HOW TO GET THERE Australia is a 14 1/2-hour flight from Los Angeles. To reach Tasmania from the mainland, Qantas (800-227-4500) and Ansett (888-442-9626) have direct flights from Melbourne and Sydney to Launceston (for Bay of Fires) and Hobart (for Friendly Beaches). Before setting out on a wilderness trek, you'll probably want to spend a day or two in either town to visit the local wineries and restaurants.
Launceston Area
WHERE TO STAY Bay of Fires (011-61-3-6331-2006 or www.bayoffires.com.au). Open from October to June. Hikes start near Launceston. Calstock Country Guest House (Lake Hwy., Deloraine; 011-61-3-6362-2642). An elegant new inn opened by Remi Bancal, the esteemed Sydney sommelier. The restaurant, for hotel guests only, serves French country cooking. Freshwater Point (56 Nobelius Dr., Legana; 011-61-3-6330-2200). An old Georgian home converted into an inn, located on the Tamar River.
WHERE TO EAT Fee and Me (190 Charles St., Launceston; 011-61-3-6331-3195). An elegant restaurant known for its tasting menu. Stillwater (Ritchies Mill, Launceston; 011-61-3-6331-4153). An innovative restaurant in a converted historic mill. The Swiss Chocolatier (82 George St., Launceston; 011-61-3-6334-3411). A shop that sells its own superb handmade chocolates.
WHERE TO TASTE WINE Holm Oak Vineyards (11 West Bay, Rowella; 011-61-3-6394-7577). A winery known for rich Cabernets and a wonderful dessert Riesling. Strathlynn Wine Centre (95 Rosevears Dr., Rosevears; 011-61-3-6330-2388). Built by the Pipers Brook group so visitors can taste their wines. Critics have compared the 1996 Vintage Pirie sparkling wine with Bollinger and Krug. Have lunch at the restaurant between tastings. Tamar Ridge Wines (Auburn Rd., Kayena; 011-61-3-6334-6208). A six-year-old winery that's known for its Riesling and Pinot Noir.
Hobart Area
WHERE TO STAY Friendly Beaches (011-61-3-6223-7565 or www.freycinet.com.au). Open from October to April. A four-day fishing and hiking trip that begins near Hobart is mandatory for a stay at the lodge (one night maximum). Oakford on the Pier (Elizabeth St. Pier, Hobart; 011-61-3-6220-6661). A new hotel built on a converted wharf.
WHERE TO EAT Kate's Berry Farm (Addison St., Swansea; 011-61-3-6257-8428). An old farmhouse with great raspberry jam and homemade ice cream. Mit Zitrone (333 Elizabeth St., Hobart; 011-61-3-6234-8113). A restaurant that celebrates all things modern, from the decor (note the lime-green walls) to the Australian cuisine.
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