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Indulge in the harmonious blend of exquisite chocolates and fine Tasmanian spirits with Liquor Lips liquor filled chocolates. Hear from founder and creator, Frans and his son Tjalling, on the Liquor Lips journey ...  Born in the Netherlands I was fortunate enough to experience the real deal when it came to indulging in chocolates filled with rum. Since living abroad often I have experienced liquor chocolates filled with a praline or ganache made to taste like whiskey or rum. Longing to experience the real deal again, my son and I set off on a quest to perfect the art of making liquor filled chocolates here in Tasmania using carefully crafted liquors from Tasmanian distillers. We have been perfecting this over the last two years!  Our liquor-filled chocolates are meticulously handcrafted by us. Each chocolate is created with passion, precision, and attention to detail, ensuring an unparalleled taste and of course aesthetic appeal. We pride ourselves on using only the finest ingredients, combining the richness of high-quality chocolates with carefully selected rum, brandy, whiskey and gin from local Tasmanian distilleries. We continuously strive to push boundaries and enjoy surprising our customers with innovative combinations, infusing classic flavours with a modern twist. Liquor Lips promises an extraordinary taste journey, with each bite offering a harmonious balance of sweetness, smoothness, and a delightful shot of spirits. But be aware there is only one way to eat our chocolates ... that is to commit by putting the whole chocolate in your mouth, crunch through the shell, then let the explosion of your liquor take you on a little journey of flavours. Bite into it halfway and you’ll wear it and let’s just say ‘you wouldn’t sip a shot’. We invite you to embark on a unique journey of flavour, luxury, and indulgence. Experience the perfect harmony of chocolate and spirits with Liquor Lips. We will be attending 3 events in the Tasmanian Whisky Week from 7th – 13th of August 2023 where we will showcase chocolates filled with some amazing Tasmanian whiskies in an exquisite chocolate tasting experience. Find out more about Liquor Lips and Tasmanian Whisky Week.  Words & images: supplied
Click here to enjoy $15 off the third edition of Tailored Tasmania. It's your launch pad for exploring Tassie like a local - featuring the best places to eat, play and stay. Plus we have a 2 for $40 Tassie kids book offer. Remember, you can also book Tassie adventures and accommodation in real time with Tailored Tasmania.  SW Tasmania. Image credit: Jennifer Yates TAILORED TAS 4 BOOK - SUMMER LAUNCH We are thrilled to be working on Tailored Tasmania edition 4 - celebrating our 10-year anniversary. It’ll be packed with the latest on where to eat, play and stay as well as loads of insider tips from locals. As we busily work away on pages we thought we’d highlight a few exciting new Tassie offerings with you. Alice van der Woude, Director, Marketing & Experience for On Board, will be one such local sharing her tips on what she loves across the island. Having launched Odalisque III in 2023, and the recent arrival of their seaplane, we are thrilled to be offering a Wild Wellness Expedition with them in 2024.  STILL AT FREYCINET We sure love the idea of this one that will featured in TT4 … self described as ‘a hygge-inspired, Nordic sauna escape overlooking the rugged dunes of Sandpiper Beach on the doorstep of Coles Bay and Freycinet National Park. Soak up the breathtaking views of the Hazards and practice the "Nordic cycle" using the private sauna and outdoor shower area. Wake up to experience the stunning pastel skies at sunrise and enjoy multiple areas for relaxation, all while enjoying some of the best wines and food Tasmania has to offer.’   ESCAPE TO BRUNY Does 2023 feel like it’s escaping you? Need to hit re-set or plan a mini-recharge? Our three-day Bruny Wild Wellness Retreat Sept 8-10 is just the antidote and we still have some spots left. It’s going to be next level amazing with Dr. Chris Davis flying in, our gorgeous chef Sophia also coming down from the big island and our beautiful Pyschologist/Mindset Coach gearing up to share some of her wellness wisdom, too. Wim Hof instructor Piet Blokker will guide us through breathwork and the BEST cool water therapy off Bruny and those keen can dip into the ice bath experience. We’ll share nourishing fare, stories by the fire, outdoor and walk the quiet trails of Bruny Island Lodge 860 acres in the island’s far south.... do as little or as much as you wish. Tap into the journaling or tap out with a good book. Not sure what to expect? Read this cracking Sydney Morning Herald story by Andrew Bain who joined our inaugural sold-out retreat. Is Bruny calling you? Get in touch - we can sort payment plans or answer any queries. We're about Wild Wellness not Wild Worries.  Bruny Island Lodge What part of Tassie is calling you? With more than 150 businesses already joining our Tailored Tasmania fourth edition, we’ll have loads more goodness to share with you come summer time when the book is launched! Oh, and hop in quick for our Bruny Wild Wellness Retreat as early bird pricing expires July 31 and spots are filling fast. Alice :) Click here to enjoy $15 off the third edition of Tailored Tasmania. It's your launch pad for exploring Tassie like a local - featuring the best places to eat, play and stay. Plus we have a 2 for $40 Tassie kids book offer. Remember, you can also book Tassie adventures and accommodation in real time with Tailored Tasmania. Words: Alice Hansen It’s early morning. With a nudge, my kayak floats out onto the dark waters of the Pieman River. Ancient takayna/Tarkine rainforest hugs the banks with impenetrable deep greens. Mist blankets our tannin-stained waters ahead. The silence – it’s other worldly.  We’re on our way to Lover’s Falls having woken up at Corinna Wilderness Village earlier than most. We’d been told the mirrored reflections of the takayna/Tarkine, Australia’s largest temperate rainforest, would be well worth our early rise. It feels like we’re the only humans on earth as our paddles dip into the Pieman, gently pushing us further from the historic mining town that is now an inviting wilderness retreat. But many have lived and explored these parts before us. For some 40,000 years the region was home to the Tasmanian Aboriginal tarkiner people. Corinna itself is the Aboriginal name for a young Tasmanian Tiger and one could be forgiven for thinking they might find one out here.   Fast forward to 1881 and Corinna became popular among white settlers in the hunt for gold. When the biggest nugget of gold ever discovered in Tasmania (at a whopping 7.5 kilos) was discovered in 1883 not far from Corinna, folk flocked here and the population swelled to 2500. Over the next decade, more than 30 structures popped up including two colourful hotels, a post office and more. Sailing ships and steamers cruised in. There are still plenty of remnants of these mining days. As our chatter fills the crisp morning air, we spot it. A staircase in the wilderness. The wooden stairs, wrapped in rainforest look like they lead to some heavenly wild secret. As the story goes, two lovers on their honeymoon found gold here. They found a nugget so mighty that they took it back to Hobart Town and turned it into a bustling hotel. These days, that very hotel is North Hobart’s, Republic Bar.  We park our kayaks at the stairs and ascend into cool wilderness. The takayna/Tarkine is a living and breathing connection to the ancient super continent Gondwanaland and we can feel every bit of this. As Lovers Falls cascade down, I close my eyes and hear its rush with greater power. I breathe. Nature is having its way over me. The present moment has arrived in all its simplicity and untouched goodness. It’s magical – like a portal back to where we can exist as humans if we choose to drop the screens and relentless daily demands. Back in our kayaks we paddle up the Savage River, home to Australia’s furthest inland shipwreck. We paddle around the S.S. Croydon’s ruin, still holding its precious Huon Pine cargo from 1919. Rumour has it this ship was purposefully sunk by the sailors who took off to the pub. It’s here we leave our kayaks for the trusty Corinna staff to collect later. We then set foot in the takayna/Tarkine to bushwalk back to the comfort of our miner-style Corinna cabins.
