What Makes Tasmania So Special?

Have you ever been to Tasmania, the largest island of Australia? If not, after reading this article, you'll definitely catch the travel bug, that's for sure. Here's a little taste of the enchanting natural beauty located in the southern part of the red continent.

Flora & Fauna Untouched landscapes - Action & more Hobart - The capital Conclusion: Off to the Tasmanian Wilderness!

It feels as if you have arrived in another world. Located about two flight hours south of the Australian metropolis of Sydney, this island spans 68,400 square kilometers and is rightly called Australia's 'green emerald'. In the west, due to the cool, wet climate, lush green rainforests are predominant, characterized by a range of endemic plants, whereas in the east, the eucalyptus forests inhabited by koalas define the landscape. A whole 45 percent of the island is designated as national parks, with 19 in total, and about a quarter of the island belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage.

However, it is not only the diverse vegetation but also the exciting wildlife that impresses many visitors to Tasmania. Just like on the Australian mainland, marsupials such as kangaroos, koalas, and wombats are particularly dominant here. Especially adorable are the Pademelons, the smallest species of kangaroo in the world, which grow to only 30 to 70 cm tall. And while we're on the subject of small cute creatures: The little penguins, often found on the island, are absolutely worth seeing and frequently cause smiles among animal watchers with their waddling walk. Another notable species, which seems to have gone extinct on the mainland, is the Tasmanian Devil, named partly for its black color and its ears, which turn red when angered.

It is said that some of the most beautiful hiking trails can be found in untouched Tasmania. Whether you want to hike through the alpine highlands or along the charming sandy beaches, past rugged cliffs and the turquoise shimmering sea, is entirely up to the tourists themselves. But one thing is certain: During a hike, you can discover the Southern Hemisphere from its most beautiful side, with breathtaking views along the way. The island is especially popular among experienced hikers who wind their way through the Tasmanian wilderness, eager to explore the most beautiful natural treasures on their own. However, Tasmania also offers great hiking trails, from easy to adventurous, that cater to leisurely walkers.

In total, this natural paradise offers a hiking network stretching over 2,000 kilometers, with many trails located mainly in the national parks of the Australian island. The undoubtedly most popular national park in Tasmania is the Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park, where visitors often undertake an 8-hour hike to finally reach the famous Cradle Mountain. On the other hand, those seeking a multi-day adventure can take on the 65-kilometer Overland Track, a trail that leads through dolerite mountains, past impressive waterfalls and gorges, all the way to Lake St. Clair.

Another highlight awaits you in the magnificent Freycinet National Park, located on the east coast of Tasmania. This is a stunning peninsula known especially for its pink granite mountains, picturesque and untouched white sandy beaches, and turquoise waters.

Whether it's an extensive hiking tour, surfing, rafting, snorkeling, diving, or a trip to Cape Tourville Lighthouse, where you are treated to breathtaking views - visitors can truly let loose here. Additionally, the island also hosts the tallest beach in the world, Wineglass Bay, known for its crescent-shaped shore of powdery white sand. Those who vacation here enjoy a spectacular view every day and will undoubtedly forget the whole world around them. A dream!

Hobart is the charming capital of Tasmania, Australia's southernmost state. Located in the southeast of the island, at the foot of Mount Wellington, this historic city is an excellent starting point for various excursions. From here, you can easily reach the magnificent and diverse national parks as well as picturesque spots like Bruny Island, Wineglass Bay, and Richmond. But it's not just the excellent location that makes Hobart an attractive place to stay. The city itself radiates a special charm with its delightful natural harbor, and chic bars and restaurants invite relaxation.

Once on site, you must definitely stroll through the beautiful Salamanca Place, where the colorful and bustling Salamanca Market takes place every Saturday. In good weather, you should also make it a point to visit the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, where you can find a vast historical collection of plants, typical Tasmanian plants, and the only sub-Antarctic greenhouse in the world. Afterwards, it is advisable to take a little walk to Battery Point, the oldest district in the city, where you can admire unique sandstone buildings and former colonial houses. For those who prefer a nice hike or a mountain bike tour, don't miss the ascent to the summit of Mount Wellington, which stands at 1,300 meters, from where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the island and its surroundings.

View possible excursions and tours

Another highlight of the city is the annual Sydney to Hobart Regatta on Boxing Day, which is December 26, where you can find everything from small sailing ships to large luxury yachts. Participants have to undertake a distance of over 1,000 kilometers, starting in Sydney Harbour and leading to Hobart. This spectacle is undoubtedly a highlight of the Australian summer.

If you are in Hobart and wish to start your journey with a rental car, a little road trip along National Highway 1 is definitely recommended. From the south, you head north across the island, passing noteworthy towns like Launceston and Devonport, which are definitely worth a visit, all the way to Burnie, a delightful city with a penguin observatory on Tasmania's northwest coast. It really becomes difficult to choose a route, doesn't it? But rest assured: Once you've been here, you'll want to return to discover the many other attractions of the island.

Of course, this was just a fraction of all the natural beauties that can be seen and admired on the island. However, one single report is hardly enough to mention everything. The best thing is to embark on a journey yourself to get a sense of this great, unspoiled island paradise in the south of Australia. Make a round trip along the picturesque east coast to the action-packed west coast, where a wealth of adventures awaits you, and visit the most beautiful towns and national parks along the way. Affordable but also unique accommodations, such as luxurious eco-lodges, are plentiful. Alternatively, a camping experience will surely complete the adventure perfectly. So, let's go - into the Tasmanian wilderness!

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