruny Island Escapes. They have several cottages throughout Bruny all featuring a private balcony, log fireplace and full kitchen facilities.

Explore More Tasmania Travel Guides and Adventure Blogs

That wraps up this guide to visiting the Neck on Bruny Island, Tasmania. Below you'll find some more guides and blogs for Tassie to help you discover more must-visit spots and off-the-beaten-track hidden gems.

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11 Unmissable Things to do on Bruny Island Tasmania in 2023 https://www.weseektravel.com/things-to-do-bruny-island-tasmania/ https://www.weseektravel.com/things-to-do-bruny-island-tasmania/#respond Wed, 01 Sep 2021 18:10:12 +0000 https://www.weseektravel.com/?p=26300 An inspiring guide aiming to answer all your questions about …

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An inspiring guide aiming to answer all your questions about what to do on Bruny Island. Discover 11 unmissable things to do on your next visit to Bruny Island, one of Tasmania’s best island destinations.

Bruny Island is often recommended as a must-visit destination for travellers arriving in Tasmania. The truth is, this 362-square-kilometre island encapsulates a lot of what Tasmania is all about. Here, you’ll find abundant wildlife, sweeping vistas, awesome trails and of course, world-renowned produce.

In this guide, I aim to help you plan your next island trip by highlighting 11 unmissable things to do on Bruny Island, Tasmania. At the bottom of this post, I’ve also included a short Travel guide to Bruny Island, which includes things such as how to get there, where to stay, the best time to visit and a few extra tips to know.

I hope my tips and photography inspire you to visit this incredible part of Australia!

Best Bruny Island Day Trip From Hobart

Travellers who don't have their own vehicle or would prefer to be shown the beautiful island of Bruny by a local guide– you're in luck.

There are several tour companies operating organised day trips to Bruny. However, they're not all equal and the price varies dramatically.

After a fair bit of research, the below trip by Bruny Island Safaris came out to be the best by far in terms of price and what you get.

This tour is one of the highest-ranked on GYG, with 4.9 stars total out of nearly 500 reviews at the time of writing.

Best price on line for an: Island Day Trip From Hobart

Things to do on Bruny Island Tasmania

Let's get into the guide! Here are 11 fun things to do on Bruny Island!

1. The Neck Lookout

The Neck Lookout is the iconic viewpoint overlooking the picturesque isthmus connecting North and South Bruny Island. You'll often see this lookout spot as the featured photograph on travel guides, magazines and travel blogs.

The Neck Lookout is easy to reach, with a pull-over parking bay on the Main Road. To be honest with you, if you're driving around the island, this spot is impossible to miss!

From the top of the 279 flight of timber steps is a great 360-degree vantage point overlooking the isthmus, separating the beautiful D'Entrecasteaux Channel from the Tasman Sea.

THE NECK LOOKOUT ON BRUNY ISLAND

2. Venture to Adventure Bay

Adventure Bay is one of the best areas on Bruny Island for hiking, embarking on cruises and even staying on the island. In fact, Adventure Bay has its own local community, with many of the island's residents living in this area.

Something perhaps a little contrary to the name, this bay is also one of the most peaceful parts of Bruny. At the beach, you'll find calm, relaxing waters and pristine white sand. If you're looking for something on the calmer side of things to do on Bruny Island, this might be the spot.

ADVENTURE BAY TASMANIA

3. Discover Local Bruny Island Produce

If you ask any Taswegian what you should see or do on Bruny Island, they'll often tell you to go and taste the local produce. That's because Bruny is well-known in Tasmania for its excellent, locally produced food. This is one of those places where Paddock to Plate really rings true.

For a short run-down, the most well-known include the Bruny Island Cheese Co, Get Shucked (oysters), The Bruny Island Chocolate Factory and Bruny Island Premium Wines.

HOBART CHEESE TOUR, THINGS TO DO

4. Jump on a Cruise With Bruny Island Cruises

If this list of things to do on Bruny Island was in any type of order, then this south-coast Bruny cruise would be number one. Actually, the trips on Bruny Island Cruises have often rated as the best things to do in Tasmania!

Cruises depart from Adventure Bay, with opportunities to see seals, dolphins, whales and sea birds. A cruise is by far the best way to explore Bruny Island's rugged coastline, complete with epic sea cliffs, blowholes and coastal caves.

Book the best price online: Wilderness Cruise by Pennicott Wilderness Journeys

BRUNY ISLAND CRUISES

5. Hike to the Fluted Cape

If you'd rather explore the rugged coastal landscapes from the trail, then The Fluted Cape hike is one of the best on the island.

The Fluted Cape Walk also begins at the appropriately named Adventure Bay and climbs the cape along the east coast with plenty of incredible spots along the way to stop and admire the view.

FLUTED CAPE WALK

6. Drive to South Bruny National Park

For those looking for things to do and what to see on Bruny Island that are truly off-the-beaten-track, consider heading down to the south coast to explore South Bruny National Park.

This national park is unofficially named the wilder side of Bruny. Here, you'll leave the culinary comforts behind to discover a dramatic landscape of elevated sea cliffs and windswept beaches surrounded by native rainforests.

SOUTH BRUNY TASMANIA
SOUTH BRUNY ISLAND NATIONAL PARK BEACH, THINGS TO DO

RELATED POST: Guide to Visiting Maria Island


7. Visit the Cape Bruny Lighthouse

Cape Bruny Lighthouse is located on the southern tip of the island and accessible via a reasonably decent gravel road on the southwest fork, appropriately known as "Lighthouse Road".

Constructed in 1836, the Cape Bruny Lighthouse is the only Southern Tassie lighthouse that is available for tours and in my opinion, one of the most worthwhile to visit. This heritage-listed site towers 114 metres above the impressive cliffs and coves, which makes it ideal for photographers and history enthusiasts alike.

Book: Full-Day Tour Incl. Lighthouse and Island Sightseeing

VISITING THE CAPE BRUNY LIGHTHOUSE

8. Check Out the Rocky Archway at Mars Bluff

One of the most popular hikes on the island is the Cape Queen Elizabeth Elizabeth track. This track departs from a small car park on Bruny Island Main Road, just opposite Bruny Island Honey (also on this list of things to see and do).

The highlight of the track is the much acclaimed Rocky Archway, located at Mars Bluff approximately 3-4 kilometres along the track.

In fact, many people don't make the hike to the cape, choosing instead to cut it short by visiting the archway instead. However, if you plan to do this, make sure to time the tides. You'll want to check out this attraction at low tide for the best photos!

ROCKY ARCH MARS BLUFF
Image Source: TrailCatJim

9. Spot A Rare Bruny Island White Wallaby

The famous white wallabies are native to the island and one of the only places in Australia where you'll have a good chance of spotting one.