This return wander is where we get up close to the micro-beauty of the rainforest. Bright-green moss clings to Huon pines that have lived here thousands of years. Species of fungi, moss and liverworts abound. We later read 92 moss species and 151 liverwort varieties have been recorded. We’re interrupted mid-stride by vivid blue mushrooms – Mycena Interrupta no less! These spectacular shrooms have our photographer mate lying down on the forest floor for an intimate capture. Further up the trail another loses footing on a slippery root. She’s un-harmed and we erupt into joyful laughs. Nature’s high. We natter in wonder as we navigate an extra loop of this wild wonderland out to Whyte River’s mouth. With our souls nourished, we arrive back at Corinna. Huddled in a rustic open-air dining hut, we get the fire roaring. This is what Corinna does so well. It’s basic, it’s raw and it ensures you remain connected to the wilderness. (Though you can enjoy exceptional fare at the Tannin Restaurant mid-September to mid-May). The Wallabies graze on their well-manicured marsupial lawns as we graze on delish Tassie cheeses followed by a hearty pre-prepared meal by the Corinna chef.  
  Then, as pitch blackness engulfs the village, I look up. The stars are intensely shining. No wonder a lady on our Pieman River Cruise aboard the heritage-listed Arcadia II had seen an Aurora (Southern Lights) the night before. Tucked up in my cosy cottage in the rainforest, I drift off to dreams of the Tasmanian Tigers who still might just roam about Corinna … Find out more about Corinna. And get excited ... Corinna Wilderness Village have a special Winter Deal where you can stay for 3 nights and pay for 2, July 1 - Aug 30, 2023. Hop in fast and escape to the wilds!   Click here to enjoy $10 off the latest edition of Tailored Tasmania. It's your launch pad for exploring Tassie like a local - featuring the best places to eat, play and stay. Plus we have a 2 for $40 Tassie kids book offer. Remember, you can also book Tassie adventures and accommodation in real time with Tailored Tasmania. Words: Alice Hansen Images: Chris Crerar We chat with six-times national Irish dancing champion and world medallist, Brent Pace, to find out why folk are flocking to the Irish music and dance sensation that is ‘A Taste of Ireland.’ Having just added another Hobart show due to demand, we sure won’t miss lead dancer and producer Brent taking to the Theatre Royal stage and other Tassie venues with his cast, April 19-22. As a three-year old born to one of Australia’s most highly regarded Irish dancing teachers, Brent stared into the petite family television. It was around midnight and Michael Flatley was flying across the Dublin stage at Eurovision. It would be the moment Irish dancing hit the mainstream. International companies like Riverdance and Lord of the Dance would follow, tapping their way into hearts across the globe and inspiring a new wave of dancers.  “It was my earliest memory,” smiles Brent. “I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. In my early years I wasn’t keen to go to dancing lessons with Mum. My friends were all having barbecues and playing Aus Kick on a Saturday, so dressing up in a kilt wasn’t so fashionable back in the 90s in suburban Australia. It was all about heavy ‘skirts’ and brown velvet. I just wanted to play football. These days Brent heads up a company that came on the scene in 2012 and is now ranked three in popularity on Instagram behind Riverdance and Lord of the Dance. Indeed, many of his cast also tour with these two companies as well as performing with A Taste of Ireland from New Zealand to Europe to downtown New York City. Brent has more than two decades of Irish dancing to his name, training alongside the finest in London, Dublin, America and Australia. He was the youngest lead dancer in the show The Rhythms of Ireland and has gone on to tour stadiums and theatres worldwide as well as feature in ABC’s Dancing Down Under documentary.  These days, his focus is entirely on A Taste of Ireland – a contemporary Celtic performance that dances its way through the historic tale of Ireland. Having entertained thousands the show will bring all new sets, tunes and costumes to Tassie, hot off their New York City performances. Shows are Tasmania-wide including Devonport, Burnie, Launceston and Hobart (show times and ticket link below). Prepare for what they describe as “live, energetic blend of jaw-dropping acapella tap battles, world-class dancing, melodic folk music mash-ups and craic galore transports you through the story of Ireland’s tumultuous history.”   “Our show brings Irish dancing into the modern era. While many imagine a man in a big shirt and a line of dancers, A Taste of Ireland is so much more. We do have our traditional dances, but much like saying all ballets are the Nut Cracker, Irish dancing is an art form with so many variations. We give what the audience might anticipate, weaved in with loads of contemporary movement as well,” Brent explains. “When I watched Michael Flatley performing in trousers rather than a kilt, this changed everything in my young boy’s mind. Irish dancing went from rehearsing in a scout hall with an outside toilet and really heavy beige kilts to glitzy, exciting show business. It literally felt like it changed overnight from backyard folk dancing to mainstream entertainment. I was hooked!” says Brent. “Now there are Tik Tok Irish dances with millions of views, sell-out shows in big theatres and collaborations with global companies for marketing.”   