From Perth’s Heat to Tasmania’s Cool
A journey from Perth to Tasmania brought a refreshing change from the scorching West Australian summer heat. After a four-hour flight, we touched down in Hobart on a cold and wet Friday evening, a stark contrast to the weather we left behind. The journey that followed took us on an unforgettable anti-clockwise route from Hobart around this beautiful island, each stop offering its unique charm.
Exploring Hobart: Markets and Mountain Views
Our adventure kicked off in Hobart, a city rich in history and culture. We couldn’t miss the famous Salamanca Markets, bustling with life and colour. The stalls offered everything from local crafts to delicious treats, making it a delightful way to spend the morning.
From Hobart, we set our sights on Mount Wellington. Despite the extreme wind, rain, and cold at the summit, the panoramic views of the city and its surroundings were absolutely worth the bracing conditions.
East Coast Wonders: Freycinet and Bicheno
Leaving the city behind, we journeyed to Freycinet National Park, renowned for its stunning coastal scenery. Our overnight stay in Swansea at the charming Freycinet Waters provided a cosy respite before exploring the park’s highlights. The next morning, Bicheno Beach greeted us with its serene beauty—a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and some peaceful reflection.
Driving up the east coast was a pleasure, with respectful drivers and easy navigation. Our destination, Derby, was a haven for mountain biking enthusiasts. Derby was in the mountains, an old mining and mill town. We stayed in a converted schoolroom, adding a touch of nostalgia to our adventure. Ross booked a tour using one of the company’s e-bikes which took him high into the mountains and down some well-kept mountain bike tracks. From Derby, we drove towards the north coast, stopping only for lunch in Devonport.
Into the Wilderness: Cradle Mountain and Strahan
Next, we ventured westwards to Cradle Mountain, where we stayed at the Cradle Mountain Hotel. The area was wonderfully set up for tourism, with plenty of opportunities to explore the rugged landscape. A long walk around the mountains immersed us in Tasmania’s natural beauty.
Continuing our journey, we reached Strahan, a picturesque town on the west coast. En route, we stopped in Zeehan, only to find these towns were smaller than expected, often with just a single shop. Strahan’s historical charm was encapsulated in our stay at Ormiston House, a bed and breakfast with a rich past. A cruise on the Gordon River offered a tranquil way to appreciate the region’s lush rainforests and waterways.
Final Leg: Maydena and Hobart’s Highlights
Our final leg took us eastwards to Maydena, near Russell Falls. The drive was stunning, with beautiful weather enhancing the already breathtaking scenery. We stayed at the Maydena Mountain Chalets, where our chalet overlooked the mountains, creating a peaceful and picturesque retreat. Unfortunately, the winds had closed Russell Falls to visitors, but the beauty of the area more than made up for it.
Back in Hobart, we returned our hire car and enjoyed a sailing trip on the Derwent River. Seeing the city from the water was a memorable experience, offering a new perspective on this vibrant capital. Our Tasmanian journey concluded with a visit to the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), a cultural highlight that showcased impressive art collections and left us in awe of its private owner’s vision.
As we prepared to fly back home, we reflected on our incredible journey. Tasmania had revealed itself as a place of stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality—a true gem worth exploring.
