If we could describe Tasmania in just three words… untamed natural paradise. Aside from its increasing popularity gained from hosting some of Australia’s best festivals, markets and food and wine events, at its heart, Tasmania is a remote land of rugged wilderness, waiting to be explored.
Tasmania needs no further introduction, as it is increasingly becoming known for its rugged landscapes, secluded bays, national parks and an overwhelming sense of Mother Nature being showcased at her best.
While we stay at home for now, it doesn’t mean we can’t daydream, and our dreams keep wondering back to the depths of Tassie’s idyllic wilderness…
Here are our top Tasmanian nature experiences, so you can fill up your travel bucket list and be prepared when we are able to travel again.
1. Cruising Wineglass Bay
Perhaps the most picturesque natural wonder of Tasmania, Freycinet National Park’s Wineglass Bay is unequivocally stunning. Surrounded by an amphitheatre of lush green mountains, the pristine white sand that meets the turquoise blue waters is where we want to be right now.
Wondering how it got its name? If you choose to hike to the Wineglass Bay lookout, you will be tremendously rewarded by an aerial view of the Bay. The spectacular curve of the coastline and the glimmering white sand create a shape that resembles a wine glass, and to that, we say cheers!
Alternatively, you can choose to complete the Wineglass Bay hike, which is 3km and takes approximately 1 – ½ hours.
Voted as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, this one needs to be on your travel bucket list.
2. A hike through Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
Tasmania has no shortage of picturesque sights, that’s for sure. The inspiring beauty of Cradle Mountain and adjoining Dove Love are a must-see, and the Dove Lake Circuit is one of the state’s premier nature walks, immersing you in the heart of the esteemed national park.
If you choose to take the 5.7km loop trail, you will circle the glacially carved water of Dove lake with the mighty Cradle Mountain beside you, so you get right up close to the immense natural wonder.
The tranquility of the region means native wildlife and flora flourish. Expect to see Bennetts wallabies, echidnas and pademelons along your guided walk, as well as unique vegetation such as buttongrass, myrtle, sassafras and King Billy Pine.
3. Discovering the Tarkine Rainforest
The Tarkine Wilderness region represents a beauty beyond words. Located in Tasmania’s wild north-west, this is a destination you will visit and realise just how small you are, in a landscape so immense and all-encompassing; it feels sacred.
As Australia’s largest cool temperate rainforest and the second largest in the world, the forgotten wilderness stretches out over 477,000 hectares and is home to unique creatures and habitats not found anywhere else.
With plenty of guided walks and river cruises to choose from when you arrive, a visit to the Tarkine will reignite your spirit and leave you speechless with an accelerated appreciation for this country we are so lucky to call home.
4. Wandering through the fields of Bridestowe Lavender Estate
This one is for the flower fanatics. Located 50 minutes’ drive from Launceston, the glorious purple fields of Bridestowe Lavender Estate will take your breath away as you wander through the largest lavender farm in the Southern Hemisphere.
A visit to Bridestowe in full bloom is truly an incredible sensory experience. Throughout December and January as the lavender flowers are at their most vibrant, and the familiar scent of the purple flower wafts through the fields.
5. Discovering the Nut at Stanley
The Munatrik, or the Nut as it is more commonly known, is located in the picturesque town of Stanley and would have to be Tasmania’s most distinctive landmark. The 143-metre-high ancient volcanic plug towers above the rocky coastline and is a truly unique sight that one must be seen to be believed. Aside from being an incredible natural phenomenon on its own, it also doubles as an extraordinary lookout over the surrounding bass strait, providing breathtaking 360 degrees views of the area.
For the adventurous types, you have the option to walk the 10-20 minute rather steep walk to the summit. Alternatively, you can take the chairlift to the top. Both promise stunning views.
6. Cataract Gorge
Much like in the case of Bridestowe Lavender Estate, you don’t always have to venture far from major cities to discover Tasmania’s most spectacular natural wonders. Just a two-minute drive from the centre of Launceston is an unexpected wilderness area, Cataract Gorge.
This rare natural gem in the heart of Launceston is a river gorge at the lower section of the South Esk River. Understandably, it is a hub of activity and a popular tourist attraction where visitors and locals alike can swim, walk, run, dine, or simply take in the natural beauty.
7. A day trip via boat to Bruny Island
Experiencing Bruny Island and the rugged coast of Tasmania by boat is the ultimate nature experience.
You will cruise alongside some of Australia’s highest sea cliffs, beneath towering crags and drift up close to listen to the awesome ‘Breathing Rock’. Enter deep sea caves, pass through the narrow gap between the coast and ‘The Monument’ and feel the power of nature at the point where the Tasman Sea meets the might of the Southern Ocean. You will also join in the search for the abundant coastal wildlife such as seals, dolphins, migrating whales and sea birds.
8. Russell Falls
Nothing fills us with joy more than coming across a waterfall as stunning as this…
The thundering Russell Falls are part of Tasmania’s World Heritage Wilderness Area, in Mt Field National Park.
What makes Russell Falls unique is the pleasing, segmented vertical appearance, and its size. It is also popular for its ease of accessibility. The 20-minute return walk to the falls takes you on a journey through the mossy, deep green rainforest, and is suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
Between the spectacularly lush rainforest setting and the flowing falls, we can’t wait to return to breathe in the clean forest air and take in its beauty.
9. Gordon River
Running through the heart of the Tasmanian wilderness in the remote West Coast is the mesmerising Gordon River. A cruise on the dark, tranquil waters will get you up close to the towering rainforest that surrounds it, the revered Huon Pines, and if you’re lucky, the shy platypus who call the waters home.
In a story about Tasmania, we of course, can’t forget to mention Hobart. Tasmania’s capital is a thriving city that is home to some of Australia’s best festivals, markets and food and wine scene.
We can’t wait for you to explore with us again soon, but for now, lets daydream together.
By Laura Vitucci for AAT Kings