One of the finest examples of architecture can be seen on the waterfront in Hobart itself. The Henry Jones Art Hotel is an innovative combination of modern design and classic architecture dating from the 1820s. Formerly a row of warehouses and site of the old IXL jam factory, the award-winning hotel now showcases more than 250 paintings by Tasmanian artists.

Just outside Hobart, Richmond is an attractive Georgian village full of sandstone cottages and churches. Home to Richmond Jail, Australia’s oldest sandstone bridge (built by convict labour in 1825), numerous convict buildings, a host of art and craft shops and a fascinating museum, it also has plenty of B&Bs offering a comfortable bed after a long day of sightseeing.

Another slice of Tasmania’s history that shouldn’t be missed is the charming town of Ross on the Heritage (Midlands) Highway, between Launceston and Hobart. The bakery there has been operating for more than a century and the wood-fired oven is a perfect example of early colonial architecture. With the capacity to bake 300 loaves at a time, it is certainly worth a visit, and if you are lucky and book ahead, you can stay in the 1830s’ coach inn and wake up to the divine smell of fresh bread.

Entally House at Hadspen, 18km south west of Launceston, is also worth exploring. This gorgeous historic house was built on 37 hectares for one-time East India Company trader Thomas Reiby, in 1819.

Reiby is famed for having had one of the most extensive libraries in the colony and the house also contains a magnificent collection of Regency furniture and fine silverware.