Tassie’s 10 summer essentials

As the temperature peaks, so too do the good times in Tasmania. We’ve gathered the best of the best, including a special sparkling wine experience, cruising a river with perfect reflections, and a lavender field in full Insta-worthy bloom. Put them on your itinerary for an unforgettable summer holiday.

During the year’s final and first days, Hobart’s waterfront is the place to be. The epic Sydney Hobart Yacht Race’s fastest competitors arrive on 28 December, causing great excitement and celebration. Tasmania’s Taste of Summer festival starts the same day, offering a week of local food and drinks, live entertainment, fireworks and more.

Summer’s calm, sunny days maximise your chance of seeing the Gordon River’s astonishing mirror-like reflections of lush rainforest and big sky. World Heritage Cruises and Gordon River Cruises’ day trips into Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park also cross Macquarie Harbour, revealing Southern Ocean views through Hell’s Gates.

There’s nowhere better for seaside seafood than Bicheno’s Lobster Shack, whose owner brings a fresh catch from his boat virtually at the doorstep. During Tasmania’s November–May lobster season, savour them whole, or in a seafood platter, or get the Shack’s famous lobster roll. There are many other fishy options, all with an east coast panorama.

Mighty Montezuma Falls drops more than 100 metres amid cool rainforest of towering trees, ferns and colourful fungi. Three hours return on a fairly flat former rail line, one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks puts you at the waterfall’s base, and reveals another awesome view of it from a bridge.

Bridestowe lavender farm’s 650,000 lavandula angustifolia plants hit peak purple from early December until harvest around late January or early February. It’s an eye-popping sight, with rows of purple blooms stretching toward the hills. Enjoy the cafe’s treats including lavender ice-cream, or book a picnic under the oak tree.

The east coast’s blue waters and white sandy beaches are especially spectacular in summer, which is also prime time for swimming. Freycinet National Park’s Friendly Beaches might be the ideal choice, whether you’re chilling, making a splash, camping or strolling some or all of the 5kms that’s another of Tasmania’s Great Short Walks.

Summer’s the ultimate time for sipping the Tamar Valley’s world renowned sparkling wine in the vineyards where it’s created. At Josef Chromy just 10 minutes’ drive from Launceston, elevate the experience with The Art of Sparkling. It gets you behind the scenes and hands-on, and includes a scrumptious lunch in the restaurant.

Australia’s first sauna boat, Kuuma takes wellness to the next level out on beautiful North West Bay. Summer is the most pleasant time for plunging into the sea after sweating in the wood-fired sauna, as well as relaxing on the custom pontoon boat’s rooftop deck.

Summer is peak season for mountain hikes: there’s less chance of challenging weather, and you’ll beat the heat of lower altitudes. Tasmania’s iconic alpine destination is Cradle Mountain, which offers trails to suit whatever time, energy and fitness you’ve got. Great Short Walks include the demanding Cradle Summit, and easier, scenic Dove Lake circuit.

An annual highlight, Launceston’s Festivale celebrates the state’s gourmet goodness (31 January-2 February 2025). There are live chef demonstrations as well as music and comedy, beverage masterclasses, from wine to whisky, and more stalls than your tummy can handle. Feast on food and drinks, and purchase delicious local products for later.

Information included in this blog is correct at the time of publishing. Please contact individual operators for further information.