A Taste of Ireland brings a cast of 15 to Tasmania; dancers hailing from the US, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK and Australia. With up to three tours on the go at any one time, it’s important to the company that dancers are culturally diverse and offer work opportunities as well as a launching pad particularly for Australian dancers and artists. “I love performing at the Theatre Royal because its three tiers provide such an intimate feel. The audience is so close and by design the acoustics and sound are incredible. People can see our facial expressions and literally become part of the show – I can connect with faces in the dress circle, stalls and gallery. It’s raw and live and so special to perform in this way,” describes Brent. “Big theatres might feel grandiose and amazing, but I do love the closeness of the Tasmanian venues we’ve selected. “I do a solo in the middle of the show where the microphone is attached to my shoe - if I miss a beat, I miss a beat. Everything is live and I tend to change it depending on how the audience responds. I’ll often extend it if everyone is feeling this acapella solo – just me and my shoes and the floor.” The show follows a format that journeys through the Irish motherland’s tale. The first part is a darker narrative, with early twentieth century days highlighting everything from stone age beginnings and nomadic warrior tribes to mythology and the potato famine. Video screens and audio capture real moments in history as the second part leads right through to current-day Ireland. Join us as we meet Ireland and these fine dancers on stages across Tasmania. For more information and tickets visit: A Taste of Ireland Show times: Devonport: April 19, 7.30pm- 9.20pm Paranaple Arts Centre Burnie: April 20, 7.30pm- 9.20pm at the Burnie Arts & Function Centre Launceston: April 21, 7.30pm- 9.20pm at the Princess Theatre Hobart: April 22, 2pm- 3.50 & 7.30pm- 9.20pm at the Theatre Royal  Special for blog readers! Click here to enjoy $10 off the latest edition of Tailored Tasmania. It's your launch pad for exploring Tassie like a local - featuring the best places to eat, play and stay. Plus we have a 2 for $40 Tassie kids book offer. Remember, you can also book Tassie adventures and accommodation in real time with Tailored Tasmania.
Words: Alice Hansen Images: provided by A Taste of Ireland  Image credit: Pete Wallis Following a highly successful season at the Sydney Opera House, Velvet Rewired is set to deliver acrobatics, aerial circus and timeless talent of Marcia Hines, all whipped into one thrilling discotheque at the Theatre Royal. When I was invited to sit down on a comfy Hobart couch with Marcia Hines to chat about her upcoming Velvet Rewired Theatre Royal show (March 22-April 9), of course, it was a resounding yes. What I didn’t know, was the buoyant strength of the American-Australian singer and television personality I was to meet … Like many, I’ve watched Marcia from afar. I’ve listened to her smooth rhythmic voice and watched as she’s encouraged young kids with big dreams on the Australian Idol stage. Everyone knows Marcia’s name. But, I sure didn’t know her story. So, I did a little research. Last time she was in Tassie, she crash-landed on a tennis court and had to perform on stage in a moonboot. As a former tennis player living some years in America, I was glad we had something in common; a love of whacking tennis balls. “Oh no, it was not normal tennis. It was that Royal Tennis,” smiles Marcia. “With strange rules and a big heavy racquet. Jokers on the wall, from memory.” I laughed at my own brief meeting with Royal Tennis, the Hobart club founded in 1875, making it one of the oldest sporting clubs in the Southern Hemisphere. I too was baffled – even as to who had won when we all shook hands. What I instantly knew, is this lady loves adventure, spontaneity and invites challenge. After all, she’s been entertaining us for decades. I dug a little deeper though. Marcia’s is a story mixed with lights and glitter, sprinkled with painful loss. This is what made me listen in close. Born in Boston to Jamaicans, at just six months old Marcia lost her father following war surgery. Her courageous mother raised both Marcia and her big brother Dwight alone and by nine, Marcia was belting out tunes in the church choir. It took little time for it to be known that Marcia could sing. Like, really sing. At just 16, Hines was picked up for the Australian stage production of Hair and whisked away to Australia. It may be more than 50 years on, but there’s a sparkle in Marcia’s eyes that promise these decades have only fuelled her on-stage passion. A dose of wisdom injected through the years, but a ‘forever performer’ ready to deliver more than 20 shows like each is her first.  Image credit: Pete Wallis When I think back myself moving from Australia to America, it conjures thoughts of unfamiliar feels. Pulling away from the airport in my tennis coach’s Cadillac on the ‘wrong side’ of the road. Knowing not a soul. But for Marcia, it wasn’t just getting to know a new country and hitting tennis balls. After feeling off and visiting an Aussie doctor, the 16-year-old was told that she was six months pregnant. As per the heart-warming Anh's Brush with Fame episode about Marcia, the young American thought “I was just developing … but I was developing into a Mum.” What do you do when you’re about to give birth and you’re in a foreign country and have a lead role in a smashing national production? If you’re Marcia, you don’t let it slow your stride. You get back on stage just nine days after giving birth to the ever-talented singer, Deni Hines. Later, Marcia’s mother would come to Australia in support. Marcia’s shining career continued to rise. Few might know she grew up with asthma and would miss months of schooling to the harrowing attacks. She went on to hit the high notes in her role of Mary Magdalene in Jesus Christ Superstar. Some may know her finest successes as a recording artist including cover hits like Fire and Rain and Tom Snow's, You, that reached number two on the Australian charts. Her Discotheque album hit number six and Hines was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2007, during her time as an Australian Idol judge. Though, mixed in with these career highs, few would know she returned to bury her only brother after he took his own life. Many years later, she would say farewell to her mother, too. Known as the ‘kind judge’ on Australia Idol, things are starting to make more sense as I listen to Marcia. “I just told the kids what I’d like said to me at that stage. It’s simple really. Everything I’ve done has come with that support and enthusiasm; to strive forward.” As I look at Marcia, perhaps I see a hint of the personal loss, but somewhat little. Is it the actress in Marcia? Is it an eternal optimism that drives her forward? Is music what sings to her soul? I think about how she recorded Rise, an official Sydney Olympic song and my empathy fades into an admiration for her tenacity. Her eyes shine radiantly, even though she’s just having a chat with a local. They light up when I ask about Velvet Rewired, the upcoming show. They dance when I query why she loves live music so much. And I know she’s a lifetime performer; maybe a touch of acting through those hard life moments but a resilient diva ready to put on a serious Hobart show. I could go on, about the successes of her Carole King tribute album Tapestry or her cover of These Boots Are Made For Walking that was created for The Real Housewives of Melbourne trailer. But let’s move onto Velvet Rewired… “I love performing live,” gushes Marcia of the aptly described ‘global smash hit discotheque circus that is Velvet Rewired. “Being on stage – it’s real. It’s genuine. It’s exciting. And I love Hobart so I can’t wait to return to the Theatre Royal.”  