The Northern Rivers Times
May 5, 2022
34 TRAVEL
Discover Tasmania Reconnect and recharge on the island state of Tasmania. Appreciate the history, untouched wilderness, spectacular mountains, intimate meetings with friendly locals and artisan food, wine and spirits. Home to just half a million people, Tasmania’s air is fresh, its water clear, its wildlife curious and the island’s culture gives you space to pause, take a breath, and reconnect.
Hobart and South As one of Australia’s smallest capital cities, Hobart punches well above its weight when it attractions, and natural beauty. Savour delicious produce from local eateries or farmers markets then head out of town to take in incredible views from Mount Wellington or spend the day exploring the many charms of Bruny Island. Launceston and North Launceston, Tasmania’s second-largest city, was recently named UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. ‘Launnie’ is home to one of
Australia’s best-preserved heritage cityscapes, with the striking Cataract George right on its doorstep. A short hop to the north, the coastal cities of Devonport and Burnie are home to secluded beaches, tranquil waterways and wild coastal views. With a choice of wineries across the region, it offers the perfect blend of nature and culture. East Coast Sample the splendour of Tasmania’s east coast, from seafood and wine, to lush rainforest and powder-white beaches. Starting in Hobart, venture north through wild national parks, along surreal remarkable Bay of Fires, where orange lichen-covered boulders meet turquoise sea. West Coast Home to untamed rivers, ancient pine trees and giant sand dunes, the west coast is at the heart of Tasmania’s wilderness. Challenge the infamous Franklin River on a white-water rafting expedition, cruise down the majestic Gordon River, hike through age-old rainforest
and visit historic mining towns. North West
Tasmania’s north-west is the gateway to some of Tasmania’s most beautiful natural places. Find classic coastal drives, delicious food trails, national parks, nature reserves and with the world’s cleanest air found at the north western tip on the Kennaook/ Cape Grim Peninsula, you’ll breathe easy. See & do Tasmania’s charming capital: Hobart Nestling between a mountain and a river mouth, Hobart is home to a diverse range of experiences. Wander among the city’s heritage sandstone buildings, drive or hike up majestic kunanyi/ Mount Wellington, or take in the view at one of Hobart’s acclaimed eateries or wine bars. No trip would be complete without a visit to the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). Jump on the ferry in the city centre to arrive at this multi-tiered
museum cut into sandstone cliffs, known for its collection of provocative art. Meet Tassie’s bountiful wildlife Tasmania is a natural haven for Australian wildlife. Bennett’s wallabies, seals, penguins and wedge-tailed eagles can be found within easy reach of cities. Maria Island is well known for its wombats, and rare white wallabies call Bruny Island home. The iconic Tasmanian devil is most easily observed at Tasmanian wildlife parks such as Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and the Tasmania Devil Unzoo. Hike pristine wilderness in comfort Tasmania is home to some of Australia’s – and the world’s – best hikes. Classics include the six-day Overland Track through Cradle MountainLake St Clair National Park, and the four-day Three Capes Track that traces the dramatic cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula. Several companies offer fuss-free, intimate guided walks on these trails and others, such as the four-
day Freycinet Experience that takes in spectacular Wineglass Bay, and the fourday Bay of Fires Lodge Walk along secluded beaches on Tasmania’s north-east coast.
Boasting more than 3000 lakes, rivers and streams, Tasmania lures anglers from around the globe. It’s the perfect environment for wild brown and rainbow trout also offer plenty of the rarest commodity of all – solitude. Most days it’s easy to imagine that you are the only Wilderness Huts offer direct access to the Western Jerusalem National Park, with some of the best wilderness Australia’s mountain biking capital There aren’t many places in the world where you can ride from the mountains to the sea. Tasmania is covered in wild mountain bike trails with ribbons of dirt tracks passing some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet.
