Midlands
Take a trip through Tasmania’s colonial heritage on a tour of the state’s agricultural heart, comprised of pretty towns and rolling pastures.
The Midlands is Tasmania’s prized farming region, its charming patchwork of fields and meadows extending across the centre of the state. The low-lying plains are dotted with heritage landmarks, including colonial settlements and historic farmsteads. Embark on a heritage trail through the Midlands and learn about Tasmania’s early European pioneers. Stop by enchanting towns and treat yourself to a tasting platter of some of the region’s finest local produce. With traditional confectionary, fine cheeses and fresh berries, the Midlands is one of the best regions to taste Tasmania.
Encompassing the heart of the state, the Midlands stretch between Launceston to the north and Hobart to the south. Drive or cycle along the Heritage Highway and get a different insight into the state’s early beginnings. Established in the first half of the 19th century, this historic road was carved through the lowland plains by convict labour. See elegant pioneer homesteads in Campbell Town, where the roads are lined with handmade bricks engraved with convict names. Check out antiques stores and busy roadside restaurants in this popular stopover town.
Discover colonial history embedded in the towns along the way. Ross is famed for its elaborate stone bridge, adorned with dozens of intricate carvings. Oatlands features heritage architecture and charming acreages. Try to visit Evandale on a Sunday, when the local market showcases a host of local artisans and producers. Try delicious native leatherwood honey, pick up handcrafted souvenirs and peruse the stalls filled with intriguing antiques. Fine merino wool is also a sought-after export of Tasmania’s Midlands.
As you traverse the historic highway, keep an eye out for playful silhouettes of convicts, pioneers and bushrangers formed out of metal and perched on the roadside.
Drop a fishing line and hook a trout in the lakes region of the Midlands. Popular areas for recreation include Great Lake and Arthurs Lake. Nearby, you’ll find the magnificent Central Highlands and the Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park. Reach the Midlands via Launceston or Hobart. Experience the Heritage Highway over a couple of hours or linger in the cosy townships overnight.
Top hotels in Midlands
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Popular places to visit
Cradle Mountain
See the dramatic contours of this rugged peak from the shores of Dove Lake or clamber to its summit for unbeatable views of Tasmania’s World Heritage wilderness.
Freycinet National Park
Taste fresh oysters, climb pink granite mountain cliffs, laze on stunning beaches and swim with dolphins at this national park on Tasmania’s east coast.
Mount Field National Park
A glorious mix of fern forests, alpine heathlands, pristine waterways and cascading waterfalls, all accessible via pretty pathways, await in this park not far from Hobart.