One Perfect Day In Tasmania
Once upon a time, Tasmania’s greatest claims to fame were its breathtaking mountains, incredibly fresh seafood, a spread of world heritage sites and deep tranquility. But that was then.
Unless you have been living deep in the heart of the outback, you would have heard murmurings a few years back of Tasmania redefining itself. Its repertoire of local offerings now feature world-class wineries, luxury resorts, fine dining and gourmet food tours.
Then, of course, there is the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), which deserves its own separate mention for single-handedly driving the latest spike in visitors to the island.
So where does one start in a place the size of Ireland? The answer is easy if you have a luxurious long weekend or more. But if you have an agonisingly short 24-hours then woman with drive has a list of top spots in Hobart and Launceston for staying, playing, wining and dining. Pick your favourites to create your own perfect day in Tasmania.
STAY
When a resort sends its team to meet you at the airport and whisk you to its private lounge for refreshments and a shower, you know that it truly understands luxury. Located on the East Coast, Saffire Freycinet promises depth and dimension to your stay in Tasmania with its first-class suites, restaurants and spa, and an impressive range of complimentary activities.
These exclusive penthouses are the ultimate indulgence in apartment living. Situated on Salamanca Place, its 360-degree panoramic views of the rooftop apartments overlook Hobart’s harbour and mountains.
Australia’s first dedicated art hotel sits right on Hobart’s waterfront and is furnished with over 500 artworks. The exhibitions change regularly to present the hotel as a fusion of art, heritage, tradition and nature.
A 4.5 star rated luxury apartment in Launceston that spoils guests with its stunning Huon pine kitchen, spacious living area, indoor/outdoor entertaining deck and an office with Internet. The only effort you will need is to leave its premises.
A luxury holiday house on Bruny Island that is more than worth the two-hour commute to Hobart for its panoramic coastal views and spectacular sunsets. The expansive glass façade frames the Hartz Mountains, Sunset Bay and Satellite Island.
WINE & DINE
Acclaimed as one of Australia’s top 10 cellar doors, Josef Chromy is the gold-class experience of Tasmanian wines. Just 15-minutes south of Launceston, the winery is nestled in among old English gardens with 100-year-old oak trees and magnificent views. Try the Botrytis Riesling or the Ruby Pinot Port. The restaurant’s cuisine matches the award-winning wines in its unique a la carte lunches, sit down dinners and barbecues. The winery has recently extended its services to accommodation too so that you can prolong your enjoyment.
An obvious choice if you are visiting the MONA. The restaurant promises the best fresh produce in its French-inspired cuisine accompanied by a “brilliant wine list”. If you are there on Fridays or Saturdays evenings, opt for the degustation menu that blends old and new culinary creations based on seasonal produce.
Then visit the Moorilla Winery for a taste of ultra-premium cool climate wines. If you are there between Wednesday and Monday, partake in the cellar door experience and bring home souvenirs in the form of bottles from the Cloth Label, Muse or Praxis Series.
A world-class dining venue in Woodbridge with arresting water and mountain views. Take a 35-minute drive south of Hobart via the picturesque Channel Highway and take a seat at the bar, restaurant or terrace. Or you could hop on the restaurant’s luxury high-speed catamaran for a luxury lunch cruise.
It is modern Australian cuisine with a twist as the Stillwater team continues to pride themselves on continuously serving up innovative, thoughtful and authentic dishes. This restaurant is said to impress any foodie and is the unofficial leader in Launceston fine dining.
PLAY
Is there anything that has not already been said about Australia’s largest privately funded museum? Likened to Spain’s Guggenheim Museum, this major attraction alone could well be your perfect day in Tasmania.
Launceston’s newest retail craft and design gallery with a reputation for innovative and inspiring work. It also houses the Tasmanian Wood Design Collection, Australia’s first museum of contemporary wood design.
Australia’s oldest working theatre and a national treasure. Book yourself a seat for one of the many live performances or a place on a guided tour through its elegant auditorium.
Hobart’s only supplier for Missoni Home, Tom Dixon and Dinosaur Designs. Owner, Lucy Given, has filled the space with sophisticated, high-quality pieces from around the world Scandinavian designs by Nord, Triwa watches and Pia Wallen blankets.
Designer Hannah Vasicek has done all the legwork for jewellery lovers at her Hobart boutique with stunning collection of simple sterling silver, pearls, crystals and elaborate couture pieces.
Main image credit: Saffire Freycinet
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