Hobart & Surrounds Info
Introduction
Hobart is the capital of Australia’s island state, Tasmania. This idyllic and historic city serves as Tasmania’s financial and administrative centre. Situated near the mouth of the Derwent River, with an incredible vista of Mount Wellington, Hobart, was once the site of an English penal colony; it quickly evolved into a bustling, vibrant port, teeming with whale hunters, soldiers, opportunists and public servants, looking to make some extra cash. The waterfront warehouses that famously line the city’s shores have been converted into the poshest boutiques, eclectic and modern cafes, haute cuisine restaurants and busy studios. The area succeeds in alluring both tourists and cosmopolitan inhabitants alike.
There are more than 200,000 people residing in Hobart and the greater Hobart area. More than 12% of the city’s denizens were born abroad, primarily in the UK, Germany, Holland and New Zealand. The city serves as a base for French and Australian Antarctic research; it is also home to the Cadbury chocolate factory and the Cascade Brewery, whose beer bottles sport the infamous Tasmanian devil.
Hobart’s climate is mild and there are four distinct seasons, however, winter snow is something of a rarity. The average temperature ranges from a maximum high of 16.9 degrees Celsius to a low of 8.3 degrees Celsius.
Visiting
The second largest state capital in all of Australia, Hobart is an idyllic city set amidst a stunning natural backdrop—it lies in the foothills of the snow capped Mt. Wellington, and is flanked by the tranquil, pewter-grey waters of the Derwent River. The city’s streets are dotted with quaint Georgian sandstone and brick buildings, constructed by convicts. Don’t let the city’s notorious past fool you though. Hobart is enlivened by a down to Earth yet fresh joie de vivre atmosphere; it plays host to a gamut of world class festivals, modern and edgy restaurants, top notch hotels, hip urban bars and languorous cafes. On any sunny afternoon, you can catch salty ocean breezes rippling across the waves as yachts and fishing boats mingle in the abundant waters surrounding this breathtaking city. Hobart’s eclectic mix of the history and modernity, make it a must see destination.
To get there, you’ll have to stop off in the mainland first and catch a flight on either Qantas, Jetstar or Virgin Blue as there are no direct international flights to/from the island. Once you arrive, you can easily get around using public transportation—MetroTasmania operates the bus lines and you can purchase tickets including the unlimited travel Day Rover ticket at most post offices. You can also rent a car at the airport or simply rely on metered Taxis.
Once you get settled in, take a long stroll along the waterfront at Salamanca Place. The Salamanca Markets, open on Saturday mornings, are filled with fine handicrafts and souvenirs. Explore both Franklin Wharf and Princes Wharf and enjoy the freshly caught seafood.
If you head downtown towards Franklin Square, you’ll find plenty of fine historic buildings leading up to the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery on Macquarie Street, where you can find an exquisitely preserved specimen of a Tasmanian tiger, stripes and all. The Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, one of the best in the world, often presents waterfront concerts. For those seeking something a little bit different, there’s the Cadbury Chocolate Factory, which offers visitors free samples; take a ghost tour at Penitentiary Chapel and Criminal Courts; stroll along Hunter Street and marvel at the Georgian warehouses turned art hotels, galleries and hip restaurants. Also of note are the Botanical Discovery Centre, a small, yet beautiful gem of a garden located near the famous Tasman Bridge (which, incidentally, is also worth a visit), Arthur Circus, home to an eclectic mix of mansions, tiny one room apartments and unique guesthouses.
Don’t miss out on Hobart’s great food scene. Sample their warm crusty breads, with some world-class ale; munch on crisp apples; savor the fresh local oysters, the meaty lobsters and great tasting Atlantic salmon. Hobart also has great ethnic eats ranging from Greek to Mexican.
History
Hobart was first settled n 1803 as a penal colony on the eastern shores of the Derwent River. Later, the city was moved over concerns of a French presence. The town was named after Lord Hobart, colonial secretary. The original inhabitants the Mouheneener tribe were killed in a series of bloody encounters. Later, Hobart developed into a major port city.