When traveling, we tend to visit the most popular places and often overlook those hidden gems the country/city boasts. Tasmania is located off the coast of Australia and is the country’s only island state. The island is beautiful, but there are quite a few hidden surprises if you know where to look.
1. Bruny Island
Less than an hour from Hobart, you can catch a ferry to Bruny Island. The little island is stunning. You can enjoy fishing, beaches and artisan food around the island. There are very few people who live on the island year round, but plenty of culture, all the same. If you are looking to unwind, relax and clear your mind, Bruny Island is the perfect destination for you.
2. Remarkable Cave, Tasman Peninsula
The Remarkable Cave is found near Port Arthur. It isn’t quite a cave, but more of a tunnel through the rock face. The cave was created by erosion and is a fascinating place to visit. The area is also a good place for surfing. Australia boasts a great number of stunning natural formations, the Remarkable Cave is one of them.
3. Salamanca Market
Hobart features a busy market every Saturday from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. Over 300 market stalls selling food, art and coffee are set up at Salamanca Place. The market caters to both tourists and locals, but remains one of the best places to spend a Saturday morning, even if you are short on cash.
4. Lake Margaret Power Station
Located near Queenstown, Lake Margaret Power Station is a tourist destination that shows you what life was like before. The power station features a living museum focused on its heyday and a water pipeline that is still in use. Visitors can also go into the power station to get a closer look at the equipment.
5. Allendale Gardens and Rainforest Walks
You will find Allendale Gardens near Smithton. The gardens feature a wide range of incredible flowers and trees collected from around the world, as well as peacocks wandering the grounds. A private forest of fern glades and ancient trees stands next to the gardens and is perfect for an afternoon stroll. There is also a tea house on the grounds for enjoying a light lunch.
More: 10 Most Beautiful Botanical Gardens in the World
6. West Coast Wilderness Railway
Visitors can take a trip on the West Coast Wilderness Railway and experience a little taste of history. It runs between Queenstown and Dubbil Barril at the moment, but may add more sections as they are rebuilt. The train allows passengers to experience life the way it was when the railroad first started up.
7. Maria Island National Park
Maria Island is home to Darlington, a probation station that once held the early convicts who arrived in Australia. There are several buildings still standing and visitors can see how convicts lived back in the day. The island also features camping in the summer, as well as hiking. In fact, there are many more things to explore: from historic ruins, to rugged cliffs, mountains and sweeping bays.
8. Cradle Mountain
While Cradle Mountain may be popular with the locals, less than 200,000 people visit the park each year. The area is pristine and features plenty of local flora and fauna. The big attraction is the actual mountain, which is shaped like a cradle. Many people come to the park to climb the mountain or simply to explore the trails.
9. Gunns Plains Cave
These limestone caves contain glow worms and impressive rock formations. There are different types of formations in each part of the cave. Unfortunately, it is not possible to just explore the caves. Tours are offered several times a day and allow visitors to learn of the history of the area.
10. Bay of Fires
For tourists looking for the ultimate beach experience, the Bay of Fires is the perfect place to visit. The area is pristine sand, with bright blue water and red rock formations. Despite the impressive beauty of the Bay of Fires, it is still relatively untouched.
More: 15 Most Beautiful Places to Enjoy Solitude
Tasmania has a lot to offer travelers. From flowery gardens and white sand beaches to strenuous hikes and caves to explore, the state has plenty of impressive sights. Find some of the more hidden gems to really get a feel for life in this area. What other beautiful hidden gems of Tasmania do you know?
