What You Can’t Miss on a Trip to Hobart
This leg of The Local Trail in Tasmania offers 2 options for travelling from Launceston to Hobart. If you’re strapped for time or just want to hit the road, feel free to skip the scenic route and head down the guts on the 2.5 hour journey from Launceston to Hobart. But where’s the fun in that?
Day 1
First stop: Cataract Gorge in Launceston. One look at this magnificent section of the Tamar River and you’ll immediately feel dwarfed. Do it like the locals, and go for a stroll on one of the paths that takes you along the river. You could even hop on a cruise along the river to get a different perspective of the natural beauty above. Whatever your vantage point, this place is pretty gorgeous (hah, get it?).
Take the Scenic Route
Wineglass Bay, Freycinet National Park TAS
From Launceston, it’s about a 2 hour drive to Bicheno, a cute coastal town perfect to stretch your legs and soak up the sweet salty air. On your way in, be sure to check out the East Coast Natureworld wildlife sanctuary and say g’day to some furry friends.
Next stop: Freycinet National Park. It’s less than an hour’s drive to the Freycinet Peninsula where you’ll be greeted by hiking trails and some of the most pristine coastline Australia has to offer. The sand is squeaky white silica and the water crystal clear. You can opt for a challenging hike to the top of Mount Amos for spectacular views of Wineglass Bay, or go for a cruisy stroll along the beach. There are moderate trails in between if you’d like a small challenge without too much commitment.
Home Sweet Hobart
Salamanca Market, Hobart TAS
After taking in the natural beauty of Freycinet and Wineglass Bay, hit the road for the last stretch of road for the day. The 2 hour drive to Hobart is perfect to build up your appetite for yet another delicious pub meal at your Nightcap Hotel for the night.
Check in at Nightcap at Carlyle Hotel, located just outside the city centre of Hobart. With classic pub grub made from fresh, local ingredients, you won’t have to travel far to have a scrumptious meal. Pair it with a glass of Tasmanian wine or beer to reward yourself after the big day of exploring you’ve had. Once you’ve called it a night, you’ll be only steps away from another tranquil sleep.
Day 2
Mt Wellington, Hobart TAS
We’re pretty sure you’ll sleep like a log, which is why we’re giving you a second night in Hobart. After a few days of food, wine and nature it’s time to see what the city life is all about. A stay in Hobart wouldn’t be complete without a trip to MONA, Salamanca Markets, Salamanca Arts Centre, Battery Point, Mount Wellington and the Royal Botanical Gardens. Tuck into a beer tasting at the Cascade Brewery, or delve into one of Tassie’s best kept secrets: whiskey. Lark Distillery is in the city centre, so be sure to sample the treasures they’re concocting right in the heart of it all. Enjoy a day trip to Bruny Island for a culinary treat, or to Port Arthur to dive into the rich history in the area.
Top it off with Nightcap!
Honestly, with all there is to see and do in Hobart, you should probably stay an extra night or 2. But, hey, this is your trip at your pace so do what feels right! No matter how long you stay, be sure to end each night with a pot and a parma (or a steak and glass of red, the choice is yours) at the Carlyle Hotel, just metres from your Nightcap Hotel room.
