With an adventurous spirit, you can turn any weekend into a mini getaway. From Hobart and Launceston you can take short flights to explore more. Sure, you can drive, but you can also splurge a little, save time, and enjoy a holiday!

Three Hummock Island

This is a true castaway experience with its lichen-splashed granite headlands and empty beaches. There’s barely any­one here at any given time. Three Hum­mock Island is part of the Hunter Island Group near King Island and charter flights can be arranged from Hobart if you contact Par Avion. This is a place of world-class fishing, beachcombing, and kayaking. You can also book helicopter tours for a bird’s eye view of the tiny island. For accommodation, the only op­tion is the Homestead, which can house up to 12 people. It has sweeping views of the ocean and is just a short stroll from the beach. Kangaroos and Cape Barren geese are easily spotted.

Melaleuca

For those seeking an even more remote and wild retreat, Tasmania’s south west wilderness delivers. A short 45-minute flight from Hobart with Par Avion takes you to Melaleuca, a secluded corner of the world wrapped in rugged beauty. Towering mountains, ancient rainfor­ests, and winding rivers make this an awe-inspiring spot, even under a grey sky. Whether you join a guided tour (which often includes walks and a river cruise) or opt for a self-guided adven­ture, Melaleuca is perfect for switching off and reconnecting with nature. Par Avion offers flexible day, overnight, and two-night packages. For more west coast charm, they also run full-day trips to Strahan, including a Gordon River cruise.

King Island

Less than an hour’s flight from Launces­ton, King Island offers a bracing breath of fresh air. Known for its windswept beaches, rugged landscapes, and world-class golf and seafood, it’s the perfect place to unwind and embrace the ele­ments. Sharp Airlines run regular return services from Launceston and Burnie throughout the week. The island’s dra­matic cliffs and expansive coastlines are especially striking in the cooler months, and there’s still plenty of wildlife to spot. Wrap up warm and stroll along quiet beaches, or take a scenic drive to explore the island’s natural charm. Foodies won’t be disappointed – the iconic King Island crayfish pie at the King Island Bakehouse is just the thing to warm you up, and a locally brewed beer from King Island Brewhouse is perfect for a relaxed afternoon. For history lovers, the island’s lighthouses and shipwreck sites offer a glimpse into its maritime past.

Flinders Island

Much of what applies to King Island is equally true for Flinders Island, only this remote escape might feel even more untamed. Accessible by short flights from Launceston via Sharp Airlines, Flinders is a land of mountains, dunes, and windswept scrub, ideal for invigo­rating walks. Walking trails range from gentle coastal ambles to more strenuous climbs. One of the standouts is the hike to the summit of Mount Strzelecki and the epic views that follow. While on the island, you’ll likely spot all sorts of furry critters, and with over 200 bird species visiting or living on the island’s shores, this is a birdwatcher’s paradise.