· AU

Tasmania

Tasmania, Australia

Discover Tasmania: Australia's Island Jewel Escape the ordinary and embark on an unforgettable adventure to Tasmania, a land sculpted by ancient forces and teeming with untamed beauty. Situated south of mainland Australi…

#Island#Nature#Wildlife#Tasmanian Devil#Outdoor Activities

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Stay & fly Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Tasmania.

Top Hotels in Tasmania

Top Flights to Tasmania

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Tasmania.

Currency

$ | AUD | Australian Dollar

Population

0.6 million

Languages

English, English

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Tasmania.

What people love

Traveling to Tasmania, Australia, offers a unique and diverse range of experiences for visitors. Here are some pros of traveling to Tasmania:

Stunning Natural Landscapes: Tasmania is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, including rugged coastlines, pristine beaches, ancient forests, and majestic mountains. Visitors can explore national parks such as Freycinet, Cradle Mountain, and Mount Field to witness the diverse flora and fauna unique to the island.
Outdoor Adventure Activities: Tasmania is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. Visitors can embark on multi-day hiking adventures along the iconic Overland Track or explore the world-class diving sites along the coast.
Rich Cultural Heritage: Tasmania has a rich cultural heritage, with a history that dates back thousands of years. Visitors can learn about the island's Aboriginal history, colonial past, and vibrant arts scene by visiting museums, galleries, and historic sites such as Port Arthur and MONA (Museum of Old and New Art).
Culinary Delights: Tasmania is a foodie's paradise, known for its fresh local produce, gourmet food and wine scene, and thriving farm-to-table culture. Visitors can sample delicious seafood, cheeses, wines, and artisanal products at local markets, restaurants, and wineries across the island.
Quaint Towns and Villages: Tasmania is dotted with charming towns and villages that offer a glimpse into the island's laid-back lifestyle and friendly community. Visitors can wander through historic streets, browse local shops and galleries, and savor the relaxed atmosphere of places like Hobart, Launceston, and Richmond.

Overall, traveling to Tasmania offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, culinary delights, and charming towns, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a unique and memorable holiday experience.

What to know

Traveling to Tasmania, Australia does not have many cons, but there are a few things to consider:

Isolation: Tasmania is a relatively isolated island, so travel to and from the island can be more expensive and time-consuming compared to other destinations in Australia.
Weather: Tasmania has a reputation for unpredictable weather, with rapid changes in temperature and conditions. It's important to pack appropriate clothing for all weather scenarios.
Limited Public Transport: While Tasmania does have public transport options, they are not as extensive as in major cities on the mainland. Renting a car may be necessary to explore the island fully.
Wildlife Hazards: Tasmania is known for its unique and diverse wildlife, including animals like snakes, spiders, and the Tasmanian Devil. Visitors should take precautions and be aware of potential wildlife encounters.
Limited Mobile Reception: In more remote areas of Tasmania, mobile phone reception can be limited. It's a good idea to plan ahead and have a physical map or GPS device for navigation.

Overall, these cons are relatively minor compared to the many attractions and experiences Tasmania has to offer. With proper planning and preparation, travelers can have a wonderful time exploring this beautiful island.

Tasmania, an island state located to the south of the Australian mainland, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The indigenous people of Tasmania, known as the Tasmanian Aborigines, are believed to have inhabited the island for over 30,000 years before the arrival of European explorers.

In 1642, the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman became the first European to sight Tasmania. However, it was not until 1772 that the island was visited by the British navigator Tobias Furneaux. In 1803, the British established the first European settlement in Tasmania at Risdon Cove, near present-day Hobart, under the command of Lieutenant John Bowen.

Tasmania was initially used as a penal colony, with many convicts sent there from the British mainland. The most notorious penal settlement in Tasmania was Port Arthur, which operated from 1830 to 1877 and housed some of the most hardened criminals in Australia.

Throughout the 19th century, Tasmania experienced rapid growth with the establishment of towns, agriculture, and industries such as mining and logging. The discovery of gold in the mid-1800s brought a significant influx of people to the island.

In 1856, Tasmania became the first colony in Australia to grant women the right to vote, making it a pioneering location in the fight for women's suffrage.

One of the most significant events in Tasmania's history is the "Black War" of the early 19th century, a period of violent conflict between European settlers and the Tasmanian Aborigines, resulting in the near-decimation of the indigenous population.

In recent years, Tasmania has become known for its stunning natural beauty, including landmarks such as Cradle Mountain, Freycinet National Park, and Wineglass Bay. The state is also famous for its unique wildlife, including the Tasmanian devil, which is found nowhere else in the world.

Prominent historical figures associated with Tasmania include Governor George Arthur, who oversaw the establishment of many penal colonies, and Sir John Franklin, an explorer who disappeared while seeking the Northwest Passage.

Overall, Tasmania's history is a complex tapestry of indigenous culture, colonial settlement, and environmental conservation that continues to shape the island state to this day.