Planning a trip to the island state of Tasmania and wondering where to stay? Here’s an up-to-date travel guide featuring the best areas to stay in Tasmania with recommendations for hotels, lodges, resorts and budget picks for each destination.
Tasmania is a world-renowned travel destination and one of my absolute favourite places in Australia. Featuring rich history, iconic wildlife, picturesque vistas and World Heritage Listed National Parks, it’s no wonder why over a million people choose Tassie for a holiday destination every year.
In this blog post, I summarise the best areas to stay in Tasmania to give you a better understanding of what’s on offer. I think that the best way to experience the state is by travelling independently. Therefore, I’ve created a list outlining where to stay in Tasmania for each region so that you can plan and book your own adventures.
Best Areas to Visit in Tasmania
I’ve spent several months travelling around Tasmania. Along the way, I’ve photographed and documented my experiences to share with you on this blog. My goal is to inspire you to visit this beautiful part of Australia!
So, to help you plan your trip, below is a quick-link summary of the best areas to stay in Tasmania. If you click on each or scroll down, you’ll find a brief outline of the area including what to see and do there, as well as hand-picked recommendations for various budgets.
- Hobart
- Cradle Mountain
- Bruny Island
- Huon Valley
- Port Arthur & The Tasman Peninsula
- Launceston
- Northwest Tasmania
- Devonport and the North
- Strahan and the West Coast
- The East Coast
- The Deep South
Don’t Miss: Complete travel guide to Tasmania (things to do)
Booking.comWhere to Stay in Tasmania: A Comprehensive Guide
Hobart
Hobart is the capital of Tasmania and also the largest city. Situated on the estuary of the River Derwent and nestled beneath the towering Kunanyi, (Mount Wellington), Hobart serves as the primary entry-point for most visiting Tasmania.
But, Hobart has so much more to offer than being just a transit destination. Here you’ll find epic hikes, waterfalls, cafes, restaurants, vibrant markets and beautiful historic buildings.
If you’re planning a trip to Hobart, don’t miss my guide to the best things to do or check out my list of recommended places to stay below.
Where to Stay in Hobart
The area closest to most highlights in Hobart is called “Salamanca Place“. This area has great restaurants and bars and is close to the markets, wharf, museums and the Elizabeth Mall.
However, Hobart is a relatively small city of just over 200 000 and consequently, most accommodation options in the inner suburbs provide easy access to most of the highlights.
Below are 3 of the best-rated and most popular accommodation options for varying budgets. They’re a good starting point but I’ve also written a separate, comprehensive accommodation guide to Hobart with a few more options.
Best Mid-Range Hotel: The Rivulet
The Rivulet is an awesome 19th century, heritage-listed manor. It offers some of the best suites in Hobart without a ridiculous price tag.
The location is perfect and accommodation includes the best-ranked breakfast in Hobart.
Check best price for your dates
Best Budget Hostel: Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse
For budget travellers and backpackers, Montacute is by far the best place to stay in Hobart. This is a great hostel that is ranked as having the best vibe in the city.
Dorm beds are as little as $30 a night which is a great value. Especially considering most of the other hostels are the same price or more!
Check best price for your dates on Booking.com or at Hostelworld
Best Luxury Accommodation: The Grand Chancellor
Centrally located on the waterfront overlooking Constitution Dock, the Grand Chancellor Hotel is one of the most prominent accommodation options in Hobart.
You’ll get harbour views and access to the heated, indoor pool with mountain views. There’s also an in-house gym, restaurant and bar that will make you not want to leave the hotel!
Check best price on your dates
COMPARE ALL ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN HOBART
Cradle Mountain
Cradle Mountain is one of the most beautiful National Parks in Australia. The Cradle Country is famous for its alpine vistas, scenic mountain lakes and a tonne of epic hikes.
There are a lot of reasons to visit this park, especially for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the best highlights in the Cradle Mountain National Park include the Dove Lake Circuit, Cradle Mountain, The Overland Track and Marions Lookout. Also, if you’re planning a stay, then the good news is there are a few lodges available.
Where To Stay Near Cradle Mountain
If you’re looking for where to stay in Tasmania that will offer the mountain experience, Cradle Mountain is a good bet! Below I’ve included two of the best options close to the park.
Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village
Located right on the edge of the World Heritage Listed National Park, The Wilderness Village offers self-contained accommodation in a rainforest setting.
