As Summer
dawned across the United States, I had the privilege of traveling “down unda”
to the Southern island nation of Australia. While I spent most of my time in
the culturally diverse city of Sydney, I set aside a weekend to jet down to
Hobart, Tasmania, the most southern point of Australia. Full of artistic,
cultural, and historical points of interest, Hobart opened up and revealed a
new side to Australia experienced solely in this area. Below I have listed some
of the different destinations I visited and recommend to other travelers
interested in exploring this area:
1.
Cascades
Female Factory- As a former workhouse for female convicts, The Cascades
Female Factory is one of the only remaining female factories with extant
remains. From 1828 and 1856, Women convicted for petty crimes in England,
Ireland, and Scotland were sent to live their final days in this confinement on
Tasmania, far from their home countries. Cascades offers a clear representation
of daily life for women within the penitentiary system, complete with
historical tours and interactive reenactments. Individuals will leave with a
more enlightened and knowledgeable perspective after visiting the Cascades
Factory.
2.
Mount
Wellington- For the most picturesque aerial view of Hobart, Mount
Wellington must be visited. Nicknamed “Tabletop Mountain,” Mount Wellington
offers a bird’s eye view of Hobart. All is visible, from the Pacific ocean to
Burny Island and market area around the Hobart bay. The Observation room provides
a map that shows the city outline and positioning for viewer orientation. The rewarding
summit climb offers tourists a once in a lifetime photo-op. Unfortunately, on
cloudy days, views can be obstructed. However, there are many places on the
drive up to pull to the side of the road and take pictures of the whole family.
3.
Salamanca
Market- Between 8:30am-3:00pm every Saturday, downtown Hobart transforms
into an excellent cultural spot at Salamanca Market. Over 300 stalls offer a
taste of the world as visitors navigate the farmer’s market in Salamanca. Be
sure to arrive early in order to beat the sales rush and get good parking. Complete
with a wide variety of restaurants, Salamanca Market has excellent eating and
hang out options. The Retro Café is a great option. Its 1950s-60s atmosphere
transports customers to a relaxed era while excellent food and coffee options
are enjoyed. Dessert at the Retro Café is a MUST. From tasty cakes and cookies to
scrumptious chocolates brownies, it is all delicious.
4.
Port
Arthur- Another former convict settlement, Port Arthur is one of
Australia’s most historically rooted cites. About 40 miles southeast of Hobart,
Port Arthur provides tourists background to the male prison community. From
1833-1853, it was the final location the hardest criminals were sentenced and
imprisoned. Rumored to be an inescapable prison, Port Arthur offers some of the
most memorable and bizarre escape attempts. The town of Port Arthur also
memorializes the tragic shooting of 1996. Memorial grounds in Port Arthur may
now be visited to reflect and remember those that passed.
5.
MONA-
The Museum of Old and New is located within the Moorilla Winery. As the largest
privately funded museum in Australia, MONA features a combination of historical
and modern pieces that provoke introspection and analysis. Depending on the
time of the year, different attractions and events are held, including exhibits
of local artwork and music performances. Go to http://www.mona.net.au/
to get specific details and tickets for a visit.
6.
Winery
visit- Hobart featured wineries provide unique wine selections due to the area’s
geographic isolation. Some of the best include Frogmore Creek, Stefano Lubian
Wines, Moorilla Estate, Nocton Park, Pooley Wines, Bishop’s Vineyard, and
Campania Hills Vineyard. These locations offer great wine tasting opportunities
for all adventuresome adults.
7.
Burny
Island ferry- For a great family day trip, visit Burny Island. The ferry
offers speedy transport over the small strait separating Hobart and Burny
Island. With time tables available online at http://www.brunyisland.net.au/Services/brunyislandferrydetails.htm,
visitors can take full advantage of this transport. Round-trip tickets cost
approximately $30/vehicle. During the short boat ride, great photo opportunities
are available. Individuals of all ages will enjoy this day-trip. The ferry is complete
with restrooms, just make sure to stick to the schedule.
8.
Get
Shucked- Amazing Oyster bar on Burny Island that offers fresh oysters and
drinks, Get Shucked is a pit-stop all seafood lovers must make. Delicious,
well-priced oysters seasoned with simple lemon juice to carefully balanced herb
combinations, Get Shucked leaves visitors happy they stopped in. Its located at
1600 Bruny Island Main Rd, Great Bay TAS 7150, Australia and is open from
10am-5pm daily.
9.
The Neck
Lookout- When driving from the north island to the south island, stop on
B66 at the Neck Lookout point to capture idyllic photos of Burny Island. From this
point, both the Pacific Ocean and the inland lake can be seen. Penguins even
stop there seasonally to great visitors. Travelers can walk up a staircase on the
ocean side for an unrivaled 360 perspective.
10. Jetty
Café and Produce Shop- Resting on the northern most tip of Burny Island,
Jetty Café and Produce Shop offers the most pristine, untouched views of
Australian nature. Coupled with top quality coffee and pastries, Jetty Cages is
complete with visitor information and a quiet deck to rest and relax on.
