Hobart is the Tasmania's capital city & the second oldest city in Australia after Sydney. Founded in 1803, Hobart was an important strategic harbor for the British Navy. While other more remote areas of Tasmania were used as penal colonies, Hobart developed as a center for agriculture & forestry.
Hobart is situated on a natural deep water harbour surrounded by mountains such as Mount Wellington. Mount Wellington rises steeply from sea level to over 4,000 feet. For a great view of Hobart you can drive to the summit or see Hobart by water on one of the local river cruises that will take you up & down the River Derwent.
Visitors will enjoy browsing the markets & art galleries along the waterfront, the cosmopolitan dining of North Hobart, & the historic charm of Battery Point. The Mountain is a world of it's own, and there are many other attractions of historic or cultural interest. Hobart is also a good base from which to explore the rest of the island, particularly expeditions to the rugged South-West.
