About Hobart
Population 140,000 Hobart is the capital of Tasmania and was founded in 1804 as a convict site where the worst of the British and colonial criminals were sent.
Hobart straddles both sides of the Derwent River and is backed onto by majestic Mount Wellington.
This is a charming city that is relatively compact and easy to explore. Some of the main places to check out while you are here include Salamanca Place, Battery Point, the city centre and Mount Wellington for some spectacular views.
At Salamanca Place and the nearby areas around the waterfront, you will find warehouses dating back to the 1830's whaling days that now house really cool bars, nightclubs, cafes, restaurants, galleries and art studios. The place is pumping on a Friday and Saturday night. During the day on Saturday's the famous Salamanca Market is held. This is a great market for fresh local produce, fashion, arts and crafts.
At nearby Battery Point you will find some of Hobart's finest houses that were once settlers' cottages. This place is also nice to stop for a coffee in one of the great cafes, or a beer in one of the 'oldy worldy' pubs.
The city centre is where the main shopping and business district is located. You will find a decent selection of shops here, mainly around the Elizabeth Street Mall. There are also a variety of places to eat and various attractions like the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery on Macquarie Street. Just behind the city is the impressive Mount Wellington. If you make your way up to the top there are excellent views over Hobart and surrounding regions. In winter the mountain often gets snow on it, making it a picturesque backdrop to the city. If you are here around new years, the city is buzzing as it is the finish line to the world famous Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. The area around the waterfront is party central.
Hobart is a great base to explore the nearby areas of Mount Field National Park and the Tasman Peninsula, where you have some spectacular scenery and fascinating places to visit such as the Port Arthur Historical Site.
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