Greater Hobart and its surrounding towns of Richmond to the north-east and Kettering to the south are an intriguing blend of heritage and lifestyle, scenery and vibrant culture. The city is defined by the river and sea. Take a harbour cruise or drive to the summit of Mount Nelson or Mount Wellington and you'll understand our maritime focus - suburbs hug the Derwent River, city buildings cluster around the docks and the estuary broadens into Storm Bay and the distant sea.

Twenty-five kilometres and 100 years from the busy city is the historic town of Richmond. In the narrow cells of the old Richmond Gaol, Tasmania's convict past seems just a clink of chains away. Close by are the neat vineyards and wineries of the Coal River Valley, home of superb cool-climate wines.

Hobart is an ideal base for your southern Tasmanian journeys - explore farther afield, then return to relax, unwind and rejuvenate.