These white wallabies have a genetic defect that causes an imbalance of melanin, causing them to become albino. When this happens in other parts of Australia, they are often snatched up by predators before they are able to spread their genes.

However, due to the lack of predators on Bruny Island, these cute little guys are thriving. In fact, recent reports estimate the population to be around 200 white wallabies!

So, if you're visiting the island, one of the best things to do on is to see one of these rare little wallabies! A good place to see them is just beside the trailhead to the Fluted Cape Walk at East Cove (above).

WHITE WALLABY ON BRUNY ISLAND TASMANIA
Free Tasmania Travel Guides

The Ultimate Tasmania Travel Resource

Looking for more Tasmania travel guides & adventure inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

10. Stop By the Bruny Island Honey Company

A short drive north of The Neck Lookout on the Main Road, you'll find the official storefront for Bruny Island Honey. This honey company has been harvesting Tasmanian bee honey for over 20 years, with over 400 hives across the island.

What's unique about this honey shop is that they offer free tasting of their different products.

Each honey product is different based on the trees and native bushes in which the bees collect their nectar. I recommend trying the Prickly Box and the Manuka honey here if you're keen on adding something sweet to your list of things to do on Bruny Island Tasmania!

11. Jump On a 10-minute Scenic Flight

This last activity is by far the most epic thing to do on Bruny Island! There is one company that operates scenic flights over and they are known as Island Scenic Flights. You'll find their office just before the honey shop on the main road.

Check website: Scenic Flights

BRUNY SCENIC FLIGHT OVER THE NECK

Bruny Island Travel Guide

That covers my list of what to do and see on Bruny Island. Have you found something that you believe is worthy of the list? Let me know in the comments below.

Otherwise, keep reading below for my travel guide answering all your questions about the visiting the island.

How to Get to Bruny Island

Bruny Island is located just south of Hobart and is accessible via a car ferry from the small port town of Kettering. If you have your own car, then this is the easiest and best way to explore Bruny, and quite affordable at only $32.20 per vehicle for a return trip with SeaLink.

For travellers flying into Hobart the most affordable car rental prices can be found on RentalCars.com which compares all rental cars from different rental companies to find the best deals.

Tip: Make sure to fill up your vehicle before embarking on the car ferry to Bruny Island. There is one petrol station on the island, but fuel prices are much higher.

Where To Stay on Bruny Island

Bruny Island is a wildlife, nature and culinary experience. This beautiful slice of Tassie is accessible via a short car ferry ride just south of Hobart. The best places to stay are around Adventure Bay.

  • Adventure Bay Holiday Home - This is the best-rated holiday and vacation home on the island. It is conveniently located right in Adventure Bay, close to the Fluted Cape and the cruise terminal.
  • Bruny Island Escapes and Hotel Bruny - Bruny Island Escapes have several cottages throughout Bruny all featuring a private balcony, log fireplace and full kitchen facilities.
NECK BEACH TASMANIA

STILL PLANNING? READ: Where to Stay in Tasmania: The 11 Best Areas


When Is The Best Time to Visit Bruny Island?

While you can visit Bruny Island at any time of year, the best time is generally between September–February. These months see warmer weather and the chance of spotting wildlife is higher.

How Long to Spend on Bruny Island

With all of the epic things to do on Bruny Island, it's no wonder people want to know how long to spend here. In my opinion, 2-3 days is the perfect amount of time to spend on the island checking out all the things worth seeing.

However, as I mentioned above, visitors short on time can see a lot in an action-packed day trip.

More Travel and Adventure Articles for Tasmania

That wraps up this travel guide to the best things to do and what to see on Bruny Island Tasmania. I hope you enjoy this epic slice of the island!

While you're here, make sure to check out some of my other guides to the state. I guarantee you will find loads of inspiring travel ideas as well as great hikes, waterfalls, and attractions.

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How to Get to Cradle Mountain in 2023 (Cradle Mountain – St Clair National Park) https://www.weseektravel.com/how-to-get-to-cradle-mountain/ https://www.weseektravel.com/how-to-get-to-cradle-mountain/#respond Wed, 25 Aug 2021 22:51:11 +0000 https://www.weseektravel.com/?p=25964 A complete travel guide helping those visiting Tasmania discover the …

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A complete travel guide helping those visiting Tasmania discover the best options for how to get to Cradle Mountain. Includes the best options with tips for making the most of the experience in Cradle Country.

For those visiting Tasmania, I’m sure that you’ve already been told– Cradle Mountain is a must-visit! In this short guide, I’ll detail everything you need to know about how to get to Cradle Mountain. I’ll go into detail on the three main options for getting there, with tips to help you make the most of the experience.

About Cradle Mountain

When people refer to Cradle Mountain, they're referring to the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. The main entrance to the park is in the north of Tasmania and there is a large, dedicated Visitor Centre which serves as a base for exploring the park.

There's plenty to do and see in this World Heritage Listed park, with great short walks to epic 7-day long tramps on the Overland Track.

HIKING TRAILS TASMANIA

The tricky part about getting to there is finding a way to the Visitor Centre. I'll go into more detail on these below.

Once you arrive, most people tend to take advantage of the free shuttle bus (included in the National Park ticket), to get around to the different highlights. This limits the amount of vehicles driving on the narrow roads within the park.

The shuttle service operates seven days a week but you will need to plan your trips since they only run during daylight hours.

Remember you need a Tasmanian Parks Pass to enter National Parks in Tasmania. The cost for Cradle Mountain is higher than the rest of the parks at $25 per person (24 hours) or $40 per car (up to 8 people). However, it's often more economical just to buy a Holiday or Annual Pass if you're looking to spend a bit more time in National Parks in Tassie.

DOVE LAKE CRADLE MOUNTAIN
DOVE LAKE BOAT SHED TASMANIA

Tip: Best Way to Get to Cradle Mountain Without a Car

The easiest way to get to Cradle without your own car is to book the shuttle or an active tour. See below for up-to-date prices.


Featured in: Awesome Things to do in Tasmania


How to Get to Cradle Mountain

Below are the three ways for how to get to Cradle Mountain. These include driving yourself, booking a shuttle bus or transport or booking a private charter.

Option 1: Self Drive

By far, the best way to explore Tasmania and get around is to bring your own car or rent one. If you're coming from the mainland, then it often works out cheaper to book your car or camper on board the Spirit of Tasmania ferry to Devonport.

If you don't have your own car, then you'll be in for a shock. Rental car prices in Tasmania are among the highest in the country! Therefore I highly recommend comparing all rental car companies using the RentalCars.com website.