In terms of distance to the park, this is as close as it gets. It’s a 5-minute walk to the Visitor Centre and a 10 minute’s drive to the start of the popular Overland Track.
Check price and availability for your dates
Lemonthyme Wilderness Retreat
The Lemonthyme Retreat is a award-winning boutique wilderness lodge with an on-site restaurant and is tucked away in a peaceful rainforest, approximately 40-minutes from the Cradle mountain National Park.
This is a great retreat for travellers to Tasmania that want to get away from it all and spend some time in nature. Nearby you’ll also find Bridal Veil and Champagne Falls– two of my favourite waterfalls in Tasmania.
Check price and availability for your dates
Bruny Island
Bruny Island is a wildlife, nature and culinary experience. Conquering Maria Island to take the number one spot, Bruny is the most-visited Island off Tasmania.
This beautiful slice of Tassie is accessible via a short car-ferry ride just south of Hobart. There’s so much to do here, from true, paddock to plate culinary experiences to epic lookouts like The Neck and the Fluted Cape. Once you arrive, there are plenty of things to do and see including great hikes, a chance to see rare wildlife like the albino wallaby, fresh produce tasting and wild coastal cruises.
Book a ticket: Bruny Island from Hobart
Read More: 11 Unmissable Things to do on Bruny Island
Where To Stay on Bruny Island
The best accommodation options on Bruny Island are typically guest houses and holiday homes. That’s because there aren’t many resorts or big hotels set up. Since Bruny Island is close and easy to get to from Hobart, it makes for a great option when planning out your trip and looking out for where to stay in Tasmania.
Below are two of the best accommodation options for Bruny Island as recommended by travellers on Booking.com.
Adventure Bay Holiday Home
This is the best-rated holiday and vacation home on Bruny Island. It is conveniently located right in Adventure Bay, close to the Fluted Cape and the Bruny Island cruise terminal.
It features two bedrooms, a kitchen, a living area and outdoor areas. This is easily one of the best value-for-money options on Bruny.
Check price per night on your dates
Bruny Island Escapes and Hotel Bruny
If you’d prefer to stay in a cosy cottage, then make sure to check out Bruny Island Escapes. They have several cottages throughout Bruny all featuring a private balcony, log fireplace and full kitchen facilities.
Check price per night on your dates
The Huon Valley
The Huon Valley is a beautiful region of farmland beginning just 30 minutes from Hobart and extending to the southern-most point of Australia. The region is named after the Huon River, the fifth-longest in the state and an essential water source for the historic farming developments in the area.
Today, the Huon Valley makes for a very attractive place to stay and explore in Tasmania. Most people visit the valley for a taste of the fresh and iconic Tassie produce including apples, cider, honey, cheese and wine. While there isn’t a lot on offer for the adventure traveller, it’s still a great place to unwind and a perfect place if you’re looking to relax and get a feeling for real, country Tassie living.
Where to Stay In the Huon Valley
The Huon Valley has some of the most popular lodges, bed and breakfasts and hideaway retreats in the state. The central hub of the valley is known as Huonville, approximately 30 minutes from Hobart. However, since the Huon Valley is quite a large region, you’ll find many accommodation options spread out over a vast area.
Below are some of the best reviewed options for varying budgets.
Woodbridge Hill Hideaway
This hideaway features a private balcony with amazing forest views, an indoor pool, and a hot tub. You’ll find the Woodbridge nestled among 10 acres of forest and gardens, a perfect place to unwind and a great option for where to stay in Tasmania for those looking to get away from it all.
Click here to check price and availability for your dates
Donalea Bed & Breakfast
Donalea Bed & Breakfast is the top-rated in the region. It’s set on an acre of award-winning cottage gardens and offers great views of the valley and Huon River. This B&B is a little further south, only 8 kilometres from the famous Tahune Airwalk.
Click here to check price and availability for your dates
Huon Flashpackers
Flashpackers is a very well-known chain of awesome hostels. I’ve yet to be disappointed by this budget hostel option anywhere in Australia. The Huon Flashpackers is located near the heart of Huonville, a perfect base for budget travellers to stay in Tasmania’s south.
Click here to check price and availability for your dates
Bonus: Huon Valley Glamping
Perhaps you’re looking to stay somewhere a little different? If that’s the case, consider booking a stay at Huon Valley Glamping. Luxury and a bit of the outdoors, what more can you ask?
Update: Huon Valley Glamping is no longer operating as of 2022.
