Hobart University of Tasmania
About Hobart, Guide and Top Tourist Attractions
(Hobart, Tasmania - TAS, Australia)
Hobart is the capital city of Tasmania, a small island off the southern coast of Australia. It is said to be one of the most scenic places in Australia, facing the beautiful Derwent River on the southeast with Mount Wellington providing a magnificent backdrop.
Hobart owes much of its wealth and economic surge to Macquarie Wharf, its main port. Almost all of Hobart's local and international trade takes place in this port. Formerly known as Sullivan's Cove, the site holds much historical value to the city, as it is where the first settlements appeared and the city was founded.
The city started out as Hobart Town, named after Lord Hobart, a British colonial secretary in the early 19th century. Its coastal location made it an ideal spot for a trading port, and it eventually became the centre of the whaling and seal trade in the Southern Ocean. Hobart soon became a major port town, with a thriving economy boosted by allied industries such as ship building. Hobart gained city status in 1842, but continued to go by the name Hobart Town until the 'Town' was officially dropped in 1875.
What to do in Hobart
First-time visitors to Hobart will find that the city is very friendly to tourists. Tourist information centres are scattered around the area, particularly at the Hobart Airport (HBA). These centres offer important information such as driving directions, hotel guides and listings, and car rental services.
Hobart has some of the best sand beaches in Tasmania, most of which are easily accessible from the city centre. The Seven Mile Beach is a popular yet uncrowded beach perfect for shallow bathing and sunbathing. Occasional swells also make it a good surfing spot.
A popular attraction is the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, which is held at the end of every year. The race takes off at the Sydney Harbour and finishes at Hobart's waterfront, where hundreds of spectators gather to watch the arrivals.
Hobart is also home to many museums and art galleries. The Moorilla Museum of Antiquities is one of the best-known museums in the city, carrying archaeological artefacts that were influential in Hobart's history and development. The Carnegie Gallery hosts temporary art exhibits year-round, displaying works by artists from all over the world, as well as by local artists from the Hobart and Tasmania area.
Tourist Attractions
Hobart is the outdoor enthusiast's haven, with its many natural wonders and breathtaking outdoor views. Almost 500 Protected Areas are packed into the Tasmania area, making it one of the world's most environmentally friendly places. Mount Field National Park is a must-see for nature lovers, with its lush forests and pristine waterfalls. Nearby, you will find the Junee Cave State Reserve, a platypus reserve. Junee Cave is accessible by car or bike from Mount Field, and there are tours you can join that will take you around both areas.
One of the most visible landmarks in Hobart is the Tasman Bridge, which stretches across the Derwent River and looks particularly striking in the late afternoon, where it is outlined against the vibrant colors of the sunset. Longer than the more popular Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Tasman Bridge is the primary link between Hobart's eastern suburbs and the rest of the city.
A casual walk around the city will reveal a number of architectural masterpieces, such as the Government House, a classic Victorian building complete with original Victorian interiors and furniture, and Parliament House, a low, sprawling structure facing a vast green lawn.