Tassie, Australia’s endearing nickname for its kid brother, is combination tumbling tot and precocious teen. Weigh in on the island’s shadow of crude mountains cradling a newly artsy metropolis of yet to be jaded bon vivants. This is an unspoiled locale at its most confusingly hip. Romance runs not far behind the cool- wine and cheese platters going hand in hand with a slick pub-crawl soundtrack. So munch, slurp and be married in the up-and-comer of beauteous Australian offshoots.
the romance
Lovers of gourmet chow and nature’s nectar can be urged over to Freycinet, easily. The beaches, composed of white-sand just itching to sully your upscale seafood picnic, are no strangers to the world’s top ten list. A hike through the wildlife and up to the lookout above Wineglass bay is just winding and exploratory enough to keep an insatiable appetite running strong.
the scenery
Your everyday pristine white beaches have nothing of the Bay of Fires, teaming up prototypal paradisiacal features with fiery lichen coated granite rocks and a profuse wildlife. Ben Lomond National Park makes the best of both seasons providing skiers with crystal peeks and boasting dolerite columns budding with wildflowers, moorlands and thickset forests. Tasmania seems to station its very own four corners of the world, with quaint countryside-contending lakes and jungle-rivaling fern forests making the island a thing of multi-faceted beauty. It’s almost dizzying.
the adventure
Bushwalk on through Tasmania’s World Heritage wilderness, sprouting with determination and density from the harbor-side village we call Strahan. Be one with the waters and take a coddled cruise or ruckus kayak ride up the Gordon River. Jet boating up the King River may not leave room for much beauty gazing, but it will leave a sweeping allowance for carefree thrill.
If you’re having a tough time parting with Strahan, stick around, and travel back in time on the West Coast Wilderness Railway. A five-hour train ride from the port to the mining town of Queenstown may sound like an elementary school field trip gone awry, but a five hour cuddle-session slash unique history lesson is an adventure just cozy enough to work.
the secrets
Those enthused by nature hikes and platypi-spotting will love the conspicuously named Beauty Point. Kangaroos, peacocks, wombats and the elusive black swan are the island’s true residents, so be respectful, admiring from afar and paying special heed to Tasmanian Devil Crossing signs. Bruny Island is the place to indulge in food and more food, as the local shops vend homespun cheese, fudge and seafood. Picnic along the coast to enjoy the company of sunbathing seals.
the attractions
First-timers will be taken aback by Tasmania’s two major cities, Hobart and Lauceston. The former is buzzing with busy, friendly locals, a historic outdoor market called Salamanca, top-notch restaurants and lively summer festivals. The latter has scenery and vibrancy in the palm of its hand, with lovely gardens, inspiring architecture and rousing art abounding.
before you go
What to Expect
Spring: March – May are sunny and cool months.
Summer: June – August is Tasmania’s winter (about 8°C/45°F), often with light snow.
Fall: September – November are calm, sunny and colorful months
Winter: December – February are the warmest months (20°C/73°F). This is peak season.
Clothing
Informal and relaxed. Bring a (rain) jacket.
Currency
Austalian dollar (AUD)
The Lingo
English
Documents
A valid passport and a tourist visa
Local Delicacies
Wild abalone: a type of shellfish.
Leatherwood honey: a rich, creamy variety of honey.
