David Bowden discovers the natural beauty of Australia's most southern state.
If you prefer nature over nightclubs then Australia's island state is arguably one of the best travel destinations for a thrilling outdoor adventure, in one of the world's remotest places. Perfect for a self-drive family holiday or a romantic retreat, the island is about as far south as it's possible to travel anywhere in the world - there's nothing but the chilly expanse of the Southern Ocean and the Antarctic landmass beyond.
A picturesque island covered in ancient forests and fertile farmlands, Tasmania's natural resources are so important to the economy that some 30 percent of the land is protected. Green and clean Tasmania is typified by Dove Lake in Cradle Mountain, Lake St Clair National Park. Many of Tasmania's other lakes, forests and rivers are designated UNESCO world heritage sites or national parks, attracting thousands of tourists each year. Visitors come to walk in the cool mountain air, view abundant wildlife or to camp out and take part in the range of adventure activities Tasmania offers.
It's true that the island state's 500,000 residents do things a little more slowly than on the mainland, but if you're really looking to kick back and relax then this is just the place to go.
Hobart - the gateway
Situated on the Derwent River, Tasmania's capital resembles an oversized country town. The waterfront is at its historic heart. And although it's been developed, character has been retained by restoration of many of the city's original buildings.
Hobart's central location also makes it a good choice for accommodation with the Henry Jones Art Hotel (www.thehenryjones.com) offering superb harbour views. Once a jam factory, no two rooms are alike at this stylish property featuring contemporary works by local artists. Incorporated into the existing framework of this once derelict building, rooms are so impressive the Henry Jones was named one of the world's hottest new hotels by Conde Nast Traveller.
Hobart's fishing fleet and a flotilla of charter vessels and yachts can be found at the hotel's doorstep. And several worthy restaurants are located within metres, Fish Frenzy (Tel: + 61 3 6231 2134) is a simple option, but this fish and chip shop has an extensive selection of delicious fresh seafood.
Nearby, the Salamanca dockside is best visited on a Saturday when market stalls offer local produce and hand-crafted souvenirs. Musicians entertain while visitors drift around adjoining Battery Point to see old homes which have been lovingly restored.
A short drive from Hobart is the historic village of Richmond. Old shops offer antiques and unique souvenirs while small restaurants and cafés serve delicious creamed teas with locally-grown raspberries. One of the attractions is an old stone bridge; Australia's oldest. Stay at the Millhouse On The Bridge (www.millhouse.com.au) with its gracious gardens and bridge views.
Land of Wine and Food
Tasman wines have boomed over the past decade as more people discover the island's cool climate is perfect for varieties such as sauvignon blanc and pinot noir. Many of the large Australian wine producers are sourcing Tasmanian grapes to make sparkling wines and labels such as Jansz (www.jansz.com.au) and Clover Hill (www.cloverhillwinery.com) are putting Tasmania on the world wine map. Wineries located around Hobart include Moorilla Estate (http://www.moorilla.com.au/), Home Hill (http://www.homehillwines.com.au/), Frogmore Creek (Email: morefrogs@bigpond.com) and Craigow (www.craigow.com.au).
Superb restaurants are attached to Moorilla Estate and Home Hill, with the art collection and accommodation at Moorilla making it an attraction option.
Along with the wines, foodies will find Tasmania's pure environment perfect for growing delicious world-class food products developed by creative artisans. The waters off Tasmania are some of the worlds cleanest, so the salmon, trout, scallops, crayfish and crabs are the freshest possible. Drop by Barilla Bay near Hobart for freshly shucked oysters.
Two other stops for food connoisseurs are the Tasmania Honey Company (tashoney@microtech.com.au) - their leatherwood honey is possibly the world's finest unrefined honey - and Tasmanian Gourmet Sauces (http://www.gourmetsauce.com.au/), renowned for using locally-grown raspberries and boysenberries.
Peppermint Bay at Woodbridge (www.peppermintbay.com.au) to the south of Hobart is attracting visitors who appreciate fine food, excellent wines and local produce served in a million-dollar location overlooking North Bruny Island. Dine in the modern restaurant or in the landscaped gardens shaded by a towering oak tree. Nearby, Fleurtys Café (Tel: + 61 3 6267 4078) is surrounded by mature forests and gardens growing a variety of flowers used to extract essential oils. The café sells one of Tasmania's unique condiments; native pepper with a potency greater than black pepper.
Launceston and the Tamar Valley
Launceston and the Tamar Valley is the focus for life's finer things in northern Tasmania. This beautiful riverside city has several fine hotels, restaurants and vineyards and is also a good entry or exit point for air travellers.
Peppers Seaport Hotel (www.peppers.com.au/seaport) is the most contemporary hotel in Launceston and ideally located, overlooking a small marina on the Tamar River. Try Stillwater Restaurant (Tel: + 61 3 6331 4153), situated within an old granary just walking distance of Peppers. The food is wonderful, the wine list comprehensive and there's a good produce and book shop. Just out of town, Rosevears Estate (www.rosevearsestate.com.au) offers great wines, creative lunches and smart accommodation amongst grape vines. Just below Rosevears is one of Tasmania's most famous vineyards, Piper's Brook (http://www.pipersbrook.com/) and Daniel Alps at Strathlynn (Tel: + 61 3 6330 2388) has become legendary for it's modern Australian cuisine.
Just outside of Launceston in Perth, close to the airport, is The Stone House (http://www.thestonehouse.com.au/), a stunning sandstone property classified as heritage by the National Trust. This self-contained residence was built in 1825 and has been lovingly restored. Surrounded by a beautiful English garden with a swimming pool, the property's eight double bedrooms provide fantastic group accommodation, children above 13 years of age are welcome.
On the way to Cradle Mountain couples who appreciate fine wines and food should check into Calstock House (www.calstock.net) at Deloraine. Here French couple Ginette and Remi Baneal have established a refined country retreat offering superb meals and a world-class wine list.
Just for kids
To see children enjoying the natural elements of Tasmanian life such as rolling in lush green grass, is a joy for all parents. See their smiles as they discover the animals and history of a real working farm at Brickendon Farm (www.brickendon.com.au) in Longford, south of Launceston. Stay in comfortable self-contained cottages while the kids acquaint themselves with farm life.
The Enchanted Forest Interpretation Trail through ancient beech forests at Cradle Mountain or enjoy the various forest walks around Lemonthyme Lodge (www.lemonthyme.com.au).
Fly to Melbourne and transfer to either Hobart or Launceston with budget carrier Jetstar Airways (www.jetstar.com).
DON'T FORGET
Tasmania is much cooler than Asia due to its temperate climate. Take along some warmer clothing for walking and exploring the national parks in comfort.
Renting a car is the best option to enable mobility. Driving is easy as there are few cars on the road, car rental companies have offices at all gateway airports and in major towns.
Visit www.discovertasmania.com to check out all that Tourism Tasmania has to offer.
Posted Jan 06
