We had a quick break and enjoyed day trips around Hobart. We stayed at the Wyndham Resort at Seven Mile Beach.

Port Arthur

Port Arthur is such a beautiful place – now.  It was a penal settlement which was designed “to grind rogues into honest men”. It was remote, harsh and with little chance of escape and the prisoners were hardened repeat offenders.  The introductory tour was very informative and painted the picture well of the convicts, soldiers and free people who made up the early settlement.

Tasman Arch

Tasman Arch, The Devil’s Kitchen and the Blowhole are just south of Eaglehawk Neck which you pass on the way to and from Port Arthur.

Tessellated Pavement

Located at Eaglehawk Neck, the Tessellated Pavement is a naturally formed collection of rock pools and rock mounds which resemble Roman pathways.  It is a rare area and relates to the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland.  The reflections are beautiful and would be amazing at sunrise.

Russell Falls

In Mount Field National Park is the fabulous Russell Falls.

Salamanca Markets

The famous Salamanca Markets is held every Saturday in Hobart and has over 300 stalls.  Beautiful artistry of every type, fabulous food and coffee and entertainers make this market one of the best in Australia.

Mt Wellington

Our trip to the summit of Mt Wellington will always be remembered.  It is 1270 meters above sea level and has great view over HobartEven though we were there in mid-October is was verrry cold.  It even snowed horizontally.  Hilarious!

Richmond

Richmond is the oldest Georgian town in Australia.  The most famous site there is the Richmond Bridge, constructed in 1823.  It is the oldest bridge still in operation in Australia.  The town itself has great buildings, a goal, churches and plenty of shops to browse.

Bruny Island

Bruny Island is accessed by a car ferry at Kettering.  With only 700 residents, the island has beautiful beaches, unspoiled bush land and abundant wildlife.  It also has some little produce shops to visit – wine, cheese, oysters, chocolate, berries, honey.

Would be worth at least one night’s stay so you could see the penguins and white wallabies at dusk.

Huon Valley

To the south-west of Hobart is the beautiful Huon Valley.  This expansive area needs to be explored over a few days but we just touched a few places in this day trip.

First stop was Willie Smith’s Apple Shed in Grove. We loved the welcoming atmosphere, the various ciders, the delicious food and coffee.  They have a great area where there is live music on Friday nights – next trip we’ll try it.

The information centre at Huonville was very welcoming and helpful. From there we headed down to Geeveston – old fashioned town with cafes, restaurants, craft etc. we went along the river here to a platypus viewing site and were rewarded with glimpses of these unique creatures.

We then headed to Franklin, along the river with lots of views and the Wooden Boat Centre. This centre was purchased by the townspeople who run it as volunteers. They have two accredited boat builders and run courses a few times a year, keeping this craft alive.

Cambridge

Before our flight home we visited Riverdale Estate at Cambridge. On site there is the Peter Rabbit Garden and shop – the only one in the Southern Hemisphere. Very cute.