Originally a land grant to a convict for a garden and farm, the 14 hectare Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens sit on a hillside above Hobart, only minutes from the city centre.
Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens - Lily Pads / Credit: Lusy Productions
The gardens showcase 6,500 species and varieties of plants including over 400 Tasmanian species. Take a guided tour and see the largest public conifer collection in the southern hemisphere including Wollemi pines, the peaceful Japanese garden and stunning Conservatory. Breathe in the perfume of the traditional herb garden and visit the Tasmanian Community Food Garden.
The collection of rare plants from Macquarie Island in the sub-Antarctic Plant House is fascinating, as is the historic Arthur Wall, designed to be internally heated to grow exotic plants in Tassie’s cool climate.
Enjoy lunch in the Succulent Restaurant or Sprout Café, or browse the gardening tools, books, seeds, and gift ware in the Botanical Shop.
Where: Lower Domain Road, Hobart
When: Open every day from 8am to 6.30 pm (365 days a year).
Local Tip: Visit the tranquil traditional Japanese garden any time of year, in spring the Cherry Blossoms bloom and in autumn the Japanese Maples display their brilliant coloured leaves.