Escape readers' guide to Tasmania

TRAVELLERS reveal the natural, culinary and cultural delights of Tassie in the autumn in this list compiled by Christina Pfeiffer.

Tasmania

AUTUMN in Tasmania is both a feast for the eyes and a banquet for the tastebuds.

Oaks, elms, birches and native beeches form a rich canvas of red, gold and ochre.

It's a particularly scenic time to explore the island's national parks and the cooler weather will whet your appetite for the Apple Isle's fresh produce and fine wine.

Here are some of our readers' recommendations on what to do, see and taste in Tasmania as the weather cools.

SEE

Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden

The garden is stunning to walk through in autumn, when the lakes, waterfalls and bridges are surrounded by leaves of gold. It's 6km from Burnie and grows rhododendrons from all around the world.

-June

Wall in the Wilderness

If you're driving through the Tasmanian Highlands, make sure you drop in to see the Wall in the Wilderness. It's an amazing piece of work by sculptor Greg Duncan, who is chiselling the history of the area in a giant timber wall. The studio is 2km east of Derwent Bridge in the Tasmanian Highlands.

-Roger

Thrill of the trike

Take a wine-tasting tour of the Coal River Valley with Hobart's Trikemania Adventure Tours. The memorable day trip from Hobart is an exhilarating way to enjoy the scenery. Stop at cellar doors, fruit farms and have lunch at Meadowbank Vineyard.

-Bob and Bev

Derwent Valley Autumn Festival

The Derwent Valley Festival (April 1) in New Norfolk is a fantastic day out for the family. It's on the banks of the Derwent River, where the rowing boats and vintage boats create a picturesque backdrop. And there are lots of local food stalls, bands and performers.

-Lynne

Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain is stunning from late April when the deciduous beech (or fagus) trees turn amber before shedding their leaves. On a sunny day, the region is a photographer's dream destination.

-Steve and Leanne

STAY

The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel
 
For good value and lots of character, you can't go past the Old Woolstore. The hotel rooms and apartments are in a charming old warehouse-style building in a great location, only a 10-minute walk to the Hobart waterfront.

-Steve and Leanne

Stewarts Bay Lodge

Stewarts Bay Lodge is a lovely place to stay when visiting Port Arthur. The self-contained cabins have wonderful views overlooking the bay. It's worth upgrading to a deluxe spa lodge for the spacious layout and high-quality furnishings.

-Julie

Corinna Wilderness Retreat

The cottages at Corinna Wilderness Retreat offer comfortable accommodation at the edge of the World Heritage-listed Tarkine wilderness. They come with queen beds, hot showers, gas fridges, kitchens and gas heating. You're right there among the pademelons, wallabies, ringtail possums and wombats.

-John and Jane

Meredith House and Mews

This B&B in Swansea has wonderfully warm hosts who go out of their way to make your stay memorable. Breakfast is a highlight, with freshly baked muffins, croissants, bacon and eggs and the best baked porridge in Tasmania. You can choose from a range of rooms, including queen and twin bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, a family room and a three-room suite.

-Meg

EAT

Vintage In The Valley

The Vintage In The Valley festival (April 7-8) is a fantastic excuse to sample wine and food on the West Tamar Valley Wine Route. Go from vineyard to vineyard and enjoy local wine, produce and entertainment.

-Di

Sip Coffee Bar

Have lunch on the deck at Sip, which is in Bicheno on Tasmania's east coast and offers homemade gourmet meals, ocean views and local wine. The Russian bulochki spiced bun, served with jam and a dollop of sour cream, is to die for.

-Lynne

Kates Berry Farm
 
When driving along the east coast, don't miss the homemade ice cream at Kates Berry Farm. It's made with real fruit picked from the farm. The jam, waffles and chocolate are also delicious.

-Lynne

Farm Gate Guide

Download a copy of the Farm Gate Guide for a list of where to buy fresh produce direct from the farmers around Tasmania. It also has ideas for activities that can be a lot of fun, such as picking fresh Tasmanian berries.

-Sam

Ethos Eat Drink

Ethos in Hobart has a modern Australian tapas menu with a range of delicious tasting plates and wines to match. It's in a 19th century building that is full of character.

-Andrew

Salamanca Markets

Stock up on local food, jam, fresh bread, fudge and cheese at the Salamanca Markets, which turn 40 this year, on Saturdays. Look for unusual Tasmanian food stalls, such as Ashbolt's Elderflower beverages and Gillespie's Ginger Beer. Open every Saturday, 8am-3pm.

-Glenys

TIPS

Shopping

The MoMa market on the roof of MONA (Museum Of Old and New Art) every Saturday afternoon is the place to purchase local crafts and locally grown, organic and sustainable produce, such as cheese, homemade ice cream and fresh vegetables. Open every Saturday until April 14, 1.30pm-6.30pm.

-Judi

Car racing

Racing fans might consider visiting during Targa Tasmania (April 17-22). The party begins with a street festival in Launceston. The competitors head for Strahan and finish up in Hobart.

-Rod

Touring

If you're planning to visit several attractions, buy a See Tasmania Smartvisit Card. It offers free admission to more than 60 attractions, from galleries to wildlife parks.

-Glenys

Getting there
 
If you're travelling from Victoria, take your car on the Spirit of Tasmania ferry. It connects Melbourne to Devonport. You can save by not paying for a cabin, as there are low-cost recliners for those on a budget.

-Greg

Driving around

Remember to fill up your tank if you are travelling long distances off the main routes, especially if you are driving in remote areas after 6pm. In the northwest, no fuel is available between Marrawah and Zeehan.

-Roger