Go Tasmania

Located 150 miles south of the eastern coast of Australia is Tasmania. Major cities in Tasmania include Hobart, which is the capital of Tasmania, Devonport and Launceston. Visitors who travel to Tasmania to spend their holidays do so for its raw unspoilt natural resources. Known as 'Island of Inspiration', Tasmania is home to national parks and World Heritage sites among its land of which 37 per cent is devoted to nature preservation.

One draw card that brings crowds for Tasmania holidays is the many events put on throughout the year. One such event is the Sydney to Hobart yacht race. This exciting and challenging race begins each year in Sydney on Boxing Day and ends in Hobart a few days later. At the end of the race, visitors can experience the Taste of Tasmania Food and Wine Festival in Hobart.

Tasmania has abundant natural beauty and a wide range of diverse terrain. This can be experienced firsthand in one of many national parks and wilderness areas found here. Activities range from casual walks, mountain biking and hikes—from beginner to advanced difficulty.

Also available are wild outdoor adventures such as rafting, hang gliding, kayaking and rock climbing. Major destinations include Cataract Gorge, Mole Creek Karst National Park and Hasting Caves among others. Tasmania tourism at these sites has grown in popularity due to the recent interest in eco-tours. Many Tasmania tours are eco-friendly, while traditional tours are also available.

Tasmania is also known for its fine food and wine. On Saturdays in Hobart you can visit the Salamanca Market where vendors display a wide range of freshly grown flowers and produce and handmade crafts. Close to the market is Hobart’s central hub where a large selection of pubs and restaurants serving both locally made wines and beer as well as local and international cuisine can be found.

Hotel options for your Tasmania holiday are wide and include fine hotels and spas and lower cost accommodations suitable for families or those on a budget. Large hotels are found in the cities while in the park and rural areas smaller inns are more prevalent.

Air travel to Tasmania is available from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane on Australia’s major airlines. The Spirit of Tasmania ferry service also operates year round from Port Melbourne. The trip from Melbourne to Devonport on Tasmania’s north coast takes about 10 hours.