Hobart is Australia's southern most capital. The city straddles the Derwent River, with Mount Wellington as a magnificent backdrop. Hobart has one of the deepest harbours in the world.

Hobart combines the charming old and the exciting new against a backdrop of mountain and sea. The city is seeped in history, and is Australia's second oldest settlement. Hobart's historical centre is Salamanca Place, complete with cobble stone lanes, sandstone warehouses, arts and crafts shops, cafes and restaurants. Just 20 minutes from the city is Mt Wellington. It's 1,234 metre peak provides panoramic views of the city and estuary beyond.

Battery Point is located between Hobart's docks and Sandy Bay, and is a former maritime village. A stroll through it's hilly streets will provide magnificent views of the harbour and the mountains.

Just a short drive north-east from Hobart is the preserved colonial village of Richmond. Richmond's centrepiece is the magnificent bridge. Many of the colonial buildings now serve as galleries, shops and accommodation.

From Richmond continue to the Tasman Peninsula with sweeping pasture and a coastline of sheltered bays and towering cliffs. Here Port Arthur's ruins will tell another tale of Tasmania's past. Port Arthur is Tasmania's biggest tourist attraction; once a penal settlement and now a national park. Port Arthur offers a combination of convict history, spectacular scenery and magnificent waterways.

Only 80km from Hobart is Mount Field National Park with cascading waterfalls, deep gorges and a large variety of plant and trees. Half of Southern Tasmania is part of the Southwest National Park, Tasmania's largest national reserve.

Bruny Island tempts the visitor with remote beaches, rainforest, wetlands and rocky coasts. The island is home to thousands of fairy penguins.

The Huon region borders the Southwest Wilderness and continues the natural theme with forests, national parks and waterways. The Huon Valley and Cygent, across the other side of the Huon River, host historic towns and a wealth of art and craft.

Fact Summary

Hobart Airport Transfers: To city centre by Airporter Bus approximately $6, or taxi $25.

Climate: Summer 10-22 deg CC. Winter -5-15 deg CC.

The "Spirit of Tasmania" Catamaran links Melbourne to Tasmania as an alternative to flying.

Weather