Image credit: Pete Wallis VELVET REWIRED So, what’s Velvet Rewired? Since 2015, Marcia Hines has starred in the original disco musical Velvet, from the Adelaide Fringe and Edinburgh to the Sydney Opera House. In 2023, the shiny up-energised Velvet Rewired will hit the Theatre Royal stage from March 22. There will be a total of 23 performances, with a closing date of April 9. When I ask Marcia what she’ll do in her spare time, I almost wish I hadn’t. “Oh, I’ll be sleeping! My body is my instrument, you know? We perform up to eight shows a week. No interval. Sometimes two shows in a day,” I nod, knowing there’ll likely be no Royal Tennis for this disco driver. Creator and director of Velvet, Craig Ilott, upped the tempo of the original production, transforming the show into what is described as ‘a fresh, new sparkling vision of dreams, life and fulfilment. This fusion of discotheque, nightclub, burlesque and carnivale results in an insatiably flawless inferno of glamour, glitz and jaw-dropping circus skills.’ When Hines hits the stage across those 23 Hobart shows, she’ll be joined by DJ Joe Accaria, and a swathe of electrifying acrobats, aerialists and vocalist talents. That equals one evening of mighty energy and exhilaration. When we farewell, Marcia picks up a generous number of hotel mints and pops them in my handbag. It’s a gesture of an uncommon kind that makes me giggle but as I later chew on my minty stash, I know I’ve just met with a performer equally fresh. She can even make being an accomplice to mint robbery exciting. But to know even half the story back stage – Marcia’s personal journey – is to know I’ll be right there cheering her on in Hobart Town. Join us and grab your velvety tickets right here. REVIEWS “If there’s one show you see this year, make it this one." THE ADELAIDE ADVERTISER “Flawless and exhilarating, a sensory overload!” THE GUARDIAN UK “Velvet Rewired is a power-packed uninterrupted 90 odd minutes of pure disco joy and awe-inspiring circus artistry. Returning in a re-vamped version after its sell-out debut as Velvet in 2015, Velvet Rewired retains all the dazzle, sparkle, magic and Marcia of the original with a mix of new and tried-and-true performances. Marcia Hines is of course, the jewel in the crown, every bit a legend and the consummate songstress.” REVIEW FROM THE SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE SEASON: ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT  Special for blog readers! Click here to enjoy $10 off the latest edition of Tailored Tasmania. It's your launch pad for exploring Tassie like a local - featuring the best places to eat, play and stay. Plus we have a 2 for $40 Tassie kids book offer. Remember, you can also book Tassie adventures and accommodation in real time with Tailored Tasmania. Words: Alice Hansen  TROUSER'S POINT, FLINDERS ISLAND
 Wombat welcome Overseas travel just a skip from home has become rather desirable of late. This pocket-sized Bass Strait wonder perched off Tassie’s NE tip packs adventure, flavour and stunning scenes into an island home to about 1000 locals. The biggest of 52 Furneaux Group islands, we’ve gathered 10 cracking must sees so you don’t miss a thing. Trousers Point  Trousers Point 1. Trousers Point Traversing Not far from touch down, Trousers Point is a breathtaking first stop. Wander the fiery-orange lichen licked boulders and find out about the shipwrecked fellow who lost his trousers coming ashore … or did he? Picnic, swim, take the coastal walk or settle in for sunset. Nature got excited with Flinder’s colour pallet – from vivid aquas to white sands this is a striking welcome. 2. Get Social at The Flinders Wharf This is where the crays happen! Let Head Chef Mikey of The Flinders Wharf cook you up a storm and drop into Flinders Island Distillery next door where notes of the island are infused. Much of a community hub, Park Runners leave from the Wharf and there’s always a cheery island buzz. Drop a line off the wharf, head just up the road to Condimental for amazing pies from Jon (once a pro juggler!) and don’t miss Cate Cook’s tuckshop for coffee and treats.  The locals :) 3. Meet a Bundle of Wombats Look we can’t promise this, but if you head to The Purple Swamphen in Whitemark, you might just find a wombat or two hanging out there. Regardless, the store is packed with handmade and eco-conscious gifts so shop away. Owner Mel helps Kate Mooney (aka the Wombat Lady) to look after orphaned baby wombats. Kate does this all off her own bat, so be sure to donate to her incredible work rescuing and releasing 150 plus. That reminds us, go slow on those roads at night. And don’t forget to wave to every car! 4. Summit Mount Killiecrankie This is now one of my all time Tasmanian highs! Climbing Killiecrankie left us without words. Giant geological wonders trailside are like roaming through nature’s own sculptural granite museum. Plus, even a hint of altitude rewards with sweeping views of a coastline dotted with quaint coves. It’s about one hour up if you leave from the Docks (stop when you get to sign saying 4WD only). If you like Tassie’s East Coast, this is like discovering it all over, but with new outcrops and secret beaches to fall for. Which takes us to …  The Docks  The Docks 5. Cove Hopping at The Docks The Docks, as the locals call it, is a stunning patch of coastline. You can walk through from Killiecrankie or take the 4WD track road in. It’s a bit of a local secret but well worth the trek. Breathtaking bays and, as they say on Flinders, if one has footprints just go to the next.  