Youth experiences - Tasmania
Tasmania, or ‘Tassie’ as its affectionately known by locals, is capturing hearts left, right and centre as a quirky, diverse, must-see destination.
Tasmania is filling stomachs with an array of gourmet food and satisfying even the most intrepid traveller’s desire to explore the lesser known corners of Australia. It’s an island, off an island, at the edge of the world, with more than a third of its landmass protected in national parks and World Heritage areas. Yet Tasmania’s compactness means its spellbinding landscapes are easily accessible, and the scenery is as spectacular as it is diverse. A place where unique wildlife is a constant travel companion.
For the young, or young-at-heart, Tasmania is ideal for road trips and made for epic adventures. From the natural icons of Wineglass Bay in the East and Cradle Mountain in the West to the urban vibes of Hobart in the South and Launceston in the North.
Destination Highlights
Three Capes Track, Tasman National Park, Tasmania
Did someone say road trip or epic tour? Remote yet accessible locations and stunning wilderness make Tasmania a remarkable destination to explore by car.
The two icons of Wineglass Bay and Cradle Mountain offer spectacular views and an abundance of local wildlife – sure to give plenty of bragable photos for social media.
The cities of Hobart and Launceston provide urban vibes, hip restaurants, pubs and cafes – both within minutes of wilderness playgrounds.
Over a third of Tasmania's diverse and ancient landscape is protected as national parks or World Heritage listed wilderness, offering fantastic outdoor experiences on land, in the water and in the air.
Highlights
- Looking for adventure, choose from eco cruises, world class mountain bike trails, rock climbing, abseiling, zip lining or walking atop the highest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere
- Immerse in the thought-provoking, naughty, strange, arty playground of Mona
- Freak out on a bone-shaking Port Arthur Ghost Tour
- Hike to see one of Tasmania’s most celebrated views over the beautiful white sands of Wineglass Bay
Accommodation
Township, Longford, Tasmania
Tasmania is an island at the edge of the world where accommodation is as varied and unique as the island itself. Accommodation options range from boutique chic hotels to traditional hostels to country style pubs. But it’s not all about the type of place to stay in, it is also about the surrounding spellbinding landscape and raw natural beauty.
Highlights
- Stay at one of Tasmania’s boutique budget chic hotels located in the heart of Hobart and Launceston
- Experience Tasmania’s unique hostels available throughout the island
- Pitch a tent surrounded by Tasmanian wildlife in one of the many national parks or holiday parks
- Meet the locals by staying at a country style pub in one of Tasmania’s many friendly small towns
- Stay in a cosy cabin while experiencing the natural Tasmanian beauty in one of the numerous holiday parks
Local Immersion
Salamanca Market, Hobart, Tasmania
Tasmania is ripe for food lovers and is home to some of the finest artisan produce in Australia. With a relatively small population, getting to know the locals is easy and Tasmanian producers are always ready for a chat. Visit a winery, meet the wine maker. Eat out at restaurants, bars and cafes and the staff will know where the produce has come from and often know the producer.
When we talk about friendly locals, we aren’t just talking about the human-kind. Known to have the cleanest air in the world, Tasmania’s pristine environment is home to an abundance of wildlife that can’t be found anywhere else on the planet. With few natural predators, local wildlife aren’t shy, so keep the camera handy.
Highlights
- Hobart’s famous Salamanca Market is one of those special places that offers a chance to meet the people who create, make or grow what they sell. Held each Saturday from 8.30am-3pm – rain, hail or shine
- Visit country style pubs around the island to get to know the locals, who are always keen to share their stories and tips
- Visit farmers markets and meet the growers, or stop at the many farm gates or road side stalls dotted around the island
- Check out some local events. From cutting edge cultural festivals to country fairs and farmers markets, there's always something on in Tasmania
Nightlife
Mona’s Dark Mofo Festival, Hobart, Tasmania
Tasmania is known for its wilderness and wildlife, but it also knows how to keep folk entertained in the evening.
In addition to vibrant urban vibes in the cities of Hobart and Launceston, Tasmania is known for its cutting edge cultural events and festivals, providing an opportunity to immerse in local culture and find out what makes this creative and innovative little island tick.
Highlights
- Hobart’s historic Salamanca precinct is home to a vast array of restaurants, bars, cafes, galleries and interesting stores
- Summer festivals like the Taste of Tasmania, Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, Australian Wooden Boat Festival and Mona Foma create an electric atmosphere on the Hobart waterfront
- Annual food events like Festivale in Launceston’s City Park to chocolate festivals and regular farmers markets held in towns and cities across the island
- Mona’s mid-winter Dark Mofo is an annual pilgrimage south celebrating the dark through large-scale public art, food, film, music, light and noise
- Looking for a local tip? Of course there is no drinking and driving in Tassie, but at Preachers in Hobart, enjoy a drink inside an old Metro bus parked on site!
Useful Links
Destination Highlights
Accommodation
Local Immersion
Nightlife
