Winter Wonders: Your Inside Guide To 5 Unique Things to Do in Hobart
Hobart in winter isn’t just markets and museums. There’s a quieter magic that locals know well. Misty hills, warm light in cosy places, and experiences that feel a little more special when the air is cold and the city slows down.
Here are five original and memorable ways to enjoy Hobart in winter:
Twilight on the River: Hobart to Bellerive
Hop aboard the short ferry ride from Hobart’s Brooke Street Pier and glide across the River Derwent to the riverside suburb of Bellerive. In winter, the ferry ride itself feels magical. The air is crisp, the water calm, and the views back toward the city are lit with soft evening light. Once you arrive, head for the Bellerive Boardwalk. It’s a gentle, peaceful path that curves along the shore, offering wide views of kunanyi / Mount Wellington and Hobart’s twinkling skyline. Bring a warm jacket, maybe a thermos of tea, and enjoy the quiet as the day fades. It’s a perfect way to experience Hobart’s waterfront without the crowds.
Go Foraging with a Local Guide
Join Mic Giuliani of Sirocco South on the ultimate seasonal food treasure hunt. You’ll learn how to spot local edible plants like native greens, wild asparagus, salt bush, and safe Tasmanian mushrooms as you explore the natural landscape together. Then, settle in overlooking the sparkling waters of Frederick Henry Bay for a long lunch to remember. Mic will turn your foraged finds into a stunning six-course meal, paired with premium meats, seafood, and wines from the award-winning Bream Creek Vineyard. With guest numbers limited to just six people, this is a slow and special experience where you can connect with the land, the food, and the stories behind both. Whether you help Mic in the kitchen or simply sit back and enjoy, it’s a warm and generous way to spend a winter day in Tasmania.
Watch a Film in Vintage Comfort
The State Cinema in North Hobart is more than a movie theatre. It’s a local institution. Built in 1913, it still feels cosy and full of charm, with plush seats, a rooftop bar, and a carefully curated list of films. On a winter afternoon or evening, it’s the perfect way to slow down and enjoy something creative. In colder months, keep an eye out for pop-up outdoor screenings around the city. Picture bean bags, fire pits, blankets, and mulled wine under the stars.
Explore the Sub-Antarctic Plant House
Hidden within the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens is a little world like no other. The Sub-Antarctic Plant House recreates the conditions of Macquarie Island, one of the most remote and wind-blasted places on Earth. Step inside and you’ll find swirling mist, strange cold-climate plants, and a quiet, otherworldly atmosphere. It’s a short visit, but one that sticks with you. It’s also a great indoor activity if the weather turns.
Take a Night Tour of the Cascades Female Factory
Step into Tasmania’s convict past with a guided night tour of the Cascades Female Factory, one of the country’s most significant heritage sites. In winter, the site feels even more atmospheric. Lantern-lit tours take you through stories of real women who lived and worked there, bringing history to life in powerful, sometimes haunting ways. It’s a moving experience that adds depth to your understanding of Hobart’s early days, especially in the quiet stillness of winter nights.
Even in the cold, Hobart has a warmth to it. Whether you’re relaxing in a hot tub, learning something new, or simply slowing down with a film or walk, there’s plenty to enjoy in the off-season.
Book your winter stay with Inside Hobart and experience the side of the city that locals love most.