Tasmania...Australia...Mt. Wellington...

A Royal Welcome in Hobart

In 2004, while living in Melbourne on a business assignment, I used every opportunity to explore the vast and beautiful Australian landscape. One of the most unforgettable getaways during that time was my trip to Tasmania—a small island state to the south, rich in wilderness, history, and rugged beauty.

I took a short flight to Hobart, the capital city, and landed right into a celebration. The entire city was festive, buzzing with excitement as Queen Mary of Denmark (then Mary Donaldson, a Tasmanian native) was about to marry the Crown Prince Frederik. The local pride and royal fanfare made the visit feel even more special.

Driving the Great Eastern Drive

Tasmania may be small, but it offers an incredible variety of scenery. We embarked on the Great Eastern Drive, one of the most spectacular coastal journeys in the world. The winding road hugged the shoreline, with endless views of turquoise waters, jagged rocks, and long, empty beaches.

Charming Coastal Stops: Coles Bay, Bicheno, and Swansea

Our first major stop was Coles Bay, a peaceful coastal town at the edge of Freycinet National Park. The bay’s calm waters mirrored the sky, and the view of the Hazards Mountain range in the distance was simply stunning. Further up the road, we visited Bicheno, a charming seaside village known for its blowholes and colony of little penguins. We timed it just right to see a few waddling back to their burrows at dusk.

We continued on to Swansea, a town that took us by surprise with its graceful vineyards, sweeping beaches, and a laid-back vibe. The cool coastal air mixed with the scent of ripening grapes—perfect for a relaxing afternoon. We made a brief but memorable stop at Maria Island National Park, accessible by ferry. The island, free of cars and bustling with wildlife, felt like a sanctuary.

Farm Life and Local Warmth

Throughout the drive, we passed charming farmhouses nestled among rolling hills and green pastures. Each had its own personality—some with weathered fences and fields dotted with sheep, others with roadside stalls selling fresh berries, cheese, and homemade jam. The simplicity of rural life here was refreshing and grounding. Tasmania also delighted my taste buds. As a vegetarian, I was pleasantly surprised by the availability of wholesome, flavorful options. Hearty lentil stews, wood-fired breads, artisan cheeses, and locally grown vegetables filled my plate. The cafés in Hobart were cozy and welcoming, often serving dishes inspired by both European and local traditions. 

Mount Wellington: On Top of the World

Back in Hobart, we visited a local zoo where I saw the famous Tasmanian devils and other uniquely Australian animals. But the highlight of my time in the city was the drive to Mount Wellington, the tallest mountain in the region. Though we didn’t hike the entire way, the winding road led us close to the summit. A short scramble over rocky terrain brought us to the top, where fierce winds and panoramic views made me feel like I was standing at the edge of the world.

Echoes of Ancient Music and Culture

One of the most memorable aspects of the trip was Tasmania’s deep cultural heritage, especially its connection to the island’s Aboriginal roots. I had the chance to witness traditional ceremonial music, where the haunting tones of the didgeridoo, bullroarer, and even the simple gum leaf created an atmosphere that felt timeless and sacred.

The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery

To delve deeper, I visited the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery in Hobart. Its thoughtfully curated exhibits told the story of the island—from its ancient Indigenous cultures to its colonial past and modern-day arts scene. The aboriginals have taken efforts to bring their language back and the constructed language is called Palawa Kani. The museum displays on the colonization of British and original Dutch explorer Abel Tasman who found this island off the coast of Australia. 

The experience left me with a deeper appreciation for Tasmania’s unique identity. 

Final Thoughts

It was a journey through raw natural beauty, warm community, rich history, and soulful culture. Like every colonized country or region, Tasmania also has a poignant past but the aboriginal people with their determination have moved on with the modern trends and make efforts to bring their language, culture and identity to the World. 

To me, even after all these years, the memories remain vivid, etched by the serenity of vineyard-covered hills, the call of wild ocean winds, and the quiet wisdom of an island that feels both untamed and deeply welcoming.

PEACE ON EARTH

All content copyright © by Sobana Iyengar.