Hobart might not be the first destination you think of when Melbourne’s chilly weather starts creeping in. But let us assure you, there’s a whole lot going on during the winter months in Hobart, which may just make it one of the most affordable and amazing Winter getaway destinations.
Need a some convincing?
Here are 6 Reasons to visit Hobart this Winter…
1. Ridiculously tasty food
You don’t have to be a fine food aficionado to appreciate the seriously good food scene in Hobart. If you’re in Hobart over a weekend, adding the Salamanca Markets to your food itinerary is a no-brainer. It’s on every Saturday and while it can get crowded with tourists very quickly, it does so with good reason.
Here you’ll find a huge gathering of artisans, farmers and fine food providores along Salamanca Place selling their wares. It’s the perfect place to grab breakfast, buy some tasty produce for your return to Melbourne and, if you don’t have a lot of time to spend in Tasmania, it’s a clever way to try much of the food you’d fine at local farm gates all over the state. Think speciality cheeses, spirits, wine, chocolates and so much more.
2. Surprisingly affordable accommodation
If you want to go luxe, Hobart has a decent choice of luxury stays where you can pamper yourself silly, but if you’re the type to travel to actually get out and discover your destination, Hobart also offers some of the best holiday park stays. Not just for those travelling with kids (although if you were, this place definitely is a win too as it offers loads for the little ones to do), Discovery Parks Big4 Hobart is located on the Derwent River. This property is likely one of the best places you’ll find for its location as well. With Mount Wellington as its backdrop and the incredibly popular Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) and Cascade Brewery are just 15 minutes away, it’s a great spot to stay central to everything.
While holiday parks are always a popular choice in the summer months, they can be a smart (and affordable) choice in winter too. This particular one offers spacious accommodation cottages and cabins with fully equipped kitchens, gas log fires, WiFi, in-house movies, laundry facilities, an onsite kiosk for any forgotten items and plenty of dining options nearby as the centre of Hobart is just 10 minutes away.
3. Travel worthy events
Hobart truly shines in winter with a variety of quirky events, namely the popular Dark Mofo and special exhibitions at MONA throughout June are always an incredible mix of live music and arts.
Winter is also time for the Tasmanian Red Wine Weekend (held in June) as well as the Festival of Voices, a remarkable music festival of vocal performances and song.
4. Fantastic shopping
Hobart might not be the most obvious city for a shopping holiday, but it’s certainly a spot where you can browse until your heart’s content (or your finances are exhausted.) Visit Salamanca Place where the popular Salamanca Markets (mentioned above) are held each Saturday. Here you can browse through hundreds of stallholders including handmade pieces of artwork, jewellery, fashion, food and so much more with plenty of buskers and entertainment options too.
Hobart, similarly to Melbourne, offers plenty of laneways and side streets where visitors are always welcome to wander and discover the boutique shopping options. It’s also an antique and art lover’s dream destination with many small galleries and antique shops.
Check out the Tasmanian Arts Guide to find local makers, designers and artists tucked away.
5. Adventures are everywhere
Take a day trip to the Port Arthur Historic Site where you not just learn about Australia’s convict history, but you can also stay on until dark (which is much earlier in winter) and be frightened senseless by the regular ghost tours here.
From Hobart it’s also a short drive to the wineries in the Coal River Valley as well as Eaglehawk Neck where a stop at the lookout over Pirates Bay will leave you speechless as you take a million photos of the beachy coastline. Hobart is also a great spot for taking a day trip out to Bruny Island (all the cheeses!) as well as getting some spectacular view from above on Mount Wellington.
6. It’s incredibly romantic
Think snuggling up in front of a crackling log fireplace with a glass of red in hand or finding a great little bar down a quiet street with local whiskeys on offer. Spend your days driving along romantic coastal roads with scenery that’ll compel you to pull over for more and more photos. Why not even queue up a romantic dinner date at The Brooke Street Pier on the waterfront where the gorgeous floating restaurant Aloft, offers plenty of atmosphere for some romantic dining.
Time to pack up your winter woolies and get travelling!
