Tasmania is still a wild place. More than a fifth of the island is beautiful wilderness—celebrated as a World Heritage site and protected by the national park service. Tassie was settled by a rough assortment of convicts, miners and whalers who’ve left traces of their history at scenic sites around the island. To this day, locals insist that the place is its own, even seeing it as a separate country. The culture of Tasmania has shifted to include fine foods and fantastic local wine.
Visitors can explore the forests, cliffs, mountains and white-sand bays. You can stay up late to track the Tasmanian devil by night in the wild. Head east to Freycinet National Park to Wineglass Bay where you can kayak, swim or scuba right off the sandy shore. Hike from one comfortable lodge to the next in Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park. Or take a cruise along the stunning forest-clad cliffs of Bruny Island.
Staying in Hobart? Check out the vibrant market scene Saturdays in Salamanca Square. Stop at a cafe for a glass of terrific local cool-climate wine. Or run off to Port Arthur—a historic site from the colony’s rough and tumble origins.
Tasmania – Top Activities
- Getting far off the beaten track to spot the Tasmanian devil in the wild
- Taste cool climate wines
- Learn the rich history of the area’s early colonies
- Hiking for a fun activity that is well worth the exercise
