Coles Bay is a very small town on the edge of water and next to a nature reserve. This is for the nature and ocean lover, and not a party and happening place like a big city. The Freycinet National Park has lots of hikes and nature and beaches to explore. Don't miss the hike to Wine Glass Bay, and even though the climb to the look out is uphill all the way and has lots of tourists, it is still worthwhile. But do ask for a list and map of other hikes in the area.
Launceston is right next to Cataract Gorge, a 150m cut into the rock with the river at the bottom. Literally 10 minutes walk from the city centre and you're in the heart of nature. The city has an adequate bus system during the week, based at St John Street. Always call taxis from payphones instead of mobiles as the numbers otherwise go back to Hobart! Some company runs a $35 Tamar River cruise which is worth checking out. All in all I'd say Launceston is a much nicer, more relaxed city than Hobart and with no shortage of things to see and do. I used Launceston as a start/stop point for the Under Down Under tour also.
Hobart is a happening place, with old buildings, tourists, and locals. It has the usual city feel to it, and is lovely to walk around in. Salamanca place is a must. Hiding behind other buildings this is an outdoor area with restaurants and some shops and a big pond. On Friday nights there is the live music by locals in another hidden away courtyard. Here they start early (at about 4 p.m. to about 7:30 p.m.) and they sell some drinks, while you can listen to the local band and even enjoy dancing on the dancing floor if you like.
Bicheno is the best place in the entire world. It's so peaceful, they have all they need.
Bruny Island … Great place, wish we had more time there. Don't miss the penguins.
Maria Island … Camping is the way to go! Maria is such a wicked island! Camping really lets you get close to the wildlife, especially if you are quiet-- there are animals everywhere! This was truly my favorite wild place in all of Australia.
Triabunna … This area is quite exquisite. The mountains in the region seem climb forever into the vast abyss of space. The are many goodies to be found in this environment but be careful of the stinging, man-eating arachnids that swarm every nook and cranny.
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