TASMANIA

Also called the “Apple Isle” or “Little New Zealand” ,Tasmania was named after the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman who was the first European sighted the island in 1642. Most of the state is relaxed and quiet in the atmosphere, and it resembles England`s countryside with its stone cottages, small country towns, artisan markets and cute shops selling the local handicraft and home-made products.

A triangular island lying off the southeast coast of Australia, Tasmania has a large, wondrous eucalyptus forest that counts among its denizens such colourful birds, bees, and cockatoos. The isle`s distinctive mammals and culture also play an important role, not least the very fine symphony orchestra.

Being the most southerly of all Australian regions, Tasmania`s climate is considerably cooler than the rest of the country. That creates ideal conditions for farming, horticulture, and viticulture. Travelling around the island is an easy trek, and there are many local goodies to sample; wines, dairy products and seafood of the highest quality.

Tasmanians are also proud of their staggering national parks, ski fields, unexplored wilderness, native wildlife, inlets and myriads of bays filled with abundant marine life. And there are many other secrets awaiting to be unlocked, among which the extraordinary images of the Aurora Australis and Glowing Plankton can be amired if one is in the right place at the right time…

HOBART - THE BOUTIQUE CAPITAL

Travellers motivated by history, aesthetics and natural beauty will surely appreciate Hobart`s plentiful arsenal of surprises. Like most of the Australian cities, lifestyle in Tasmania`s capital city is defined by water, and it is Derwent riverside with picturesque warehouse by a bustling harbour. It is the second oldest city in Australia, and that is quite obvious at first sight. The charming character with a thriving art and craft scene and city`s splendid setting at the foot of majestic Mount Wellington from one side, and rugged ocean from the other one, made Hobart one of Australia`s most attractive travel destinations.

TASMANIA - THE SPIRIT OF NORTHEAST

Noble landscapes, fertile plains and lofty mountains were the reason why the early English settlers decided to establish the second most important town in Tasmania right here, in the North East, back in the day. Today, Launceston provides a base for tourism in the northern part of Tasmania – which surely is not just about the beach and wine. Apart from the endless coastal allure and cellar doors, further inland, one can even find snow and brush up on their skiing skills if travelling in winter.

TASMANIA – THE WESTERN WILDERNESS

In contrast with much of the world, where roads and motor vehicles are hard to escape, the South-West of Tasmania is the realm of shank`s pony, where the rhythms of nature order the events of the traveller who seeks solace in that wildland. It requires, however, certain physical fitness to traverse the area, but those who dare to set out on this thrilling journey will be rewarded with a great gift – the opportunity to get insight into some of the most isolated lands of the “Western world”.

“THE BIG TASSIE CIRCUIT” TASMANIA IN 30 DAYS (A COMPLETE SELF-DRIVE ITINERARY)

It is right here - in Tasmania, where travellers can set out on some of the most exciting road trips in Australia to reconnect with nature. Although one month is only enough to scratch the surface of this fabulous island, it should be as much time as one needs to discover the highlights and gain insight into the local culture.

THE RAW BEAUTY OF NORTH WEST TASMANIA

For those who choose the maritime approach, the first glimpse they get from the island is of a low shoreline backed by distant hills. As they get closer, buildings appear, and then a town on the river is entered. Devonport is pleasant enough, yet most of the travellers will probably make tracks quickly for there is much more to explore in the fascinating island that lies beyond, especially its wild west coast. And further inland, no one wants to miss out on the breathtaking views of the pearl of Tasmania - the famous Cradle Mountain that proudly towers over the picturesque Dove Lake.

SOUTHERN TASMANIA – THE TALES OF CONVICTS

Looking out to the ‘edge of the world’, the southern shores of Tasmania are not only home to its capital city Hobart, but for many expeditions, also the last sight of settled land before stepping into the frozen wilds of Antarctic. And for many English prisoners, once, the Tasman Peninsula was the final destination, the Isle of the Death, from which there was no escape.