Tasmania Top Tips
By Karissa Sparke
Even though I’d travelled around Tasmania as a kid with my family, I wasn’t expecting to be as blown away by the natural beauty of this incredible place as I was.
If you haven’t been there yet, add it to your list immediately.
For a relatively small place, it has so much to offer. My husband was working down there for a month but we still had some time to explore.
Some of my favourite things:
Cradle Mountain
A must do during your visit. Such an incredible landscape and opportunity to be immersed in nature. There are so many hikes you can do in the area – short or long with so much natural beauty – mountains, lakes, waterfalls and wombats galore!
We stayed for a weekend at Pepper’s Mountain Lodge – which is perfectly located to access the National Park. Also a huge seller for me is their Alpine Spa [which I recommend you book even if you choose to stay elsewhere]. You can book a private sanctuary and have your private sauna, steam room, plunge pool and jacuzzi overlooking a picturesque view of lush green trees and a flowing river.
Bay of Fires
A beautiful juxtaposition of white sand, crystal clear water and the firey-red coloured boulders lining the beach.
Salamanca Markets
Perfect way to start your Saturday morning. These markets have a great mix of locally made pieces and food – and SO many local gins (my favourite).
MONA
The museum of new and old art – needs no explanation. A perfect way to immerse yourself in the arts for a few hours. The architecture of the building alone is incredibly beautiful. I highly recommend catching the ferry for an extra treat to see Hobart and experience their anything-but-ordinary ferry experience.
Packing tips:
It’s definitely a four-seasons-in-a-day kind of place, even in the middle of summer. So light layering is a perfect wardrobe solution to cover all weather options. Think skivvys under dresses and light knitwear.
Make sure you also pack comfy shoes because with so much to explore – you tend to do a lot of walking.
A few favourite eats:
– Veg Bar – delicious all vegan eatery with some healthy (and delightfully indulgent) options.
– Jackman + McRoss – the hot spot in historic Battery Point. Great coffee and pastries galore.
– Bury Me Standing – a little café in Hobart with great coffee and the BEST bagels. Cinnamon crunch with cashew cream cheese smear for me please! 
We stayed at a cute little Airbnb in Sandy Bay near Hobart – perfectly located close to the city, but also a little ways from the hustle and bustle of it all. Also complimentary sourdough and G&T on arrival? That’s a yes from me!
With love to our girl Karissa Sparke
xx