Island escapes, food tours and flights of fancy: the magical shades of Tasmanian spring
As the Earth’s axis begins its seasonal tilt and the daylight hours linger well into the night, Tasmania steps out of the darkness for its moment in the sun. All the poetic markers of spring beckon us out of hibernation: deciduous trees come back to life cloaked in varying shades of green, drifts of wild daffodils form carpets of yellow, while the flowering wattles create a burst of gold across the sky. With new hotels turning on the lights, new ways to reach once-remote islands and beaches, and restaurants serving up seductive seasonal flavours, it’s time to create your own moment in the Tasmanian sun, to be savoured for years to come.
MACq 01
The breeze along Hobart's waterfront carries a thousand captivating stories of those that were here before - a cast of remarkable characters, each with an intriguing story to tell. Now these stories are captured and shared in Australia’s most anticipated new hotel, MACq 01. Celebrating Tasmania’s famous and infamous, with big ideas and quiet achievements, MACq 01 is a storytelling hotel. Convicts, crooks, captains of industry and other colourful characters are remembered in words and artefacts woven into every detail, making every room individual and special. Flanking the Hunter Street wharf with views across the sparkling Derwent River and up to Mount Wellington, the hotel brings the story of 114 remarkable Tasmanians to life. This isn’t a token effort to tell a few yarns, it’s a full-on, immersive experience - with Tasmania will run deep through your veins. Dine in at Old Wharf restaurant (head chef Simon Pockran will share some fascinating food yarns at the Chef’s Table) or sip at The Story Bar, adorned with old newspapers alongside plush seating and killer cocktails. Book today at www.macq01.com.au
Maria Island Ferry
Use those precious extra daylight hours exploring Maria Island, an exquisite natural wildlife sanctuary and world heritage island with historic ruins, sweeping bays and dramatic cliffs. Getting to the Island just got a whole lot easier, with Encounter Maria Island now offering a year-round ferry service with multiple sailings each day. Be transported to another world, only 30 minutes off the East Coast at Triabunna, to enjoy walks, wildlife and water activities on the island. Take in the Painted Cliffs and Fossil Cliffs or one of the many other walks at all levels, and stay the night in the old penitentiary at Darlington. You can book a bike to use on the island, or the ferry staff will kindly help you lug a kayak over if you want to explore the water. Check the timetable at www.encountermaria.com.au
Barnbougle Luxury Oceanfront Villas
What better way to get a lung of fresh Tasmanian spring air than 18 holes overlooking the Bass Strait? Golfers (and their caddies) will love the new Barnbougle Luxury Oceanfront Villas, overlooking the ever-changing landscape of Barnbougle Beach and out to Bass Strait. The villas are two bedroom, two bathroom, open plan spaces that spill out onto the weathered timber deck overlooking the beach. Enjoy the earliest round in the morning, taking in the two courses, The Dunes and Lost Farm, that make up the Barnbougle Links Golf Resort. Or sit inside with a glass of local wine and watch the weather roll in from the sea. Book today at www.barnbougle.com.au/stay/the-dunes/ocean-villas/
Curringa Farm
Set amongst the picturesque rolling hills of central Tasmania is Curringa Farm, a 750 acre working farm run by 6th generation farmers, Tim and Jane Parsons. And if going behind the scenes on an award-winning sheep farm wasn’t enough, you can now stay on the farm in the new two bedroom, two bathroom deluxe cottages overlooking Lake Meadowbank. There’s also studios, cottages and farmhouse already on offer. While you’re there, explore the property on foot, taking a look at their sustainable farming practices on the way to beautiful forest walks, watch the shearing, meet the working dogs and partake in the delicious homemade scones and barbecue hampers. The ultimate adventure for holiday makers wanting to get close to nature. Book today at www.curringafarm.com.au/accommodation/
Bay of Fires Bush Retreat
Hosts at the relaxed Bay of Fires Bush Retreat, Thomas and Anna, encourage you to get your hair salty and your feet sandy at their simple and stylish communal accommodation. The Retreat offers two options, the Bell Tents and the Bunk House (available from early January). Guests access the beautiful hand-crafted amenities block only a short stroll from the accommodation areas. For those foodies among us, you’ll be treated top notch Tasmanian fare by courtesy of Tom (former head chef at the acclaimed Angasi in Binalong Bay and Drift in Devonport), or the communal kitchen is decked out with everything you’ll need to create a feast from the outstanding local produce. The Retreat is only minutes’ drive from the stunning sights of the Bay of Fires and is the perfect base from which to explore. Book at www.bayoffiresbushretreat.com.au
Taste. Walk. Talk
This roaming food tour is the perfect way to soak in the sites of Launceston at a leisurely pace, sample sumptuous local fare and learn about the city’s history while you’re at it. Hit the pavement with local foodie Brock, who will lead your tastebuds around his city and share the uniquely Tasmanian produce that abounds here. Taste wine, beer, charcuterie, pastries, chocolate - if it’s made near Launceston, then Brock knows where to find it. Taste.Walk.Talk offers three tours depending on how much time is up your sleeve; a full day exploring up to seven secret spots or an afternoon tour visiting at least three producers, or a pre-dinner tour to Brock’s best watering holes, including drinks and nibbles. Customisable tours are also available upon request. Book at www.tastewalktalk.com