Once you've figured out how to get your own set of wheels, you'll need to get to the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre. This is the main car park for the National Park. Note there isn't a connecting road from the Northern and Southern ends of the park and to get here you will need to head in from the North.

Basically, you'll want to head up Cradle Mountain Road (only accessible from the North of Tasmania). Expect a 1.5-hour drive from Devonport and 2.5 hour trip from Launceston via Sheffield. From Sheffield, take the C136 and C132 to the Visitor Centre.

This road is notoriously winding and can definitely be icy in the winter months. However, the route is sealed the entire way so it shouldn't pose too much trouble for most (including campers) in fine weather.

Below I've pinned the exact location and any routing app will take you here without trouble.

Cradle Mountain National Park Map

Option 2: Book a Shuttle

While having your own car in Tasmania is definitely the way to go, those on brief visits can still get to Cradle Mountain by booking an organise shuttle tour. Most of these trips are organised day tours with set agendas. Some include transport only via a shuttle bus but there are also options for more inclusions including hiking guides, lunch etc.

Below I've included the best-rated and most recommended options for how to get to Cradle Mountain via a shuttle. However, if you want to compare more options, I recommend doing so on GetYourGuide or on Viator.

Organised day trip From Hobart

Although getting to Cradle Mountain is quite a stretch from Hobart, there is one reputable company that organises transport and day trips (return). The price includes your National Park entry ticket, air-conditioned vehicle transport and a flexible itinerary once you arrive.

The total time for this huge day trip is around 14-15 hours, which will give you plenty of time to explore the National Park and the early departure is perfect since you won't be wasting any precious daylight hours.

CRADLE MOUNTAIN

Organised Day trip from Launceston

The closer proximity between Launceston to Cradle Mountain means there are more options available for getting there on a day trip. The one I recommend is the highest-rated in Launceston and includes heaps more than just the transport.

You'll get

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Transportation by comfortable minibus
  • Professional guide with full commentary
  • Several Guided Walks
  • Entrance fee and National Parks Pass
  • Lunch
  • Water and light snacks
CRADLE MOUNTAIN

Organised day trip to from Burnie

Burnie is a great place to base yourself in Tasmania and luckily, a local here runs one of the best small-group tours that answers your question for how to get to Cradle Mountain from the north. Additionally, Burnie is a popular port for Tasmanian Cruise ships, making this particular tour popular for those stopping in the port town.

This is one of the most affordable options for getting to Cradle Mountain and since it's a small-group offering, itineraries are really flexible.

FLUFFY WOMBAT IN TASMANIA

Option 3: Book a Private Charter to Cradle Mountain

If you'd rather organise your own private transport to Cradle Mountain, you can also book a private charter. You'll need to book this particular option online in advance and keep in mind that this is much more expensive than simply jumping on a shuttle (above).

CRADLE COUNTRY TASMANIA

Where to Stay - Accommodation Guide

Did you know that it's also possible to stay near Cradle Mountain? Since there's so much to do and explore here, spending at least a few days is a good bet! Below I've linked to the two best accommodation options closest to the National Park.

  • Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village - Located right on the edge of the World Heritage Listed National Park, The Wilderness Village offers self-contained accommodation in a rainforest setting.In terms of distance to the park, this is as close as it gets. It's a 5-minute walk to the Visitor Centre and a 10-minute drive to the start of the popular Overland Track.
  • Lemonthyme Wilderness Retreat - An award-winning boutique wilderness lodge with an on-site restaurant and is tucked away in a peaceful rainforest, approximately 40 minutes from the Cradle mountain National Park. This is a great retreat for travellers in Tasmania that want to get away from it all and spend some time in nature. Nearby you'll also find Bridal Veil and Champagne Falls– two of my favourite waterfalls in Tasmania.

FAQS About Getting to Cradle Mountain Tasmania

How Far is Cradle Mountain From Hobart?

The total drive from Hobart to Cradle Mountain is 330 km (4-5 hours).

How Far is Cradle Mountain From Launceston?

The total drive from Launceston to Cradle Mountain is 150 km (2.5 hours).

How Far is Cradle Mountain From Devonport?

The Total drive from Devonport to Cradle Mountain is 87 km (1.5 hours)

What is there to do once I arrive?

There is plenty to do once you arrive at Cradle Mountain. Highlights include the The Dove Lake Circuit, seeing the Devils@Cradle, Marions Lookout, the Wilderness Gallery and the Enchanted Walk.


HIKING TRAILS AT CRADLE MOUNTAIN
DOVE LAKE TASMANIA

Best Tours and Activities to book at Cradle Mountain

Below is my hand-picked list of the best tours and activities available in the park. Since this is the most popular park in Tasmania, I highly recommend booking activities and guides online in advance to secure a spot.

More Tasmanian Travel Guides and Adventure Inspiration

I hope this blog post has helped answer your questions about how to get to Cradle Mountain in Tasmania. Before you head off, make sure to check out some of my other travel guides for more inspiration for the region. I've spent several months exploring this beautiful part of Australia and written dozens of details guides!

WOMBAT ON THE TRAIL AT CRADLE MOUNTAIN TASMANIA

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Dove Lake Circuit in Cradle Mountain – Hiking Guide (Tasmania) https://www.weseektravel.com/dove-lake-circuit-cradle-mountain/ https://www.weseektravel.com/dove-lake-circuit-cradle-mountain/#respond Mon, 23 Aug 2021 21:39:05 +0000 https://www.weseektravel.com/?p=25950 The Dove Lake Circuit is the most popular and easily-accessible …

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The Dove Lake Circuit is the most popular and easily-accessible trail in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Claire National Park, Tasmania. Read this complete guide to the hike, including useful tips on how to get here and photos from Dove Lake.

A visit to Tasmania just isn’t complete without first visiting the fabled Cradle Country. This region is one of the most spectacular wilderness areas in Australia, One of the most popular ways to take in the beauty of Cradle Mountain and its alpine lakes is the short hike known as Dove Lake Circuit.

In this quick guide, I’ll detail everything you need to know about the hike, including useful tips on getting to the National Park, what to expect and photos from my recent visit.

About the Dove Lake Circuit

The Dove Lake Circuit starts from the Dove Lake car p[ark within the Cradle Mountain - Lake St Claire National Park. The walk follows the circumference of Dove Lake, offering great vantage points over the surrounding mountains including Cradle Mountain, Hansons Peak, and of course, the beautiful Dove Lake.

How long does it take to hike the Dove Lake Circuit?

The Dove Lake Circuit is a 5.7-kilometre loop on a wide, level track. Expect around 2 hours to complete the Dove Lake Circuit hike.

