Hobart

Australia’s second oldest city, Hobart, is a little out of the way. Cut off from the mainland, this small capital is in some ways vastly different to the typical Aussie city.

Known for its charm, Hobart nestles between Mount Wellington and the Derwent estuary. This enviable setting is offset by the colonial architecture of Hobart’s historic buildings, which are proudly preserved along with the city’s small town feel. Everything is close together, with some rainforest trails a mere fifteen minutes drive from the city centre. Hobart has the nostalgic feel of a portside town in Europe, and you could be forgiven if you forget you’re in Australia.

Hobart also enjoys a climate more reminiscent of Europe than any capital city on the mainland. Although rare, snow does sometimes fall in Hobart and Mount Wellington’s white peaks can be seen in the distance, snow-capped for up to three months of the year. Autumn and spring see the streets move through shades of subtle oranges and browns to the bright yellows and reds of the blossoming parks and gardens. Summers are mild by Australian standards, with thirty degrees Celsius reached only rarely.

Hobart is the least urbanised capital city in Australia, and the population has a very slow growth rate. Because of this Hobartians enjoy an unhurried lifestyle, with a minimum of stress. And it doesn’t look like changing. The country town vibe carries over into the nature of the people, who are most hospitable and welcoming. Somehow the small city has so far avoided the growth explosion experienced by some mainland cities even though it is certainly one of the most liveable. Preserving Hobart’s charms may well be worth the trouble it takes to find a permanent residence here!

Hobart has a whole culture built up around the local produce, which is just divine. Some of the world’s finest cheeses are made here, as well as fine cold climate wines. On a Saturday, the colourful Salamanca Markets offer up stalls of some of the best fruit and vegies grown by the locals, as well as local arts and crafts. Salamanca Place is itself a hot spot for social gatherings all through the week, as it’s lined with cafés and restaurants set in old Georgian style houses.

Not really known for its nightlife, the best place to go for a party in Hobart is its waterfront pubs. As with the rest of the city, the pubs have a sense of history to them and are often the same pubs that were around in Hobart’s early whaling days. The regulars are friendly, especially after a few glasses of the local beer!

There is a public transport system here, but like the rest of Hobart it can be a bit laid back. There’s almost no traffic, so driving around is easy and there’s no reason not to take the car everywhere. If you ask someone about peak hour traffic, they might look at you with confusion. It just doesn’t exist.

Somewhat idyllic, a bit sleepy and undeniably endearing, Hobart is a small city with a big character. Life here can be pretty blissful.