The beauty of the Tasmanian countryside is the feeling of isolation you get there. Gazing out over some of the mountains, forests and lakes its hard to remember that we live in an industrialised world filled with billions of people. Nowhere is this feeling more prevalent than on the West Coast, an area whose raw beauty may not lend itself well to human habitation, but certainly lends itself well to a touring motorhome holiday. Not only do the rocky coastline and the raging southern ocean clash here in a mighty display of land versus sea, but inland the mountains and valleys have a lush cover of ancient rainforest that gives the region a mystical quality that you would expect from a fantasy novel. Prepare to be transported to a place very, very far away as you enter West Tasmania!

Most people would travel here from Hobart, a journey that takes you through the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park along the Lyell Highway. The Park is simply sensational, protecting the great rivers of the west including the Franklin, Gordon and Olga Rivers, around which lush and green rainforest provides a home to an amazing array of wildlife. There are a number of bushwalks that you can take from right by the highway, with the one that leads to the base of Nelson Falls an especially popular one. The more adventurous may be inclined to get involved in some white water rafting down the Franklin River, with some trips going for as long as fourteen days!

The largest town of the West Coast is Queenstown, a mining town of 2300 people. The best thing about this town is its surroundings, as the town itself looks something like a deserted moonscape because of all the mining activity. Of course there is lots to see in the National Park surrounding the town, and the coastline lies not far away either. The small but characterful settlement of Strahan sits on the shores of the Macquarie Harbour about a forty minute drive from Queenstown, and is normally the next stage in a campervan journey.

The immense pine forests that you have passed through to get here are the reason for Strahan’s existence, as it was initially a base for the businessmen coming to seek out the Huon Pine that grows in these parts. A penal colony was created at Sarah Island which lies offshore, and convicts would have to row to the mainland through the notorious ‘Hells Gate’ of Macquarie Harbour to harvest the pine. Huon Pine is still in high demand because it is extremely durable, and there are a number of shops in Strahan where you can buy goods manufactured from it. A tour of Morrisons Huon Pine Mill will teach you more about the wood and its importance to the area.

In Strahan because of the large harbour and the Gordon and King Rivers that empty into it much of the recreational activity is water based. When the weather and the elements are calm the waters of the harbour become so perfectly still they are like a mirror, and on days like these a sunset boat cruise up and down its 50 kilometre length are especially special. These take you past the salmon farms, where 60 000 kilograms of live salmon churn the waters into a white froth. Canoeing and kayaking are also a popular pursuit, and the ubiquitous fishing also has its place in Strahan!

For a beach experience you wont get in many other places pay a visit to Ocean Beach near Strahan, a 40 kilometre stretch of hard white sand bordered by high dunes behind it and the rough waves of the Southern Ocean in front of it. In wild weather the water droplets off the waves can give the impression of fog, and often whales get stranded on this shoreline. Dont expect bikini clad babes or beach volleyball, but do enjoy this taste of nature at its most raw.

With its rich history and its wealth of real natural attractions, any journey you make through the west of Tassy is going to be an inspiring and interesting one. If you are coming south from Hobart then you can always continue north through to Devonport, a three hour drive from Strahan. This is where the ferry from Melbourne docks, so you could drop off your camper and head to the mainland that way. Or else you could just continue your way through Tasmania… theres lots more to see!

Some more info …

Tasmania

It has been established, through archaeological exploration, that Tasmania was first inhabited between 20000 and 30000 years ago, when the island was still a part of the mainland. It was first sighted by European explorers in 1642. At that time, it was named “Van Diemen’s Land”, in honor of the Governor-General of the Dutch-East India Company who funded the expedition. It was renamed Tasmania in 1856 for Abel Tasman, its “discoverer”.

Van Diemen’s Land was visited by both French explorers (1722 and 1779) and English explorers (1773, 1777, 1788, 1792, 1789, and 1794). In 1798, two British expeditions sailed completely around the island, thus establishing that it was totally separated from mainland Australia. And although Captain James Cook had claimed Australia for the British Crown in 1777, the island was not included in that claim until 1788.

