Austral summer (December to February) is the best period for Tasmania: perfect temperatures (17-23 °C by day, 8-14 °C at night), long days (sunrise 5:30am, sunset 9pm), optimal Cradle Mountain and Overland Track hiking conditions, possible swimming in turquoise Wineglass Bay waters (sea at 16-18 °C, cool but bearable), Tamar Valley harvests (March), festivals (Taste of Tasmania in Hobart late December-early January, MONA FOMA in January-February). It is also the high tourist season — 3-6 month advance booking for the best Cradle Mountain lodges (Cradle Mountain Lodge, Peppers Cradle Mountain) and Pumphouse Point.
Autumn (March-April) is equally excellent and we particularly recommend it. The spectacular autumn foliage (poplar, maple, but especially the Fagus — Australia's unique native deciduous tree, present only in Tasmania, turning gold and red mid-April in alpine heights) is one of the most beautiful photographic experiences. Still very pleasant climate (12-20 °C), markedly declining crowds, hotel rates down 15-25%. Tamar Valley and Coal River Valley harvests in March-April. It is also the season of humpback whale return (April-May, observation from southern Tasmania).
Austral spring (September to November) offers gardens in bloom (Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens in Hobart, one of Australia's oldest 1818), newborns in pastures (lambs), alpine wildflower bloom at Cradle Mountain. Pleasant climate (12-18 °C) but variable weather (possible showers, mist). Reasonable rates.
Austral winter (June to August) is cold (3-12 °C in Hobart, possible snow at altitude — Cradle Mountain often snow-covered) but offers special experiences. The Dark MOFO festival (June, organised by MONA) is the headline contemporary art event — performances, exhibitions, concerts, immersive meals, gothic and provocative atmosphere. Tasmanian whiskies (Lark, Sullivans Cove) are enjoyed by the fire in Hobart and Launceston historic pubs. Aurora australis (Aurora Australis) are sometimes visible from southern Tasmania (Cockle Creek, Bruny Island) — rare but possible. Lowest rates, cosy atmosphere.
Read also
- Hobart — Tasmania's capital: MONA, Salamanca Market, Mount Wellington, Battery Point.
- Sydney and east coast — To combine with Tasmania: Sydney-Hobart flight 1h45, perfect continental Australia + island duo.
- Melbourne and Victoria — Melbourne-Hobart 1h flight or Spirit of Tasmania ferry (10h from Geelong).
- Australia — Complete guide: world's 6th country, eVisitor formalities, budget, best time.