Bring A Jacket! This Is The Only Tasmania Itinerary You Need
Eat + stay + play = sorted
By Kate von Euw | 25th August 2021Stunning beaches, glittering lakes, majestic mountains, and lavish eateries are enough of a reason to put Tasmania on your travel hit list but here’s one more – with the small island’s borders now open to us lucky Queenslanders, what are you waiting for?
Okay, so now we’ve sold you on going but what to do and where to go? Worry not! We’ve sorted your travel guide with our Style-approved eat, stay, and play recommendations to make the most of your Tassie vaycay. Book in that annual leave and let’s go explorin’!
Launceston
A riverside hub of food, wine and culture, Launceston is situated in northern Tasmania and famed for Cataract Gorge, panoramic views, picturesque gardens and its elegant Colonial and Victorian architecture.
Eat
- For pre-dinner drinks: Geronimo, Launceston CBD
- For exquisite wining and dining: Grain of the Silos, Invermay
- A secluded haven with rural views: Timbre Kitchen, Legana
Stay
- For a luxurious waterfront stay: Peppers Silo Hotel from $244/night
- The ultimate family staycation: Mantra Charles Hotel from $189/night
- A boutique, lakeside getaway: Relbia Lodge from $265/night
Play
- Josef Chromy Winery: Explore the picturesque plains and go BTS of premium wine production with an exquisite cellar door experience.
- Cataract Gorge: Walk the trails for panoramic river views, hop aboard the chairlift, and check out the family-friendly attraction, Penny Royal Adventures.
- Low Head Penguin Colony Tour: Learn more about the endearing fairy penguins who inhabit the Tasmanian wetlands with a one-hour guided night tour.
Hobart
Tasmania’s capital and the second oldest capital in Australia after Sydney, Hobart combines heritage charm with a modern lifestyle, surrounded by exceptional beauty. From captivating history, picturesque waterways, rugged mountains and gourmet experiences, there’s something to explore for everyone!
Eat
- For fine dining and bistro influenced by European flavours: Fico, Hobart CBD
- A spicy taste of Mexico: Pancho Villa, North Hobart
- Pan Asian flavours and majestic harbour views: Aloft, Brooke Street Pier
Stay
- Where history and art collide: The Henry Jones Art Hotel from $261/night
- The French ‘art de vivre’: Villa Howden from $260/night
- Quiet, comfortable rooms for the budget traveler: Nightcap at Carlyle Hotel from $94/night
Play
- Museum of Old and New Art: Explore the three levels of underground galleries that showcase spectacular pieces, then kick back at one of the many bars and restaurants within the precinct.
- Mt Wellington / Kunanyui Summit: Take the scenic route to the summit through temperate rainforest and glacial rock formations; a journey ending in panoramic views of Hobart, Bruny Island, and the Tasman Peninsula.
- Coal River Farm: Visit Tasmania’s rural hub of cheese and chocolate, where you can pick your own berries and indulge in farm tastings.
Bruny Island
Presenting Tasmania’s premier island destination: Bruny Island. Providing the ultimate wilderness experience, Bruny Island is best known for its spectacular bushwalks, water exploration activities, locally sourced produce, and of course, its abundance of wildlife.
Eat
- For fresh, locally harvested oysters: Get Shucked Oyster Farm and Bar, North Bruny
- A tantalising menu of local produce: Bruny Island Cruises Seafood Restaurant, Adventure Bay
- For unique, vineyard dining: Bruny Island Premium Wines, Cider and Grill, Lunawanna
Stay
- For the outdoor enthusiasts: Camping at The Pines from $40 pp
- An award-winning, modern beachfront stay: Cloudy Bay Beach House from $600/night
- An intimate guesthouse for natural living: The Shack Sheep Wash Bay from $240/night
Play
- Bruny Island Cheese and Beer Co: Tour the artisan premises, admiring the cheesemaking processes, then settle outside amongst the greenery and relax with a selection of cheeses and a beer tasting paddle.
- Relax at Adventure Bay: Settle in with a good book, walk along the sandy stretches, or go for a paddle (if you’re gutsy!).
