Written by Brooke Wilson
The New Year is rolling around, and with it, borders are opening, and restrictions are easing.
What better way to ring in the New Year than by travelling a little further afield? This month, we are heading down south to beautiful Tasmania.
Kick off your journey with a visit to Salamanca Place, a cobblestone square just minutes from Hobart’s CBD.
Once a bustling port, the old sandstone buildings and warehouses have since been converted into quirky shops, cafes, and galleries.
Make sure not to miss the Salamanca Markets, as hundreds of stallholders pack the square every Saturday. After exploring all the markets have to offer, take a break in one of the many quaint pubs for a drink or two.
Only a short drive from town and well worth the trip lies Mt Wellington. Easily accessible by driving to the summit, you will be rewarded with exquisite 360 degree views over Hobart and surrounds. Take a jacket with you, as being well over 1000 metres above sea level, the peak is frequently covered in snow!
History buffs will love Port Arthur, a 90-minute drive from Hobart. Originally settled as a timber station in the 19th century, it soon became known for its convict history. British criminals reoffending after their arrival into Australia were sent here to serve their time.
After the closure of the prison, the region became popular as a tourist destination for boating and fishing and remains a popular tourist destination for those travelling to Tasmania.
These days, travellers have the option of many different guided tours to explore Port Arthur, including a ghost tour for those looking for a fright.
A must do while visiting Tasmania is of course Bruny Island. Accessible by a 20-minute ferry ride, Bruny Island is a haven for an abundance of native wildlife and birds.
Take a walk through the national parks with options for all fitness levels, and see how many white wallabies, echidnas, and parrots you can spot.
Be sure to stop at The Neck lookout, a narrow strip of land connecting north and south Bruny Island. At the far south end of the island, take a tour through the Cape Bruny Lighthouse, Australia’s second oldest and longest continually staffed lighthouse.
A trip to Tasmania is never complete without visiting Freycinet National Park. Situated two hours north of Hobart, this will surely be a highlight of any travellers’ trip.
Most famous for its stunning Wineglass Bay, with its azure blue waters and silky white beach, it’s easy to see why it is so popular.
More to offer than just the bay, Freycinet Peninsula boasts an array of activities and stunning scenery.
To really take full advantage of the scenery, be sure to check out The Hazards – gorgeous pink granite peaks that are at their absolute best during sunrise and sunset.
Take advantage of the borders opening and start planning your trip to beautiful Tasmania.