11. New Norfolk

One of the oldest towns in Australia, New Norfolk is at the heart of the Derwent Valley, and is worth a visit to see the beautiful Derwent River, rolling hills, mountains and historical buildings. It is incredible driving with endless, winding roads and plenty of places to picnic and enjoy the countryside. Half an hour west from Hobart, it is the perfect base to visit the Mount Field National Park, and enjoy the lush, green countryside in this fascinating and relaxing regionof Tasmania.

12. Strahan

The west coast of Tasmania is rugged and completely different to the east, with long stretches of ever changing wilderness, national parks and the well known Franklin River not far away. Stahan is a fishing village that is close to Ocean beach, which is Tasmania’s longest beach. There is overwhelming birdlife, sand dunes and amazing scenery up and down the coast. Take the walk to Hogarth Falls, visit Swan Bay picnic area or drive to nearby Queenstown with its unique landscapes. The Gordon-Franklin Wild Rivers National Park is worth visiting with jetboat rides and river cruises a few options.

13. St Helens

This colourful region of Tasmania’s north east is definitely worth a visit, with pretty towns such as Scottsdale, Derby and Weldborough within driving distance from beautiful St Helens. This fishing village has plenty of scenery, with Georges Bay the best place to relax and enjoy the sand dunes, and the well known Bay of Fires just north of the town. This is a great base to explore this diverse area that has rainforest, mountains, dairy farms and coastlines all within driving distance.

14. Deloraine

Deloraine is at the base of the Great Western Tiers in Central Tasmania, not far from Launceston. It is close to incredible natural beauty, with Cradle Mountain also within driving distance. There is plenty to do within the town, with craft shops and historical buildings such as Bonney’s Inn and the Folk Museum to visit, or maybe stroll the famous bridge across the Meander River. Although welcoming for a day trip, this is a great location to base yourselves if you want to see more of the rugged inland lakes and mountains that are often bypassed and worth a closer look.

15. King Island

Bass Strait’s most famous island is isolated and rich in vegetation and wildlife. There are miles of beaches to explore with Reid Rocks, a fur seal breeding ground, only 12 kilometres away from the mainland. Cape Wickham lighthouse is worth a visit, with King Island Dairies a must for the best home made cheese in Tasmania. There is plenty of accommodation here if you want to stay and enjoy the solitude.

16. Mole Creek National Park

Visitors travel from all over the state to see the incredible cave systems in this underground national park. Within close proximity to Launceston, there are over 300 caves here, one of the best known being King Solomons Caves, with the largest glow worm caves in Australia at Marakoopa best seen on the guided tours. The national park also has incredible forests, bushwalking tracks and camping facilities for those who can stay longer. It is one of the most unique top spots in Tasmania and worth a visit.

17. Ben Lomond

This National Park located in Northern Tasmania is a favourite in winter for snow skiing by locals and tourists. Located about an hour east from Launceston along the North Esk Valley, it is fantastic in the warmer months with rock climbing and bushwalking popular especially when the wildflowers are in bloom. The ski village is Jacobs Ladder, and the best camping spot is Carr Villa. Being so close it is worth visiting for incredible views and an amazing experience.

18. Lake Country

This picturesque region has to be seen to be believed. Situated in central Tasmania, there are plenty of bushwalking tracks and lookouts, with many leading to Lake St Clair, which is Australia’s deepest lake. All roads seem to lead to a lake, with Arthurs Lake, Lake Crescent and Lake Sorell all excellent for trout fishing. The Walls of Jerusalem National Park is on the west of the plateau, but worth the trek with its raw beauty and cross country skiing in Winter. There are camping grounds in this area if you want to stay longer to enjoy the incredible beauty of this area.

19. Richmond

Not far from Hobart, Richmond is a historical town that is famous for the Richmond Gaol that will give you a very interesting look at life a few centuries ago. It is also home to Australia’s oldest bridge and there are ancient structures throughout this quiet town. The Old Hobart Model Village is also worth a visit and there is an amusement park for the kids.

20. Burnie

This is more than just a town you pass through. Stop here to visit some of the great natural attractions such as the pretty Guide Falls, Roundhill Lookout (especially at sunset and sunrise), Emu Valley and Emu Bay. There is also the Pioneer Village Museum, Burnie Art Gallery and the Little Penguin Observation Centre is a must for an incredible nature experience. Only a few minutes away, Fernglade is a great spot for a picnic and known for its platypus that frequent the area. You will love it here.