- Bruny Island Eco-Cruise: Spot dolphins, seals, and whales on a three-hour exploration of Bruny’s rugged southern coastline.
Bay of Fires
Known all over the world for its extraordinary clear blue seas, stunning white beaches and striking orange lichen-cloaked boulders, Tasmania’s Bay of Fires is an idyllic must-visit.
Eat
- For French-Aussie cuisine combos: Furneaux Restaurant & Comptoir, St Helens
- An authentic Australian tavern and oyster bar: The Wharf Bar & Kitchen, St Helens
- Picturesque views and sea-inspired flavours: Meresta Eatery, Binalong Bay
Stay
- Homely, waterfront accommodation: Kingfisher Cottage from $250/night
- Spacious beach house in a tranquil cove: The Cove Bay of Fires from $385/night
- A well-equipped bell tent haven: Bay of Fires Bush Retreat from $193/night
Play
- Engage in water activities: The abundant marine life and clear waters are perfect conditions for diving, snorkeling, swimming, and surfing.
- Visit Mt Pearson Reserve: Head inland and explore the serene rural valley, then finish the day with a local wine tasting at the Bay of Fires Cellar Door.
- Day trip along the coast to The Gardens: Catch a scenic glimpse of deserted sands, visit Eddystone Point where the iconic lighthouse sits, and witness a sunset on one of the secluded inlets.
Port Arthur
Named after lieutenant governor, George Arthur, Port Arthur is best known for being a 19th century penal colony. Bursting with rich history and chilling stories, be sure to visit Port Arthur’s Historic Site for an interactive, eye-opening history lesson you won’t forget!
Eat
- A seafood lover’s haven: On the Bay Restaurant, Port Arthur CBD
- Heritage views and modern Australian cuisine: 1830 Restaurant and Bar, Historic Site
- Where bottomless margs and tacos unite: Tequila’s Mexican Restaurant, Gulfway
Stay
- A contemporary cottage with breathtaking views: Ellis Cottage by the Sea from $215/night
- The perfect romantic coastal getaway: Chill Tasmania from $215/night
- Chalet accommodation nestled in the hinterland Stewarts Bay Lodge from $246/night
Play
- Port Arthur Historic Site: Take an introductory guided tour, embark on a harbour cruise, or uncover Port Arthur’s hidden dark side with a Ghost or Escape from Port Arthur Tour.
- Tasman National Park: Discover a slice of Tasmania’s beauty high atop the cliffs with coastal walks at Cape Hauy, Cape Raoul and the world-famous, Shipsterns Bluff.
- Remarkable Cave: Wander through the unique rock formations, past peaceful Carnarvon Bay to Point Puer, the remains of the British Empire’s first boy’s prison.
Strahan
Nestled on the shores of Macquarie Harbour, Strahan is the gateway to the world heritage-listed Franklin-Gordan Wild Rivers National Park. Bursting with stories from the days of convicts and pioneers toughing it out in Tassie’s wild west, Strahan is a unique travel destination with plenty on offer for every type of traveller!
Eat
- The social hub of good food and company: View 42°, Strahan Esplanade
- A casually elegant setting with authentic dishes: Risby Cove, Strahan Esplanade
- For hearty pub classics and coveted waterfront views: Hamer’s Bar & Bistro, Strahan Esplanade
Stay
- A waterfront haven of peace and serenity: Captain’s Rest from $514/night
- Secluded accommodation with picturesque natural views: Seaforth Stay Macquarie Heads from $200/night
- A nurturing bayside shack stay: Bushy Summers $295/night
Play
- Gordan River Cruise: Venture deep into the Tasmanian World Heritage Area and explore the ancient rainforest, mysterious history, and colourful characters of Tasmania’s west coast.
- Platypus spotting at Hogarth Falls: Embark on a 1.2km simple walk through the lush rainforest to the waterfall where platypus often roam in the creek below (keep those eyes peeled!).
- The Henty Dunes: Go tobogganing down the 30m undulating dunes or take a 1.5-hour return walk through the dunes to the picnic area at Ocean Beach (aka Tasmania’s longest beach).
