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Tasmania Tales
Adventures in Southern Australia
RACHEL COFFMAN
For many years , my travel bucket list excluded Australia . It seemed to lack the historic , aesthetic appeal that drew me to Europe or the vibrant , eclectic culture of South America I had enjoyed on my travels . Australia was a destination I didn ’ t feel the need to rush to visit , and when considering a trip there , Tasmania wasn ’ t top of mind . However , my assumptions could not have been more wrong . Tasmania should be on everyone ’ s bucket list .
How does one choose Tasmania if it ’ s not already on their radar ? As often happens with unexpected destinations , my significant other , Jeb , was invited to present at the Australian International Taxi Conference in Hobart , Tasmania , in August 2023 .
Stepping off the plane , I immediately knew Tasmania was special . The crisp air felt medicinal as it carried the coolness and virginity of place from the winds drifting off Antarctica . I felt both nervous and overwhelmed as this was my first international trip since 2020 .
Arriving in Hobart , the capital city of Tasmania , on a Saturday meant we would drop our bags and head straight to Salamanca Place for the weekly market held every Saturday . We were greeted with hints of spring peeking through the edges of winter . The Salamanca Market is a showcase of Tasmanian culture and a reflection of its commitment to quality . Vendor after vendor displayed agricultural products and meticulously crafted art .
The central feature of Hobart is Mount Wellington , which ascends 4,170 feet above the city . Wedged between the mountain and the Derwent River , Hobart felt more Nordic than Australian . Adjacent to Salamanca and the city center is Battery Point , one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city ,
where you will find sandstone cottages holding the history of its maritime past . Many of our mornings in Hobart began in this neighborhood , walking to what became our favorite breakfast spot , Jackman & McRoss . This bakeryturned-must-eat stop for any traveler offers a large selection of pastries , breakfast items and local pies . A must-try is the scallop pie with its distinct curry flavor .
As I mentioned , the scallop pie is a local déclassé and alone might be worth the flight . The timing of our trip had allowed us to enjoy the Tasmanian Whiskey Week festival . We found ourselves as the only non-locals for the tasting dinner where we were able to meet Bill Lark , the founder of Lark Distillery , and the Tasmanian Whiskey industry that is now delivering quality whiskey to rival those coming from Scotland .
When we met Lark , he asked what my favorite was in the dinner , and I answered Lark Classic Cask . He replied slyly , “ Mine too .”
I was unaware of who I was speaking to and quite embarrassed when he disclosed his connection to the industry . It was an honor to spend the time talking to Lark , who has revolutionized the distilling industry on the island . Whiskey tasting at Tasmanian ’ s distilleries is a perfect afternoon in Hobart . Lark Distillery and Overeem are excellent choices .
Craftsmanship in Tasmania extends from whiskey and wine to cheese making and chocolate . A must-do day trip is Bruny Island , located south of the city and accessible by ferry . Bruny Island has deep Indigenous roots , and Tasmanian Aboriginal culture is still prevalent on the island today , showcasing the Nuenonne culture . Its shores greeted many early explorers like Tasmania ’ s namesake , Abel Tasman . We
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