There are a few things people tend to get wrong about Tasmania, the island south of Australia. First, that it’s just a remote farming island and not worth a visit if you’ve only got a few weeks to spend down under. Second, that it’s warm like the rest of Australia. And third, that Hobart — the state capital famous for its world-class oysters and contemporary art museum — is the only city you can fly into.
Let me clear a few of those up for you quickly. Yes, around 40 per cent of the island is protected wilderness, which is extraordinary. But Tasmania is far from one big forest full of people living off-grid in cabins. The island has one of the most highly rated food, wine and whisky scenes in Australia, including the world’s best oysters, according to locals (the brisk water means they’re richer in nutrients). It’s also home to one of the most provocative contemporary art museums in the world, a nod to the wickedly cool creative community who live on the island. It just happens to boast world-class, New Zealand-rivalling nature, too.
