Roseann Iovine
When it comes to remarkable wildlands and unique adventure destinations, Tasmania is at the top of our list. This state is small but holds so much in terms of vibrant city life, wilderness, and extraordinary species found nowhere else on Earth. With so many places to explore, your itinerary for Tasmania could be never-ending. So, here are our favorite things to do in Tasmania.
1. Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
The wildlife in Tasmania is fragile due to 60 endangered species that can only be found on its islands. So, the opportunity to get up close and personal with these plants and animals while supporting the conservation efforts of Tasmania’s largest 24/7 wildlife service is an absolute honor. The Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary has several experiences, from tours to animal encounters. We suggest the night tour. A 2.5-hour guided tour where you can come across diurnal (daytime) animals as they go to sleep and feed some of the world’s rarest nocturnal (nighttime) creatures.
2. Freycinet National Park
Tasmania is home to 19 national parks, and Freycinet is its oldest. Stretching across the east coast of the main island, you can explore their distinct pink granite peaks (called The Hazards), pristine white sand beaches, blue waters, and the famous Wineglass Bay. Freycinet Park has several experiences within it as well. You can enjoy oyster shucking, go kayaking, sip on some regional wine, take a helicopter tour, and so much more. Travelers can spend their entire trip just exploring this park. But we have more tips for you.
3. Maria Island Nature Walk or One-Day Tour
Australia has some of the most stunning walking trails in the entire world. Twelve of these are part of a collection of Australia’s best, called the Great Walks of Australia—the Maria Island Walk is one of them. These walks are meant to be explorative but relaxing, with the opportunity to see Tasmania’s rare flora and fauna, swim in crystal clear waters, and even collect its rare shells lining the beaches. You can choose to traverse this trail on a multi-day journey where you will be met with gourmet meals and local wines at your campsites. Or, if a multi-day tour does not fit your itinerary, we can work with you to embark on a one-day walk that will become one of your favorite trekking memories
4. Visit Cradle Mountain
The Tasmanian World Wilderness Heritage Area, or TWWHA, is a 3.7 million-acre nature preserve. It is one of two places on earth that meets seven out of ten criteria to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within that protected area is Cradle Mountain. Cradle Mountain is an ancient rainforest with almost juxtaposed snowy mountain peaks, glacial lakes, and rolling hills. A visit to Cradle Mountain will give you the opportunity to see wild Tasmanian Devils, quolls, wombats, and more of Australia’s incredible animals on land, in the water, and in the air.
5. Spend Time Exploring Hobart
While the nature of Tasmania is nothing short of astounding, you will find lots to do in the capital city of Hobart. This beautiful coastal town is home to great food, wine, and whisky—perfect for culinary adventurers who want to immerse themselves in the local cuisine. In addition, Hobart has a vibrant art scene. From the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)—a controversial museum that tackles the topics of death and sex and frequently hosts live performances—to Art Mob and the Van Diemen’s Land Memorial Folk Museum (NARRYNA)—there is much more of the arts to discover. Mona also has their own winery – Moorilla – so save time for some tasting after the museum.
6. Visit Saffire Lodge Freycinet
This lodge seems to always make our must-stay list. Saffire Lodge in Freycinet is one place we suggest our clients consider the splurge. It is well worth the cost if you can make it happen. This all-inclusive resort is nestled in the Freycinet National Park (See: Number 2), where you can set off on an exploration of one of many walking trails. And, while we wouldn’t blame you if you were tempted to bask in the luxurious spa and accommodations at the hotel for your entire stay, you would be remiss to miss one of their one-hour to full-day excursions. Roseann experienced one of the top excursions—the Freycinet Oyster Farm tour. Our team can help you book experiences that match your interests and travel style. Saffire Freycinet has been voted World’s Best Luxury Hotel, World’s Best Boutique Hotel, and Best Luxury Hotel in Australia by Trip Advisor, and to us, it has earned every single one of those accolades.If you are hoping to explore Tasmania, embark on an expedition to Australia’s mainland, spend time in its cities, or journey to any of the other states, we are here to support you. Contact our team to see how our experts can help you design your dream trip.