The enduring magic of Hobart

If you’re a nature lover, art aficionado, or beer buff looking to test the taps at Oz’s oldest brewery, Hobart has something for everyone.

Overlooking magical Hobart, Tasmania.

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Hobart might be the least populated state capital in Australia, but it’s absolutely packed with things to do. Whether you’re a nature lover, food fanatic, art aficionado, or beer buff looking to test the taps at Australia’s oldest brewery, Hobart has something for everyone. 

In a recent poll conducted by YouGov, 52% of Aussie’s said that when it comes to choosing their next domestic break, we’re more likely to be seeking something novel, something new and different. And Hobart has ‘new and different’ all locked up. From fresh farmers markets to world renowned art galleries to some of the best restaurants in the biz, there’s plenty to see and even more to eat in the ‘bright spirit’ of Tasmania. 

Take a hike to the top of the mesmerising Kunanyi/Mount Wellington, paddle around the waterfront on a kayak, or just wander the historically rich cobblestone streets of the city for a trip back in time. All this and more awaits you on your next trip to Hobart. Just pack your tastebuds, (and facemask and hand sanitizer) and go!

Spectacular views from the top of Mount Wellington, Hobart, Tasmania.

Take a hike

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Tassie’s natural beauty, make your first port of call the pinnacle of Kunanyi/Mount Wellington. In 2013, the government announced a dual naming policy so the Aboriginal name for this stunning backdrop to the city would be recognised once more. 

Once you hike to the top of the 1,270m majestic mountain, you’re met with spectacular sweeping views of Hobart from your vantage point in the clouds. After conquering the summit, be sure to explore the tracks and trails woven through Wellington Park to discover some genuinely enchanting pockets of nature.

Getting around town

With the YouGov poll also reporting that Holidaying in main cities appeals to almost nine in ten (87%) Aussies because everything being close and easy to get to, there’s the availability of major tourist attractions and a diverse range of food options, compact yet diverse Hobart is neatly fits the bill. 

A city steeped in both creativity and history, the best way to learn all about it is by exploring it on foot. There are several awesome self-guided tours you can take, each dotted with heritage listed buildings and bountiful gardens. 

Battery Point Heritage Walk explores the 30 acres of land Reverend Robert Knopwood was granted in 1805 and built both his famous cottage and garden on, while Sullivans Cove Podwalk - your very own free audio guide - passes the City Flour Mill and Parliament House. Just download the audio file and open it in any compatible music player, like iTunes.

If viewing the cityscape from street level seems a passé, take to the waterfront to experience the sights and scenes of downtown Hobart on a kayak.

The city lights dazzle during Dark Mofo, Hobart, Tasmania.

No place like MONA

Speaking of water transport, perhaps there’s no wackier way to arrive at your destination than by way of a camo-painted ferry with sheep and tiger sculptures that double as seats. But that’s the least whimsical part of embarking on an adventure to The Museum of Old and New Art, know to all as  MONA. 

Led by resident eccentric and Australian icon David Walsh, MONA is the largest privately-owned museum in Australia, and visiting this cultural attraction is a must. So too is attending its midwinter festival, the aptly named Dark Mofo, which is excitingly being welcomed back this June. 

Even if you’ve visited before MONA’s collection is always evolving and never boring,with bars dotted throughout the spiralling maze of masterpieces to make the experience even more enjoyable. Pro tip: try the activated charcoal margarita cocktail at Faro, the flawlessly designed bar in the Pharos wing. Don’t want to leave? You don’t have to; stay at The Mona Pavilions for an ultra-luxe experience.

Freshly shucked oysters, a foodie must, Hobart, Tasmania.

Foodie Heaven

All this and we haven’t even dipped our tasting spoon into Hobart’s food scene. A foodie’s paradise, Hobart houses some of the most acclaimed restaurants in the country, including Dier Makr, Fico, Templo, and Peacock and Jones. At Dier Makr, the incredibly innovative menu revolves around locally sourced produce, while at Fico, classic Italian dishes are turned on their head. 

For a slightly more casual affair, Templo offers delicious modern food in a neighbourly setting—the restaurant is literally situated on the corner of a quiet residential street, adding to its charm. Then, of course, there’s the seafood on offer. Almost every menu features fresh oysters, with the fine food floating restaurant, ALØFT, scoring top marks for the perfect shucking surrounds. If you’ve somehow left room in your stomach for breakfast by morning, Macquarie Street’s much-loved Ginger Brown café and its cinnamon hotcakes await.

Bottoms up

Just as there’s no shortage of food options, there are bottomless bar choices too. At the top of the list is Australia’s oldest operating brewery, Cascade Brewery, founded in 1842. If spirits are more your sport, rum bar Rude Boy is a must visit for the best Caribbean inspired cocktails this side of…well, the Caribbean. 

Meanwhile, over at Bar Wa Izakaya, Japanese whisky is at the ready—but be warned, don’t come here with alternate dinner plans. It’s also worth noting that just 20-minutes’ drive outside of Hobart is the Coal River Valley, one of Tasmania’s major wine-producing areas. When it comes to sips, Hobart truly has you spoiled for choice.

Salamanca Market is a must-see destination, Hobart, Tasmania.

Weekend wanders

On Saturdays, Hobart hosts one of the biggest and best artisan markets in the country, Salamanca Market. Sandwiched between Salamanca Place and the waterfront, you’ll find delicious food vendors (never, ever refuse a sample), stunning fresh floral arrangements, new and vintage clothing, hand-made ceramics, and everything in-between. 

If you’re serious about food and where it comes from, head to The Farm Gate markets on Sundays, where only local produce growers and producers are permitted to have a stall. Here, the same rule applies when it comes to samples—always say yes!

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