When the British first came in contact with the Aborigines, who were the first settlers in the island, they were fearful and hostile toward them. in their concern that the natives would fight for the lands which British colonists wanted for settlement, the authorities invoked “terra nullius”, or “vacant domain”. The Aborigines protested the usurpation of their long-standing land rights, and a bitter conflict ensued.

In 1832, in an attempt to end the bitter, and sometimes bloody, conflict between the Aborigines and the British settlers, the British authorities gathered the last free groups of the Aborigines and moved them to a central location on Flinders Island. Their numbers depleted, and the survivors were tranferred to Oyster Bay in 1847. However by 1876, those survivors had also passed away. The descendants of those who had been “incarcerated” continued to flourish. But they were considered to be outcasts by the European community because of the “stain” of convict ancestry. There were only 38 Aborigines listed in the 1961 census for the island. Today though, through public enlightenment and growing pride in their heritage, about 12,000 Tasmanian citizens are counted as having their roots in the Aboriginal ancestry.

Tasmania is roughly the size of West Virginia (14974 sq. mi., or 38769 sq. km.), making it the smallest Australian State. It’s located about 240 km. (150 mi.) off the coast of mainland Australia, at the southeastern corner. It has a population of 485,000, of which 200,000 live in the capital city of Hobart. Over one-third of the state has been preserved for National Parks and the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.

Its governing body is a Parliament, which has three parts: The Crown, the Legislative Council, and the House of Assembly. The government leader is the Premier and the size of its Ministry varies, but cannot exceed ten members. it is represented in the Australian Federal Government by five Representatives in the House, and twelve Senators.

Victoria

Before word of the gold discovery, it was almost impossible to attract settlers to Victoria. Of course, that changed rapidly and men began pouring into the area by the thousands. Efforts were made, by the governing body of that time, to attract more women and families. By the end of 1851, 30,000 immigrants had arrived from Britain, China, Europe, and America. Between 1851 and 1861, Victoria had grown from a young colony of 76,000 to a very prosperous area boasting 540,000 people - 45% of the Australian population at that time.

Victoria’s first settlement was Portland, on the western coast. In 1835 John Batman founded Melbourne, which is the capital of Victoria today. During the Gold Rush of 1851, the colony gained its independence from New South Wales. Its capital city was the capital of Australia while Canberra was under construction. Victoria was pivotal in the forming of the Commonwealth of Australia.

Victorian government consists of a Cabinet, which is the main decision-making body. The Cabinet is all of the Ministers of the Crown, and the Cabinet Secretary. The Premier of the State is the Chairperson of the Cabinet. The governing body, as a whole, is based upon the Westminster System. There is a Governor - who is the Representative of the Queen, the Executive (the Government), and two legislative chambers. Those two Chambers are the Legislative Assembly - which consists of 88 members, and the Legislative Council - which has 44 members. The State is represented in the Federal Government by 37 member in the House of Representatives and 12 Senators.

The State of Victoria is located at the south eastern tip of Australia. It is bordered on the north by New South Wales and on the west by South Australia. It is directly north of Tasmania, separated by 240 km. (150 mi.).

Victoria is the second smallest of the Australian States, with a total of 237,629 sq. km. (91784 sq.mi.). Its population at the end of June 2005 was 5,022,300, making it the second most populated state. Seventy percent of that total population inhabits the capital city of Melbourne.

The port city of Devonport is known as the gateway to Tasmania as it is also home to the Spirit of Tasmania. If you are bringing your vehicle over on the car ferry from Port Melbourne you can choose from night or day crossings, which takes roughly 9-10 hours. There is also a service from Sydney which departs three times a week. Once you arrive you are free to explore one of Australias most compact and beautiful tourist destinations.

Devonport is a welcoming, seaside city and popular as a base for travelers to explore the surrounding regions. It is therefore commonly known as ‘the gateway to Tasmania’. Countryside, beaches, mountains, forests and historical buildings are all within a days drive from the city, which is why it is so popular.

