Luxury holidays in Hobart

When to go

Foodies should head to Hobart in November or December to reap the fruits of Hobart’s harvest; in these months, farm shops sell rations for your day’s adventures by the roadside: juicy berries, fresh juices, creamy yoghurts, just-baked breads, cheeses and other goodies. Avoid Hobart in winter (June to August) when the island is lashed with rain and the Roaring Forty winds.

Getting there

• Planes

  Hobart International Airport (www.hobartairport.com.au) is about 17 kilometres east of the city centre. Regular flights are available from most major cities in Australia (Melbourne’s an hour away) with Qantas (www.qantas.com.au), Jetstar (www.jetstar.com) and Virgin Blue (www.virginblue.com.au). A taxi from the airport to the city is AU$25–$30.

• Boats

  Ferries to Tasmania from the mainland are provided by Spirit of Tasmania (1800 634 906; www.spiritoftasmania.com.au). Its service operates year-round, with daily departures between Station Pier in Port Melbourne and Devonport on Tasmania’s north coast. On-board accommodation ranges from functional airline-style seating to private deluxe cabins.

• Automobiles

  Most major car hire companies can be found at Hobart Airport or in the city itself, including Avis (www.avis.com.au). Although Hobart is small enough to navigate by foot, it’s definitely worth getting a car to explore the surrounding sights.

• Taxis

  Nicknamed Slo-bart, the city makes for pleasant walking. Cabs are easily hailed though, or call United Taxis (03 6274 3120) for a reliable service around Hobart and the surrounding areas.