Wombat Lodge  Wombat Lodge 6. Burrow away at Wombat Lodge This gorgeous property is nestled on the owner’s cattle farm, that’s been in the family since the 1930s. Thoughtfully appointed, and all style, the Wombat Lodge deep bath is perfect after a day of exploring. What’s more the property spills down to a coastline where just a short walk away is …  Stacky's Bight  Stacky's Bight 7. Soak up Stacky’s Bight You could be forgiven for thinking you’d stumbled on secret treasure here. Pack a picnic and swim beneath the limestone arch at Stacky’s Bight. On return to Wombat Lodge, we came across a trickling river at the far end of Killiecrankie Beach and found the tiniest speck of Killiecrankie Diamond (as confirmed by island gold and silversmith Sandro Donati!) Be sure to visit his little workshop by the sea. Killiecrankie Diamonds are a colourless topaz and my spec is maybe worth a cupcake but, it does feel like striking gold to find one at a Flinders beach.  Castle Rock 8. Castle Rock Hugs Go and give Flinder’s biggest beach rock a hug … just try and wrap your arms round this one. You can nearly drive right to it but it’s a great day out to walk there, paired with a visit to the Furneaux Museum and Wybalenna to dip into the island’s rich (and confronting) indigenous past. 9. NE River & Palana Beach Head to the far north for long beach strolls, breathing in the freshest of Roaring Forties swept air. Palana Beach feels like it goes on for as long as a busy mind needs to clear. Then, pop out to NE River, where the river and ocean collide in raw majesty. 10. Summit Strzelecki Is the tallest peak calling? Climbing to the top of Mount Strzelecki is done best with the new walking outfit, Walk Flinders Island. David and Kathleen serve up tasty treats from their orchard down below at Trouser’s Point, where you can catch a yoga class with Kathleen to settle into island time. Not up for a 6hr+ return hike? Hop on the bikes with Amanda and Claire of Mountain Biking Flinders Island, who go generations back on this island. They are all smiles and have an epic ride round Strzelecki plus another that takes you to the cellar door of Unavale.  En route to Flinders Getting there: we went with Flinders Island Aviation which we highly recommend if flying out of Tassie. They can even take a bike or two! From Bridport, it’s a short 35-minute flight, plus they can whip you across by chopper from Clover Hill Wines. Want to touch down on another island on the way? No worries? Sharp Airlines currently have flights from Launceston and Hobart, too. If coming from the big island, it takes about an hour from Melbourne. Or, go by boat from Bridport with a carload of kayaks! We stayed at Allports on the Beach at Emita and Patridge Farm at Lady Barron during our recent visit. We also stopped in for a mini cooking class at Flinders Island Gourmet Retreat. Do check these out too. Special for blog readers! Until Nov 30 click here to enjoy $10 off the latest edition of Tailored Tasmania, delivering free to your door. It's your launch pad for exploring Tassie like a local - featuring the best places to eat, play and stay. Perfect for that special someone for Chrissie who has been missing their travels. Plus we have a 2 for $40 Tassie kids book offer. Remember, you can also book Tassie adventures and accommodation in real time with Tailored Tasmania. Words & images: Alice Hansen What could be more dreamy than heading to a villa named Magic Beach?  Magic Beach Villa I slide open the big glass windows and step out onto the balcony. A barefooted local down below is with a young child. She glances up and says hello. I hear her so clearly that Magic Beach Villa might as well have Boat Harbour waves lapping its front garden. It’s utterly striking – an azure beach stretching out before me so close I can taste the salty breeze. Growing up in North West Tasmania I’ve loved Boat Harbour Beach as much as the next local. Friends grew up holidaying regularly at nearby Sisters Beach and days have been enjoyed in shack-sprinkled Boat Harbour.  Boat Harbour Beach These days, a lucky few outside of Tassie have caught on and fallen for its spell. That said, likely not all newcomers appreciate standing ankle deep in what looks like tropical paradise to find it feels more like undercurrents direct from Antarctica. It’s bracingly cold. Plain and simple. This idyllic beach with its crystal waters and blindingly white sand is bracingly chilled. The descent down into Boat Harbour Beach is always special. It’s like unwrapping a very pretty present. Gums do their best to obscure the spectacle below. A stay at Magic Beach Villa elevates this to a whole new level. When the brochure says absolute waterfront to what’s been named one of Australia’s top beaches, they mean it. It’s impossible not to unlock the door and head straight for the view. From the balcony, a manicured terraced garden spills down to meet the sand.  Magic Beach Villa Our framed Bass Strait views are rivalled only by the glorious host Georgia. As I backtrack to the personal welcome message and treats, I see they are all local. A smooth Pinot from Ghost Rock Vineyard, summer berry jam from Hill Farm, cheese from Red Cow Organics, eggs and homemade granola from the owners farm ... attention to detail that is so utterly genuine. Everything has its origins in North West Tassie and begs Magic Beach guests to explore a little further. (Note: These goodies are usually only available during a stay at Mallavale Farm .... that's another story and another special stay ... find the link below.) There’s plenty of room for up to seven across three generous bedrooms, complete with a king, queen and bunks. Two bathrooms ensure no squabbles or folk left with sandy feet. We make use of the thoughtfully-appointed kitchen and dine in by the flowing fire. After all, it’s winter.  Boat Harbour Beach Next morning, in just a few steps we’re on the beach. I’m on a cold water mission courtesy of Dutchman Wim Hof and gallop straight into the chilly waters, no doubt waking most of the village. It’s exhilaration followed by the promise of that deep bath and brekkie on the sunny balcony. There’s only one word that keeps returning across our morning coffees. “Magic. It’s so magic here.” As we venture off to explore Rocky Cape National Park, we agree that indeed they got the name right on this one. Find out more about Magic Beach Villa and other stunning Boat Harbour properties including Mallavale Farm here.  Boat Harbour Beach  Rocky Cape National Park Words & images: Alice Hansen
