Your ultimate guide to Tasmania

Tasmania is arguably Australia's most underrated destination when it comes to adventure. The small southernmost state's rugged landscapes, crystal-clear seas, fresh farm produce and cool-climate wine regions make it a must-visit for nature lovers, thrill-seekers and foodies alike. Beyond extraordinary dining experiences and the world-famous Museum of Old and New Art, 40 per cent of Tasmania's land is reserved as national parks and World Heritage wilderness. A zippy 20-minute drive from any of the state’s major cities, Hobart and Launceston, will see you walking in the bush, biking down a spectacular mountain trail or lounging on a secluded beach. Here's our pick of the best things to do on your next trip to Tasmania. 🚗 The best day trips from Hobart🏔️ Everything to tick off in Cradle Mountain🏝️ What to do on Bruny Island 

For such a small state, Tasmania delivers big on epic travel experiences. Australia’s only island state is often hailed as one of the most underrated destinations in the country – and our Travel and News Editor, Melissa Woodley, couldn’t agree more. Hobart is the hub of all major activity, where you’ll find award-winning waterfront restaurants and the iconic Museum of Old and New Art. But venture beyond the city and you’ll run into breathtaking beaches fringed by lush national parks, cool-climate wine regions within reach of the CBD, and peaceful islands just a quick ferry ride away. In this guide to the best places to visit in Tasmania, we’ve also highlighted a few hidden gems that are worthy of a stop on any Tassie road trip. 🛶 All the best things to do in Tasmania🚙 The best day trips from Hobart🏖️ Australia's must-visit destinations

As the island state of an island country, Tasmania’s got coastline covered. From wild, rugged bays to simply gaze upon in wonder, iconic Instagram faves to tick off the “I’ve been there” list and calm, clear waters frequented by locals on their weekenders, there’s a beach to suit every whim in Tasmania. A bonus is that most beaches are comparatively quiet, so you won’t be fighting for towel space down here. We’ve rounded up a diverse selection of well-known favourites and remote stunners for you to put on your list of the best beaches in Tasmania to check out. It’s important to note that since a huge chunk of the state is National Park, a few of these beaches will require a Parks Pass to visit, and fair warning – not many beaches in Tasmania are regularly patrolled, so swim with caution and stick to the shallows if you’re unsure. Now pack a picnic, a good book, your swimmers and a jacket (it’s Tassie, after all) and get ready for peak serenity. 🌊 The best beaches in Australia🌳 The best things to do in Hobart🚗 The best day trips from Hobart

In recent years, Tasmania has embraced sauna culture, with beautifully designed saunas popping up across the state. It makes perfect sense – Tasmania’s cool climate is ideal for cranking the heat above 80 degrees and enjoying a good sweat. Plus, the state’s pristine natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop, with many saunas offering panoramic views or cosy glimpses through portholes.  Whether it’s a sleek floating sauna, a charming mobile chamber or a rustic option on a cattle farm, there are plenty of unique spots to sweat it out. And of course, there's the iconic floating sauna in Derby that started it all. Here are the best saunas to visit in Tasmania. 🔥 Check out Australia’s first fully mobile sauna pontoon boat✨ These are the most luxurious day spas in Australia🌈 The best things to do in Hobart right now

Hobart has a lot going for it on the nature front. According to our Travel Editor, Melissa Woodley, it’s also Australia’s most underrated food capital. But where this tiny yet mighty city truly shines is in its festival scene. MONA’s Dark Mofo draws huge crowds across the ditch every June, as festivalgoers flock to strip down for the infamous nude solstice swim, indulge at the big Winter Feast, or witness wacky performances spanning every genre imaginable. The celebrations extend throughout the cooler months with Bicheno Beams and the Festival of Voices, and wrap up with a series of seriously spectacular food and drink events come summer. Pick your season and plan your visit with our guide to the best festivals in Hobart.  🎸 The greatest music and arts festivals in Australia🍔 The best food festivals in Australia🌳 All the best things to do in Hobart