Australian Destinations - Hobart Tasmania
Hobart is the capital of Tasmania, Australia's beautiful island state. The city has a population of 99,000. It is situated on the banks of the mouth of the Derwent River, beneath the slopes of majestic Mount Wellington. With such a lovely setting, it is no wonder that the city has been described as the most picturesque of all the capital cities of Australia.
Hobart began as a convict settlement in 1803. By 1827 it had become a bustling trading port, and one of the whaling capitals of the world. Even today, this city evokes a strong seafaring flavor and the harbor continues to be its lifeblood.
Being the second oldest city of Australia, there are many elegant historic buildings. Many of these were erected by convicts during the city's earliest days. The streets of the city centre are arranged in a grid round Elizabeth Street Mall (the main shopping centre), hence it is easy to get around.
Here are 11 places to visit while you're there:
Tasman bridge
Arguably the most famous structure in Hobart, it is 1,395 meters long, longer than the more famous Sydney Harbour Bridge. It crosses the Derwent River, linking the city centre to the eastern shore, where the airport is located.
Salamanca place
Here you will find a row of beautiful old sandstone warehouses that have been converted into cafes, shops, art galleries and restaurants. It was extremely difficult to tear myself away! The delightful open-air Salamanca market is held here on Saturday mornings from 8.30am.
Battery point
This area dates back almost 150 years and started off as a mariner's village. I enjoyed a relaxing stroll through the alley-ways, as I admired the quaint cottages and well-preserved historic streets. As I wandered around, I was often rewarded with sudden unexpected glimpses of the harbor too.
Constitution dock
Here there are more pretty century-old warehouses and wharves which have been restored and converted into pubs and restaurants. It was great having a meal here by the water's edge, with so much to admire all around. It is here that the world-famous Sydney to Hobart yacht race finishes.
Cadbury chocolate factory
Few humans can resist it. And when you have a factory-ful, it's almost a no-brainer. Built way back in 1922, the Cadbury chocolate factory conducts tours with opportunities to sample the products, and of course make purchases too.
Cascade brewery
Built in 1823, Australia's oldest brewery will impress you with its chateau-like appearance. Tours are offered here as well, hence it is a must-visit for lovers of fine beverages, alcoholic or otherwise.
Hobart - 11 Wonderful Places to Visit While You're There
By Karen Breeden
Theatre Royal
This is Australia's oldest running theatre, built in 1837. It was referred to by Sir Laurence Olivier as "the best little theatre in the world". See what you think!
Museums
Hobart's earliest surviving building is the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, constructed by convicts in 1808. I passed an easy couple of hours there, absorbed with the Aboriginal artifacts and convict relics. Most memorable for me was seeing what is believed to be the last remaining footage of the well-known but now-extinct Tasmanian tiger (or thylacine). It was hard to stop watching it, knowing that the doomed animal was to cease to exist shortly thereafter.
Other museums include:
Maritime Museum of Tasmania showcasing the strong seafaring heritage of Tasmania
Tasmanian Cricket Museum celebrating the passionately followed sport (religion, more-like) of cricket
Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
Fans of flora will be happy to walk around the 14 hectares of gardens, and view the thousands of plant species.
Wrest Point Casino
This is another of Australia's oldest buildings, although this time we are talking about a very modern type of establishment. The first Australian hotel-casino awaits those who love a punt. It is the tallest building in the city.
Mount Wellington
I cannot leave out the impressive 1270 meter high mountain that is the backdrop of the city. As locals will tell you, the peak is usually covered by cloud or snow. The mountain offers some lovely walks and splendid views.
Hobart has so much more to offer. Visit Hobart and see for yourself. I am sure you will discover your own special places there.
Karen Breeden has more to share about the attractions of Tasmania, one of Australia's best kept secrets, at http://www.tasmania-attractions.com
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