Tasmania summary

We thoroughly enjoyed Tasmania.  We were very spoilt though with excellent weather.

If there was a direct flight from Auckland I expect it wouldn't be long before we went back (apparently a direct flight from somewhere in New Zealand to Hobart is under discussion according to one of our taxi drivers).

The people we met (other than one taxi driver) were all really friendly.  The Georgian and Victorian architecture and stonework  buildings and bridges were great.

Hawley Beach in the North is magnificent and there's hardly anybody around.  I could imagine spending a lot more time there.

I really liked Hobart, it had a good buzz to it, but that would have been helped by the Taste of Hobart festival and the Sydney to Hobart yacht race.  I would suggest that coinciding a trip with the Taste of Hobart is worthwhile in order to sample lots of good food and wine in one location and for the vibe itself.  Long Beach was nice, Port Arthur was a day trip away, and the fireworks were also awesome for New Years.

Whilst Coles Bay was a lovely location, I expect we would look to stay in Bicheno instead, since it’s not far away, it has good beaches and a bit more going for it.

I thought Launceston itself was a little dull, but it was nice to look around the greater area and travel further North.  The Cataract Gorge, Monkey Enclosure in the Park and Smokey Joe’s Creole Cafe, made it worth the visit though.

A car in Tasmania is mandatory and if you’re looking to go at peak times book accommodation and rental cars early.  We were struggling to find central accommodation in Hobart for New Years 6 months out!

For further information about our trip read the numerous other posts here (I got a bit carried away).