A Wine-Soaked, Nature-Filled Guide to Tasmania

MONA (Museum of Old and New Art): Ride the cheeky “Posh Pit” ferry to this provocative and eccentric art museum just outside Hobart. The collection is bold, bizarre, and worth every moment—plus, the ferry ride itself is a highlight.

Wineglass Bay Cruise: Departing from Freycinet Lodge, this scenic cruise offers incredible views of Tasmania’s wild coastline. Even when the weather shifts the route, the experience is still stunning—think remote beaches, wildlife sightings, and top-tier crew.

Salamanca Market: Held every Saturday in Hobart, this iconic market features local artisans, gourmet food stalls, Tasmanian spirits, and handcrafted treasures. It’s a great place to meet locals and pick up unique souvenirs.

Battery Point Walk: Stroll from Hobart’s harbor up to the historic neighborhood of Battery Point. You’ll pass charming cottages, leafy parks (don’t miss Princes Park), and fantastic viewpoints over the city.

Maria Island Day Trip: Reachable by ferry or scenic flight, this remote island is full of wildlife, beaches, and ancient cliffs. Ideal for a day of light hiking and unplugging from the world.

Tamar Valley Wine Tour (Launceston): Explore one of Australia’s most exciting cool-climate wine regions with a private tour. Stops like Bellebonne, Velo Wines, Tamar Ridge, and Moore’s Hill deliver exceptional Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, sparkling wines, and warm hospitality.

Cataract Gorge: Just minutes from central Launceston, this natural gorge features hiking trails, a suspension bridge, and even a chairlift for those wanting epic views without the climb.

Cradle Mountain: A Tasmanian icon and part of the World Heritage-listed wilderness, Cradle Mountain offers stunning alpine hiking, glacial lakes, and a true immersion in the island’s wild heart.

Fico (Hobart): A European-inspired degustation experience made entirely with local Tasmanian ingredients. I sat next to a Kiwi surgeon and was served by a Jura-born sommelier—an unforgettable, hyper-local meal.

Lucinda Wine Bar (Hobart): No menu, no ego. Just thoughtful pours, standout small plates, and a team that gets what wine lovers want. I was treated to an Anjou Chenin, a Tassie orange, and some stunning anchovy crudités.

Peppina (Hobart): Located in The Tasman Hotel, Peppina serves Italian-inspired fare with a focus on local produce. A popular spot with both travelers and locals—grab a seat at the bar for a front-row view of the action.

Stillwater (Launceston): Elegant but unstuffy, Stillwater has an inventive menu and a dreamy riverside setting. I paired wallaby and abalone with Tasmanian sparkling and Pinot—perfection.

Dier Makr (Hobart): A modern fine-dining experience that combines creativity, seasonality, and a sense of place. Expect thoughtfully plated dishes and one of the best natural wine selections in the state.

Mary Mary (Hobart): A moody, gorgeous speakeasy-style bar inside The Tasman with craft cocktails and an old-world glamor vibe.

Stelo at Pierre’s (Launceston): A hidden gem offering an exquisite tasting menu in an elegant, intimate setting. The wine pairings were spot-on, and the service felt like dining with friends who also happen to be sommeliers.

Agrarian Kitchen (New Norfolk): A sustainable, produce-driven dining experience just outside Hobart. The kind of place where everything is grown, foraged, or thoughtfully sourced.