Tasmania Information

Lifestyle & culture

In Tasmania you won't find much rush or haste. In Tasmania you will have time to savour the experiences you will discover here. The cities are a hark back to simpler days, they are a bit smaller than many and have no traffic jams no throngs of rushing people and no pollution. This is a place to forget your everyday stresses and instead stop for a chat and slow down a little, even if just for a while.

Experience the stunning environment and peace of Cradle Mountain National Park - a World Heritage listed area of crystal clear lakes, cascading waterfalls and moss clad rainforests. Ascend Cradle Mountain to get some 360 degree views from Tasmania's highest mountain. Or take a visit to the eastern coasts Freycinet Peninsula, with its famous pink granite hills and achingly beautiful waters.

Tasmania's separation from the mainland of Australia has means much of the flora and fauna is more common here than in other parts of the country, and some is even unique to the state. Also unique is how easy it is to see the native wildlife, just a short walk along a forest trail and you can often come across a wombat, pademelon or wallaby. Many of the wildlife is nocturnal, so your may need to venture out in the evening to improve your chances of an encounter with these species.

Tasmania's historic past is everywhere to be discovered, you will find it easy to imagine the clink of chains in Port Arthura former convict complex; but even just a walk along Launceston's lovely streets will reveal Victorian streetscapes; the Salamanca Markets in Hobart take place around historic warehouses on the old wharves; look upon the Tamar Valley from a bushrangers hideout; or travel the Heritage Highway through some of Australia's oldest settlements and witness convict history in the very blocks of the buildings still in use today.

Natural and outdoor wonders

When in comes to nature, it is very hard to beat a journey to Tasmania. Over one third of the island is either protected reserves or National Parks with some being truly untouched and vast areas of rugged wilderness, taking in old growth forest areas, glacier carved landscapes and miles of uninhabited coastlines.

Tasmania's massive areas of unspoilt natural beauty offer opportunities to not only enjoy amazing views but to get out and enjoy it close up. Tassie is a great place for any number of outdoor pursuits. You won't have fully experienced the amazing landscape until you've walked in the mountain air or ventured onto the rivers and cliffs that are this states most wonderful attractions.

After all that walking and enjoying mountain air you will need sustenance and Tasmania is just the place to savour boutique wines, beers made from the water of mountain streams and no end of fresh produce, most especially the wonderful cold water seafood available in abundance. Have lunch or dinner after visiting the cellar door of one of the many excellent wineries or just visit the Salamanca Market on any Saturday in Hobart and buy some of Tasmania's freshest produce and cook yourself!