21. Tasman National Park

This is an incredibly diverse and scenic national park, with so many places to visit in one area, it is definitely worth the visit. Located just over 50 km east from Hobart, there are plenty of walks that will suit all visitors, which lead to majestic views of the coastline overlooking the Tasman Sea. There is a great walk form Eaglehawk Neck to Tasman Arch and a few walks that take a full day, with plenty of rewards. You can base yourself in Port Arthur, or take a few day trips from Hobart. Everything is so close in Tasmania that you can take your time and enjoy the beauty of this spectacular part of the world.

1. Hobart

One of the most beautiful and popular destinations in Tasmania, Hobart has something for everyone. Located in the South East on the Derwent River, close to Mt Wellington and Mt Nelson, you will find every type of ocean vessel in the harbour near Sullivans Cove, with excellent shopping, dining and activities all within walking distance in the city. Visit the new Antarctic Adventure Centre, the Botanical Gardens or the Old Hobart Gaol. Close to the city, Bonorong Park Wildlife Centre is a must for the family. With plenty of towns and attractions all within a days drive, Tasmania’s largest city is a fantastic base for your driving holiday. Rent a car from Discovery for this opportunity.

2. Huon Valley

South of Hobart you can’t miss the picturesque Huon Valley via the coast road, where you will be met with incredible scenery, coastal villages and natural attractions. Bruny Island is worth a visit, with Storm Bay promising stunning sea views. This is prime apple country, with Huonville the centre of this rich terrain. Follow the signs as you drive past waterways, vineyards and enter the famous D’Entrecasteau Channel. Before you leave make sure you visit the Hartz Mountains National Park near Geeveston. It is majestic country and one of the top spots to visit in Tasmania.

3. Launceston

North from Hobart in the heart of Tasmania, Launceston is rich in history and natural beauty. There is so much to see within the city and in the surrounding countryside. As well as world class, shopping, dining and historical buildings, visit the Queen Victoria Museum or enjoy a cruise at Cataract Gorge located only a few minutes from the city. Go fishing for trout in the Launceston Lakes or further out you can explore the Tamar Valley vineyards or the famous Cradle Mountain. For an easy day trip towns like Deloraine, Latrobe, Perth and Evandale are all a close drive away. This is the ideal city to use as a base to explore and enjoy all the region has to offer.

4. Devonport

Known as the terminal for the Spirit of Tasmania, Devonport is a pretty city located mid north coast on the Mersey
River. There is plenty to do, with the choice of visiting the Imaginarium Science Centre, Maritime Museum, Don River Railway or Tiagarra Aboriginal Centre within the city, or perhaps venture out further to Blue Lake where you can enjoy swimming and canoeing. Also close by is the Tasmanian Reptile Centre which is the largest wildlife park in Tasmania. In either direction along the coast is superb scenery and fishing towns which makes Devonport such a central and inviting city to visit.

5. Cradle Mountain/ Lake St Clair Park

Cradle Mountain is one of the most sought after locations in Australia, with exhilarating scenery, mountainous peaks, bushwalking tracks and natural beauty in every direction. From the north it is only 90 minutes from Burnie and is easily accessible, with camping facilities and cabins available. The Overland Trek is a six day walk that will take you into the heart of the park, or there are shorter walks close to Dove Lake that will still bring you face to face with incredible views of Cradle Mountain. This is one top spot you won’t want to miss on your vacation.

6. Swansea

Halfway up the east coast of Tasmania is Swansea. It is an unpretentious town that is everything historically local,
and is a perfect spot to unwind. Overlooking Great Oyster Bay, you can fish, swim or just enjoy a stroll on one of the many beaches in the area. Visit Spiky Bridge, an unusual bridge built in the 1800’s, or take one of the many walks in the area to watch hundreds of the local Shearwater’s at dusk. Close to the Freycinet National Park and beautiful Maria Island, this is a stunning area to visit.

7. Coles Bay

A well known tourist spot, Coles Bay offers endless sunshine and plenty of pretty places to picnic, swim and play. It is located on the East coast of Tasmania and is the entry point to the Freycinet Peninsula. Walk from the town to Wineglass Bay, which is known as one of the best beaches in Tasmania. There is rock climbing, abseiling, windsurfing and bushwalking or just enjoy a stroll along the superb beaches. Birdwatchers will love this area, and there is an abundance of wildlife, especially the Tasmanian devil. An ideal top spot for sun and water lovers.

