Australia Weather News

While some will argue winter does not really start until the solstice, for those who go by the calendar, June 1 marks the beginning of the season.

For the next few months Tasmania will become a land of single-digit temperatures, rains, frosts and occasional snow.

But while it might be cold and dark and a bit damp, there is a lot to love about winter down south.

Here are our top five things to love about winter in Tasmania.

1. The beauty of it

You might not be able to feel your toes, but the views can be amazing.

If you live in or visit Hobart in winter, you will probably take a million photos of Mount Wellington — AKA kunanyi or The Mountain — with a gentle blanket of white snow.

But the beauty of winter does not end with an icy mountain.

Winter is a great time for clear, crisp nights of stargazing, and maybe even a special appearance of the Aurora Australis.

A frosty morning might make it hard to get out of bed, but an icy photo of a frozen landscape is well worth it.

2. It's festival time

Winter brings with it a range of unique festivals to Tasmania.

The infamous Dark Mofo turns Hobart red with a Winter Feast, fire organs, Ogoh-Ogoh, a nude solstice swim and various art and music shows to celebrate the longest night.

Winter celebrations continue in July with the Huon Valley Winter Festival and the Festival of Voices.

And by August you can indulge in Latrobe's Chocolate Winterfest or some Hot August Jazz in Hobart.

3. Winter fashion fun

Winter is a great season for clothes horses, because you need a lot of it.

Beanies, gloves, scarves, boots and coats must be donned before venturing outside.

And because you will be wearing multiple layers, you can get away with pyjamas underneath and no-one will ever know.

4. Outdoor adventures

Tasmania has some of the best bushwalks and camping spots in the world.

Braving the wilderness in winter not only means you get to experience the best views without the summer crowds, you also get to feel like a true adventurer battling the elements.

Plus, you'll have an excuse to indulge in hot chocolate with extra marshmallows after you are done.

5. Staying in without guilt

It is beautiful out there and there are a tonne of festivals on, but winter is also a great time for staying at home.

Spending your weekend in front of a fire with footy on the TV and a good book in your hand is perfectly acceptable when the top temperature never reaches double digits.

You can also combine staying in with comfort food of roasts, soups and stews and a glass of Tasmanian whisky, a hot cider or a mulled wine.

Bonus — It will end

If winter still gets you down, just remember these colder months will eventually end and the summer heat and threat of bushfires will be back before you know it.