The Tasman Peninsula (Port Arthur)
The Tasman Peninsula is an often overlooked area to stay in Tasmania. This region is full of history and incredible nature, offering some of the best multi-day hiking opportunities in the state on the recently renovated Three Capes Track.
Port Arthur is the main attraction in the Tasman Peninsula. It’s a special place, especially for some Australians who get the opportunity to learn about, and perhaps discover a newfound appreciation for the hardships faced by their ancestors. While you can get out to Port Arthur on a day trip from Hobart, staying on the Peninsula for a day or two is always a good idea!
Where to Stay on the Tasman Peninsula
Looking for a place to stay on the Tasman Peninsula close to Port Arthur and all of the hiking trails? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Below is a great list for where to stay in Tasmania if you want to base yourself on the Tasman Peninsula.
Treat yourself: Stewarts Bay Lodge
The Stewarts Bay Lodge is a beautiful private lodge located on 22 acres of private land just beside the Port Arthur Historic Site. Chalets with a spa bath, large sunny deck and water views are also available.
Check price & availability for your dates now
Private, self-contained villa: Port Arthur Resort
Conveniently located near Port Arthur, the Port Arthur Resort offers self-contained private villas with guest laundry for your smelly hiking clothes, BBQ facilities, a fully-equipped kitchen, dishwasher and minibar.
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Budget option: NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park
If you’d like to get into a warm, private cabin accommodation on a budget, then make sure to check out the Port Arthur Holiday Park. The park is within 16 minutes drive of many attractions including Eaglehawk Neck and the Remarkable Cave.
Check price & availability for your dates now
Compare all the best accommodation deals on the Tasman Peninsula at Booking.com
Launceston
Launceston is Tasmania’s second largest city and is commonly rated as one of the most liveable cities in Australia. Lonnie, as Taswegians call it, is a hub of history, culture, food and nature.
There are plenty of natural attractions in and surrounding the city including the Cataract Gorge and the Tamar Wetlands. I’ve also written a comprehensive guide to 11 best things to do in Launceston. So, if you’re planning a visit, make sure to check it out!
Where To Stay in Launceston
Peppers Silo
Peppers Silo is one of the best luxury options in Launceston. This riverside, historic building has been revamped with modern interiors accommodating to travellers looking for the luxury experience. The hotel is conveniently located nearby many attractions including the Victoria Museum and the James Boag Brewery.
Check price and availability for your dates at the Peppers Silo
Hotel Verge
Hotel Verge is a conveniently located hotel in the heart of Launceston. In terms of location, this one is spot on. You’ll also get access to a restaurant, free parking (a big plus in Lonnie), a fitness centre and even a garden.
The accommodation is 5-stay but you won’t be paying 5-star prices. This is my best pick for hotels in Launceston.
Check price and availability at the Hotel Verge
POD Inn
Capsule hostels are more popular than ever. For those on a budget and looking for a cheap, convenient and comfortable stay in Launceston, consider checking out the Pod Inn.
I’ve stayed in a few of these capsules before and I always find I get an awesome nights sleep. The location of the Pod Inn is great too, making it a perfect choice for backpackers or quick visits to Tasmania’s second largest city!
Check price and availability for your dates at the Pod Inn Launceston
Northwest Tasmania
Northwest Tasmania has wild, rugged coastlines and is home to Australia’s largest stretch of temperate rainforest; the Tarkine. There’s lots to explore in this region, but it’s certainly a good idea to have your own car or transport.
If you’re planning your trip, consider picking an accommodation option up here as a base, at least for a few days. That way you’ll have time to explore highlights like the Nut in Stanley, the Edge of the World lookout or the famous Tarkine Drive.
Below are my recommendation options in the best areas to help you out.
Where to Stay in Tasmania’s Northwest
Stay near the Edge of the World
The rugged northwest coast is a great place for adventurers to base themselves.
Stay in Stanley
Famous for the iconic nut but offers great seaside accomodations.
Stay in Boat Harbour
One of the most beautiful and underrated beach towns in Tasmania. A must visit!
Stay in Penguin
A quaint coastal town with a unique name.
Strahan and the West Coast
The West Coast of Tasmania is aptly named the “Western Wilds”. This area is a mix of wild, unforgiving wilderness and quaint mining towns.
The most popular place to stay in Western Tasmania is in Strahan. There’s just so much to see and do in this region and it’s definitely worth at least a couple of days. Activities like the Gordon River Cruise and the rack and pinion railway depart from Strahan and are must-dos when travelling in Tasmania.
