Things to do in Tasmania for an Epic Weekend Getaway
This list of things to do in Tasmania compiled by our friends at Sitchu is mind-blowing. When you’re short on time in Tassie and want to pack a whole lot in, start with these amazing experiences.
Tasmania has once again been thrust into the spotlight, and this time, it’s all for the right reasons. A holiday destination that has captured the imagination of Aussie’s and those who hail from further afield. From cultural experiences to a natural wonderland that feels other-worldly, it’s all too easy to fall in love with this small island.
Here, history runs deep. From the Palawa (Tasmanian Aboriginal) culture to its penal colony days, you can feel the island’s heritage through its every fibre. Whether you go it alone or jump onto a bespoke tour, your adventures will take you to remote regions, unhurried towns, and wilderness that will literally leave you breathless.
Tasmania is a place where you want to stop and stay awhile, but when you’re short on time, our edit of things to do in Tasmania is a taste for what’s on offer.
wukalina Walk is a one-of-a-kind experience in North East Tasmania. Discover the Palawa (Tasmanian Aboriginal) culture first-hand in this three-night, four-day guided walk through larapuna (Bay of Fires) and wukalina (Mt William), the cultural homeland of the Palawa. The Palawa guides will take you on a journey in the footsteps of their traditional people, hear creation stories, participate in cultural practices, and sleep in Palawa inspired domed huts.
Launceston
MONA – Museum of Old and New Art
Immerse yourself in the world of art at MONA – an eclectic museum that plays on all the senses. Just north of Hobart, MONA’s ever-evolving collection and exhibition is a haven for art buffs. Yet, that’s not all MONA does well. It’s also a foodie hotspot – The Source Restaurant is a must, and the Void Bar is an experience in itself. And if you want to make a night of it, book a stay in at the Mona Pavilions located on the River Derwent.
655 Main Road, Berriedale
At Derwent Bridge in Tasmania’s Central Highlands, artist Greg Duncan carved the history of the highlands into a three-metre-high and 100-metre long Huon Pine sculpture. Taking over a decade to complete, the realism of the people depicts the hardship and perseverance of settlement. Take a self-guided tour, and book ahead to avoid missing out.
15352 Lyell Highway, Derwent Bridge
Strap on your hiking boots because there is so much to explore in this natural wonder. Located in the northern end of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Cradle Mountain is the poster child of Tasmania’s hiking trails. Glacial lakes, ancient rainforests and alpine vegetation are just some of what you will discover. Stroll the short 20-minute trails or hike the world-famous six-day Overland Track – you will be in awe of the beauty of this national park.
Every Saturday, in the historic Salamanca Place next to Hobart’s waterfront, 200 stalls pop-up for the day to showcase Tasmania’s finest (and freshest) farm-gate produce and handcrafted cheese, bread, wines and spirits. And while sampling all the delicious goodness, you will fall in love with Tasmanian craftsmanship – timber, ceramics, leather, glass, and bespoke jewellery.
Salamanca Place, Hobart
Imagine this. Great Oyster Bay with Freycinet National Park and three pink-granite peaks of the Hazard mountain as the backdrop. Freycinet National Park is one good-looking spot to explore Tasmania’s wilderness. Located on Tasmania’s East Coast, walk to secluded bays, pristine beaches and the Insta-famous Wineglass Bay. Our advice? Come at sunrise or sunset for a truly magical view of the Hazards – a must when it comes to things to do in Tasmania.
Coles Bay Road, Coles Bay
At the southern end of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is a pristine lake that’s the deepest in Australia. There’s a 250-metre pier that juts out over the water and Pumphouse sits proudly at the end. The 18-room adults-only hotel is the definition of industrial-chic: it’s imposing on the outside, yet cosy and luxurious inside, with floor-to-ceiling windows to soak up the incredible lake views.
From $560 per night
1 Lake St Clair Road, Lake St Clair
On the north-west coast of Tasmania, Ship Inn Stanley is a sophisticated stay with a storytelling style. Sitting at the base of The Nut Reserve and overlooking a dramatic coastline, Ship Inn is one of Stanley’s most iconic buildings that has been given a lavish makeover. Each suite tells the story of a local character or place, using historical artefacts, original artwork, bespoke furnishings resulting in a vintage meets modern vibe.
From $250 per night
16 Alexander Terrace, Stanley
Just footsteps away from the water, Captains Rest’s secluded cabin awaits. A four-hour drive from Hobart on the West Coast of Tasmania, Captain’s Rest is set within the sleepy fishing village of Strahan (the scenic route is a journey of its own) and is treasured for its fanciful surrounds. This adults-only retreat with ocean view Georgian windows and stylish, eclectic décor, tells a thousand stories.
From $536 per night
Lettes Bay Historical Village, Strahan
This list is only a small glimpse of all the things to do in Tasmania. If you’re looking for more ideas, head straight to Sitchu for travel inspo.