Discover Sorell: Just 30 Minutes from Hobart

If you’re looking for Things to do around Sorell, you’re in the right place! Just 30 mins (26 km) east of Hobart, Sorell offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with attractions. As one of Tasmania’s oldest towns, founded in 1808, Sorell has a rich heritage as well.

History lovers will find plenty of things to do around Sorell, with several fascinating historical sites to visit. The town is home to National Estate-listed churches and the 1827 Barracks, where you can step back in time and discover the colonial history of Tasmania. Wander through Sorell’s heritage streets and a well-preserved past.

Outdoor Adventures Around Sorell

One of the best things to do near Sorell is to explore the stunning southern beaches. Whether you’re in the mood for a swim, a relaxing picnic, or simply soaking up the stunning views, the coastal areas around Sorell offer some of Tasmania’s most popular spots, like Marion Bay and Seven Mile Beach. Whether you’re keen to hike, explore local wildlife, or take in panoramic views, Sorell and its surroundings offer a variety of natural wonders. Head to the nearby Pitt Water Conservation Area for birdwatching, or enjoy scenic drives through the lush countryside to discover hidden gems.

Stop and Stay a While in Sorell

Many travellers pass through Sorell on their way to Port Arthur, but this charming town is well worth a longer visit. Spend time exploring local cafés, browsing local shops, and soak up some peace. Sorrell is a great destination for a relaxed getaway or an exciting day trip from Hobart.

Wellness & Pampering: Relax and Rejuvenate at Top Local Spas and Clinics

• Forest Spa Massage Facial Clinic: offers a broad range of beauty services – relaxing massages to facials and skincare treatments, at 26A Cole Street.
• Sorell Magic Massage: expert massage therapy,  is located at 27 Cole St, Gateway Shopping Centre.
• Ellavate Hair Design: Has a reputation for friendly service and professional hair care. They specialise in colouring, cutting & extensions at affordable pricing. 4/5 Fitzroy Street, Sorell.
• Tadasana Yoga by Julie Zimmerman: Hatha and Vinyasa yoga based in the Sorell Township serving surrounding areas. 12 Fitzroy Street, Sorell
• Fancie Tassie Nail: : Nails and Waxing. 1/35-37 Gordon Street, Sorell, Tasmania

Explore and Discover

• Port Arthur is a major attraction nearby. Explore the lives of 12,500 convicts who served sentences here. Their labor is embedded in the brick walls of over 30 historic buildings. You can easily spend a day or two wandering the 40-hectare landscaped grounds. Numerous tours are available, and tickets allow entry for two consecutive days. Your ticket includes an introductory walking tour and a 20-minute harbour cruise.

• The harbour cruise offers stunning views of the Isle of the Dead and Point Puer, the first purpose-built prison for children. More than 3,000 boys were imprisoned here. More information on Port Arthur is available during your visit.
• In the other direction is the Coal River Valley one of Australia’s first food bowls and a thriving wine region. The area is known for its cool-climate vineyards producing some of the best sparkling wines, Pinot Noir, and Tasmanian whiskey.
• Located in the town of Richmond, the heart of the Coal River Valley, you’ll find Australia’s oldest bridge, built by convicts between 1823 and 1825. Also in Richmond is Richmond Gaol, where you can learn about the harsh convict past, and St. John’s Church, Australia’s oldest remaining Catholic church, built in 1836.

Explore Sorell’s Wildlife: Zoos and Animal Encounters

• After exploring Richmond, take a picnic on the banks of the Coal River. Forage for local produce, then enjoy a leisurely stroll and take some photos. Be sure to follow the ducks—just don’t feed them!
• Bonorong wildlife park is worthwhile for an up close animal encounters run by a passionate team of like-minded people. They offer daytime and night time experiences, and have a cafe on site with all proceeds supporting this social enterprise
• Only minutes from historic Richmond is Zoodoo Zoo. See Monte the Koala, enjoy interactive keeper talks, café, gift shop, and large indoor adventure playground. Hand feed the kangaroos and wallabies in the walk-through native park and large bird aviary.

Good Eats

• Banjo’s. is a Tasmanian baking success story. With over 42 stores across Australia and still growing. You’ll find breads, pies, pastries, sweets and salad products with a full-bodied coffee. Open for breakfast, lunch or a treat anytime, 7 days from 5am.
• Bream Creek Vineyard award-winning cool climate wines and one of the state’s oldest vineyards on the East Coast. It overlooks the place where Abel Tasman first landed in 1642 to collect water and to plant the Dutch flag.
• Bangor Vineyard Shed near Dunalley, on route to Port Arthur Historic Site. Vines are hand tended, producing premium quality cool climate wine – Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Rosé, Sparkling, and a Reserve range of wines. Open every day, there’s also a lovely menu which changes seasonally

Foodies

• Bream Creek markets (definitely head for Leap Farm cheeses) First Sunday of the month held in the showground
• Iron Bay Creek Farm (you can buy direct or pick your own cherries and apricots. Also offers fine dining, gift shop and cafe
• Sorell Fruit Farm for stone and berry fruits in season from classic favourites – strawberries, raspberries through to loganberries, tayberries and silvanberries. Contact for opening times
• Coal Valley Vineyard Restaurant – Enjoy fine dining with picturesque vineyard views

Retail Escapes

• Sorell Antique Centre where you’ll find all kinds of treasures
• Three Peaks Gallery is a local artists cooperative located at 21 Gordon St, Sorell
• Nicks Hobby Shop – 5 Giblin Dr, Sorell

If you think Hobart and the South sounds like an amazing destination, why not check out our Stays with a WOW accommodation.