It is well known for its Art Centre which is depictive of the aboriginal culture and local creativity. The Tasmanian Maritime Museum is steeped in history with fantastic maritime displays and a large number of model ships which would bring the child out of most of us.The Don River Railway and Museum are also worth a visit and provide an interesting look at the history of steam trains in that area.

The most scenic location would have to be Merseys Bluff headland, which gives fantastic views of the town, river and beyond. Tiagarra, which means ‘keeping place’ is located here and has over eighteen displays of Aboriginal rock carvings.

If you love historical buildings then drop in to Home Hill which is located west of Devonport. Built almost 100 years ago it has a moving story behind it and is open to the public to stroll through the immaculate grounds and house.

Eagles Nest Retreat is an indulgent accommodation option if you are looking for a few nights retreat before you start the rest of your holiday.Alternatively, there are many choices of accommodation within the city.

Driving inland from Devonport your first stop will be Latrobe which is also known as ‘Platypus Capital of the World’, for obvious reasons. This is a pretty town situated on the Mercy River and has enticing craft shops and beautiful tree lined streets.

Further inland Deloraine is an historical town that is charming and welcoming. It has the added backdrop of the Western Tiers mountain range which is worth a detour if you have some time. Leave the city altogether and visit thelimestone caves and almost 3000 lakes which have been discovered in this region.

If you love a good fishing spot there is great trout fishing in the highland lakes further inland from Deloraine, and there are also tours available.

Known for its waterfalls, the city of Burnie is located to the west of Devonport along the Coast.The main natural attractions are Guide Falls, which are best to see in winter or spring. Roundhill Lookout is also a fantastic place to be to watch the sunset.The Little Penguin Observation Centreis also found at Parsonage point, and is fascinating look at penguins in their natural habitat.

The fact that over one third of Tasmania is protected by national parks means there is beautiful scenery at every corner, and the North West region is one of the most awe inspiring. A car hire holiday is the obvious choice to see the country at its best so you can take your time to enjoy the beauty of this country that so deserves a closer look.

With a wealth of natural resources, beautiful scenery and stunning vistas Tasmania is full of surprises as a touring destination. It is the most ideally situated state in Australia for a camper van holiday, and in fact there are few places in the world that can touch it in this regard. Over its relatively small surface are spread hundreds of natural attractions, from thick forests to rocky mountains to bright blue freshwater lakes and everything in between. For a relaxing and rewarding getaway many tourists are basing themselves in the picturesque town of New Norfolk, a secluded historic town surrounded by some of Tasmania’s finest landscapes.

Just thirty minutes drive from Hobart, New Norfolk is perfect if you want the excitement and freedom of a camper van holiday but do not wish to spend countless hours behind the wheel. There is enough to do in the town and the surrounding regions to fill your holiday, and the great thing about Tasmania is that if you want a change of scene then new and fresh attractions will never be far away. New Norfolk is situated in the lush and green Derwent Valley, so between the amazing heritage attractions in the town and the natural attractions of the valley there is plenty to keep you entertained.

Being an established town with a long and rich past, New Norfolk is home to a number of historically significant heritage buildings. Willow Court is one such building, originally built as a military hospital in 1830. Many metres in length, but just one room wide, it is a unique building with a long and wide verandah and gabled two storey sections at either end and in the middle. Originally built to house invalid convicts, it is now part of the Royal Derwent Hospital.

The Oast House is also popular amongst tourists, and not just for the hearty meals it serves, or the well stocked gift shop. Built in 1867, it was a working Oast House from that year until 1969, and the old hops fields still surround the hill on which it is built. It now houses a museum where there are displays on old hops farming methods and the history of the Derwent Valley. It is a family run enterprise, so you are bound to be made to feel welcome while looking around.

