Why Go to Tasmania
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Tasmania, or Tassie, as locals call it, is Australia's wild and beautiful island state. About 150 miles south of the mainland, it offers rugged mountains, pristine beaches, unique wildlife and fascinating history, along with some of the freshest food and drink in the country.
Outdoor lovers will find adventure everywhere. Walk across the suspension bridge at Launceston's Cataract Gorge, hike the trails at Cradle Mountain, or tackle the famous multi-day Overland Track. Admire the stunning curve of Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park and go snorkeling and kayaking in its clear water. Climb to the summit of Mount Wellington above Hobart for views and the dramatic Organ Pipes rock formations. Look for Tasmanian devils, wombats and wallabies, and take an evening ghost tour of the Port Arthur Historic Site, a former convict settlement. In Hobart, visit the provocative MONA museum and the Saturday Salamanca Market.
Tasmania is a short flight from Melbourne or Sydney. Between adventures, enjoy fresh seafood and produce with local wines, ciders and whisky. I'll plan a road trip or guided tour and fit Tasmania into your Australia itinerary.
BEST FOR
Hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, road-trippers and food lovers
BEST MONTHS
December–March
EXPLORE
Hobart is the southern gateway near kunanyi/Mount Wellington; Launceston serves the north; Freycinet sits on the east coast, and Cradle Mountain lies inland.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Tasmania
Oceania › Australasia › Australia › Tasmania
Wild coastlines, mountain wilderness and island food culture
National Parks & Nature
Wildlife
Hiking
History
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Distances take longer than they appear on winding roads; choose one region per day and carry layers outdoors.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Check current park shuttle and walking conditions; weather shifts quickly.
Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park
Mountain wilderness features alpine lakes, boardwalks and notable walking routes.
Allow several hours for the site and guided interpretation.
Port Arthur Historic Site
The historic former convict settlement interprets Tasmania's penal-era history.
Choose a hike suited to your fitness and take enough drinking water.
Freycinet National Park
Granite peaks and coastal trails frame the celebrated Wineglass Bay landscape.
Check market operating days and arrive early for busy weekends.
Salamanca Market
Hobart's well-known market features Tasmanian producers, crafts and foods.
Book admission and ferry transport ahead where needed.
MONA
The Museum of Old and New Art near Hobart presents provocative contemporary and historical works.
A design-focused luxury hotel along Hobart’s historic waterfront.
MACq 01 Hotel
Hobart waterfront
Hotel Tags
A luxury hotel blending historic architecture with contemporary rooms near Salamanca Place.
The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Central Hobart
Hotel Tags
An intimate luxury lodge overlooking Great Oyster Bay and the Hazards mountains.
Saffire Freycinet
Coles Bay / Freycinet Peninsula
Hotel Tags
A wilderness lodge near Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park trails.
Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge
Cradle Mountain
Hotel Tags
A boutique art hotel in a converted waterfront warehouse.
The Henry Jones Art Hotel
Hobart waterfront
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Tasmania
High 66°F · Low 49°F · Rain 2.1 in
Warm days and hiking season begin on the Overland Track.
December through February is generally warmer for outdoor exploration; weather remains changeable in the highlands.
Best Times to Visit Tasmania
WHEN TO GO
06
Weather and Distances
Tasmanian mountain weather changes quickly and winding roads slow journeys; leave extra time.
05
National Park Access
Some walking sites require park passes and seasonal road checks; carry supplies.
04
Bruny Island Ferry
Bruny Island requires a separate ferry from Kettering, with vehicle queues during busy times.
03
Intercity Coaches
Scheduled buses connect some towns but not all hiking destinations; verify timetables.
02
Rental Cars
A car is useful for national parks, coastlines and dispersed rural attractions; drive on the left.
01
Hobart and Launceston Airports
The island has separate air gateways; select one based on your driving itinerary.
A rental car is usually most practical outside major towns. Distances and winding roads require generous travel time, especially after dark.
Getting Around Tasmania
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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