NICHE style Summer 2016

NICHE magazine
Start your road trip up the coast in the capital of
Hobart; a port city with historic architecture, the
narrowest streets and a diverse artistic population.
A city of contrast combining heritage charm with
modern living, locals live only a short drive away from
some of the world’s most alluring coastal beaches
and endless pristine landscapes. For local “tassies”,
February is the end of summer and beginning of a
new work or school year, but for travellers it is a time
of vacant roads and secluded raw landscapes. It may
be one of the world’s most underrated destinations
so be sure to go before the rest of the world clues in.
If there is one thing you should know about road
tripping in Tasmania: it is all about the journey. In
other words, strive to become a Tasmanian sponge
and submerse yourself into exploring the island.
Through corridors of green the dramatic windy roads
offer vantage points to uninhabited turquoise coasts.
Past the small community of Swansea lies
Freycinet National Park, home to one of the most
magnificent and picturesque locales, Wineglass
Bay. Opt for the trek down to the beach instead
of the lookout. You will need to walk the beach to
truly feel the magic of this secluded hotspot. The
walk is worth the legwork of one hour from the
car park. Besides, if you have been sitting in the
car it’s a great opportunity to stretch your legs.
With the rugged backdrop of the Hazzards, a series of
jagged red and pink tinted granite peaks, you should
devote an entire day just to explore here. If you
want to spend a few days, there are many amenities
accessible including camping, hostels, equipped
cabins or the ultimate retreat, Saffire Freycinet
which has been named Australia’s top luxury hotel.
Hop out of your vehicle and roam the soft white and
squeaky sand floors of Binalong Bay. On the south
side of the beach lays the Bay of Fires which may
feel like the Caribbean, except swap the palm trees
for Tasmania’s majestic gum trees. Given the name
in 1773 by Captain Tobias Furneaux for the burnt
orange-hued granite boulders hugging the coast
that contrast against the clear blue waters. Here
you can post up for the night at the Bay of Fires
Conservation Area which offers beachside camping
with dreamy views of acacia trees and the sea.
Not far away lies the largest town on the northeast
coast, St. Helens. As the state’s second largest
fishing port, seafood does not have to swim far to
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SUMMER ISSUE 2016