Tasmania is a world of wild and breathtaking landscapes, abundant rich history, heart racing adventure, lively arts and culture, and mouth-watering artisan food and wine. Australia’s smallest state; Tasmania is the most geographically diverse with over 40 per cent of national park and world heritage areas. Launceston is the gateway to the north and offers direct flights from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane every day.
In Tasmania’s north-east corner and east coast, you will discover spectacular coastlines, lush farm land, fresh grown produce, and numerous small friendly townships. Be sure to stop in at Pyengana Dairy Company to experience the award-winning traditional cheeses, or if adventure is more your style, ride the 80km’s of mountain bike trails around historic Derby. Travel further east to discover the stunning Bay of Fires, one of Lonely Planet’s top 10 regions in the world, and sample the amazing fresh seafood at the local fishing port of St Helens. A walk over the Hazards Mountains into Wineglass Bay is a must, just one of the magnificent beaches found within Freycinet National Park, together with a stop in to the numerous winery cellar doors dotted along the coast.
Wander further south towards Hobart and you’ll come across another wondrous wine region; the Coal River Valley and historic colonial village of Richmond. Nestled in the foothills of Mt Wellington, Hobart is the second oldest capital in Australia and is home to the world famous MONA, Salamanca Market, award-winning restaurants, and stunning heritage buildings dating back to the 1830s. Hobart is the gateway to the lush Huon Valley where you’ll find a foodie and nature lover paradise of farm fresh produce and breath-taking scenes of natural beauty. Cross the D’Entrecasteaux Channel to Bruny Island and while away your day on an empty beaches, tall forests and gourmet delights, or experience the multi award-winning Bruny Island Cruises along the island’s rugged coastline. Further east you can traverse the sheer cliffs of the Tasman Peninsular, and immerse yourself in the dark history of the Port Arthur Historic Site rich with convict history dating back to the 1830s.
From Hobart, travel westward through the picturesque Derwent Valley to New Norfolk, Tasmania’s third oldest settlement and home to numerous hop farms that supply many Australian breweries. Venture deep into Tasmania’s Wilderness World Heritage area where you’ll experience ancient rainforests, convict heritage, and historic mining towns, surrounded by rugged awe-inspiring mountains. Adventure in the remote west coast is aplenty, with your pick of hiking, 4WD trails, cycling, rafting and kayaking to take you deeper into this untouched world of wonder. The largest township is Strahan, situated on Macquarie Harbour - take a cruise up the Gordon River through World Heritage areas and to Sarah Island, one of the harshest penal colony settlements of Australia’s convict past.
Heading north-west from Strahan, be sure to stop at the eco-tourism haven of Corinna, a remote historic mining town on the edge of the Tarkine wilderness. Arguably the most iconic attraction of this region is the stunning landmark of Cradle Mountain – hike to the summit, stroll around Dove Lake, or simply enjoy a glass of Tasmanian red in front of a roaring open fire at one of the number of accommodation choices. The lush fertile soil of the north-west and meandering country lanes weave a stunning patchwork of farmland and quaint villages, leading you through to the coastline, which boasts the cleanest air and water in the world.
Not forgetting two of Tasmania’s largest islands - Flinders and King Islands offer some of the most beautiful untouched scenery in the north. Located off mainland Tasmania in Bass Strait, these islands are the ultimate escape – abundant in quality produce, deserted beaches, spectacular mountains and rolling hills of farmland.
Whether you stay in Northern Tasmania or journey deeper into Tasmania, you will be delighted at every turn. You will leave speechless, wanting more, revived and replenished. Or like many others before you, may not leave at all.
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