How hard is the Dove Lake Circuit?

This hike is relatively flat and with only short sections of incline on sealed steps. The distance is also quite manageable for even the most leisurely of bushwalkers. However, Tasmania Parks rates the Dove Lake Circuit as a Grade 3 hike, which I don't entirely understand.

CRADLE MOUNTAIN DOVE LAKE CIRCUIT TASMANIA

RELATED POST: Where to Stay in Tasmania


How to Get to Dove Lake and Cradle Mountain

The first step is of course getting to the Cradle Mountain - Lake St Claire National Park Visitor Centre. This park is quite remote and you'll have three options to get here. Below are links to book the three best-rated day trips (shuttles) to the Visitor Centre from various parts of Tasmania.

Otherwise, for all options check out this detailed post covering all of the options for how to get to Cradle Mountain.

Remember you need a Tasmanian Parks Pass to enter National Parks in Tasmania. The cost for Cradle Mountain is higher than the rest of the parks at $25 per person (24 hours) or $40 per car (up to 8 people). However, it's often more economical just to buy a Holiday or Annual Pass if you're looking to spend a bit more time in National Parks in Tassie.

DOVE LAKE CRADLE MOUNTAIN
sunset on a winding road in Tasmania

Car Rentals in Tasmania

Unfortunately, the cost of bringing your own car on the Spirit of Tasmania has skyrocketed in recent years.

Now, it is usually cheaper to rent a car on arrival. I recommend using RentalCars.com in Tasmania to compare rates for different vehicles across dealerships.

(Rentals are limited in Tasmania so it's a good idea to book in advance).

Visit the Parks Pass Page for more information.

The Dove Lake Circuit - Hiking Guide

  • Hiking Distance: 5.7 kilometres (loop)
  • Duration: 2-3 hours
  • Elevation: 130 metres total elevation gain (undulating)
  • Difficulty: Easy

The Dove Lake Circuit loop starts at the Dove Lake bus stop. While it is possible to drive to Dove Lake from the Visitor Centre, you're encouraged to shuttle bus from the Visitor Centre, which is free (included in your National Parks pass).

This reduced the number of cars on the already very narrow road. Just make sure to plan your trip so that you have enough time to catch the return bus. You will find updated shuttle bus itineraries at the Visitor Centre.

Once you arrive at Dove Lake, you can begin the easy, scenic circuit loop around the lake. The signs recommend that hikers walk the loop in a clockwise direction.

CRADLE MOUNTAIN DOVE LAKE
Free Tasmania Travel Guides

The Ultimate Tasmania Travel Resource

Looking for more Tasmania travel guides & adventure inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

Highlights on the Dove Lake Circuit Loop

The truth is that the Dove Lake Circuit is a very straightforward hike. Being one of the most popular walking tracks in the park, it is very well-maintained and it is impossible to get lost.

So, instead of boring you with a step-by-step, let me point out some of the highlights you might expect on the Dove Lake Circuit in Cradle Mountain!

Scenic Lake Lookout (Glacier Rock)

One of the first highlights on the track is the Glacier Rock lookout. You'll reach this spot after just 10 minutes of walking. In my opinion this spot offers one of the best vantage points of Cradle Mountain, the Boat Shed and of course, the beautiful mountain lake below.

There are also several signposts that give you a good insight into the glacial activities from the last Ice Age.

DOVE LAKE CIRCUIT CRADLE MOUNTAIN TASMANIA

The Ballroom Forest

About halfway around Dove Lake you will enter a dense forest with boarded underfoot. This really breaks up the hike and offers a chance for great photos of native moss-covered trees.

HIKING TRAILS TASMANIA
HIKING TRAILS AT CRADLE MOUNTAIN
DOVE LAKE TASMANIA

The Boat Shed

The final highlight on the Dove Lake Circuit at Cradle Mountain is the famous Boat Shed. This quaint, wooden shed has gained popularity on Instagram but is really not much more than a little shack on the water. In saying that, the position makes it perfect to snap photographs if that's your thing.

BOAT SHED AT CRADLE MOUNTAIN TASMANIA
CRADLE MOUNTAIN FROM LAUNCESTON

After the Dove Lake Walk - More Activities at Cradle Mountain

There's so much more to do and see and do at Cradle Mountain. Below are some of the best-rated and unmissable activities for your next visit.

Where to Stay at Cradle Mountain

Are you looking to spend a couple of days exploring all of the awesome trails in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park? Below are two great options, check them out!

  • Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village - Located right on the edge of the World Heritage Listed National Park, The Wilderness Village offers self-contained accommodation in a rainforest setting.In terms of distance to the park, this is as close as it gets. It's a 5-minute walk to the Visitor Centre and a 10-minute drive to the start of the popular Overland Track.
  • Lemonthyme Wilderness Retreat - An award-winning boutique wilderness lodge with an on-site restaurant and is tucked away in a peaceful rainforest, approximately 40 minutes from the Cradle mountain National Park. This is a great retreat for travellers in Tasmania that want to get away from it all and spend some time in nature. Nearby you'll also find Bridal Veil and Champagne Falls– two of my favourite waterfalls in Tasmania.

More Travel and Adventure Ideas for Tasmania

I hope that you have enjoyed my short but useful guide to the Dove Lake Circuit track in Cradle Mountain, Tasmania. If so, make sure to check out some of my other guides too.

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Where to Stay in Tasmania in 2023 – 11 Best Places & Must-Visit Regions https://www.weseektravel.com/where-to-stay-tasmania/ https://www.weseektravel.com/where-to-stay-tasmania/#comments Thu, 19 Aug 2021 23:24:36 +0000 https://www.weseektravel.com/?p=25699 Planning a trip to the island state of Tasmania and …

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Planning a trip to the island state of Tasmania and wondering where to stay? Here’s an up-to-date travel guide featuring the best areas to stay in Tasmania with recommendations for hotels, lodges, resorts and budget picks for each destination.

Tasmania is a world-renowned travel destination and one of my absolute favourite places in Australia. Featuring rich history, iconic wildlife, picturesque vistas, and World Heritage Listed National Parks, it’s no wonder why over a million people choose Tassie as a holiday destination every year.

In this blog post, I summarise the best areas to stay in Tasmania to give you a better understanding of what’s on offer. I think that the best way to experience the state is by travelling independently. Therefore, I’ve created a list outlining where to stay in Tasmania for each region so that you can plan and book your own adventures.

Best Areas to Visit in Tasmania

I've spent several months travelling around Tasmania. Along the way, I've photographed and documented my experiences to share with you on this blog. My goal is to inspire you to visit this beautiful part of Australia!

