Australia immediately conjures images of the Sydney Opera House, the Great Barrier Reef, big-wave surfing, miles of Outback and a rather strange, and endearing, assortment of animals. While the country’s main cities offer charm, glamour, unique festivals, a well-preserved historical heritage, fabulous beaches and fun events, it’s also a land of immense contrast and captivating nature. The nation offers something for just about everyone – from water lovers, desert wanderers and canyon climbers, to arts and culture buffs, historians, and foodies. The country’s vast size makes it almost impossible to take it all in during a single visit, but you can pick and choose a perfect holiday according to your personal preferences.
First settled in the early 1900s, Tasmania’s capital city has seen a healthy boom in tourism in recent years. Today Hobart combines the charm of old with a trendy, modern edge, and attractions like Salamanca Place – an old waterfront warehouse district that now hosts swanky restaurants, galleries and cafes – define its contemporary status. Art, culture and fine dining are plentiful in town, while nature and wildlife abound in the outlying areas. Venture out to nearby Mount Wellington for hiking and mountain biking trails with spectacular views.
Resting on the banks of the Derwent River in south-east Tasmania, about 32 kilometres north-west of Hobart, New Norfolk is known for its exquisite scenery, rich history, and wonderful hops. With river, valley and mountain views, the town is a paradise for both photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. Make sure to walk to the Pulpit Rock Lookout to take in some superb vistas. As the third-oldest settlement in Tasmania, an abundance of heritage attractions is scattered throughout the town. Highlights include one of the oldest pubs in the country, the oldest Anglican church in the country (St. Matthew’s), and plenty of interesting estates (make sure to visit the heritage-listed Woodbridge Estate, dating from 1825, and now functioning as a hotel and restaurant). The area is particularly productive in hops production - spend a day beer tasting at some of the breweries nearby.
The small seaside town of Coles Bay is located on the east coast of the island of Tasmania. A friendly and well-serviced place, Coles Bay is primarily known for the access it provides to the Freycinet National Park, one of Australia’s most astoundingly beautiful natural areas. From the pink-tinged granite peaks of the Hazards, to Wineglass Bay - consistently voted one of the world’s most photogenic beaches - and the remote Friendly Beaches lying to the north of Coles Bay, the magnificent beaches of the Freycinet National Park should feature on any Tasmanian travel itinerary. As well as relaxing on its tranquil beaches, visitors can look forward to enjoying a range of hiking, bushwalking, diving, snorkelling and cycling opportunities, all of which are easily accessible from Coles Bay.
