Tasmania Explorer

Spend a couple of days in the shadow of photogenic kunayani/Mount Wellington in Tasmania’s state capital Hobart, a small, yet perfectly formed city. Explore the pretty harbour, with its heritage Georgian architecture, plus a wealth of museums and art galleries at Salamanca Place, then head up the mountain itself for panoramic views over the town and ocean beyond. Hobart throws a number of food and wine festivals and cultural events, as well as the annual Sydney to Hobart Yacht race that celebrates through New Year's Eve, so if you’re in town at the time, be sure to head on down and join the party.

Accommodation at 4* ibis Styles Hobart

Pronounced ‘straw-n’, Strahan is found on Tasmania’s west coast, an isolated region of rainforests and crashing waves. A former penal colony, it’s now an impossibly pretty town, with cute cottages and charming gift shops boasting handmade items by local craftsmen created from rare timbers like Huon pine, sassafras and myrtle. Why not experience the region’s wild side too on a Gordon River cruise, gliding past vast forests and World Heritage Convict Site landmarks like Hells Gates and Sarah Island. Just outside town, the 25-mile-long Ocean Beach is backed by towering dunes and overlooked by the Cape Sorrell Lighthouse, constructed in 1899.

Accommodation at 4* Strahan Village

Admire the dramatic views in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Filled with lakes and mountains, this World Heritage-listed park is best explored on foot. Perhaps take a walk around Dove Lake, with the towering peak of magnificent Cradle Mountain reflected in its cool waters, or explore 650-foot-deep Lake St Clair, Australia’s deepest lake. The plunging waters of Pencil Pine Falls are also worth a look, as is the cosy Waldheim Chalet museum, built by Gustav Weindorfer, the man who campaigned to have this stunning area declared a national park.

Accommodation at 3* Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain

Arrive in Launceston, a vibrant riverside city packed with charm, cool cafes and striking Victorian buildings. Stroll through the lush Cataract Gorge, where peacocks roam and chairlifts glide above the cliffs.

Accommodation at 4* Best Western Plus Launceston

Gaze over the unspoiled turquoise waters and pure white sands of Freycinet National Park, overlooked by the pink granite façade and rugged beauty of the Hazards. Here a variety of activities are offered, from guided bushwalks, to cycling and bird watching. Board your boat and head out along the shoreline of the celebrated Wineglass Bay, blessed with a perfect curve of white sand and frequently named one of the best beaches in the world – and keep an eye out for dolphins and fur seals.

Accommodation at 4* Freycinet Lodge

Enjoy a final two nights in Tasmania’s lively capital, where heritage streets meet a buzzing arts scene. Shop Salamanca Market or head up Mount Wellington for epic views over the city and sea.

Accommodation at 4* ibis Styles Hobart