So, to help you plan your trip below is a quick-link summary of the best areas to stay in Tasmania. If you click on each or scroll down, you'll find a brief outline of the area including what to see and do there, as well as hand-picked recommendations for various budgets.

Map showing the best places to stay in Tasmania
Read on for a complete rundown with top accommodation picks

Where to Stay in Tasmania: A Comprehensive Guide

1. Hobart

Hobart is the capital of Tasmania and also the largest city. Situated on the estuary of the River Derwent and nestled beneath the towering Kunanyi, (Mount Wellington), Hobart serves as the primary entry point for most visiting Tasmania since this is where you'll find the Hobart International Airport.

But, Hobart has so much more to offer than being just a transit destination. Here you'll find epic hikes, waterfalls, cafes, restaurants, vibrant markets and beautiful historic buildings.

WHERE TO STAY IN HOBART, HOBART HARBOUR AND ACCOMMODATION

Where to Stay in Hobart

The area closest to most highlights in Hobart is called "Salamanca Place". This area has great restaurants and bars and is close to the markets, wharf, museums and the Elizabeth Mall.

However, Hobart is a relatively small city of just over 200 000 and consequently, most accommodation options in the inner suburbs provide easy access to most of the highlights.

Below are 3 of the best-rated and most popular accommodation options for varying budgets. They're a good starting point but I've also written a separate, comprehensive accommodation guide to Hobart with a few more options.

  • Best Mid-Range Hotel: The Rivulet - The Rivulet is an awesome 19th century, heritage-listed manor. It offers some of the best suites in Hobart without a ridiculous price tag.
  • Best Budget Hostel: Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse - For budget travellers and backpackers, Montacute is by far the best place to stay in Hobart. This is a great hostel that is ranked as having the best vibe in the city.
  • Best Luxury Accommodation: The Grand Chancellor - Centrally located on the waterfront overlooking Constitution Dock, the Grand Chancellor Hotel is one of the most prominent accommodation options in Hobart.
  • ...15+ More in this Complete Guide on Where to Stay in Hobart
HOBART HOTEL, THE GRAND CHANCELLOR LUXURY ACCOMMODATION

2. Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain is one of the most beautiful National Parks in Australia. The Cradle Country is famous for its alpine vistas, scenic mountain lakes and a tonne of epic hikes.

There are a lot of reasons to visit this park, especially for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the best highlights in the Cradle Mountain National Park include the Dove Lake Circuit, Cradle Mountain, The Overland Track and Marions Lookout.

Also, if you're planning a stay, then the good news is there are a few lodges available.

CRADLE MOUNTAIN FROM LAUNCESTON
wombat on maria island

Where To Stay Near Cradle Mountain

If you're looking for where to stay in Tasmania that will offer the mountain experience, Cradle Mountain is a good bet! Below I've included two of the best options close to the park.

  • Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village - Located right on the edge of the World Heritage Listed National Park, The Wilderness Village offers self-contained accommodation in a rainforest setting.In terms of distance to the park, this is as close as it gets. It's a 5-minute walk to the Visitor Centre and a 10-minute drive to the start of the popular Overland Track.
  • Lemonthyme Wilderness Retreat - An award-winning boutique wilderness lodge with an on-site restaurant and is tucked away in a peaceful rainforest, approximately 40 minutes from the Cradle mountain National Park. This is a great retreat for travellers in Tasmania that want to get away from it all and spend some time in nature. Nearby you'll also find Bridal Veil and Champagne Falls– two of my favourite waterfalls in Tasmania.

3. Bruny Island

Bruny Island is a wildlife, nature and culinary experience. Conquering Maria Island to take the number one spot, Bruny is the most-visited Island off Tasmania.

This beautiful slice of Tassie is accessible via a short car ferry ride just south of Hobart. There's so much to do here, from true, paddock to plate culinary experiences to epic lookouts like The Neck and the Fluted Cape.

Once you arrive, there are plenty of things to do and see including great hikes, a chance to see rare wildlife like the albino wallaby, fresh produce tasting and wild coastal cruises where you'll have a chance to spot Orcas!

Did you know? While you can stay on Bruny Island, many choose to visit on a day trip from Hobart instead.

BRUNY ISLAND LOOKOUT, BEST THINGS TO DO IN HOBART ON A DAY TRIP

Where To Stay on Bruny Island

The best accommodation options on Bruny Island are typically guest houses and holiday homes. That's because there aren't many resorts or big hotels set up.

Since Bruny Island is close and easy to get to from Hobart, it makes for a great option when planning out your trip and looking out for where to stay in Tasmania.

Bruny Island is a wildlife, nature and culinary experience. This beautiful slice of Tassie is accessible via a short car ferry ride just south of Hobart. The best places to stay are around Adventure Bay.

  • Adventure Bay Holiday Home - This is the best-rated holiday and vacation home on the island. It is conveniently located right in Adventure Bay, close to the Fluted Cape and the cruise terminal.
  • Bruny Island Escapes and Hotel Bruny - Bruny Island Escapes have several cottages throughout Bruny all featuring a private balcony, log fireplace and full kitchen facilities.
NECK BEACH TASMANIA

4. The Huon Valley

The Huon Valley is a beautiful region of farmland beginning just 30 minutes from Hobart and extending to the southernmost point of Australia. The region is named after the Huon River, the fifth-longest in the state and an essential water source for the historic farming developments in the area.

Today, the Huon Valley makes for a very attractive place to stay and explore in Tasmania. Most people visit the valley for a taste of the fresh and iconic Tassie produce including apples, cider, honey, cheese and wine.

While there isn't a lot on offer for the adventure traveller, it's still a great place to unwind and a perfect place if you're looking to relax and get a feeling for real, country Tassie living.

HUON VALLEY WALLABY - TASMANIA
HOBART CHEESE TOUR, THINGS TO DO, ATTRACTIONS
Girl drinking wine at Markus Divinus winery

Don't Miss: Huon Winery Tour from Hobart

Thankfully, there's an awesome full-day Tasmanian wine tour available to book directly from Hobart (meet at Brooke Street Pier).

This 7.5-hour tour visits 4 of the best wineries in Tasmania's south and includes 4-6 tastings at each.

Where to Stay In the Huon Valley

The Huon Valley is a beautiful region of farmland beginning just 30 minutes from Hobart and extending to the southernmost point of Australia. The region is named after the Huon River, the fifth-longest in the state and an essential water source for the historic farming developments in the area. There are plenty of places to stay here, offering a quiet option in pristine farmland.

HUON VALLEY WALLABY - TASMANIA TRAVEL GUIDE

5. The Tasman Peninsula (Port Arthur)

The Tasman Peninsula is an often overlooked area to stay in Tasmania. This region is full of history and incredible nature, offering some of the best multi-day hiking opportunities in the state on the recently renovated Three Capes Track.