WHERE TO STAY IN STRAHAN AND TASMANIA’S WEST COAST
Below are a couple of my recommended places to stay in nearby Strahan, as well as one in Queenstown.
Wheelhouse Apartments – Strahan
Unique apartments located in Strahan, each with river or lake views. These apartments are some of the best-rated online for Western Tasmania!
Check availability & price for your dates at Wheelhouse Apartments
The Boat House – Strahan
Another Strahan favourite, this affordable holiday accommodation option features river views and includes a kitchen and living area.
Check availability & price for your dates at the Boat House
Penghana B&B – Queenstown
If you’re after the best place to stay in Queenstown, check out this 1898 National Trust Mansion B&B which is just 2 minutes’ drive from the Wilderness Railway & the Heritage Tours.
Check availability & price for your dates at the Penghana B&B
Devonport
Devonport is the third largest city in Tasmania and serves as the gateway for those entering the island state via the Spirit of Tasmania ferry. Compared to Hobart and Launceston, Devonport is much quieter. However, Devonport is known to have both calmer and warmer weather.
Honestly, I wouldn’t recommend most travellers to spend a lot of time in Devonport. This is simply because there are so many other great places to stay in Tasmania with more activities and attractions. However, if you are transiting on the ferry to and from Melbourne, below are the three best accommodation options worth considering.
WHERE TO STAY IN DEVONPORT
Tiny Tom
Tiny Tom is located centrally in Devonport adjacent to the Mersey River and just 1 kilometre from the Devonport Ferry Terminal. The rooms are fully-furnished apartments which include garden views, barbecue facilities and a patio.
Check price and availability on your dates at Tiny Tom
Views Forever Devonport
If it’s a night of luxury you’re after, an executive furnished apartments in the Views Forever Devonport might be just the ticket for you. This studio apartment offering features a patio with incredible sunset views over Don Heads, the Bass Strait and Coles Beach. You’ll get everything you need in these open-plan apartments, including self-contained kitchenette, dining are and lounge area.
Check price and availability for your dates at Views Forever Devonport
Argosy Motor Inn
A no-frills comfortable and most importantly, affordable option close to the ferry terminal is the Argosy Motor Inn. For those coming off or planning to board the ferry, a night at Argosy is an excellent choice. This is one of the more budget-friendly places to stay in Devonport, and only 4-minutes from the terminal.
Check price and availability on your dates at the Argosy Motor Inn
The East Coast
The Tasmanian East Coast is a truly unmissable stretch of coastline. The two best areas I’d recommend checking out and spending a bit of time in is the Bay of Fires and Freycinet National Park.
Where to Stay Near Freycinet National park
Freycinet National Park is by far one of the most popular spots to visit and stay in Tasmania, and for good reason. With highlights like the incredible Wineglass Bay and the Mount Amos hike, Freycinet is easily one of the best areas in Tasmania if epic views and white sand beaches are your idea of a perfect holiday spot.
You’ll find Freycinet National Park just a few hours south of the Bay of Fires, approximately 2 hours from Launceston and 2.5 from Hobart.
While you won’t find any hotels in the park itself, there are plenty to choose from in neighbouring Coles Bay, which serves as a gateway to the park. Below I’ve listed the best and highest-rated accommodation options in Coles Bay to help you make the most of your visit.
Picnic Island
Ever wanted to stay on a private island? What better place to do so than on Picnic Island, a beautiful island gem just off Coles Bay. Visitors will have the entire island to themselves with rustic waterfront cabins and a fully-equipped kitchen and living area. Read about my experience on Picnic Island here.
Check price per night on your dates
Freycinet Lodge
Located in a waterfront location within Freycinet National Park, Freycinet Lodge offers luxury cabin-style accommodation, two restaurants and a bar. You’ll also get a buffet breakfast included. This is one of the best-located spots near the National Park.
Check price per night on your dates
Eagle Peaks:
Another great option is Eagle Peaks, which has good WiFi and free private parking near Coles Bay. This is a unit-style accommodation option featuring a dining and seating area, a fully-equipped kitchen and great scenery at your doorstep.
Check price per night on your dates
Where to Stay in the Bay of Fires
The Bay of Fires is quickly being recognised as one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines. Rich, deep-orange boulders scatter the coastline on the banks of fluorescent, turquoise waters. Sweeping white-sand beaches carve the coast as far as the eye can see and weathered, wind-swept bushland hangs onto the edge of its shores.
