Unicorn Tours through Hobart?
We spend a lot of time in Hobart with the kids and one of our favourite activities to do is go for a ride in an old carriage around the waterfront. Everyone waves and you can't help but feel like royalty as you travel through the streets. The kids love it. You can see the excitement in their eyes as they watch the horse's heads move, and hear the sound of their hooves hit the ground in sequence. That alone is worth the trip!
We wanted to know more about Sharon and Steve who run Heritage Horse Drawn Carriages. Having been around horses all their lives, it was lovely to learn that they treat their beautiful four-legged friends as family. We caught up recently for a chat.
Thanks for taking the time to talk with us, Sharon and Steve! We love saying hello to your beautiful horses at Salamanca!
They are very friendly, and love a pat! You can meet them down near the Silos at Salamanca on the Hobart Waterfront.
You're not from Tasmania. What made you decide to start up Heritage Horse Drawn Carriages here in Hobart?
We first came to Tasmania as tourists in 2010 and we absolutely were smitten with Tasmania’s beauty and its fascinating history. We wanted to move here immediately and we knew that a carriage ride would so very aptly showcase Hobart in a unique way. We moved here in December 2014 and we began operations in July 2015.
What makes your rides so special?
Salamanca Place is a well-known icon of Hobart and Tasmania. Its Georgian sandstone warehouses comprise a streetscape that is so rare in this country. Virtually unchanged since they were built in the 1830s, they now house art galleries, eateries and, of course, the weekly Salamanca Market is conducted under the backdrop of these beautiful buildings.
However, that’s not all there is to Hobart!
The Waterfront area of Hobart is a working port and very much a beating heart of Hobart. And don’t forget Battery Point! Now, this charming village is so beautifully preserved and a priceless reminder of times gone by.
Our carriage tours take you through the most significant areas of Hobart and the stories we tell you to help bring the history and characters to life. Our sumptuous carriage was built especially for us in Poland and is called a vis-à-vis landau. It’s an open-topped carriage which has a closable roof. We can comfortably take 4-5 adults or more if there are children.
Was it challenging to start your tours?
We lived in our horse truck for 2 years whilst struggling to build a house and a business. That was a hard time!
Wow! Thats dedication! I bet the horses were notorious carrot thieves! Do you have any of your own children?
Our children are all grown up now, though Sharon enjoyed working in schools for almost 15 years before coming to Tasmania.
And now you get to share your days with more kids! Do you have an age limit for children?
No, all ages are welcome. Our youngest passenger was just born and our oldest, a spritely 100-year-old lady. We recommend our 15 or 30-minute tour for the under 10s.
Understandable. The little ones can get restless sometimes! Do you cater for kids with specific needs?
Absolutely. Our carriage tours are for everybody, regardless of ability.
Do you offer any special tours, for say birthdays or special occasions?
We have a Unicorn option! Why just have a carriage ride with horses when you can have one with unicorns instead. This $25 option also includes a present for the celebrating person and sweets to share with friends.
Wow! Sounds amazing! If a family wanted to make a day of it in Hobart what else would you recommend they do?
If they take a ride with us on a Saturday, they can then visit the Salamanca Market.
Other options we recommend are:
- Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery
- Mawson’s Hut Replica Museum
- A drive up Mt Wellington,
- Exploring the Royal Hobart Botanical Gardens
For families with older kids?
Our tour, of course! But be sure to look out for Sammy the Seal on the Waterfront
And the younger ones?
Also, our tour, of course! Playing in the snow on Mt Wellington in winter, or looking out over the Derwent in Summer.
Every family needs a selfie, other than taking one in your carriage, what other spot do you suggest?
Head into St David’s Park, and take one in the bandstand.
What are your top tips for a family travelling around Hobart and Beyond?
There is so much to see and do in Hobart, but we also recommend travelling down to the Huon Valley. Our home is there and it's beautiful. There are so many attractions and it is often forgotten.
You get your morning coffee at?
Daci and Daci Bakers, Murray St. Just up from the Waterfront.
And lastly, where about in Hobart are you?
You can find us at Salamanca, down the far end at the Silos. We park the carriage under the trees there.
If you'd like to book a ride with Sharon and Steve head over to their booking page, via the link below. You'll find all their tour options, prices, and more!