Port Arthur is the main attraction in the Tasman Peninsula. It's a special place, especially for some Australians who get the opportunity to learn about, and perhaps discover a newfound appreciation for the hardships faced by their ancestors.

While you can get out to Port Arthur on a day trip from Hobart, staying on the Peninsula for a day or two is always a good idea!

THREE CAPES TRACK TASMANIA, HIKING FOR FREE AND SELF GUIDED

Where to Stay on the Tasman Peninsula

The Tasman Peninsula is an often overlooked area to stay in Tasmania as many people opt to take day trips from Hobart. However, I'd say it's worth checking out for at least 3 days to see the highlights.

  • Stewarts Bay Lodge - a beautiful lodge set on over 22 acres offering a private beach area with an onsite restaurant.
  • Port Arthur Villas - comfortable villa-style accommodation just 750 metres from the historic site.
  • NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park - the best holiday park for travellers on a budget or looking for a caravan park to hook up their rig.
CAPE HAUY TASMANIA TRAVEL GUIDE

6. Launceston

Launceston is Tasmania’s second-largest city and is commonly rated as one of the most liveable cities in Australia. Lonnie, as Taswegians call it, is a hub of history, culture, food and nature.

There are plenty of natural attractions in and surrounding the city including the Cataract Gorge and the Tamar Wetlands. I've also written a comprehensive guide to 11 best things to do in Launceston. So, if you're planning a visit, make sure to check it out!

AUTUMN IN LAUNCESTON

Where To Stay in Launceston

Tasmania's second-largest city is well worth a visit and serves as an excellent base for day trips to the central region and the East Coast.

  • Peppers Silo - This riverside, historic building has been revamped with modern interiors accommodating to travellers looking for a luxury experience. The hotel is conveniently located nearby many attractions including the Victoria Museum and the James Boag Brewery.
  • Hotel Verge - In terms of location, this one is spot on. You'll also get access to a restaurant, free parking (a big plus in Lonnie), a fitness centre and even a garden.
  • POD Inn - Capsule hostels are more popular than ever. For those on a budget and looking for a cheap, convenient and comfortable stay in Launceston, consider checking out the Pod Inn.
AUTUMN IN LAUNCESTON

7. Northwest Tasmania

Northwest Tasmania has wild, rugged coastlines and is home to Australia's largest stretch of temperate rainforest; the Tarkine. There is lots to explore in this region, but it's certainly a good idea to have your own car or transport.

If you're planning your trip, consider picking an accommodation option up here as a base, at least for a few days. That way you'll have time to explore highlights like the Nut in Stanley, the Edge of the World lookout or the famous Tarkine Drive.

Below are my recommendation options in the best areas to help you out.

philosopher falls hike in tasmania, where to stay and go

Where to Stay in Tasmania's Northwest

Tassie's northwest has a lot to offer. If you're planning your trip, consider picking an accommodation option up here as a base, at least for a few days. Below are my recommendation options in the best areas to help you out.

Stay near the Edge of the World - A rugged northwest coast is a great place for adventurers to base themselves.

EDGE OF THE WORLD, TASMANIAN WEST COAST

Stay in Stanley - Famous for the iconic nut but offers great seaside accommodations.

THE NUT AT STANLEY, TASMANIA

Stay in Boat Harbour - One of the most beautiful and underrated beach towns in Tasmania. A must-visit!

BOAT HARBOUR TASMANIA

Stay in Penguin - A quaint coastal town with a unique name.

PENGUIN TASMANIA

8. Strahan and the West Coast

The West Coast of Tasmania is aptly named the "Western Wilds". This area is a mix of wild, unforgiving wilderness and quaint mining towns.

The most popular place to stay in Western Tasmania is in Strahan. There's just so much to see and do in this region and it's definitely worth at least a couple of days. Activities like the Gordon River Cruise and the rack and pinion railway depart from Strahan and are must-dos when travelling in Tasmania.

THINGS TO DO AT STRAHAN TASMANIA, WEST COAST

Where to Stay In Tasmania's West

Below are a couple of my recommended places to stay in nearby Strahan, as well as one in Queenstown.

Wheelhouse Apartments - Strahan
Unique apartments located in Strahan, each with river or lake views. These apartments are some of the best-rated online for Western Tasmania!

The Boat House - Strahan
Another Strahan favourite, this affordable holiday accommodation option features river views and includes a kitchen and living area.

Penghana B&B - Queenstown
If you're after the best place to stay in Queenstown, check out this 1898 National Trust Mansion B&B which is just 2 minutes drive from the Wilderness Railway & the Heritage Tours.

9. Devonport

Devonport is the third largest city in Tasmania and serves as the gateway for those entering the island state via the Spirit of Tasmania ferry. Compared to Hobart and Launceston, Devonport is much quieter. However, Devonport is known to have both calmer and warmer weather.

Honestly, I wouldn't recommend most travellers to spend a lot of time in Devonport. This is simply because there are so many other great places to stay in Tasmania with more activities and attractions. However, if you are transiting on the ferry to and from Melbourne, below are the three best accommodation options worth considering.

Where to Stay in Devonport

Below are three excellent choices for various budgets in Devonport.

  • Tiny Tom - Tiny Tom is located centrally in Devonport adjacent to the Mersey River and just 1 kilometre from the Devonport Ferry Terminal. The rooms are fully-furnished apartments that include garden views, barbecue facilities and a patio.
  • Views Forever Devonport - If it's a night of luxury you're after, an executive-furnished apartments in the Views Forever Devonport might be just the ticket for you. This studio apartment offering features a patio with incredible sunset views over Don Heads, the Bass Strait and Coles Beach. You'll get everything you need in these open-plan apartments, including a self-contained kitchenette, dining are and lounge area.
  • Argosy Motor Inn - A no-frills comfortable and most importantly, affordable option close to the ferry terminal is the Argosy Motor Inn. For those coming off or planning to board the ferry, a night at Argosy is an excellent choice. This is one of the more budget-friendly places to stay in Devonport and only 4 minutes from the terminal.
views, place to stay in Devonport, Tasmania
ARGOSY MOTOR INN IN TASMANIA

10. The East Coast

The Tasmanian East Coast is a truly unmissable stretch of coastline. The two best areas I'd recommend checking out and spending a bit of time in is the Bay of Fires and Freycinet National Park.

COZY CORNER BAY OF FIRES

Where to Stay Near Freycinet National park

Freycinet National Park is by far one of the most popular spots to visit and stay in Tasmania, and for good reason. With highlights like the incredible Wineglass Bay and the Mount Amos hike, Freycinet is easily one of the best areas in Tasmania if epic views and white sand beaches are your idea of a perfect holiday spot.

