Must-do experiences while house sitting in Tasmania

Tasmania offers a rich tapestry of natural beauty, cultural charm, and laid-back living that’s perfect for the slow-paced lifestyle of house sitting.

Whether it’s caring for cats in Hobart or walking dogs in Launceston, house sitting in Tasmania is an authentic way to experience the best the island has to offer. Here is our selection of must-do experiences while in Tassie.

1. Soak up the Culture and Nature in Hobart

Tasmania's capital seamlessly blends history, art, and stunning natural scenery.

●     Visit MONA (Museum of Old and New Art): This underground, avant-garde museum is unlike any other. A feast for the senses, MONA challenges perceptions and stirs conversation, making it a cultural must-see.

●     Stroll Salamanca Market: Held every Saturday, this bustling market is perfect for picking up handmade goods, local produce, and sampling Tasmania’s culinary delights.

●     Climb Kunanyi/Mount Wellington: A short but windy drive from the city, the summit offers sweeping views over Hobart, the Derwent River, and even distant Bruny Island, viewed from the dramatic glacial rock formations that dominate the pinnacle.

●     Explore Battery Point: This charming historic suburb is ideal for a relaxed afternoon walk among colonial-era cottages and cosy cafes.

2. Discover the Wild West in Strahan

Remote and rugged, Strahan is a small town on Tasmania’s west coast that offers a taste of the island’s wild frontier.

●     Take a Gordon River Cruise: Glide through mirror-like waters into a pristine World Heritage-listed rainforest. Most cruises include a visit to Sarah Island, a fascinating former penal colony.

●     Ride the West Coast Wilderness Railway: Step back in time on this heritage steam train, winding through rainforest, over bridges, and past old mining relics.

●     Explore Ocean Beach: Tasmania’s longest beach is wild, windswept, and perfect for solitary walks, sunsets, and beachcombing.

3. Trek the Iconic Trails of Cradle Mountain

Located in the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is one of Tasmania’s most beloved natural landmarks.

●     Dove Lake Circuit: This popular, easy-to-moderate 6 km loop offers stunning views of Cradle Mountain mirrored in the glacial lake below — perfect for a half-day adventure.

●     Tackle the Summit: For experienced hikers, the challenging climb to the summit of Cradle Mountain rewards you with panoramic views across rugged peaks and deep valleys.

●     Spot the Wildlife: Wombats, echidnas, and even elusive Tasmanian devils can be seen here, especially around dusk.

●     Overland Track Gateway: Cradle Mountain is the starting point for the iconic multi-day Overland Track — though even a short visit gives a taste of its dramatic beauty.

4. Embrace Northern Charm in Launceston

Tasmania’s second-largest city blends old-world elegance with a thriving food, wine, and nature scene.

●     Wander Cataract Gorge: A spectacular natural formation right on the city’s edge, the gorge offers walking trails, a suspension bridge, a swimming pool, and the world's longest single-span chairlift.

●     Sample Local Produce: Explore nearby Tamar Valley for wine tasting, berry picking, and artisanal cheese. The region is famous for cool-climate wines, particularly Pinot Noir and sparkling varieties.

●     Explore Heritage Architecture: Launceston boasts one of the best-preserved examples of Georgian and Victorian architecture in Australia. A walking tour through the city reveals grand facades, quaint cottages, and old churches.

5. Adventure Awaits at Ben Lomond National Park

If you happen to be house sitting near Launceston, a trip to Ben Lomond National Park offers stunning alpine scenery and outdoor adventures.

●     Drive Jacob’s Ladder: Navigate one of Tasmania’s most iconic roads — a series of steep, hairpin bends leading up to the plateau with breathtaking views.

●     Winter Sports: In the colder months, the park becomes Tasmania’s top destination for skiing and snowboarding.

●     Hiking & Rock Climbing: Warmer seasons open up a range of alpine trails and climbing opportunities, with panoramic views from the summit.

●     Photographer’s Paradise: The dramatic cliffs, sweeping plains, and ever-changing skies make it perfect for landscape photography.

6. Hike and Kayak Through Freycinet National Park

Make time for a day trip or overnight excursion to Freycinet National Park, located on the east coast.

●     See Wineglass Bay: One of the most photographed beaches in the world, Wineglass Bay is a spectacular arc of white sand and turquoise water. The 1.5-hour hike to the lookout is rewarding and moderately challenging.

●     Go Sea Kayaking: Paddle across the bay and around the Freycinet Peninsula to get a unique perspective of the coastal cliffs, sea caves, and marine wildlife.

●     Spot Local Wildlife: Wallabies, echidnas, and seabirds abound. Sunrise and sunset walks offer the best chance of sightings and dramatic views.

House sitting in Tasmania isn't just a chance to stay for free — it's an invitation to live the laid-back lifestyle. From tasting local whiskies in Hobart’s to hiking through wilderness in Freycinet, every region of Tasmania offers a new adventure.

Sound tempting? Grab a cuppa and browse all our Tassie house sits.