Just out of town, in a small village called Plenty, lie the infamous Salmon Ponds. In operation since 1864, this was the first trout farm in Australia and it has been preserved in its working order. Boasting immaculately well-tended gardens, you can pass your time here in the Museum of Trout Fishing, or the Tasmanian Angling Hall of Fame. An on site restaurant also serves up the freshest trout you will ever encounter!

The Derwent Valley itself is home to a thriving yet relaxed community that are fiercely proud of their beautiful home. The Derwent River supports the lush vegetation of the region, and is the basis of all the settlement here. Spreading into a wide and majestic river when it reaches New Norfolk, it is perfect for water based activities such as kayaking and fishing, and the valley provides endless bush walking opportunities and scenic walks. Early settlers planted hundreds of poplar trees in the valley, and in the autumn months their changing leaves create a sea of bright gold that visitors find dazzling and inspiring.

Mt Field National Park is located in the Derwent close to New Norfolk, and is probably Tassie’s best loved park. It is especially renowned for its range of waterfalls, of which the mighty Russell Falls is the most visited. The trees in this park seem to tower higher than anywhere else in Tassie, and the giant ferns and the layers of moss that seem to cover everything lend it a mystical, fairy tale appeal. The vegetation on Mt Field changes the higher you climb up the mountain, from tall blue gums at the base to rain forest as you go higher and then to alpine vegetation near the top. This diversity adds to the appeal, and the array of wildlife you are likely to see only serves to increase this appeal.

So for your next holiday, be sure to give Tasmania some serious consideration. And when deciding where to go when you get there, remember New Norfolk and its beautiful surrounds will have something for the whole family, and is definitely worth a visit.

Welcome to Port Arthur, a city where history seems to seep out of the walls and rise out of the floors of the ancient buildings. Initially a penal settlement, Port Arthur was largely built by the prison labour force. The convict heritage is ever present in this city, from the beautifully preserved buildings built by the prisoners to the masses of graves of the captive men and women. It is this rich heritage together with the beauty of the region that has made Port Arthur Tasmania’s premier tourist destination. A historically significant tribute to the early settlers of Australia, it will draw you in and transport you back to the early days of our nation, chilling and intriguing you along the way.

The biggest attraction here, and one that has been pulling in visitors since the early 1900’s, is the Port Arthur Historic Site. The site has been preserved as a cultural relic, a vestige to our convict past that was so cruel yet so crucial to the emergence of Australia. Over thirty ruins and old buildings are set in forty hectares of rolling green gardens, around which you can take informative guided tours, or simply wander them at your own leisure. The penitentiary is the largest and most imposing ruin, but the separate prison, where prisoners were punished with solitary confinement, is easily the most chilling. You can also walk through the commandants residence, the church, the hospital and the dockyards, and visit the museum which is located in the old asylum.

When night falls there is no better way to enhance your historical convict experience than to take a historic ghost tour through the site. The buildings and surrounds take on an ominous feel in the dark, and the story telling from the guide as you wander through the jail and the church is guaranteed to chill you to the core. While you may not see any ghosts, the forbidding and gloomy air of the Historic Site at night is sure to raise a few hairs and provide you with some spooky memories! These tours are limited in size and are very popular, so be sure to book in advance. Another chilling journey to the past is a tour to the Isle of the Dead, a small island situated just off shore. Over 1100 convicts and free men were buried on this island in the mid 1800’s, and a tour of the headstones is a fascinating and morbid insight into history.

It is not only the heritage of Port Arthur that makes it a great place to visit. Located on the spectacular Tasman Peninsula, it is surrounded by thick rainforest vegetation and rugged landscapes. High cliffs, beautiful ocean views and stunning geological formations contrast with the dark convict history, providing a depth to the appeal of the region that intrigues visitors. the power of the sea is evident along the battered coastline, and this makes for some breathtaking scenery. Just six kilometres from the Historic Site is the Remarkable Cave, an amazing cavity in the coastal rock into which the waves crash and echo in a mesmerising fashion. There are other examples of the sculpted coastline nearby, and there is a four or five hour walk that starts at the cave and goes to Crescent Bay along which you can see more of these features.