The Bay of Fires is located in Tasmania’s North East, approximately 3 hours from Launceston. Below are some of the best accommodation options in the area.
Driftwood at the Gardens
Driftwood is one of the best accommodation homes in the Bay of Fires offering three bedrooms, a TV, full kitchen and incredible ocean views from the balcony.
The Cove
Another incredible holiday home within 14-minutes of Swimcart Beach. The Cove offers three bedrooms and a full kitchen. Best of all, theres a great view of Sloop Reef from the balcony.
Bay of Fires Bush Retreat
The Bush Retreat is one of the closest accommodation options near Binalong Bay. It features a bar, garden and shared kitchen. You’ll have the choice booking bell tents (must see), large king rooms or a full family bungalow. This is the highest-rated accommodation option in the Bay of Fires!
Compare more accommodation options at Bay of Fires here.
the Deep South
The far south of Tasmania is an area that sees some of the least tourism numbers but still offers some great activities and attractions. Extending from the Huon Valley all the way to the southernmost tip, there’s plenty to explore including the beautiful Southwest National Park, Hartz Mountains and the popular Hastings Caves.
WHERE TO STAY IN SOUTHERN TASMANIA
If you’d rather make your way further south from the Huon Valley, the following are among the best options available for where to stay in Tasmania’s far south.
Oyster Shack
This incredible lodge is the closest accommodation offering to Hastings Caves. Located in Hastings, the Oyster Shack is also the best-rated lodge in Southern Tasmania, featuring a fully-equipped kitchen, fireplace and views of the ocean.
Check price and availability for your dates
Ashdowns of Dover
One of the best bed and breakfasts in the area is Ashdowns of Dover, just a short drive from Hastings. This place has some of the best reviews in the area, with guests raving about the breakfast (poached eggs is a favourite).
Check price and availability for your dates
Southern Forest Accommodation
Located in nearby Southport is a beautiful cottage in the southern forests. This stunningly beautiful place is quiet and features a pretty garden, lovely forest, abundant birdlife and pademelons at your doorstep.
Check price and availability for your dates
More Tasmanian Travel and Destination Guide
That wraps up this accommodation guide to Tasmania. I hope I’ve helped you make your decision for where to stay in Tasmania and that you have a better understanding of the best areas to visit for your next trip. If you’re still in the planning stages, make sure to check out some of my other many articles covering the best activities and things to do and see on the island.
K
Friday 7th of January 2022
In the paragraph talking about Port Arthur it is written that: ‘ newfound appreciation of the hardships faced by their ancestors.’ the British stole and colonised the land from the indigenous - the original owners of the land. I’m pretty sure your ancestors didn’t do it as hard as they had to. It’s downright insensitive and it must be removed immediately.
Olly Gaspar
Saturday 8th of January 2022
Hi K,
Although irrelevant, my ancestors are from Sweden and Hungary, not Britain.
But, that doesn't mean that anybody, no matter their ethnicity or cultural background, can't appreciate the hardships of both British convicts AND indigenous Australians. In my view, the struggles faced by one man/woman doesn't take anything away from another's. You might think otherwise, and that's okay. I'm not going to try to censor your beliefs, but instead I'll try to voice my point of view in order to form dialogue that hopefully benefits us both.
I see history as being defined by stories of the collective, but often told through those of the individual. Take James Lynch for example, a 9 year old boy taken from his family, shipped across the world to Port Arthur and sentenced to 7 years of hard labour for stealing 3 boxes of toys. Or, the story of Nellie Egan, a young indigenous girl who at near the same age, was stolen from her family and institutionalised under the Law of Assimilation Policy.
The reality is that both stories make up Australian history. I strongly disagree that you should censor that by discounting the realities faced by one, simply because another faced hardships– even if one is quantitively or qualitatively worse. Complete, unabridged history is the greatest resource we have to help us learn from the past and grow as a collective.
You are right, the British crown did colonize land belonging to indigenous Australians and in the process, committed grievous acts. What I'm trying to say is that I don't think sympathizing for convicts at Port Arthur takes anything away from that. If anything, I'd say that it would help many, especially Australians with convict heritage, to better understand Australian history and their ancestor's role in it.
I appreciate that you wanted to voice your opinion on my blog, and I'm open to continuing this discussion. Feel free to reply here if you want, or if you'd prefer to have a private discussion I'm happy to hear your point of view as well. You can email me at olly@weseektravel.com