8. Port Arthur

Only one hour from Hobart, step back to the days of the convicts and visit one of the most historical towns in Tasmania. Port Arthur, located on the Tasman Peninsula, started off as a convict prison, which is now open to tourists. Visit the buildings, museums in the old city and cruise to the Isle of the Dead for a closer look at the way life was. There are pretty beaches, parks and walks around the area, and visitors come from far and wide to experience one of Tasmania’s most well known tourist spots.

9. Flinders Island

Located on the northern tip of Tasmania, Flinders Island is teeming with birdlife, wildlife and incredible scenery and
is a hidden treasure in the Bass Strait. It is also known to scuba divers with a number of wrecks in the area, there is fantastic fishing, camping, bike riding and bushwalking for all nature lovers. Horse riding is popular along the Flinders Trail which leads from one side of the island to the other. Flights are available if you are keen to see this majestic island even for a day or two.

10. Stanley

This historical village is famous for its platypus and penguin tours, which start at dusk to view the little penguins. Located in far north Tasmania on the tip of the peninsula, there is a lot more to see and do in this historical town. There is a seaquarium, seal watching and plenty of historic buildings in the area, as well as the Rocky Cape National Park which is popular for scuba diving and its brilliant coral reefs. Climb the Nut and board the chairlift for incredible views of the coast and enjoy the drives along the coastal road and its fishing villages.

Tasmania is one of the best states to visit if you are looking for beautiful walking trails. Combined with a driving holiday you are within a day of most walks, and there is so much to see and do in between. Most of the walks are found in the large expanses of national park found throughout the state. From the world renowned Cradle Mountain - Lake St Claire Park to the Freycinet National Park on the coast, you will be captivated by the scenery and challenge each walk brings.

So where do you start? The beauty of walking in Tasmania is that there are such a wide range of short walks, so you can drive in any direction and be guaranteed to find an easy and enjoyable walking trail. From the coast to the highlands there is a long list to choose from.

One of the best longer walks is the Tasmanian Trail. Beginning in Devonport on Tasmania’s north coast, and finishing in Dover in the south, you can enjoy a few sections of the walk in a day or complete more the 480 kilometre walk over a number of days. It takes in some of Tasmania’s hidden treasures and small old towns steeped in history. You will journey through old forests and through farmlands, over bridges and through some of the countries richest natural heritage.

Another well known and spectacular walk is located at Cradle Mountain. The Lake Dove Circuit takes just over an hour to complete and will take you around Dove Lake and to the base of Cradle Mountain. One of the most entrancing features of the walk is the Ballroom forest that towers above you closer to the end. Make sure you bring your camera.

Also in the same park, the Enchanted Walk will take you past a Pencil Pine Creek, rainforests and close to a large cluster of wombat burrows that are found along the trail. Taking close to twenty minutes, this walk is ideal for the whole family.

The more adventurous might want to head to the Cradle Mountain summit. The choice of track is weather dependant and you need to have a high level of fitness to attempt the eight hour trek. It is worth the time to reach the summit, with indescribable views of the national park that have to be seen to be believed.

To the west you will find a great trail leading to the mesmerising Montezuma Falls, one of Tasmania’s highest waterfalls. It is a moderate walk taking close to three hours to complete and you are rewarded with magnificent views at the base of the falls. Head to Williamsford and then on to Rosebery to find the trail a few kilometres to the south. There are a number of different tree species that will catch your eye as you enjoy the rainforest and plentiful species of birds.

The Freycinet Peninsula is one of the most popular locations for enjoyable walking, with views in every direction, the bays, beaches and granite boulders all add to the appeal of this location. Halfway up the east coast of Tasmania, head to Coles Bay to find some beautiful camping parks to base yourself and then begin your trekking.

If you are looking for a longer walk, start at Coles Bay via Hazards Beach and then on to Cooks Beach. This walk is close to 13 kilometres and takes in some incredible coastal scenery. Returning via Mt Graham to Wineglass Bay, and then onto Coles Bay, you will cover close to 18 kilometres. Head to Wineglass Bay for a shorter walk and soak in the sun while you explore this fascinating stretch.

