Tasmania - Top 21 Hot Spots - Part 2

One of the oldest towns in Australia, New Norfolk is at the heart of the Derwent Valley, and is worth a visit to see the
beautiful Derwent River, rolling hills, mountains and historical buildings. It is incredible driving with endless, winding roads and plenty of places to picnic and enjoy the countryside. Half an hour west from Hobart, it is the perfect base to visit the Mount Field National Park, and enjoy the lush, green countryside in this fascinating and relaxing regionof Tasmania.

12. Strahan

The west coast of Tasmania is rugged and completely different to the east, with long stretches of ever changing wilderness, national parks and the well known Franklin River not far away. Stahan is a fishing village that is close to Ocean beach, which is Tasmania's longest beach. There is overwhelming birdlife, sand dunes and amazing scenery up and down the coast. Take the walk to Hogarth Falls, visit Swan Bay picnic area or drive to nearby Queenstown with its unique landscapes. The Gordon-Franklin Wild Rivers National Park is worth visiting with jetboat rides and river cruises a few options.

13. St Helens

This colourful region of Tasmania's north east is definitely worth a visit, with pretty towns such as Scottsdale, Derby and Weldborough within driving distance from beautiful St Helens. This fishing village has plenty of scenery, with Georges Bay the best place to relax and enjoy the sand dunes, and the well known Bay of Fires just north of the town. This is a great base to explore this diverse area that has rainforest, mountains, dairy farms and coastlines all within driving distance.

14. Deloraine

Deloraine is at the base of the Great Western Tiers in Central Tasmania, not far from Launceston. It is close to incredible natural beauty, with Cradle Mountain also within driving distance. There is plenty to do within the town, with craft shops and historical buildings such as Bonney's Inn and the Folk Museum to visit, or maybe stroll the famous bridge across the Meander River. Although welcoming for a day trip, this is a great location to base yourselves if you want to see more of the rugged inland lakes and mountains that are often bypassed and worth a closer look.

15. King Island

Bass Strait's most famous island is isolated and rich in vegetation and wildlife. There are miles of beaches to explore with Reid Rocks, a fur seal breeding ground, only 12 kilometres away from the mainland. Cape Wickham lighthouse is worth a visit, with King Island Dairies a must for the best home made cheese in Tasmania. There is plenty of accommodation here if you want to stay and enjoy the solitude.

16. Mole Creek National Park

Visitors travel from all over the state to see the incredible cave systems in this underground national park. Within close proximity to Launceston, there are over 300 caves here, one of the best known being King Solomons Caves, with the largest glow worm caves in Australia at Marakoopa best seen on the guided tours. The national park also has incredible forests, bushwalking tracks and camping facilities for those who can stay longer. It is one of the most unique top spots in Tasmania and worth a visit.

17. Ben Lomond

This National Park located in Northern Tasmania is a favourite in winter for snow skiing by locals and tourists. Located about an hour east from Launceston along the North Esk Valley, it is fantastic in the warmer months with rock climbing and bushwalking popular especially when the wildflowers are in bloom. The ski village is Jacobs Ladder, and the best camping spot is Carr Villa. Being so close it is worth visiting for incredible views and an amazing experience.

18. Lake Country

This picturesque region has to be seen to be believed. Situated in central Tasmania, there are plenty of bushwalking tracks and lookouts, with many leading to Lake St Clair, which is Australia's deepest lake. All roads seem to lead to a lake, with Arthurs Lake, Lake Crescent and Lake Sorell all excellent for trout fishing. The Walls of Jerusalem National Park is on the west of the plateau, but worth the trek with its raw beauty and cross country skiing in Winter. There are camping grounds in this area if you want to stay longer to enjoy the incredible beauty of this area.

19. Richmond

Not far from Hobart, Richmond is a historical town that is famous for the Richmond Gaol that will give you a very interesting look at life a few centuries ago. It is also home to Australia's oldest bridge and there are ancient structures throughout this quiet town. The Old Hobart Model Village is also worth a visit and there is an amusement park for the kids.

20. Burnie

This is more than just a town you pass through. Stop here to visit some of the great natural attractions such as the pretty Guide Falls, Roundhill Lookout (especially at sunset and sunrise), Emu Valley and Emu Bay. There is also the Pioneer Village Museum, Burnie Art Gallery and the Little Penguin Observation Centre is a must for an incredible nature experience. Only a few minutes away, Fernglade is a great spot for a picnic and known for its platypus that frequent the area. You will love it here.

21. Tasman National Park

This is an incredibly diverse and scenic national park, with so many places to visit in one area, it is definitely worth the visit. Located just over 50 km east from Hobart, there are plenty of walks that will suit all visitors, which lead to majestic views of the coastline overlooking the Tasman Sea. There is a great walk form Eaglehawk Neck to Tasman Arch and a few walks that take a full day, with plenty of rewards. You can base yourself in Port Arthur, or take a few day trips from Hobart. Everything is so close in Tasmania that you can take your time and enjoy the beauty of this spectacular part of the world.