Photo by Lost in Love Photography. Via Kayla & Rhys’ Classic, Outdoor, Werribee Mansion Wedding
Tasmania is one of the most unique places in Australia, renowned for its natural beauty. However make no mistake, Tasmanians know how to party! It’s all about the Apple Isle at Polka Dot Groom this month and I’ve taken the opportunity to check out what they’ve got to offer for your buck’s party.
I’ve only scratched the surface here, but if you’re looking for the perfect weekend getaway in Tasmania, or even if you’re a local, here is a handy list to help you get started. Disclaimer: I’ve made my Bucks Party feelings very clear in the past – they can be gross – check out my refined buck’s party tips on how to avoid that – this list below sticks to that theme, I’ve kept it classy and you should too.
A cheeky tipple
Regular readers of my columns (I know you’re out there) will note an occasional whisky theme running throughout. And I don’t think I could live with myself if I didn’t mention Tasmania’s famous whisky distillery Sulllivan’s Cove.
Sullivan’s Cove is not only Australia’s most awarded whisky, but their French Oak Single Cask was awarded the World’s Best Single Cask Single Malt at the World Whiskies Awards. Yes, the world! And the year before they won the same award for their American Oak Single Cask. Located about 20 minutes drive from Hobart, the distillery offers tastings at the cellar door and distiller-lead tours of the facility. A tour and tasting will set you back $50 per person.
A true brew
Did you know Tasmania is home to more than 20 breweries? Not a bad effort for a population of only half a million, on an island that’s almost half world heritage listed, national park territory or marine and forest reserves. Apparently those low average temperatures which we associate with Tasmania, combined with their abundance of pure water, make it the ideal location for brewing up a few beers. But with so many options, where should you start?
Fortunately, someone has done all the hard work for you: the Tasmania Beer Trail is a very handy site listing all the Tassie breweries in one place, including maps and reviews. If you still can’t decide for yourself, there’s always the classic James Boags Brewery – one of Tasmania’s most famous breweries. The Launceston-based brewery offers a fully guided 90 minute tour of the brewery followed by a tasting.
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Getting into the swing of things
Golf is always a popular activity for Buck’s parties and once again, Tasmania excels in this department. Barnbougle Links Golf Resort features two of Australia’s top five golf courses. Yes, two! Located on the north east coast of Tasmania, The Dunes and the Lost Farm golf courses are everything you’re looking for in a day on the greens.
The two courses have been “designed to emulate the true links courses of Scotland and Ireland” and the best part: they’ve been created to avoid impacting on the natural environment. Talk about a hole in one! Think pristine coastline, rolling green hills and absolute serenity as you tee off – hopefully straight down the fairway.
Image by Smitten Wedding Photography via Nadine & Anday’s Contemporary & Elegant South Melbourne Wedding
So much room for activities
For those of you looking for something a bit more strenuous than a leisurely stroll around the Links, you can’t go past Redbanks. It’s the ultimate Buck’s experience for the energetic groom. We’re talking paintball, obstacle courses through mud, archery, clay target shooting and more.
I suggest the “full day of activities” package which includes archery, axe throwing, sling shot, golf alley, air rifle, .22 rifle and clay target shooting. Yup, that’s one action packed day. They can even throw in a fully catered lunch or you can use their barbecue facilities. Perfecto. After lunch, take on “the largest paintball experience offered in Tasmania”. Cost starts at $170 per person.
Eye on the target
Equally as fun but, in my experience, slightly more strategic than paintball is the Laser Skirmish. The Tas Laser Skirmish field is located “not far from Hobart” and involves manoeuvring through trenches, forts and bunkers as you hide from your pals in your camouflage gear with a laser gun to shoot anyone you happen upon.
Two of the best things about laser skirmish versus paintball? Unlimited ammo and no bruises!
About Mr Houndstooth: I am a happily married man. I enjoy a fine whisky, a new suit and swashbuckling around town with my beautiful bride. Looking back on my wedding day always makes me smile, even though it began to rain just as I said ‘I do’.
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