You'll find Freycinet National Park just a few hours south of the Bay of Fires, approximately 2 hours from Launceston and 2.5 from Hobart.

While you won't find any hotels in the park itself, there are plenty to choose from in neighbouring Coles Bay, which serves as a gateway to the park. Below I've listed the best and highest-rated accommodation options in Coles Bay to help you make the most of your visit.

  • Picnic Island - Ever wanted to stay on a private island? What better place to do so than on Picnic Island, a beautiful island gem just off Coles Bay. Visitors will have the entire island to themselves with rustic waterfront cabins and a fully-equipped kitchen and living area.
  • Freycinet Lodge - Located in a waterfront location within Freycinet National Park, Freycinet Lodge offers luxury cabin-style accommodation, two restaurants and a bar. You’ll also get a buffet breakfast included. This is one of the best-located spots to begin your Freycinet National Park walks.
  • Eagle Peaks - Another great option is Eagle Peaks, which has good WiFi and free private parking near Coles Bay. This is a unit-style accommodation option featuring a dining and seating area, a fully-equipped kitchen, and great scenery at your doorstep.
PICNIC ISLAND ACCOMMODATION AUSTRALIA
MOUNT AMOS SUNRISE

Where to Stay in the Bay of Fires

The Bay of Fires is quickly being recognised as one of the world's most beautiful coastlines. Rich, deep-orange boulders scatter the coastline on the banks of fluorescent, turquoise waters. Sweeping white-sand beaches carve the coast as far as the eye can see and weathered, wind-swept bushland hangs onto the edge of its shores.

The Bay of Fires is located in Tasmania's North East, approximately 3 hours from Launceston. Below are some of the best accommodation options in the area.

  • Driftwood at the Gardens - Driftwood is one of the best accommodation homes in the Bay of Fires offering three bedrooms, a TV, full kitchen and incredible ocean views from the balcony.
  • The Cove - Another incredible holiday home within 14 minutes of Swimcart Beach. The Cove offers three bedrooms and a full kitchen. Best of all, there's a great view of Sloop Reef from the balcony.
  • Bay of Fires Bush Retreat - The Bush Retreat is one of the closest accommodation options near Binalong Bay. It features a bar, garden and shared kitchen. You'll have the choice of booking bell tents (must see), large king rooms or a full family bungalow. This is the highest-rated accommodation option in the Bay of Fires!
Bush Retreat Bay of Fires
BAY OF FIRES SUNSET

11. The Deep South

The far south of Tasmania is an area that sees some of the least tourism numbers but still offers some great activities and attractions.

Extending from the Huon Valley all the way to the southernmost tip, there's plenty to explore including the beautiful Southwest National Park, Hartz Mountains and the popular Hastings Caves.

Where to Stay in Southern Tasmania

If you'd rather make your way further south from the Huon Valley, the following are among the best options available for where to stay in Tasmania's far south.

  • Oyster Shack - This incredible lodge is the closest accommodation offering to Hastings Caves. Located in Hastings, the Oyster Shack is also the best-rated lodge in Southern Tasmania, featuring a fully-equipped kitchen, fireplace and views of the ocean.
  • Ashdowns of Dover - One of the best bed and breakfasts in the area is Ashdowns of Dover, just a short drive from Hastings. This place has some of the best reviews in the area, with guests raving about the breakfast (poached eggs is a favourite).
  • Southern Forest Accommodation - Located in nearby Southport is a beautiful cottage in the southern forests. This stunningly beautiful place is quiet and features a pretty garden, lovely forest, abundant birdlife and pademelons at your doorstep.
Oyster Shack accommodation in southern Tasmania
southern forest accommodation tasmania

More Tasmanian Travel and Destination Guide

That wraps up this accommodation guide to Tasmania. I hope I've helped you make your decision for where to stay in Tasmania and that you have a better understanding of the best areas to visit for your next trip. If you're still in the planning stages, make sure to check out some of my other many articles covering the best activities and things to do and see on the island.

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11 Awesome Things to do in Launceston in 2023 (Tasmania) https://www.weseektravel.com/things-to-do-launceston-tasmania/ https://www.weseektravel.com/things-to-do-launceston-tasmania/#respond Wed, 18 Aug 2021 18:35:00 +0000 https://www.weseektravel.com/?p=25700 A useful travel guide for those looking for things to …

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A useful travel guide for those looking for things to do in Launceston, Tasmania. Find out what to do, what to see and make the most of your trip to beautiful Lonnie!

Launceston is Tasmania’s second-largest city and is commonly rated as one of the most liveable cities in Australia. Lonnie, as Taswegians call it, is a hub of history, culture, food and nature.

If you’re visiting Tasmania and planning a trip to the city, then I’ve got you covered with this quick guide to help you plan what to do in Launceston. At the bottom of this blog post, I’ve also included a quick guide with some recommendations for where to stay too!

11 Awesome Things to do in Launceston

1. Visit the Cataract Gorge

If you ask anyone what the best thing to do in Launceston is, I'm sure a lot will tell you to check out the Cataract Gorge. This beautiful river and gorge is the number one attraction in Launceston and features hiking trails, the world's longest single-span chairlift and a riverside swimming pool.

You'll also find an awesome suspension bridge and scenic trails that transfer you from the heart of the city to the pristine Tasmanian wilderness.

You can reach the Cataract Gorge on foot from the city in about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, there is a large car park if you want to drive, or even a free bus from town.

CATARACT GORGE - BEST THINGS TO DO IN LAUNCESTON
CATARACT GORGE IN LAUNCESTON

2. Check out (Or Stay at) Old Mac's Farm

Old Macs Farm is a unique, private caravan and motorhome park located just minutes from Launceston CBD! While this Launceston activity might be better suited to those exploring the state in a van or camper, the farm is open to anyone who wants to pop in.

Old Macs have a variety of activities that are great for families, including animal petting, restaurants and a scenic lake.

OLD MACS FARM IN LAUNCESTON TASMANIA

3. Enjoy a Scenic Cataract Gorge Cruise

Are you in Launceston and searching for what to do? Don't go past a Cataract Gorge cruise! This is one of the top-rated attractions in Launceston and costs less than $35!

Cruises depart from the ferry terminal and all include guided commentary as you cruise past some of Launceston's most historic and iconic sites. The cheapest cruise takes roughly 50 minutes. However, you can also book a 2.5 hour cruise that also includes afternoon tea and a beer and wine tasting.