The alluring landscapes of the Tasman Peninsula, which is registered on the National Estate, provide a wealth of activities for visitors to choose from. There are safe swimming beaches for a relaxing day with the family, but there are also beaches with roaring surf conditions that will keep the adrenaline junkies happy. If taking to the water is really your thing then you can hire sea kayaks and explore the white beaches and the rocky inlets of the coast whilst paddling around. There are thirty five designated walks in the area that will transport you through the changing features of the region, from rolling sand dunes to steep, rocky cliffs. Some of the walks are gentle strolls, others are more grueling and may take a day or two, so be sure to plan beforehand where you wish to walk to and how long it is going to take. Horse back rides are available and are an excellent way to see the countryside at a leisurely pace. Fishing is also a popular pastime of locals and visitors. Many people camp on the shores of Fortescue Bay, where the smooth waters are home to different varieties of fish, and where it is also safe to swim and paddle around. This is one of the most popular spots in the region, so don’t expect to be alone.

Its a very inspiring holiday destination, Port Arthur. It urges you to think about history, and has the effect of reconnecting you with the traces of our past and making you more appreciative of the present. Intriguing and captivating, a holiday here will entertain and educate you and your family. A hirecar will give you the freedom you need to explore the Peninsula fully, and discover all the secrets its been storing over the generations.

With its spectacular scenery and good roads, Tasmania is an island made for touring, especially by motorhome or campervan. From the red lichen encrusted coastlines of the East to the wilderness of the West, Tasmania has something to offer everyone: a fascinating history, breathtaking scenery, beautiful National Parks and (in the right season!) a pleasant climate.

A self-drive holiday in a motorhome is the ideal way to explore this incredible island; there is a large choice of vehicles for hire, from a 4WD camper or a budget-priced campervan to a luxury motorhome.

Pack for a range of seasons as the weather in Tasmania can change from pleasantly warm to chilly and back again within the course of a few hours. When travelling in a motorhome it is recommended to use soft luggage as it is much easier to stow away.

Most campervans and motorhomes are available from Hobart with the depots being conveniently located at or near the airport.

From Hobart you can explore well-known attractions such as Port Arthur, the Cascade Brewery, the Huon Valley and the Salamanca Markets. Salamanca Place comes alive every Saturday morning and becomes a showcase for Tasmania’s talented artists and craftsman.

Leaving Hobart you can travel along the East Coast to the Freycinet Peninsula. The caravan park at Coles Bay offers affordable powered sites and a range of facilities including a well-equipped camp kitchen and BBQs, laundry and internet access.

The Freycinet National Park, Tasmania’s oldest National Park and home to the famous Wineglass Bay is accessible in a motorhome or campervan.  A climb over Mount Amos (11/2 to 2 hours return) will reward you with breathtaking views of Wineglass and Coles Bays.

Further north there are more beautiful coastlines as you drive through Bicheno and north to St Helens; gateway to the Bay of Fires. The access roads to the chain of beaches that make up the Bay of Fires are mainly accessible by 2WD vehicles and there are even some un-powered camping sites just metres from the beach.

After the Bay of Fires you can return to St Helens and then go across to Launceston or Devonport with plenty of local attractions to see. 

Just past Devonport is Ulverstone where you will find holiday park accommodation conveniently located within walking distance of the beach and shops. Ulverstone can be used as a base to explore Burnie and the coastal route out to Stanley where the town’s unique attraction ‘The Nut’ protrudes from the ocean. Burnie is not just another coast town; you could spend a whole day there exploring some of the town’s hidden attractions such as Fern Glade, the beautiful nature reserve where you can sit patiently watching for wild platypus.  Visit the cheese factory to sample local delights and then lunch at the Whiskey Distillery’s new restaurant.

From the North Coast you can travel through the hinterland towards Cradle Country. The hinterland is a patchwork of orchids and crops growing tulips, apples, citrus, raspberries, strawberries, and much more.