Remember, you can book Tasmanian adventures and accommodation in real time with Tailored Tasmania. We've got your trip sorted and can also deliver the latest edition of Tailored Tasmania with free shipping to your doorstep.  Sullivans Cove The world has been turned upside down of late, so an invitation to enjoy a little ‘timeless romance’ at Somerset Hobart sounded just right … I wasn’t the only one to be holidaying at home on arrival at Somerset on the Pier. Clearly, others had got the romance memo. A couple from Devonport were treating themselves to Hobart’s only loft-style waterfront stay, housed in a former 1930s pier building. The $290 special with all romantic touches sorted, seemed to be drawing lovers from Tassie’s furthest reaches. Pulling up to the hotel door, only in Hobart could I wander over to chat with boat crew on a familiar moored yacht a few metres from check-in. Met with wide smiles at reception, no sooner had I walked into the premier apartment, Forty-Two Degrees South chilled sparkling arrived with two glasses. At this point on my solo work trip, it seemed necessary to have a friend drop by!  Cheese platter and 42 South bubbles The team at Somerset had crafted all the dreamy extras prior to arrival. The bubbles were accompanied by a ‘Sweet dreams are made of cheese’ platter and two fluffy Somerset robes absolutely made for curling up in, to watch the sun sink over Sullivan’s Cove on the balcony. Listening to the hum of a working dock come to rest was bliss. There was little to do but sit back as the River Derwent grew dark and the lights of Hunter Street began to glow across convict-carved sandstone. Hours became lost to cheese and chatter. Up above, the loft-style king sized bed waited patiently, complete with the promise of a lengthy sleep in and late 1pm checkout. Though Brooke Street Pier and the restaurants of Salamanca were only a short stroll away, it was too tempting to stay cocooned on this wintery eve. Turn down service came complete with locally-made Federation chocolates, and the generous cheese platter worked nicely with an easy dine in option. No where to go, nothing to do but unwind in Tassie’s waterfront Capital.  Loft bedroom Next morning, breakfast was only a few steps away down the stairs. Giant Jackman & McRoss croissants, Meander Valley Dairy butter, fresh juice and sunshine. This was served up with Lady Nelson Tall Ship action so close, one could hear the weekend sailor's instructions. Somerset hit my pause button. There’s something very special in becoming still and re-connecting with the place we call home (for those who forgot to pack lovers). Covid-19 has propelled us into a rare moment of holidaying at home and having the island largely to ourselves. Sitting on the Somerset balcony allowed me to see glorious Hobart through new, rested eyes. Those wanting to embrace Tassie, and their special someone, would do well to book a romantic Somerset escape!  Lady Nelson  Balcony brekkie The details: Stay for only $290.00 per night. Valid until June 30, 2020. Your TIMELESS ROMANCE experience includes: Accommodation in a One-Bedroom Premier apartment with a private balcony (with our famous waterfront views) Sweet dreams are made of CHEESE platter served to your room A bottle of chilled Tasmanian sparkling wine on arrival Somerset Robes to keep you warm whilst watching the sunset from your balcony Turn down service with delicious Federation chocolates Parking for one car (subject to availability) Extend your sleep in and enjoy a late check out of 1pm To unlock this special offer, click here.  Premier apartment Words & images: Alice Hansen
Remember, you can book Tasmanian adventures and accommodation in real time with Tailored Tasmania. We've got your trip sorted and can also deliver the latest edition of Tailored Tasmania with free shipping to your doorstep.  Huon Valley Mid-Winter Fest. Image: Natalie Mendham The borders shut. Bookings stopped. Streets emptied. Doors closed. The lights went out on Tassie’s tourism with a silent flick named Covid-19. The glorious wave we’d ridden was wiped out by a global tidal wave … a viral dumper. But did our ingenious, resourceful Tasmanian industry break? Hell no. They found new ways, better ways, novel ways to combat that novel virus. When the world stopped still, so did we. Shocked. But days later we decided to contact our industry mates and see how we could work together. Gosh, what a rewarding move. By offering our services complimentary, hundreds of stories came forth. It was the least we could do for those who have made our career possible. Their tales nearly brought a tear. We decided they were worthy of their very own hashtag: #givetassielove. We wanted to encourage togetherness. What did the tag mean? It meant interstaters ‘giving Tassie love’ by forward booking, locals ‘giving Tassie businesses love’ by way of coin or individuals ‘giving Tassie love’ by gifting something Tasmanian. It seems the momentum has swung and we’re all supporting our own. While we can only share a handful of stories here (*do note, some offers/activities only occurred during lockdown), you’ll see the resilience, you’ll be reminded of what us Tasmanians are made of and hopefully, you’ll want to support local forever. Get comfy, we’ll mention more than 60 here! Despite the economic whack, hardships and uncertainty that Covid-19 has brought, we’re hopeful much good will come from it. Have families come closer? Have less planes littered our skies for ‘vital’ meetings? Have we reshuffled our priorities? Have we connected while apart? Do we want to explore our own backyard? (scroll to end to win a 2-night getaway!)  