Hobart

With the River Derwent running through its center and Mount Wellington soaring above the city, the tranquility of a city from a bygone era coexists with the vibrancy of a pocket-sized, modern metropolis. Hobart’s European beginnings are evident everywhere, from quaint settlers’ cottages to the lofty porches of colonial mansions.

Founded in1804 by Colonel David Collins, Hobart is the second oldest city in Australia. It grew out of the first settlement on the island at Risdon Cove, eight kilometres up river, which was founded in 1803 and abandoned five months later for the present site of Hobart. Ridson Cove remains today much as it was 190 years ago and is an unique tourist attraction.

The trendy Battery Point area of today retains much of the character of 100 years ago and when people seek accommodation in Hobart this is one of the most popular places to stay. Battery Point is named after a Battery of guns (long since removed) that were established on the point in 1818. The features of the area that people talk about most are the real estate, restaurants, history, for tourists it’s often the bed and breakfasts and Salamanca Market.

Once bustling with whalers and entrepreneurs, 19th-century sandstone warehouses now serve as dockside cafes, artist’s studios and restaurants, where you can enjoy excellent cuisine and fine wines. Or discover Australia’s history in the nearby Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. Hobart is a place of fishing boats selling their catches right at the docks, and coffee under the sun-umbrellas where the famous Salmanca Market is held every Saturday.

Take a harbor cruise past square-rigged yachts, or drive to the summit of Mount Wellington for a bird’s eye view of the city, islands and estuaries that reach out to the sea beyond.

Hobart is Australia’s most distinctive city, the capital of Tasmania combine heritage charm and cultural diversity in a setting of exceptional beauty. Within 2-hours drive of the city are a range of attractions, from the pristine waters of Bruny Island to the fascinating history of Port Arthur.

To Hobart’s southeast, past the Coal River Valley wineries, is the historic town of Richmond. Here, the jail serves as a prelude to the Port Arthur Historic Site on the Tasman Peninsula.