At Cradle Mountain National Park there is a caravan park in close proximity to one of the National Parks Visitor Information Centre.  You can leave your motorhome at the caravan park and, for a small fee, use the shuttle bus to travel between the information centres and the Dove Lake car park. It can be better to use the buses and take in the scenery without having to worry about pulling over to let other vehicles pass.

From there you can return to Hobart to complete the circuit.  Seven days is suggested for this itinerary but it would take a lot longer to see everything Tasmania has to offer.

The roads are good and you will find that most of the well-known National Parks and attractions are easily accessible in a 2WD vehicle. The travelling distances are short and you can fit a lot into one day.  There are plenty of well-equipped and affordable holiday parks with excellent facilities. A National Parks pass is required to visit most of the National Parks and obtaining one of these is easy; either in a Parks office or one of the Visitor Centres dotted throughout Tasmania.

The north east of Tasmania is rich in romantic sentiment, an area whose natural beauty is offset by its long history and and established cultures. Driving through the countryside the most striking thing you will notice is the depth and the variation of colour- in the sky, in the vegetation and in the soil itself. Vineyards and farmlands merge into tall green forests in the countryside, and when you near the coast the deep blue of the ocean will spread out before you, bordered by stunning white beaches, and red rocky headlands. A town in this region which is favoured by visitors because of its seaside location and its proximity to many of the natural attractions is St Helens.

St Helens has a resident population of about 200 people, making it the largest town on the north east coast. Its reached by a scenic coastal drive from Hobart (250 kilometres), or an 150 kilometre drive east from Launceston. It was a fishing port initially established as a whaling base in the 19th Century, and ironically today it is still large marine creatures that attract people here. Across the sand bar the waters are rife with gamefish such as Albacore Tuna and Yellowfin Tuna, and the town is recognised as the game fishing capital of Tasmania, a title cemented by its hosting of the ‘St Helens Classic’, a deep sea fishing competition that draws over 100 boats every March. St Helens is essentially a fishing port, with fishing being its chief source of income alongside tourism. So whether its reef, coastal or deep sea fishing you are after, you’ll find it here- or if youd rather enjoy the fruits of the ocean instead of catching it yourself then sit back in one of the restaurants and enjoy some of the freshest seafood around.

Built on the shores of St Georges Bay, the town is sheltered by the long headland of St Helens Point, a large portion of which is a public conservation area. The headland is popular amongst bushwalkers, as are many of the nearlying regions. To the south there is a stunning coastal reserve where high sand dunes lie next to thick wooded forests on one side and a magnificent white beach on the other. Immaculately clean, it is perfect for long romantic walks! Nearby lies Diana’s Basin, where you can see an amazing example of geological folds, the peak of which offer stunning views of the ocean. The hinterland is just as appealing to bushwalkers. At St Mary’s, which is a 25 minute drive inland, there is a large rocky hill known as St Patricks Head which is popular amongst hikers. The views are stunning, although there is a fair degree of effort required to see them, as some parts of the hill are so steep there are chains to heave yourself up with.

To the north of St Helens lies one of the most popular tourist regions in Tasmania, the Bay of Fires. The town of Binalong Bay, ten minutes drive north, is the gateway to the Bay, and is home to a pristine beach of its own. The Bay too is characterised by extremely white sands (a result of the large presence of granite in the ground), azure water and large red boulders. The area is very popular amongst scuba divers because of the waters clarity and the large underwater caves they explore. Extensive kelp forests are also a unique feature, which help contribute to the large array of marine life under the surface. As a result rock and surf fishing are very popular around the Bay.

Just a little further north of this bay is Mt William National Park, a place that constantly fascinates and delights. Teeming with animals and birdlife, the park is a haven for marsupials including the Forester Kangaroo, the second largest marsupial in the world. The beautiful beaches of the park complement its rugged interior, where you can find the 216 metre high Mt William. Another spot worth visiting is Eddystone Point, primarily because of its large granite lighthouse. The three houses at the station are the oldest surviving lighthouse quarters in Australia, and in the secluded bases close at hand there are numerous crayfish and abalone. There are a few sheltered camping areas that have been developed in the park, mostly around Stumpy’s Bay towards the north. Another one lies close to the Musselroe Bay township.

