What better time to get out and about, explore Southern Tasmania, and support the wonderful array of local producers, cafes and bars than this winter. We have it all to ourselves at the moment, so let’s see why the world is so envious of us.

Experience the magic of fresh snow, warm up with a drink by the fire and indulge in sumptuous winter comfort food.

Enjoy a Tasmanian tipple

There’s nothing quite like a fine Tasmanian beverage to warm the soul and wet the lips. Scattered throughout southern Tassie, you will find an array of boutique distillers, brewers and winemakers armed with their latest Tasmanian inspired drop.

Start your journey at Lark Distillery in Hobart before hitting the road and heading North. Drop-in at the Old Kempton Distillery and Nant Distillery.

If you’re heading South of Hobart, a mulled cider from Willie Smith’s Apple Shed or Frank’s Cider is always a hit to warm the heart and the hands.

If you’re staying in Hobart, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Hideaway in The Den and sit by one of their many fireplaces, or take a trip to Evolve Spirits Bar, Macq01’s Story Bar or The Lounge by Frogmore Creek with a cocktail or two.

If the grape is more your style, follow the Southern Tasmanian wine route (bring a designated driver!) and visit Kate Hill Wines, Home Hill Winery, Pooley Wines, Frogmore Creek, Stefano Lubiana and Bangor Vineyard Shed.

Indulge in comfort food

There’s no doubt that winter is the season for comfort food. Southern Tasmania is home to too many cute cosy cafes and restaurants to list – but they’re perfect for weekend day trips. Visit the Cygnet Old Bank Cafe (housed in a conservatory) or the Old Bank of Geeveston for artisan pastries and fresh home-made pasta. Pop into the Longley Hotel for a parmi and a pint. Enjoy a weekend lunch at The Agrarian Kitchen (reservations essential) or indulge in some chocolate and cheese at Coal River Farm.

If you’re looking to come into town, don’t forget a trip to Federation Chocolate on Victoria Street and pick up some handcrafted chocolates.

*Be sure to check ahead for opening days and hours.

Get the blood flowing

Southern Tasmania isn’t short of stunning scenery, nor is it short on quality hiking trails to see said scenery. Setting out on foot is a great way to warm up and get the blood flowing. You might even be lucky to experience some snow.

The Tasman Peninsula has some great short walks available for a range of abilities and ages. For the more adventurous types, Mount Field National Park offers more alpine experiences such as the Tarn Shelf Circuit which should only be walked by those with hiking experience. For the snow bunnies who want to stay a little closer to the city, head up kunanyi/Mt Wellington and enjoy the range of tracks around The Springs and enjoy some snow play. Make sure you check in here for the current mountain road status.

Remember, it is winter so correct attire is an absolute must. Make sure you have a jacket, jumper, gloves and a beanie at a minimum to keep you toasty warm and proceed with caution. Check the weather ahead of time and visit the Parks Tasmania website for safety walking guides.

Experience a cosy night away

Snuggle up in a wilderness retreat or cosy hotel and enjoy a weekend out of the house.

If you’re looking for a place to make memories, Pumphouse Point in the Central Highlands is the ultimate winter escape, enjoy views over Lake St Clair and curl up by the communal fireplaces with a glass of wine and a book. Rathmore is another beautiful place to escape the city and immerse yourself in country living on their 92 acre historic sheep property in the beautiful Derwent Valley (home of Mount Field National Park). 

For those staying in and around Hobart, Moss Hotel tucked away in Salamanca is an inner-city retreat, or enjoy the warm surrounds of the historic award winning Hadley’s Orient Hotel. 

Winter is also a great time to escape to the country and breathe in that fresh country air. Venture out to historic Richmond and experience Prospect House or the quaint A Cottage in Richmond. For those after a hands-on farming experience, Curringa Farm in Hamilton will have you whipping out the Akubra and Blundstone boots.

For those looking for something a little further South, Bruny Island is the perfect Island (off an island) escape. Gaze at the winter night sky from the warmth of your private hot tub at Hundred Acre Hideaway on Bruny Island or watch the winter waves roll in at Cloudy Bay Cabins.

There are so many beautiful places to stay in Southern Tasmania. For more, please check out our full range of accommodation listings.

We love it when you share your adventures with us! Share your snaps by tagging @hobartandbeyond and using #HobartandBeyond on Instagram and Facebook – we’ll share our favourite pics on social media and in the blog.

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6 Wonderful winter walks in Southern Tasmania

Tasmania in Winter: Safety Tips for Driving in the Snow

Bushwalking in Southern Tasmania