There are plenty of places to walk in Tasmania.Why not join a walking tour through some of the country towns or historic cities? Or you can pull over to the side of the road and find an easy walk in no time. Throw a picnic together, head to a beautiful lookout and enjoy being alive in one of the loveliest places on earth. This is only a small handful of the extensive system of walking trails available, so the best way to begin is to find your walking shoes and plan a trekking holiday to Tasmania.

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.

Tasmania is rich in secrets- around every corner of its historic towns are harboured stories and tales of years gone by. Its full heritage and lively history are indicative of its interesting past, a past just waiting to be explored by intrepid travellers such as yourself. And while the big cities of Tasmania are a great starting point to learning about the state and its past, it is in the smaller countryside settlements that you will discover an altogether quieter, serene and more beautiful insight into the history of Tassy. The bonus of visiting these towns of course is that you can simultaneously enjoy the open spaces of the lush green countryside and the quiet serenity of the wide Tasmanian skies. A driving holiday touring the smaller towns in a hire car is a sure fire recipe for relaxation and a fulfilling, interesting holiday!

As far as small towns in Tassy go, Forth definitely ranks as one of the most scenic and also one of the oldest. Ideally situated on the banks of the River Forth, it is a 13 kilometre drive from the city of Devonport. This is where the ferry the Spirit of Tasmania docks from Melbourne, so for many it is their first port of call in Tasmania. Devonport is a popular choice for entering the state, because most of the main attractions lie within a days drive from there. Forth is of course just around the corner, and is a great place to kick off your driving holiday around Tasmania. There is not only the Forth River and its lush valley to explore, but also the nearby attractions of the northern Tassy coastline, as well as similar small settlements lying nearby.

Forth was the second settlement in the county of Devon, springing up in the 1840’s even before Devonport was settled. With a population of just 350 people at the last census, its the kind of town where everyone knows everyone and visitors are made to feel especially welcome. While most of the original buildings have long since been replaced, there is still a strong sense of history about this old town. At the centre of this history is the forthpub Historic Bridge Hotel, which was one of the first buildings in the town and still stands today with very few changes made to its structure. It was first licensed and opened in 1872, and has managed to retain the old world charm and atmosphere of those bygone eras. Heritage listed and regarded as a national treasure, today it is regarded as one of Tasmania’s leading live music venues, with something always going on here. You won’t find a better place to meet up for a beer or a chat, and the country cooked meals perfectly complement an evening out here… try the Forth Pub Pie, which is renowned worldwide!

The Forth Village Markets are superb for bargain hunters, having many unique stalls with local goods and handmade crafts as well as new goods at bargain prices. Its a social meeting point too, with morning teas, lunches and dinners available, so a trip to the markets is a good opportunity to meet some of the locals! Another journey worth making, especially if you are fond of good views, is the drive up Braddons Road to Braddons Lookout, which has stunning panoramic views over the Forth Valley and out towards Turners Beach and Leith. These are tiny coastal settlements located where the River Forth meets the ocean. Attracting just a few visitors each year, these quaint coastal settlements are up there with the best kept secrets of Tasmania! Fishermen will be especially enamoured, as the salmon and mullet run thick and fast in the river mouth of the Forth.

If water-based activities are what drives you, then its essential you visit Lake Barrington, which is a 20 kilometre long expanse of water formed by the Devils Gate Dam wall. It is renowned for its 2 kilometre long international standard rowing course, where many competitions are held. There is a large recreation area hugging the foreshore which is home to a diversity of wildlife, and accommodates visitors perfectly with picnic, recreation and restroom facilities. Its perfect for those long summer days, and if you wish to stick around a bit longer then there are campsites around the northern edge of the lake.

So there you have it- as a destination Forth and its surrounds offers everything you would want for a quiet and relaxing break. And the big city lights of Devonport are not far off if you fancy indulging in a slightly more urban approach to part of your holiday! Wherever you go, and whatever towns you choose to visit, a hire car from Discovery Rentals is the easiest and the safest way to travel around Tasmania. Plan your holiday well and have fun!

Tasmania is one of the best states to visit if you are looking for beautiful walking trails. Combined with a driving holiday you are within a day of most walks, and there is so much to see and do in between. Most of the walks are found in the large expanses of national park found throughout the state. From the world renowned Cradle Mountain - Lake St Claire Park to the Freycinet National Park on the coast, you will be captivated by the scenery and challenge each walk brings.