Whatever kind of holiday you are looking for in the north east of Tasmania you will find it. St Helens is in a fortunate geographical location where the surrounding hills and the warm ocean currents have produced a micro climate of plenty warmth and sunniness. With the friendly people and lots of nearby attractions to explore in your rental car, this is as good a place as any to spend a few delays relaxing and rejuvenating.

From the most adventurous to the novice car hire traveller, Tasmania has everything that would suit the most unique tastes. From rugged mountains to lavender farms and historical villages, there is so much to see in every part of this unique state. The east coast of Tasmania is no exception. It is nothing like the west, with pretty coastal towns, scenic drives and beautiful waters.

North from Hobart, the Tasman Peninsula is known more these days for the famous Port Arthur. Although this humble town has gone through shaky times it has recovered to once again become a popular tourist destination. Storm Bay Guest House is a popular bed and breakfast if you are looking to stay for a few days, and is found overlooking White Beach.

Driving towards the centre of the East Coast brings you to amazing scenery, and with a myriad of activities available, such as cruising, diving, surfing, horse riding, fishing, bushwalking, or just enjoying the wine and foods available, you will be relaxed in no time.

One of the first of these beach towns is Orford, also known as the gateway to the East Coast. Great for fishing and swimming, especially at Spring Beach, and another popular day trip is to catch the ferry to the mountainous Maria Island. Being a national park there are plenty of native birds and wildlife, with a variety of spectacular walks to choose from. The convict town of Darlington, located on the island, is also rich in history and worth a visit.

Further north, the lovely town of Swansea has a number of interesting attractions especially for the family. Kates Berry Farm has local fruit and ice creams, and the Wool centre is educational and a lot of fun. With great fishing in Great Oyster Bay and majestic views of the ocean, there are boat tours available to see more of Freycinet National park.

To drive the East Coast from the Bay of Fires through to Maria Island you will be covering over 200 kilometres. However, the Freycinet Peninsula is most probably the jewel of this coastal drive. Known as one of the most spectacular regions of Tasmania, and undoubtedly in Australia, it is worth the drive from Hobart or Launceston. If you are driving with Freycinet in mind, it is quicker to leave from Launceston, but both directions will reward you with stunning attractions.

There are guided walks available through the Peninsula as well as rock climbing, but most tourists head for Coles or Wineglass Bay. Wineglass Bay is aptly named because it is shaped like a wineglass, and is one of the prettiest beaches you could find, with crystal blue waters and pure white sand, it is a lovely place to picnic and enjoy the pristine views. Sea kayaking is also popular here, as the bay is flat and peaceful, and there are so many places to explore.

One of the best places to stay is Coles Bay which is situated on the edge of Freycinet National Park, and is a great base for venturing out to the parks, bays, beaches and lagoons. Self contained cottages are popular, such as Coles Bay retreat which overlooks the bay and mountains. If youre lucky you may even see the whales which are migrate through these waters.

North from the peninsula is the fishing town of Bicheno. Known for its great beaches and diving, it also has great lookouts. The Freycinet Lookout has great views of the peninsula and surrounds, and also Whalers Lookout gives you some great photographic opportunities. There is a 3km walk along the foreshore, which takes you to an amazing blowhole. There are also fairy penguins tours, deep sea fishing trips and the East Coasts Animal Park is home to thefamous Tasmanian devil which will captivate the children.

The entire east coast is appealing in its own right, but Freycinet National Park has a unique beauty for many reasons, maybe just for the sheer beauty of perfect blue water against deep green trees and vegetation along the sandy shoreline. With amazing coastal views and beautiful beaches, it is worth a long stay in this stretch of paradise.