Mountain highs, wildlife, convict history and fine food by the Derwent
Now that the new Spirit of Tasmania ferries are crossing Bass Strait with greater comfort, convenience and local flavour, there’s never been a better time for that road trip round the island state. Be sure to linger in Hobart, the little capital city that punches above its weight, especially during summer’s Taste of Tasmania and Australian Wooden Boat Festival, and winter’s wild Dark Mofo.
Mountain Highs
Hobart is nestled at the foot of 1,271-metre-high kunanyi/Mount Wellington, which is both a magnificent backdrop and handy playground for mountain bikers, horse riders, abseilers, rock climbers and bushwalkers. There’s a sealed road to the summit – and the charming Lost Freight shipping container kiosk along the way – so exploring Wellington Park’s 18,000 forested hectares is a leisurely drive up for epic vistas, plus snow play in winter. Go deeper on trails including the 20-minute return walk from Pinnacle carpark to Zig Zag lookout or the three-hour Organ Pipes circuit; it’s one of Tasmania/lutruwita’s 60 Great Short Walks. For a more genteel ramble in nature, from Lily Pond to the flower-filled Conservatory, head to the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens.