Bay of Fires. Image: Alice Hansen It didn’t take long for the stories to come through. In usual style, they were humble. They read along the lines … Hi Alice, I’m not sure what you’re after but we’ve just planted a veggie patch to feed the oldies of Bruny Island … Yes, Hundred Acre Hideaway that’s exactly what we’re after! It’s easy to feel individual loss and inertia, but how mighty to turn respond with a big virtual community hug. Next came an email from the wild west. Who knew that the West Coast Wilderness Railway are busily laying railway sleepers made from recycled plastic? Not only did the news come with details about the upgrade, but a warm invite to return when steam is billowing skyward once more. Then from Pigeon Hole Café … “Our current staff are all visa holders – German, Brazilian, Italian and Nepalese so no entitlements from the government. Our other casual hadn’t been with us for 12 months so once again no government assistance. They totally banned together, and split their shifts to all be equal in pay even our FOH supervisor. Even one employee stood down handing in his resignation to go on Job seeker so the others could obtain more hours, to assist in their survival. What a selfless act. These visa holders have no family or other assistance – but I can truly say we are their family – “The Pigeon Hole Family.” Anyone else notice one of the most heartening scenes of lock down were the Italians singing from balconies? Tassie had their own songstress beaming into living rooms as far as the UK …. Ange Boxall kept spirits up with live tunes each Friday night, warmed up by wine chats with Curly of Vintage Tasmania. Music Therapist Alli Davies created a catchy tune that reached millions from her Wynyard home. Don’t even get us started about the creative ideas Tassie folk have come up with …. Tasmanian Air Tours offering ‘fly-through takeaway’ says it all! Their Private Beach Picnic Flight featuring Bangor pick up looks something else ... but take your pick ... Frogmore Creek, McHenry Distillery, Shene Estate?  Tas Air Tours. Image: supplied Willie Smiths have been using their downtime to create the first ever virtual Huon Valley Mid-Winter Fest so set July 11 aside! They stream live from their FB page and feature all the festival faves including the wassail, costume comps, Hairyman telling tales and burning of Big Willie of course. They’ll encourage you to dress up, whip up a bonfire if you can and will also have hot spiced cider kits and Huon Valley produce packs available so you can feel like you’re really there! Some of the emails were hard to read. Little businesses clinging on, doing their best to ‘pivot’ in an unfamiliar world. But cling on they did. Providore 24, tucked beneath the Stanley Nut, busily prepared Mother’s Day hampers so that our North West mums could feel some love despite celebrating in the Covid-19 epicentre.  Huon Valley Mid-Winter Fest. Image: Natalie Mendham Meanwhile, at the Tasmanian Food and Wine Conservatory, Survival Packs were being prepped and sent all over, packed to the brim with no less than 16 Tassie producers. Every pack helped so many more. One was delivered to the doorstep of a family who lost their 39-year-old daughter, unable to even conduct a funeral for her. The Conservatory didn’t just offer their standard; but handpicked mugs and candle and thoughtful touches. The hamper was so fine that through tears, the recipient could not believe it was for her. Now this is the Tasmania we know and love …. Where in spite of isolation it was connection that prevailed. Speaking of, then there’s Katinka, owner of gift store Lily & Dot in Hobart. While Katinka had to close the doors of her sweet store, it didn’t stop her hitting pen to paper. She penned greeting cards for those who couldn’t get out, ranging from birthday wishes and new born congrats to ‘just because’ notes, shouting a stamp and popping every single one in the post. Katinka also hit the road, hand delivering everything from felt toy sharks to a doorstep gift for a newborn complete with roses from her garden. While we’re on deliveries, Wobbly Boot Vineyard got in touch too. Who doesn’t like a doggy that delivers wine? Many have had the joy of Maeve the Golden Retriever at their door, diligently dropping wine around the hood to delighted Wobbly Boot fans. How have Moo Brew combat iso? They created the Lonely Beers Club where they brew a super rare one-off beer for the club every fortnight. With all that extra time on our hands, the brewer shares all the nerdy deets as the beer baby comes into being. Plenty Cider also created a club, so you can join the Plenty fam with 15% off an added bonus for twice yearly orders … cider from their farm to your fridge. As if Mona have been hibernating … despite the gallery being closed and empty…they’ve had Tim (a human artwork by Belgian artist Wim Delvoye) continuing to sit and spectra, Ryoji Ikeda's beam of light, beaming into the sky sunset-sunrise every Saturday night. Then there’s the Victory Gardens project, with Kirsha Kaechele digging up the Mona lawns to plant vegetables and which helped inspire the garden at Hundred Acre Hideaway to feel those Bruny elders!  Plenty Cider fam. Image: Sam Shelley Some couldn’t believe the unfortunate timing. What are the chances of working towards launching a whisky label only to be halted by Covid-19? Robbie and Emma Gilligan weren’t deterred and may just be the first distillery in Australia to launch via an interactive online tasting. Derwent Distillery won’t forget their ‘arrival’ – their name coming from the second distillery ever built in Australia – Derwent Distillery circa. 1823. Follow them for more exciting developments. What have Wingtons Glamping been up to in the north? They’ve restored their great grandparent’s clawfoot bath so that future guests can enjoy toasty baths under starry skies. What did Prospect House do when folk couldn’t be spoilt dining in? They hand delivered three courses to your door, complete with a smooth jazz tunes playlist and candle. Tameka of The Spotted Quoll sent plants galore and Tasmanian-made wares in a lockdown period that rivalled Christmas trade. Then there’s Redbanks Fish & Field – they’ve taken time to finesse their Woodball course and equipment. Haven’t heard of this new sport? You’ve gotta try it! The stories go on and on … art deco cinema Star Theatre Launceston had a virtual Great Gadsby movie night, Beauty and the Bees sent Tassie soap to first responders, Miss Arthur Homewares swung open the doors of their online store, Home State were super busy online too, Sanctum Medical designed gorgeous survival boxes, Claudia Jewellers celebrated their Tasmanian range, Millie Ma kept us soothed with the likes of Good Night Balm and Tasmanian Devil Unzoo launched their Tasmanian Devil Channel on Youtube. Tailrace kept fams connected with Baby and Toddler Sense @ Home classes, Smitten offered great online storewide discounts to keep locals employed, and the list goes on….  