Take an awe-inspiring trip to Tasmania
Nestled off the southern coast of mainland Australia, Tasmania's enticing blend of dazzling beaches, rugged wilderness and natural wonders combine effortlessly with buzzy townships, lively festivals and haunting history to create one of the world's most awe-inspiring travel destinations. The capital city of Hobart offers everything, from Sunday morning shopping at the famed Salamanca Market to gourmet dining beside the River Derwent, while for those who prefer their surroundings a little quieter, Coles Bay and Bicheno serve up plenty of reasons to bag a Tasmania vacation rental along the island's eastern coast.
Exploring Tasmania's national parks
Your Tasmania vacation rental getaway wouldn't be complete without experiencing the island's national parks. This often means a visit to Freycinet National Park, a protected peninsula, where trails up the Hazards mountain range lead to unbeatable views of stunning Wineglass Bay. On the western coast and accessible only by boat, the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park counts cool forests, memorable kayaking routes, Aboriginal artifacts and the World Heritage-listed Sarah Island among its highlights. If time is short, scenic flights from the coastal town of Strahan offer an easy way to admire the park's dramatic landscapes.
Family fun in Tasmania
Whether traveling with family, friends or both, you'll never find yourself short of entertainment in Tasmania. Got kids in tow? Be sure to check out Brighton's Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, home to koalas, kangaroos and Tasmanian Devils, and Tasmazia and the Village of Lower Crackpot, the world's largest maze complex, offering hours of family-friendly adventure in the delightfully-named Promised Land. Prefer a more natural setting? Guided tours of the Hastings Caves are sure to leave mouths agape with wonder, while the spring-fed thermal pools that await after exploring below ground are a sure-fire hit with all ages.
Seasonal appeal in Tasmania
Though considered a year-round destination, the summer months of December through February are arguably the best time to visit Tasmania. You'll find rates for vacation homes a little higher, though sunny days and the chance to attend the world-famous Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race make any extra expense worthwhile. Spring and fall see a fair bit of rain, while snow is almost certain to be part of the deal during the winter months of June through August, a great time to visit the island's whisky distilleries, admire unique art installations at the Dark MoFo festival or head to Ben Lomond for an unforgettable day of skiing.
Natural delights in Tasmania
The perfect choice for nature lovers, Tasmania vacation rentals place you on the doorstep of all manner of delights. Adventurous travelers can set off on multi-day hikes through the Tarkine Forest Reserve, a wildly-diverse spot that counts temperate rainforest, wild rivers and over 100 bird species among its highlights. Those who prefer a shorter adventure may enjoy a nocturnal wildlife tour of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, or maybe a horseback ride along the Bay of Fires' long sandy beach. Divers will find shipwrecks aplenty to explore at the north-west coast's Rocky Cape.
Transportation to and around Tasmania
The nearest airport is in Devonport, TAS (DPO), located 30.7 mi (49.5 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you could also fly into Burnie, TAS (BWT), which is 34.3 mi (55.1 km) away.
If you prefer to travel by train, Ulverstone West Station, Boco Siding Station and Penguin Station are the main stations that serve the city.