All too often, Winter is time we head north to indulge in the warmer weather, but why not consider a southern adventure? Tasmania, our island state, is a fascinating destination boasting incredible natural beauty and unique wildlife.

While it’s an excellent destination to visit year-round, Winter is a particularly special time to explore the island. One of the main reasons is to view the Aurora Australis or Southern Lights, a breathtaking natural phenomenon that illuminates the night sky with dazzling shades of green, pink, and purple.

To experience this awe-inspiring spectacle, Tasmania offers several excellent locations for Aurora viewing. One of the best places is in the far southern region of the state, around the town of Dover. This area boasts minimal light pollution, clear skies, and expansive views over the ocean, providing an ideal setting for Aurora viewing. Other top locations include the remote wilderness areas of Cradle Mountain and Lake St. Clair, as well as the rugged coastline around the town of Stanley.

While the Aurora Australis is undoubtedly a highlight of visiting Tasmania in Winter, there are plenty of other attractions and activities to enjoy on the island.

Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, is a charming city that’s well worth exploring. One of the top attractions in Hobart is the historic waterfront, which features a wealth of beautifully preserved buildings that date back to the city’s early days as a trading port. Here, you can wander the cobblestone streets, browse boutique shops and galleries, and sample delicious seafood at one of the many excellent restaurants.

Tasmania is home to one of Australia’s most innovative and exciting art museums: the Museum of Old and New Art, or MONA. This cutting-edge institution features a diverse collection of contemporary and ancient art from around the world.

Famous for its unique wildlife and there’s no better place to see some of the island’s most iconic creatures than at the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo. This innovative wildlife park is home to a range of native animals, including Tasmanian devils, quolls, echidnas, and wallabies.

It’s also a hiker’s paradise, with a wealth of trails that offer stunning views and access to some of the island’s most remote and wild areas. One of the top places to hike in Tasmania is the Tarkine wilderness in the state’s North East region, a vast and pristine wilderness area that’s home to ancient rainforests, rugged coastlines, and pristine rivers.

Tasmania’s East Coast is known for its stunning scenery, including white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and rugged cliffs. There are several scenic drives to take, such as the Great Eastern Drive, which offers breathtaking views of the coast and stops at several charming towns and villages along the way.

Port Arthur is a former convict settlement that has been preserved as a historic site. Visitors can explore the ruins of the prison and learn about the harsh conditions that convicts faced during their time here. There are also guided tours available, as well as a museum and visitor centre.

Finally, it must be mentioned that Tasmania is renowned for its high-quality produce. To experience the best of Tasmania’s culinary offerings, be sure to visit one of the island’s many farm-to-table restaurants, food festivals, or markets. There are also several wine regions to explore, such as the Tamar Valley and the Coal River Valley. Many vineyards offer tastings and tours, allowing visitors to learn about the winemaking process and sample some of Tasmania’s finest wines.

With so many unique points of interest in Tassie, make sure you put it on your bucket list, and tick it off asap.