The Australian island state of Tasmania is a fantastic destination for the adventure-seeker and those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. With a population of about half a million people, there is plenty of space on this large island to get away from it all. Go to Tasmania for your next vacation and you surely won’t be sorry.
Hobart
Hobart is the state capital and also its most populous city. The arts and entertainment in Hobart shouldn’t be missed. From the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery to the street vendors who sell their art at the Salamanca Markets, the culture of creativity is palpable. Be sure to check out the highly regarded Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra and visit the Wrest Point Hotel Casino, the tallest building in the city and Australia’s oldest casino. For sports lovers, you can always find cricket and Australian rules football games in action throughout Hobart!
Port Arthur
Located on the Tasman Peninsula, Port Arthur is the top tourist attraction in Tasmania — and for good reason. A former convict settlement with a dark history that dates back to 1830, the town is known for housing the most vicious criminals from the British and Irish penal systems. Today, the amazing camping grounds and stunning beaches provide a contrast to the museums and historical sites that chronicle the area’s lurid history. If you like the fright, definitely take advantage of the Ghost Night Tours and go see the Isle of the Dead.
Bruny Island
Accessible via a ferry in the southern city of Kettering, Bruny Island is a tourist attraction that is becoming increasingly popular. At South Bruny National Park, you can penguins, cormorants and other wondrous animals. To get a complete view of the island, take a ride on the Bruny Island Cruises. Their vessels can hold more than three dozen passengers and their award-winning eco-cruises are world class. And before you leave Burny Island, be sure to check out the iconic Cape Bruny Lighthouse, which was built more than 170 years ago.
Launceston
The second largest city in Tasmania, Launceston has a number of nearby attractions such as Penny Royal World, Cataract Gorge Liffey Falls. For skiing, head to Mt. Field National Park. Lake Echo is great for both boating and bushwalking. At Trowunna Wildlife Park, you can view some of the most popular inhabitants of the island — koalas, wallabies and, of course, Tasmanian Devils.
Strahan
On Tasmania’s west coast, Strahan is a tiny city (less than 700 people) that offers endless amount of activities — especially for fisherman. Whether you want to venture to fish at the shallow and dangerous area appropriately named Hell’s Gates or at one of the many local rivers, the waters around Strahan are teeming with activity. For something a little different, visit the Round Earth Theatre Company — home of the longest running play in the entire country of Australia.
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