So where do you start? The beauty of walking in Tasmania is that there are such a wide range of short walks, so you can drive in any direction and be guaranteed to find an easy and enjoyable walking trail. From the coast to the highlands there is a long list to choose from.

One of the best longer walks is the Tasmanian Trail. Beginning in Devonport on Tasmania’s north coast, and finishing in Dover in the south, you can enjoy a few sections of the walk in a day or complete more the 480 kilometre walk over a number of days. It takes in some of Tasmania’s hidden treasures and small old towns steeped in history. You will journey through old forests and through farmlands, over bridges and through some of the countries richest natural heritage.

Another well known and spectacular walk is located at Cradle Mountain. The Lake Dove Circuit takes just over an hour to complete and will take you around Dove Lake and to the base of Cradle Mountain. One of the most entrancing features of the walk is the Ballroom forest that towers above you closer to the end. Make sure you bring your camera.

Also in the same park, the Enchanted Walk will take you past a Pencil Pine Creek, rainforests and close to a large cluster of wombat burrows that are found along the trail. Taking close to twenty minutes, this walk is ideal for the whole family.

The more adventurous might want to head to the Cradle Mountain summit. The choice of track is weather dependant and you need to have a high level of fitness to attempt the eight hour trek. It is worth the time to reach the summit, with indescribable views of the national park that have to be seen to be believed.

To the west you will find a great trail leading to the mesmerising Montezuma Falls, one of Tasmania’s highest waterfalls. It is a moderate walk taking close to three hours to complete and you are rewarded with magnificent views at the base of the falls. Head to Williamsford and then on to Rosebery to find the trail a few kilometres to the south. There are a number of different tree species that will catch your eye as you enjoy the rainforest and plentiful species of birds.

The Freycinet Peninsula is one of the most popular locations for enjoyable walking, with views in every direction, the bays, beaches and granite boulders all add to the appeal of this location. Halfway up the east coast of Tasmania, head to Coles Bay to find some beautiful camping parks to base yourself and then begin your trekking.

If you are looking for a longer walk, start at Coles Bay via Hazards Beach and then on to Cooks Beach. This walk is close to 13 kilometres and takes in some incredible coastal scenery. Returning via Mt Graham to Wineglass Bay, and then onto Coles Bay, you will cover close to 18 kilometres. Head to Wineglass Bay for a shorter walk and soak in the sun while you explore this fascinating stretch.

There are plenty of places to walk in Tasmania.Why not join a walking tour through some of the country towns or historic cities? Or you can pull over to the side of the road and find an easy walk in no time. Throw a picnic together, head to a beautiful lookout and enjoy being alive in one of the loveliest places on earth. This is only a small handful of the extensive system of walking trails available, so the best way to begin is to find your walking shoes and plan a trekking holiday to Tasmania.

Driving through the middle of Tasmania is once again a wonderful experience because of the sheer beauty of the mountains that are almost always within view. This region is close to Launceston and Devonport, and is still a great base to explore Cradle Mountain, Tamar Valley and the Northern midlands. It is easily accessible from the Bass and Lake Highways.

High above sea level you are in another world of plains and lakes left from the glacial age. Known as the Central Plateau, there is plenty of scenery but not as many inhabitants, with Bothwell and Deloraine being the only major settlements in this area. There is so much to do in the highland region.Not only is the scenery breathtaking, with plenty of views, but the fishing, history, bushwalking, caves and waterfalls give you plenty of reason to stay a bit longer.

Starting from Sheffield, which has majestic Mount Roland as a backdrop, the south road will take you through West Kentish and Roland through cattle country until you reach Mole Creek National Park.There are a few attractions along the way you could stop to look at, such as Lake Barrington and Mount Claude Lookout.

Mole Creek is a little town that sits at the foot of the Western Tiers. Not far from the town is Trowunna Wildlife Park which is home to the Tasmanian devil, koalas, wedge-tail eagles and plenty of other wildlife. The town is known mostly for its abundance of limestone caves. Over 200 are known in the area, the most popular being King Solomons caves.

The last stop before you reach the mountains, Deloraine offers fantastic views and also plenty of art and craft shops.There are many colonial buildings to visit and a lot of history in this quaint town.