Tasmanian Devil Unzoo. Image: supplied On the foodie front, the Hanging Garden Green Grocer opened, supporting local producers Wednesday to Saturday and The Farm Gate Market worked diligently to adapt to our challenging climate and now even has a Farm Gate Drive Thru! The Agrarian Kitchen Eatery provided sell-out pick up menus, The Tasmanian Juice Press kept our thirst quenched with home deliveries in reusable glass bottles – the likes of apples straight from Huon Valley pickers. Apogee Tasmania offered special rates, Fat Pig Farm whipped up produce boxes (soon to be re-launching their amazing long table lunches) and Maxie Coffee kept the doors open to ensure we were all well fuelled with great coffee. Pollen Tea Room kept up a nourishing weekly collect menu, Tasmania Gourmet Food Tours offered voucher specials and Metropolitan Pizza threw in extras with pizza orders.  Mic of Sirocco South. Image: Joe Chelkowski Mic of Sirocco South has busily developed his wild asparagus spring time forage and feast tour, offering an early bird special of $250 a person (just do it – we LOVED it). Blackman Bay Oysters got super swift, offering home delivered oysters to Hobart and Melbourne (plus the Mornington Peninsula), to the door within 24 hours of harvest from their boutique farm. Further south at the Old Bank of Geeveston, doors have swung back open and Huon Valley apple crate veggie beds are set to explode with goodness come Spring! The good people at Urban Greek kindly offered discounts for front line workers and emergency services throughout lock down and can’t wait to re-open! And let's not forget the amazing folk at Dawat Indian Cuisine who fed front line workers and those less fortunate for free every week once a week through lock down as well as Gormanston Road Store with daily soup for whatever could be afforded.  Maxie Coffee. Image: supplied T-Bone Brewing Co. kept our hopes alive with their Meat Mistress meat tray still up for grabs weekly and 4-7pm Friday beer pick-ups. You may not have been able to spot Henry from Tasmanian Truffles at Salamanca Market, but you could catch him with Ben Milbourne on the first episode of Channel 9’s Award Winning Tasmania. Hill Street Grocer kindly picked up staff from Suzie Lucks to keep folk in work and have done a wondrous job keeping us safe while shopping. Oh ,and news just in…Hobart Brewing Co. will reopen from 3pm this Friday for a max of 40 so head down for a drink by their fire. St. Albi are also excited to get back open and had quite the busy time making 250 take home meals for Mothers Day.  Mallavale Farm view. Image: Mallavale Farm. Free Spirit Pods prepared a special Bounce Back to Bruny experience and Waterton Hall Wines got busy offering a virtual visit for those dreaming of their wedding day beyond Covid-19. Rochford Hall offered a complimentary night with any two-night stay (Promo code 1878, valid till Sept 30) and Coast House delivered a 20% discount for Tasmanians wanting their very own peninsula to escape to. At Mallavale Farm (can’t you see yourself there?), the owners have planted hundreds of tulip bulbs from Table Cape Tulip Farm to ensure an even more spectacular Spring for their guests, launched Boat Harbour Boutique Accommodation and are hanging regular artists in Aquila Barn. Phew, they’ve been busy! As for Novo Luxury Apartment in Penguin they can't wait to welcome their winning guests.  Novo Luxury Apartment. Image: Aaron Jones Photography  Aquila Barn. Image: Aquila Barn Who knew a L’Orangerie (structure from the 17th to 19th centuries to protect oranges and other fruit trees in winter at fashionable residences) would pop up in NW Tassie? Using the greatest hotchpotch of scrap materials, Table House Farm is the proud owner of one that doesn’t quite look Parisian but does have chandeliers (from a salvage yard!) Over on the East Coast, the Sanda House owners have been flat out installing solar power, building more veggie beds for brekkie produce and are in the process of creating a toasty firepit for guests. Pop Up Picnic Bicheno picked up a bell tent beauty – perhaps for your next special escape? In need of some fresh Tassie air? Walk on kunanyi is soon to launch a new winter walk for locals called Five Huts. With this blog being one of our most popular of all time about mountain huts and a hidden ice rink, we know this will be a hit! The team will also launch a collab with Hobart Mountain Bike tours including a North South track descent, walking in Darwin’s footsteps and a drink in Midtown. Art Farm Birchs Bay is open daily for sculpture trail walks through the community garden, pepperberry crops and orchards (café currently closed). Wild Island is about to re-open and have busily been upgrading their website. Take a peek at the homepage – it’s a stunner! Oh and Rob Blakers has been having fun with night sky videos.  kunanyi waterfall. Image: Walk on kunanyi Other operators are opening their doors including the Blue Derby Pods Ride – offering Tasmanians ‘accommodation only’ on select weekends from June 5. They’ve always been keen to find a way to reward the locals! And Freycinet Experience Walk are doing the same with private lodge hire. Read about our amazing trip here.  Freycinet Experience Walk. Image: supplied. We could go on but with restrictions lifting, we can all peep out of hibernation with a brighter future on the horizon. Yes, we might be plagued with Covid-19 outbreaks, but we can rest assured our tourism industry is robust and tough. We’ll get through. And we’ll do it together. Now get out there and support our locals and be sure to enter for your chance to escape to the North West. Go on, #givetassielove. This pair are read for their King Island Escapes sauna ....  King Island Escapes. Image: supplied Words: Alice Hansen Remember, you can book Tasmanian adventures and accommodation in real time with Tailored Tasmania. We've got your trip sorted and can also deliver the latest edition of Tailored Tasmania with free shipping to your doorstep. Want to win a luxe Tassie stay?
To celebrate the re-emergence of Tassie we’re also offering 3 prizes ... 2 nights accommodation at Novo Luxury Apartment, 2 at Mallavale Farm and 2 at Aquila Barn (Boat Harbour Boutique Accommodation) that's over $1500 in value!! To enter, just like and share our Tailored Tasmania Facebook post and tag three people, or find it on Insta. Comp closes and winners announced June 26! Prizes non-transferable for 2 consecutive days between July 1 & Oct 31. |
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