Hobart Travel Guide

Nestled in the foothills of Mount Wellington, this picturesque city may be pint-sized, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to its bourgeoning cultural scene. Rugged natural beauty and elegant heritage architecture has set the scene for some of the country’s top restaurants and cultural institutions to flourish. While creativity runs rampant, the city remains down to earth and unassuming, grounded in a strong sense of place.

After a quick getaway earlier in the year, these are our must-see places and things to do while visiting the intriguing, and very beautiful city of Hobart.

>>

FRANKLIN

Sophisticated yet casual, Franklin is a restaurant showcasing the best of Tasmanian produce. The sleek industrial interiors mirror the food – a focus on simplicity and quality, with subtle beauty. While the menu changes often, you can safely expect an array of elegant seafood dishes. There’s plenty to enjoy, so make sure you sit back and take in all this acclaimed restaurant has to offer.

BATTERY POINT

Wandering the quaint streets of Battery Point is a highlight of visiting Hobart. From the renowned Salamanca Place, climb Kelly’s Steps and discover a rich sense of colonial history. Immerse yourself in the historic buildings and village-style atmosphere, while discovering cafes and restaurants along the way. The character-filled Jackman & McRoss bakery is a highlight, with un-fussy food that will hit the spot.

MONA

From a spectacular Sidney Nolan piece, carefully assembled on its purpose-made wall, to the infamous poo machine Mona is a place that will leave you in shock and awe. After a short ferry ride from Hobart’s Brooke Street Pier, you are greeted by an imposing rock façade and momentous staircase – a fitting introduction to this monumental museum. The impressive architecture is as much of a highlight as the artworks themselves, winding underground and making you feel as though you’ve entered another world. Spend the day (or even two) getting lost in the wonderful world of Mona.

THE AGRARIAN KITCHEN COOKING SCHOOL & FARM

Located on the grounds of a former mental asylum, the Agrarian Kitchen Cooking School & Farm is intriguing from the outset. With lofty high ceilings lined with original pressed tin, the eatery has attracted hordes of diners to the unassuming town of New Norfolk to experience its fresh, produce-driven menu. The ingredients are sourced from the cooking school’s garden and farm or a community of local growers, farmers and fisherman. There’s a true sense of place experienced through the Agrarian Kitchen’s food.

MOUNT WELLINGTON

A trip to Hobart is not complete without a visit to the summit of Mount Wellington. Winding through luscious greenery and rocky landscapes, the journey to the top is about 21km. Towering over the city, the views from the mountain are breathtaking and far-reaching.

PREACHERS

For a place that’s unpretentious, with truckloads of character, you can’t go past Preachers. The atmosphere is fun, with people spilling out of a heritage-listed Battery Point cottage into a large outdoor beer garden. You’ll find craft beers, boutique wines and spirits along with tasty food at this local hangout.

Sarah visited Tasmania in January 2018

Word: By Sarah Langley

Imagery: By Sarah Langley