Hobart - Tasmania

 Lonely Planet has named Hobart one of the world's top ten cities to visit in 2013, largely because of the phenomenal impact of MONA, The Museum of Old and New Art. The city was once labeled ‘Slobart’ but our weekend was nothing but slow.

Hobart has a number of galleries and museums to explore, locally crafted wine and beer and a thriving foodie scene to enjoy, as well as various markets (including the very popular Salamanca Market every Saturday), artisan and antique shops to browse. 

Hobart is a short 2 hour flight south of Sydney and 80% of visitors hire a car when they arrive. Therefore my first tip for you is that you organise your car hire collection as soon as you land and before you pick-up your bags. Otherwise if you wait for your bags and then go to collect your car you end up in a very long car hire pick-up queue. Grab your car and you are on your way. If you arrive on the morning flight I suggest that you first take a drive via the pretty colonial village of Richmond and walk across Australia's oldest used bridge. Note the Richmond Bakery which is open every day is perfect for a little tasty snack. After a stroll around the antique shops it will be time to head back into Hobart via The Wicked Cheese Factory and the Frogmore Creek Winery (love their Chardonnay), perfect places to stock up on some local produce for your stay. This way you then arrive into Hobart at the perfect time for your hotel check-in.

We stayed at one of my favorite Hobart properties, The Somerset on the Pier - located on the Hobart waterfront and still just a few minutes’ walk from Salamanca Place and Battery Point. Our spacious loft style apartment included hotel car parking and gave us beautiful views of the River Derwent and Historic Sullivan’s Cove.

MONA - Museum of Old and New Art:

We visited MONA twice during our 4 day stay as it has so much to offer. A vineyard, a cellar door, a micro-brewery, accommodation, special events and a world-class museum - the Museum of Old and New Art. The museum is a unique, confronting and memorable experience. Be sure to make time during your visit to MONA to experience their top rated restaurant “Source” and also to take part in their wine and beer tasting that is located just outside the restaurant. MONA is a 15-minute drive north of Hobart or you can take the ferry from Brooke St. Pier. Note Mona is closed on Tuesdays.

Restaurant/Bar recommendations:

ETHOS - A brilliant place to experience the local Tasmanian produce. Tapas Style with a set menu. The chef chooses what your menu will be, based on the fresh ingredients they picked that day. A reservation booking is a must.

SMOLT - This informal restaurant in the heart of Hobart's lively Salamanca precinct always has something interesting to offer. We had a delicious yet unique breakfast including one of the best coffees in Hobart. However, they are known also for their desserts, wood fired pizzas and serious dinners.

JAMES QUIRE - Recommend the seafood platter and the beer paddle tasting for the boys.

CARGO BAR - A long list of fantastic Pizza’s and the Polenta chips are a must.

JACKMAN & McROSS Bakeries - in Battery point is more than just a bakery - perfect spot for a yummy breakfast. 

Food, wine and arty adventures made Hobart the perfect destination for our Easter long weekend away…

LINK to my photos from the weekend.

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By Alysha White

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MTA Corporate Travel Expert