Tasmania is a beautiful place loved by locals and visitors alike. From its magnificent scenery to its unique culture and traditions, people are drawn to the Apple Isle for many reasons. Over recent years, this stunning part of Australia has also become popular with food and wine lovers. The local produce is delicious, the galleries and museums are unique, and the restaurants and wineries are truly world-class.
Things to Do in Tasmania
Tasmania has a rich and balanced personality, with the perfect blend of natural and cultural delights. From white sandy beaches to deep emerald forests, from arts festivals to vineyards, this island state has something for everyone. If you want to feel immersed in nature, Cradle Mountain is a popular hinterland destination. If you want to feel the cold sea breeze against your face, Freycinet National Park offers pristine beaches against a dramatic mountain backdrop.
Or perhaps you want to escape the winter weather by exploring some of Tasmania's amazing indoor cultural attractions. The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) in Hobart is well worth a visit, and the nearby Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is an absolute must. If you're staying in or around the state capital, you should take a stroll about Salamanca and Battery Point or visit World Heritage-listed Port Arthur.
Tasmanian Wine Regions
Winter is the ideal time to explore Tasmania's wine regions. Vineyards can be found across much of the island, especially the east coast and river regions. Tamar Valley is the largest wine region in the state, followed by Coal River Valley, Derwent Valley, Huon Valley, and the Freycinet area. Many of Tasmania's best wineries feature on-site restaurants, with talented chefs also working from hotels and inner-city venues across the state.
The following restaurants are among the very best:
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Read moreHome Hill Winery is situated in the picturesque Huon Valley. It has some of the most picturesque vineyards in Tasmania, along with a magnificent cellar door and restaurant. With locally sourced ingredients and breathtaking views over Mount Wellington, Home Hill offers one of the best dining experiences in the area. The restaurant's large windows provide a great outlook, and the modern Australian menu features produce from surrounding paddocks. Tasmania wine tasting doesn't get any better than this.
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Read moreVilla Howden is a luxury hotel located 20 km south of Hobart, on the Huon Valley tourist route. This property is amazing, with landscaped gardens providing the perfect backdrop for romantic weekends or busy business trips. Bruni's Restaurant is the heart and soul of the villa, with delicious food and drink options available on the breakfast, dinner, and high tea menus. With great food and wine available in a stunning setting, Bruni's Restaurant delivers a truly elevated dining experience.
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Read moreGrain of the Silos is a much-loved restaurant set in the Peppers Silo Hotel. Located in Invermay on the banks of the Tamar River, this establishment is easily accessible from the Launceston CBD. As you'd expect given the location, the food and wine served at this venue is designed to represent the Tamar Valley. The menu is curated by Massimo Mele, who meets each farmer and local maker personally before creating each dish. Grain of the Silos is about great food, good people, and real Tasmanian connections.
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Read moreThe Shed Restaurant provides an authentic Tasmanian experience on the banks of the Derwent River. Head Chef Karen Jones sources local produce to craft a unique modern menu. The food is designed to take you on a culinary journey, with dishes paired with wine varietals from award-winning vineyards. This restaurant was built in the same footprint as the property's original shearing and tractor sheds, and many of the table bases even feature the same timber.
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Read moreThis award-winning winery and cellar door is located on a family winery in the heart of Tasmania’s famous Coal River Valley. It's just 20 minutes from Hobart, and it offers a unique insight into the agricultural and wine-making history of Tasmania. Surrounded by a historic Tasmania vineyard, Pooley Wines offers relaxed wine tastings, live events, and private venue hire for weddings. A memorable food experience awaits you at Prospect House, with dinner and breakfast served to staying and non-staying guests.
Tasmania is a stunning place full of picturesque nature, fascinating culture, and delicious food and wine. If you're thinking about taking a road trip this winter, we can't think of a better destination.