As the road winds up through into the Great Western Tiers, the air becomes a lot cooler and as the road gets steeper. Once you are about 1200 metres above sea level you will come the Great Lake lookout which will give you a sweeping view of Australia’s largest natural freshwater lake. This would have to be one of the most beautiful stretches of road, as you weave through thick forests, past waterfalls and finally out to a wider landscape towards Bothwell.

The town of Bothwell is literally at the end of the road, with some lovely historical features, most impressive being the local windmill,and a camping ground if you want to stay for a night or two.

This stretch of the Central Highlands without doubt would be one of the most enjoyable and picturesque places to visit in Tasmania.The vast panoramic views, peaceful lakes and surrounding mountains make all ingredients for an incredible holiday destination.

More than any other state in Australia, Tasmania enjoys four distinct seasons, each with its their own special characteristics. Both local Tasmanians and visitors enjoy the state’s temperate maritime climate. Summer is a festive season when the Launceston Festivale and the Hobart Summer Festival are held. Autumn is a mellow season with calm, sunny days when the native deciduous beech trees and European trees blaze with a riot of red, orange and gold colours. Winter days are crisp and clear with a dusting of snow on mountain peaks. Spring is cool and refreshing, with gardens bursting back to life as Tasmania celebrates the Blooming Tasmania festival.

Tasmania’s capital Hobart is an intriguing blend of the old and the new, a city defined by the river and sea. Hobart’s maritime focus can be appreciated with a harbour cruise or drive to the top of Mt Nelson or Mt Wellington - suburbs line the Derwent River, city buildings are clustered around the historic docks and the Derwent estuary broadens into Storm Bay. Only twenty-five kilometres from Hobart is the historic town of Richmond, home to the old Richmond Gaol and part of Tasmania’s early convict origins. The nearby vineyards and wineries of the Coal River Valley are home to many of Tasmania’s superb cool-climate wines. Hobart is an ideal base from which to explore southern and eastern Tasmania.

Hobart has more summer daylight hours than any other Australian capital city. Tasmania is the southernmost of the eight Australian states and territories, and enjoys over 15 hours of daylight on the summer solstice (22 December). This is 2.5 more hours of daylight than Darwin (Northern Territory) receives and 1 hour more than Sydney (New South Wales) receives on the same day. Experts at the Launceston Planetarium claim that the day is even longer if twilight periods at dawn and dusk are taken into account. On the other hand, Tasmania receives less daylight than mainland Australian states and territories in winter. Hobart has around 9 hours daylight in winter, 1 hour less than Sydney and about 2.5 hours less than Darwin.

Rainfall in Tasmania varies dramatically from region to region. Hobart is Australia’s second-driest capital city after Adelaide, while on the West Coast an annual average of 2400 millimetres ensures that temperate rainforests thrive. Minimal artificial light makes Tasmania’s night sky an exceptional location for stargazing, including the wonder of the magnificent Aurora Australis.

Devonport is a diverse and interesting region, home to charming historic towns, beautiful beaches and forests, fine foods and the magnificent craggy peaks of Cradle Mountain. Cradle Mountain is a dramatic mountain peak in the northern section of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, a World Heritage Area. The mountain is one of the most popular features in the park, and is surrounded by stands of native deciduous beech trees, rainforest and alpine heathlands. Icy streams cascade down the mountainsides, and ancient pines are reflected in the still glacial lakes. The walk to the top of the mountain (1,545 metres) takes eights return. Lake St Clair is the deepest in Australia (190 metres), having been excavated by glaciers about 10,000 years ago during the last Ice Age. Towering cliffs rise sheer from the waters of the lake, in which fishing and boating are allowed.

The east coast of Tasmania is a region of agreeable contrasts - sunshine and sea, wine and wildlife, rugged cliffs and glorious beaches. A centre of fine food and wine, the area is famous for its fresh, natural produce. It is also home to a series of excellent national parks, including Douglas-Apsley National Park with majestic rivers, eucalypts and Oyster Bay pines, Freycinet National Park which is renowned as a bushwalkers’ and sea kayakers’ paradise, and Maria Island National Park rich in history, scenic walks and fauna. The east coast’s history is told by its place names. Schouten Island and Maria Island were mapped by Dutch navigator Abel Tasman, while the Freycinet Peninsula was charted by Frenchman Nicolas Baudin. Welsh settlers named the town of Swansea, while Triabunna and Wielangta recall thousands of years of Aboriginal presence in Tasmania.