Quaint, remote, and spilling over with wild and unexpected landscapes, the island state of Tasmania has plenty to tempt travellers across the Tasman. Isolated from the mainland for 12,000 years, this southern outpost abounds with rare and unusual flora and fauna, much of which can only be found here. Wildlife thrives in its vast tangles of temperate rainforests, high alpine terrain, and Southern Ocean-lapped coastline. Here are 5 reasons why you should visit this beautiful region:
1. For the Wildlife
The Tasmanian echidna and the Tasmanian devil are among the top wildlife sightings. On an expert-led walk, you might glimpse platypuses at play in rivers, seabirds nesting in dolerite cliffs, Australian fur seals basking in solitude, wedge-tailed eagles circling overhead, and perhaps even a whale. We suggest you visit Maria Island National Park, which is in a mountainous isle off the southeast coast. Maria Island is a sanctuary for remarkable animals. A guided four-day hike explores the diverse habitats of this wilderness,
2. For the Adventure Lovers
Tasmania's natural wonders include glacial lakes, dramatic mountain ranges, thundering falls hidden deep in dense rainforests, towering eucalyptus trees, and white-sand bays adorned with fiery-orange granite boulders. This natural playground is perfect for adventurers, offering wild escapes ranging from bushwalks to cruises among wave-lashed isles. Take a walk to Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park. A steep but short trail leads to a lookout to admire the deep-blue bay's stunning beauty, framed by the pink-hued granite Hazards beyond. Continue down the trail to sit on the beach, watch for dolphins, or wade in for a paddle.
3. For its Historical Heritage
Hobart, Tasmania’s capital, offers a rich historical experience. Founded in 1804 as a convict settlement, its Georgian-era Salamanca Place now houses indie stores, cafés, and galleries. A ferry ride on the Derwent River takes you to the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). Beyond Hobart, discover grand homesteads, old mining towns, and the haunting remains of penal colonies like Port Arthur. Tasmania’s national parks reveal archaeological sites of the Palawa, the Tasmanian Aboriginal people, blending history, culture, and natural beauty in a compelling journey.
4. For a Delicious Culinary Experience
Tasmania is a culinary haven, renowned for briny oysters, sweet rock lobsters, and creamy cheeses. Hobart's vibrant dining scene features chefs who highlight local ingredients. In the north, Launceston rivals the capital with its top-notch restaurants and food markets. Beyond the cities, Tasmania's pastoral landscapes are dotted with vineyards and state-of-the-art wineries offering award-winning wines and cuisine. Known as the Apple Isle, the region boasts verdant pasturelands with farm stalls selling orchard fruits and cideries crafting excellent drafts. A wine tour of Tamar Valley is highly recommended.
5. For its Hiking Expeditions
Grab your walking shoes and discover why Tasmania is a hiker’s paradise. The state’s bush tracks offer diverse and spectacular hikes. Join Tasmanian Aboriginal-owned guided hikes or explore coastal trails leading to secluded coves and headlands, with Antarctica as the next stop south. Scale craggy peaks, circle mirror-like lakes, and breathe in the alpine air. Stroll through lush rainforests to mossy waterfalls. Tread lightly—you never know what wildlife you might spot. Experience the hike to the summit of Cradle Mountain peak.
