World’s Purest! Recommended Tourist Spots in Hobart, Tasmania

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World’s Purest! Recommended Tourist Spots in Hobart, Tasmania

Often regarded as the landmark of Hobart, Mount Wellington stands at 1,270 meters in elevation. The summit’s viewing platform offers a breathtaking panorama of the Hobart region. The natural environment of Mount Wellington is equally captivating, with a diverse range of plant species visible as you hike upward. Note that even in summer, temperatures near the summit can be cool enough to require a jacket—don’t risk going in just light clothes. With plenty of activities such as hiking and camping available, it’s a great destination for an organized tour.

2. Freycinet National Park “Wineglass Bay”

Located about a two-and-a-half-hour drive northeast of Hobart, Freycinet National Park is one of the most popular nature tourism spots among visitors. The park features Wineglass Bay, a stunning beach on the Freycinet Peninsula where lush forests meet a white sandy shore and an emerald-green ocean.

If your timing is right, you can observe a variety of wildlife up close—including dolphins, whales, penguins, and wallabies. With opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, and even boat fishing, Freycinet National Park offers an all-in-one experience in the great outdoors.

If you’re touring Tasmania, make sure to include a visit to Freycinet National Park.

3. Southwest National Park

As Tasmania’s largest national park, Southwest National Park lies to the west of Hobart, about a two-hour drive away. Part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, this park is a key Australian nature reserve.

Visitors from around the world come to admire the grand scale of nature and the spectacular view of the massive Gordon Dam. Although the high vantage points might not suit those who fear heights, the view from above the dam is invigorating. Be sure to include Southwest National Park in your Tasmania itinerary.

4. Battery Point

Battery Point is one of Australia’s oldest residential districts, lined with historic houses. Located on a gently elevated hill overlooking Hobart’s harbor, it is a charming area where you can feel the history of Hobart. When visiting Battery Point, take a leisurely stroll while admiring the Georgian-style old buildings.

There are also several atmospheric cafes and restaurants nearby—perfect for taking a break. Enjoy the most stylish streetscape in Hobart while savoring delicious food and the unique charm of Tasmania.

5. Salamanca Place

Salamanca Place is one of the most recommended spots when touring Hobart. It is the busiest district on the island, where you can enjoy chic cafes, delicious meals, shopping, live music, and art.

A highlight of Salamanca Place is the Salamanca Arts Centre. Housed in a building originally constructed in the 1830s as a warehouse for imported goods, it has been converted into a complex that now includes galleries, a theater, and dining establishments.

The Georgian-style architecture exudes a subtle historical charm. Don’t miss the chance to shop for souvenirs in this vibrant part of Hobart.

6. MONA Museum

Opened in 2011 and funded by avant-garde art collector billionaire David Walsh, MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) is located on a small island reached by a ferry from Hobart. The ferry ride up the Derwent River takes about 40 minutes.

MONA is known for its unconventional approach to art. The main exhibition floor is underground, with walls painted entirely black, where modern artworks are displayed side by side with ancient Egyptian mummies. This setup challenges visitors’ preconceptions with an experience that stimulates the senses.

The museum’s overarching theme is “sex and death,” so some exhibits may be adult-oriented or even grotesque. For those interested in contemporary art, MONA is a must-visit destination.

7. Bridestow Lavender Farm

Bridestow Lavender Farm on Tasmania Island is the world’s largest lavender field, boasting an area equivalent to 21 Tokyo Domes. During the season, many tourists from around the globe come just to witness the stunning and vividly purple lavender fields in full bloom. Inside the farm, you can also shop for souvenirs—lavender-based products such as soap, jam, and honey make perfect gifts.

The best season for lavender is from December to January. Visiting during this period allows you to fully enjoy the beautifully vibrant lavender fields. Be sure to check it out!

8. Launceston

Launceston is Tasmania’s second-largest city after Hobart. Its harbor area is lined with stylish cafes and restaurants, and you can enjoy the picturesque streetscapes that give the city a charming atmosphere.

Nearby, the Cataract Gorge offers an exciting activity called abseiling, where you descend a sheer cliff using ropes—a thrilling way to take in the natural beauty of the gorge. If you enjoy outdoor adventures, be sure to explore Launceston and its surroundings.

9. Port Arthur Historic Site

Once a British penal colony, Tasmania’s Port Arthur Historic Site allows visitors to glimpse into Australia’s colonial past. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2010, the Port Arthur Historic Site on the Tasman Peninsula once housed as many as 1,100 convicts.

Many of the imposing buildings have lost their roofs, leaving only stone walls. Inside, you can explore the large dining hall and dormitories once used by the convicts, as well as the hospital, crematorium, and even a church built through forced labor. While you can wander around on your own, a guided tour is recommended for deeper insight.

10. House of Anvers Chocolate Factory

The House of Anvers Chocolate Factory is a very famous chocolate factory in Tasmania. Here, you can take a tour of the chocolate-making process and even enjoy some samples. Next door to the factory is a café, where you can relax with a cup of coffee and indulge in freshly made chocolate croissants—a perfect treat and an ideal souvenir. If you’re touring Tasmania, a stop at the House of Anvers Chocolate Factory offers a refreshing break and a chance to shop for sweet gifts.

11. Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park

Tasmania is known for its unique native species. The Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park, located near the town of Port Arthur, is a wildlife park dedicated to the protection and rehabilitation of native animals. Here you can see the endangered Tasmanian devil, along with wallabies, koalas, kookaburras, and cockatoos. Because these rare animals are a major draw for visitors, the park attracts tourists from around the world.

Despite its intimidating name, the Tasmanian devil is an endearing creature well worth a visit.

12. Frogmore Creek

Frogmore Creek is a winery located conveniently close to Hobart Airport. Founded in 1997 by Tony Scheller, the winery practices organic farming methods. At Frogmore Creek, you can relax while enjoying high-quality, delicious wine paired with a meal.

Tourists flock here to admire the vast vineyards set against a backdrop of nature and to savor excellent wines. Whether for lunch or dinner, Frogmore Creek is an ideal spot to experience fine wine, tasty food, and magnificent scenery in Tasmania.

13. Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is a small zoo where injured or vulnerable native animals are cared for. Here you can see iconic Australian wildlife such as koalas, kangaroos, and Tasmanian devils. The sanctuary also offers the chance to feed kangaroos.

Knowledgeable staff provide detailed information about Tasmania’s wildlife and the relationship between humans and nature. A visit to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is both an educational and heartwarming experience that you shouldn’t miss when touring Tasmania.

◎ Summary

Hobart and its surrounding areas on Tasmania, one of the purest islands in the world, are filled with captivating tourist attractions. From Tasmania’s magnificent natural landscapes and historical World Heritage sites to its national parks, each destination is unmissable. Be sure to visit these spots on your tour of Tasmania and experience the island’s unique charm firsthand.

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