Often overlooked as an Australian holiday destination, Tasmania offers pristine beaches, rugged rainforests, fresh seafood and a nightlife that rivals that of Melbourne.
Getting to Hobart is both cheap and incredibly accessible, being just two hours from Sydney and an hour and a half from Melbourne by plane. Alternatively, if you have an extra 10 hours on your hands, the Spirit of Tasmania ferry crossing is an unpredictable but interesting experience.
If you’ve only got 72 hours to spare for a trip to Hobart to fit around your studies, read on for some must-do ways to spend your time there.
Check out the MONA
Image credit: jeffowenphotos (Flickr)
Coming into Hobart from the airport you’ll get a glimpse of the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), an art gallery known worldwide for its unusual and sometimes controversial exhibitions. With collections from ancient, modern and contemporary art, there’s something for everyone. Once you’ve had your fill of art, pop into the restaurant or one of the bars for some delicious local delicacies. Quick tip - beware of its unusual opening times - the museum is closed on Tuesdays, so don’t miss your chance to go! Admission is AU$28 for adults or AU$25 if you have a student card.
Party the night away at Salamanca Art Centre
We all know Friday night’s the best night of the week, and this is even more true in Hobart. Start your night early at Salamanca Art Centre (the heart of Hobart’s arts scene), at the courtyard, which is cleverly built into the cliff face. Rektango, as the night is called, is a free event which has been running for over 15 years. With an impressive live band playing in the background and a modest and reasonably-priced bar, it’s the perfect place to meet friendly locals all year round. Expect sangria in the summer and hot mulled wine in the winter months. Grab some dinner from one of the restaurants serving up local seafood, and get ready to hit up the bars on Salamanca Place.
Explore Hobart’s culinary scene
Image credit: jules (Flickr)
Brunch in Hobart is unmissable, and after climbing the hills to get to the best brunch spot you’ll be well ready for a hearty fill. The Pigeon Hole, a cozy, hole in the wall type café, comes highly recommended. The staff are friendly, the menu small, but sufficient, and all the food is homemade, responsibly sourced – and absolutely delicious.
Then it’s time to return to the scene of last night’s antics, where Salamanca market will have magically popped up. Over 300 stall holders gather here every Saturday, selling Tasmanian grown honey, lavender, cheese, wine, clothes bags and so much more. Note the emphasis on home grown, eco-friendly produce!
Go on some unforgettable day trips
If you’re an adventurous spirit and keen to get out of the big city, a day trip down the Tasman Peninsula will provide you with incredible coastal scenery and an immersive experience into Australian history. In the 70 km (43.5 mile) drive south of Hobart, there are a few short stops well worth your time, in particular the Tessellated Pavements, which are famous for the reflections they create in the water. Be sure to stop at the independent coffee van ‘Cubed’ just south of Eagle Hawk Neck, serving coffee that would rise to the top even in Melbourne. Continue to follow the coastal road down to Port Arthur, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and well worth a full day’s attention if you have the time.
If you’d rather feast your eyes on a beautiful bay, the east coast of Tasmania has plenty of options. Rent a car from one of the many companies and drive two hours north of Hobart to the quiet seaside town of Coles Bay. If you’re there in the summer months, it’s perfect for a swim in crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the beautiful pink granite cliffs. In the winter months, visit the pizzeria for a stone baked pizza and a comforting hot toddy while admiring the snowy peaks.
Coles Bay also makes for an ideal location to explore the Freycinet National Park, home to the iconic Wineglass Bay, which is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Just a short walk to the top will provide you with stunning views, friendly wallabies and opportunities for eagle-spotting.
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Spend a long weekend in Hobart and its surrounds, and you’ll be sure to want to come back and see what the rest of Tasmania has to offer.