Bridport
Situated in Tasmania’s north-east, Bridport is a popular beachside holiday destination overlooking Anderson Bay. Surrounded by bushland reserves and white sand landscapes, kick back, relax and let the day pass you by – it’s the ideal relaxation staycation!
Eat
- For mouth-watering woodfired pizza: Bridport Bay Inn, Main Street
- Bistro style dining with generous portions: The Bridport Bunker Club, Main Street
- The ultimate dining experience complete with coastal dune views: Barnbougle Lost Farm Restaurant, Waterhouse Road
Stay
- A sun-kissed beach pad with hot tub: Stay Salty from $197/night
- Lovingly curated with a laidback coastal vibe: The Drifters House from $350/night
- 4-bedroom villa with stunning garden and sea views: Bridport Beach House from $500/night
Play
- Bridestowe Lavender Estate: Stroll through the stunning mauve fields and snap a pic for the ‘gram, visit the gift shop for lavender-inspired spa products, then finish off your visit with lavender scones and ice cream at the Estate cafe.
- Barnbougle Dunes: Explore Australia’s premier golf destination with courses for both the enthusiast and social golfer
- Pipers Brooke Vineyard: Take a cellar door tour and uncover the blends and inspirations of exquisite labels such as the Ninth Island, Pipers Brook, and Kreglinger.
Lake St Clair
A renowned part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Lake St Clair is every adventurer’s dream. From leisurely lakeside strolls to beautiful forest trails and spectacular summit views, the enchanting presence of this tranquil destination is truly mesmerising. Go see for yourself!
Eat
- For a premier dining experience: Highland Restaurant, Cradle Mountain
- Friendly atmosphere, forest views, and a cosy setting: Altitude Restaurant & Lounge Bar, Cradle Mountain
- The perfect homely post-hike pitstop: Hellyers Restaurant, Cradle Mountain
Stay
- A unique and sophisticated adults-only retreat: Pumphouse Point from $560/night
- For luxury, eco-friendly accommodation: Lake St Clair Lodge from $270/night
- An idyllic stay amongst alpine wilderness: Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge from $350/night
Play
- Dove Lake Circuit at Cradle Mountain: Hike the 5.7km loop trail at Dove Lake and venture beneath the craggy spires of the indomitable Cradle Mountain – a Tassie bucket list must-do!
- Devils @ Cradle: Visit the world-class conservation facility at Tassie’s premier wilderness destination, wander through the sanctuary, or join a personalised guided tour that includes a close-up animal encounter.
- Cradle Mountain Canyons: Launch yourself off waterfalls, abseil down cliffs, and shoot through nature’s waterslides – the most exhilarating way to experience the World Heritage wilderness at Cradle Mountain.
Coles Bay
A popular holiday town on the east coast of Tasmania, Coles Bay forms a gateway to the breathtakingly beautiful Freycinet National Park. The idyllic landscapes coupled with the stunning coastal scenery of Great Oyster Bay and the pink-hued granite peaks of The Hazards mountains give this town a spellbinding charm that is hard to beat!
Eat
- For freshly harvested oysters and mussels: The Fishers, Devil’s Corner Cellar Door
- A calm and casual atmosphere with delicious grazing plates: Richardson’s Bistro & The Bay Restaurant, Freycinet
- For vegan-friendly cuisine specialising in coffee and wood-fired pizza: Geographe Restaurant Espresso Bar, Garnet Ave
Stay
- A luxurious resort staycation: Saffire Freycinet from $1,750/night
- Extravagantly modern cabins: Freycinet Lodge from $289/night
- For boutique accommodation with stunning views: Piermont Retreat from $355/night
Play
- Wineglass Bay: Walk the 2-hour track from Freycinet National Park through The Hazards to a rocky lookout for magnificent views of the bay, then follow the track downhill to the beach – the views are worth it!
- Freycinet Experience Walk: Embark on a 4-day tour of the Freycinet Peninsula, spending your days taking in the stunning coastal views, enjoying freshly prepared Tasmanian produce for dinner, before resting at the sustainably built Friendly Beaches Lodge.
- Freycinet Adventures: Experience Freycinet from the water with the range of award-winning guided sea kayak tours on offer.
