Visit: Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, Hobart
Heading to Tassie? Don’t miss this popular attraction!
Tasmania’s harbour side capital, Hobart, is home to the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, a lush oasis covering 13.5 hectares.
The gardens date back to 1818 and showcase an astounding 6,500 species and varieties of plants, including 400 Tasmanian species.
With Hobart acting as a hub for Antarctic explorations, the garden has been able to collect an array of subantarctic species, and visitors can explore the world’s only Subantarctic Plant House.
Just one of these amazing subantarctic plants is the King’s lomatia which reproduces by cloning itself.
The Japanese Garden is another highlight of the Botanical Gardens, complete with small bridges, water features, and a Lily Pond.
Guests can take a guided tour of the gardens, viewing the largest public conifer collection in the Southern Hemisphere, soaking up the scents of the Herb Garden, and visiting the Tasmanian Community Food Garden.
The Rain Garden acts as an interesting exhibition on water sustainability, with the Botanical Gardens partaking in a variety of conservation work.
Don’t miss the Cactus House if you love succulents, whilst the Conservatory and Fuchsia House will stun colour-lovers.
Rare plants are the gardens’ specialty; with the historic Arthur Wall internally heated to grow exotic plants no matter how cold it gets.
The gardens also regularly host events and seasonal displays including a stunning tulip display during the annual Spring Community Festival.
As one of Australia’s oldest public gardens, the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens are dedicated to educating visitors on plant and environment conservation and sustainability, so you’re guaranteed to learn a thing or two from your trip.
Fun fact: across from the main entrance to the gardens is the site of the former Beaumaris Zoo where the last captive Tasmania Tiger died in 1936!
Only 2kms from central Hobart, the gardens are open 365 days a year with free on-site parking. We recommend packing a picnic basket to enjoy on the lawns!
In Tasmania for a few days? Try these suggestions;
• The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) has been described by founder David Walsh as a “subversive adult Disneyland”. Someone take our money!
• Check out the harbour! The serene view is beautiful to enjoy and you can grab some amazing fish and chips served in a cone from Fish Frenzy.
However, If you’re visiting in January be prepared to battle the crowds hoping to catch a glimpse of the Sydney to Hobart yachts as they approach the finish line.
• Wander historical Battery Point to view prestigious homes and relax in one of many cafes.
• Port Arthur Historical Site is a fascinating place for history buffs (or fans of ghost tours), but even if you’re not historically inclined, you’re likely to find it interesting regardless.
• Tour Australia’s oldest brewery (1832), Cascade, and enjoy a tasting at the end. Bookings essential!
• Snap photos from the summit of Mt Wellington, often referred to by locals as ‘the Mountain’. The 1,270 metre height offers amazing views if you get a clear day, good luck!
Looking for beautiful green spaces elsewhere in Australia? Read our blogs on Brisbane’s Botanic Gardens, Top Places to Discover Wildflowers in Perth, Kakadu National Park Highlights, Melbourne’s Best Gardens to Explore, Sydney’s Most Beautiful Gardens.