Sunday 21 February 2016

Whats New in Tasmania: We Might Be Left Off the Map, but We're Top of Your List

It's oh-so-cool down here and we're not talking about the leaf-changing, warmer-layer inducing, red-wine loving weather. Across Tasmania this Autumn we have foodie openings, we have new cellar doors, we have new boutique tours and accommodation to explore. But don't just read about it, get down here and create your own Tasmanian story – from the beautiful introduction to the final conclusion (which should be that Autumn in Tasmania is simply perfection).

Par Avion Helicopters

How does a private little picnic on the East Coast sound? Want to get there by helicopter? No worries! A Par Avion Helicopter Tour starts from Cambridge, near Hobart, then follows the breathtakingly rugged coastline of Storm Bay to Bangor Farm. Pick up the freshest produce for a delicious picnic then head back out to the secluded Lagoon Bay to enjoy the local seafood and wine. This tour is $375pp, other tours start at $220pp. Check out the incredible range of food and drink itineraries at www.paravion.com.au/helicopters/wine-dine-and-whisky

Entally Estate

Eighty years after part of the property was sold, Entally Estate is whole again, with the purchase and blending back in of the former Rutherglen Holiday Village. The complete Entally Estate now features 20 Scandinavian inspired, contemporary guest rooms with king beds, modern amenities and high quality linens. The Kitchen at Entally Lodge supports local farmers by serving up fresh and healthy foods – healthy for bodies and for the local food economy. Perch in the bar and enjoy a local beer, wine or cider with well-crafted tapas. More information at www.entally.com.au

Ocean View Eco-Studios at Freycinet Eco Retreat

With compelling views over Saltwater Lagoon and the Friendly Beaches, Freycinet Eco Retreat have just released their new Ocean View Eco Studios. Nestled in the hills of Mt Paul and perfect for two (with luxuriously snuggly king beds), the open deck offers a sweeping vista out to the Tasman sea, complete with walking tracks through the bushland and friendly wildlife. Eight studios, all designed to high environmental standards, feature water and energy saving devices and appliances, water self-sufficient, super insulated to cut down on heating, and are 6-star energy efficient. www.freycinet.com/cabins/eco-studios

Tasmanian Boat Charters - Odalisque

Explore untouched and remote South West region of the Tasmanian UNESCO Wilderness World Heritage Area in optimum comfort on board the custom built 20 metre luxury vessel, Odalisque. Choose a three, five or seven day all-inclusive ecotourism expedition, beginning with an extraordinary flight in to Melaleuca to explore Bathurst Harbour and Port Davey from February to May. The stunningOdalisque is also available for tailored day charters from May to January, cruising the Derwent River or overnight adventures exploring Tasmania's breathtaking coastlines, including Bruny Island, the East Coast and the Tasman Peninsula. Bookings and prices at www.tasmanianboatcharters.com.au

Wild West Coast Tour with Par Avion

How's this for the ultimate day out. Par Avion's Wild West Coast Tour departs from Hobart in the morning for a cool scenic flight over the Central Highland, marvelling at the grand scale of Macquarie Harbour (it's six times the size of Sydney Harbour!) then descending into Strahan to join the award-winning Gordon River Cruise aboard a luxury catamaran. Check out 'Hell's Gates' and the local salmon and trout farms, before heading into UNESCO Wilderness World Heritage Area to breathe the freshest air and see ancient Huon Pines. Next stop is the once feared penal colony of Sarah Island, for a guided interpretative tour before hopping back on the plane to head back to Hobart. What a day. From $450 each adult, including a chef-prepared buffet lunch is included.
www.paravion.com.au/flights/wild-west-coast-tour

The Rustic Hut Bush Retreat

Nestled at the base of the beautiful Dial Range, inland from Penguin, The Rustic Hut Bush Retreat is a working farm, home to friendly animals and set on 50 acres of secluded bushland. The four rustic timber huts are uniquely designed to blend in with the natural surroundings and feature lots of timber and natural handmade furnishings. Each is different so they're perfect for couples, families and friends travelling together. Complimentary hampers with the farms own eggs and bacon, as well as wine and locally sourced goodies greet guests on their first night. www.therustichut.com.au

Devil's Corner Cellar Door and Lookout

The new Devil's Corner Cellar Door, home to one of Australia's most popular Pinot Noir, is more than just a place to taste award winning Tasmanian wines, it's a spectacular spot to take in the panoramic views of the majestic Hazards and Freycinet Peninsula. Enjoy the views from the deck while enjoying fresh seafood straight from the Freycinet Marine Farm, while Tombolo CafĂ© dish up pizza straight from the wood-fired oven, with espresso coffee and gelato a delicious specialty. www.brownbrothers.com.au/visit-us/tasmania/taste/devils-corner-cellar-door/

Bruny Island Light House Tours

If these walls could talk…they'd probably tell salty tales of near misses and wild, crashing oceans. Australia's southernmost, second oldest and longest continually staffed extant lighthouse now offers day and sunset tours, where guest learn all about it's marine past – from the 1835 wreck of convict boat George III, to stories of keepers who toiled for long hours under the light of the kerosene lamp, until 1996. Between October and May, see short tailed shearwaters return to nesting burrows on sunset and watch as the sun drops behind the Tasmanian Southwest Wilderness from the amazing balcony vantage point perched 114 metre above the Tasman Sea. www.brunyislandsafaris.com/bruny-island-sunset-tour.html

The Sensory Tasmania

Our state smells so good, some smart nose has decided to try and bottle it.

In a world first, The Sensory Tasmania is working with a scent scientist to recreate the Southwest wilderness, the leatherwood flower and the Tasmanian devil aroma scents, which you can smell for yourself at their unique retail experience in Richmond. Also check out local Bridestowe Lavender products, Anvers chocolates, Smitten Merino and Tasmanian honey, woodcraft and jewellery. www.thesensorytas.com.au

On Yer Bike Tours

If taking a leisurely three and a half hour bike ride through historic and happening Launceston with On Your Bike Tours and hearing intriguing stories of our pioneering past wasn't enough, then the Tassie Taste plate, enjoyed with a drink along the way should do the job. Tours every Friday and Sunday from $60 for adults, $50 for kids over 10. www.onyourbiketours.com

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