Book best price onine: 50-minute Cataract Gorge Cruise
Book best price online: 2.5 Hour Cataract Gorge Cruise

4. Discover the Tamar Island Wetlands

Just north of Launceston is the wild and beautiful Tamar Island Wetlands Area. This is an estuarine wetland ecosystem abundant with native Tasmanian plant and animal life.

There are trails, boardwalks and scenic footbridges over the kanamaluka/River Tamar where nature lovers can spot diverse birdlife and scenic lookout spots. If you're up for a bit of nature, I highly recommend getting out to the Tamar Island Wetlands when planning your things to do in Launceston, especially if you are travelling with kids!

AUTUMN IN LAUNCESTON

5. Go On A Day Trip to Cradle Mountain

This one is for those of you who have come to Launceston for a quick visit. Did you know that you can actually get out to Cradle Mountain, arguably Tasmania's most popular nature attraction, on a day trip from the city?

There are several organised trips that depart from Launceston to Cradle Mountain. Most will stop off at the Visitor Centre and take you out on some of the best day walks in the park. The one I'm recommending below is a whole-day tour of around 10 hours. It's also the best-rated in Launceston and includes:

  • Lunch
  • Hotel pickup/dropoff
  • Entrance fee
  • Water and snacks
  • Lunch
  • The Dove Lake circuit walk
  • A visit to the Waldheim Chalet
  • The Weindorfers forest walk
CRADLE MOUNTAIN FROM LAUNCESTON
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6. Unwind at Lilydale Falls

If you're after a quick waterfall trip, then one of the closest that you will find near Launceston is Lilydale Falls. This awesome little set of two waterfalls is just 25-minutes from the city.

The walk to Lilydale Falls is very easy and sealed for the entire way. What's great about this spot is that you can even camp at the trailhead overnight. There is a cleared, dedicated park area which is a popular spot for caravaners and van-travellers.

LILYDALE FALLS TASMANIA

Related: 26 Incredible Waterfalls in Tasmania


7. Visit the Tamar Valley Wine Region

Would it be a trip to Launceston without tasking some iconic Tasmanian Pinot Noir?

I highly recommend booking a Tamar Valley wine tour, which includes a stop at 5 of the most picturesque estates in Australia. T

This Tamar Valley Wine Region tour, includes tastings and lunch, and has some of the top reviews in Launceston!

wine tasting tour
HIKING THE FREYCINET PENINSULA CIRCUIT, WINEGLASS BAY CAMPSITE, THINGS TO DO IN FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK, TASMANIA

How to Save Money on Tassie Tours & Experiences

Looking to save some travel money on tours in Tassie?

I've partnered with Backpacker Deals to offer $5 off all tours and experiences in Tasmania using my code OLLY5 (and you don't have to be a backpacker to save).

8. Stock up on Adventure Gear

Everyone knows that Tasmania is one of Australia's best outdoor adventure destinations. If you don't yet have the boots or gear to go out and tackle some world renowned hikes like the Three Capes Walk or the Overland, then you can stock up in Launceston.

Launceston has several great outdoor stores, all of which are located within walking distance of one another on York Street in the CBD. I recommend checking out Aspire, Paddy Pallin or Find Your Feet for quality gear.

Hiking in Tasmania

9. Go Zip-Lining at Hollybank Wilderness Adventures

Hollybank Wilderness Adventures is Launceston's very own adventure park. Located just 20 minutes from the CBD in Underwood, Hollybank offer epic treetop adventures including zip-lining, mountain biking, tree lines and even segway tours.

The park is located on the Piper River in a scenic forest setting. By far the most popular activity is the Zipline course, which is one of the longest ziplines in Australia with a total length of 400 metres. What's great about this particular tour is that it is limited to 12-people in order for customers to get that small-group experience.

Adventurers looking for what to do in Launceston can book a great deal for the zip-line tours with the link below.

10. Join a Beer and Food Cycling Tour

Name a better way to see the beautiful city of Launceston than a beer and food tour on two wheels.

I'm personally a big fan of cycling tours. They're always fun, informative and a great way to learn about a city's culture and history. The famous Launceston cycling tour is popular among those that love a good meal. Included in the price is a guide, bike, lunch and complementary beer.

11. Visit the Bay of Fires & WineGlass Bay

Okay, the Bay of Fires and the iconic Wineglass Bay are not exactly within walking distance of Launceston. However, these two spots on the East Coast are ones that I believe every visitor to Tasmania should experience at least once.

If you've got your own car, then I recommend at least planning a day to explore the region. Otherwise, there is a tour that tries its best to squeeze in the very best of Freycinet National Park in a single day. It starts in Launceston and finishes up in Hobart.

Book Launceston to Hobart via Freycinet: Full-day Tour

This is perfect, and a cost-effective way to see the coast if you are planning to head to the capital anyway!

ORANGE ROCKS AND BLUE WATER AT BAY OF FIRES TASMANIA
Bay of Fires
SUNRISE AT MOUNT AMOS SUMMIT
Wineglass Bay
sunset on a winding road in Tasmania

Car Rentals in Tasmania

Unfortunately, the cost of bringing your own car on the Spirit of Tasmania has skyrocketed in recent years.

Now, it is usually cheaper to rent a car on arrival. I recommend using RentalCars.com in Tasmania to compare rates for different vehicles across dealerships.

(Rentals are limited in Tasmania so it's a good idea to book in advance).

Where to Stay in Launceston

That wraps up this quick what to do guide for the best things to do in Launceston, Tasmania.

If you're still in the planning stages of your trip. Make sure to check out some of the below options for where to stay. I've hand-picked these hotels and accommodation choices as the best options for various budgets.

Tasmania's second-largest city is well worth a visit and serves as an excellent base for day trips to the central region and the East Coast.

  • Peppers Silo - This riverside, historic building has been revamped with modern interiors accommodating to travellers looking for a luxury experience. The hotel is conveniently located nearby many attractions including the Victoria Museum and the James Boag Brewery.
  • Hotel Verge - In terms of location, this one is spot on. You'll also get access to a restaurant, free parking (a big plus in Lonnie), a fitness centre and even a garden.
  • POD Inn - Capsule hostels are more popular than ever. For those on a budget and looking for a cheap, convenient and comfortable stay in Launceston, consider checking out the Pod Inn.
AUTUMN IN LAUNCESTON

Other Must-Visit Destinations in Tasmania

I hope that you have enjoyed this quick activity guide summarising some of the best things to do in Launceston, Tasmania. If you enjoyed this destination guide, make sure to check out some of my other articles. I've spent several months photographing and documenting the best in travel for Tasmania to help make your trip as memorable as possible.

The post 11 Awesome Things to do in Launceston in 2023 (Tasmania) appeared first on We Seek Travel.

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