What makes Tasmania so special?

Everything about the green emerald in southern Australia

Have you ever been to Tasmania, Australia’s largest island? If not, you’ll definitely be gripped by travel fever after reading this article. Here’s a little taste of the enchanting natural beauty south of the Red Continent.

Tasmania is an impressive paradise for nature lovers. Hardly any other place has such a diverse landscape – rainforests provide action-packed hikes, the fascinating mountains invite you to climb and mountaineer, and you can finally find the relaxation you need on one of the many white dream beaches. Experience the diversity of this breathtaking island, explore the untouched nature in the middle of the Tasmanian wilderness and embark on a journey of discovery that you are guaranteed not to forget anytime soon.

Unique flora and fauna

It seems as if you have arrived in another world. A good two-hour flight south of the Australian metropolis of Sydney, the 68,400 km² island is located and is not without reason referred to as Australia’s “green emerald”. In the west, due to the cold and damp climate, it is mainly the lush green rainforests that have a variety of endemic plants, while in the east, the island is mainly characterized by the eucalyptus forests inhabited by koalas. A full 45 per cent of the island is made up of national parks, of which there are 19 in total, and around a quarter of the island is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Animals everywhere you look

However, it is not only the diverse flora but also the exciting animal world that impresses many visitors to Tasmania. As on the Australian mainland, marsupials such as kangaroos, koalas and marsupial bears are very dominant here. The filanders, probably the smallest species of kangaroo in the world, are particularly cute to look at here, growing to just 30 to 70 cm. And while we’re on the subject of cute little animals, the little penguins, which are quite common on the island, are also absolutely worth seeing, and their waddling gait often makes animal watchers smile. Another special species of animal that seems to have already become extinct on the mainland is the Tasmanian devil, also known as the Tasmanian devil, which got its name from its black colour and ears that turn red when angry.

Untouched landscapes invite you to explore

It is said that some of the most beautiful hiking trails are in unspoilt Tasmania. Whether you want to hike through the alpine highlands or along the delightful natural sandy beaches, past rugged cliffs and the shimmering turquoise sea, that is up to the tourists themselves. But one thing is certain here: during a hike you can discover the southern hemisphere from its most beautiful side, the views along the way are simply breathtaking. The island is particularly popular with experienced hikers who, like the many marsupials, meander through the Tasmanian wilderness to explore the most beautiful natural treasures on their own. But in Tasmania, there are great hiking trails not only for professionals but also for leisurely walkers – from easy to adventurous, there is something for everyone here.

National parks – made for hiking

Overall, the natural paradise offers a hiking network of more than 2000 kilometres, many of which are located in the national parks of the Australian island. Undoubtedly the most popular national park in Tasmania is the Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park, where visitors often undertake an 8-hour hike to finally reach the famous Cradle Mountain. Those who are up for an adventure lasting several days can head straight for the 65-kilometre-long Overland Track, a hiking trail that leads through the Dolerite Mountains, past impressive waterfalls and gorges to Lake St. Clair.

Another highlight awaits you in the magnificent Freycinet National Park on the east coast of Tasmania . This is a picture-perfect peninsula that is particularly known for its pink granite mountains, picturesque and pristine white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.

Anyone who goes on holiday here will forget the whole world around them.

Whether it’s a long hiking tour, surfing, rafting, snorkelling, diving or a trip to the Cape Tourville Lighthouse, which offers a breathtaking view – visitors can really let off steam here. The most beautiful beach on the island is also located here, in fact it is one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world – we are talking about the unique Wineglass Bay, a crescent-shaped beach made of powdery white sand. Anyone who vacations here enjoys a spectacular view day after day and is guaranteed to forget the whole world around them. A dream!

Hobart – A trip to the capital of Tasmania

Hobart is the pretty capital of the southernmost Australian state of Tasmania. Located in the southeast of the island, at the foot of Mount Wellington, the historic city is an excellent starting point for various excursions. From here, you can easily and conveniently reach the magnificent and varied national parks and picturesque places of Bruny Island, Wineglass Bay, and Richmond. However, it is not just the excellent location that speaks in favour of staying in Hobart. The city itself exudes a very special flair with its delightful natural harbour, and chic bars and restaurants invite you to linger.

Sightseeing and action

Once you’re there, you should definitely stroll through the beautiful Salamanca Square, where the colourful and lively Salamanca Market takes place every Saturday. If the weather is good, a visit to the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens is also a must, as here you will find a huge historical collection of plants, typical Tasmanian plants and the only sub-Antarctic greenhouse in the world. Afterwards, you can take a short walk to Battery Point, the oldest district of the city, where you can admire unique sandstone buildings and former colonial houses. If you’d rather go for a nice hike or a mountain bike tour, you shouldn’t miss the climb or ride to the top of the 1300-meter-high Mount Wellington, from where you have a fantastic view of the island and its surroundings.

Another city highlight is the annual Sydney-Hobart Regatta on Boxing Day, December 26th, where you can find everything from small sailing boats to large luxury yachts. Participants have to cover a distance of more than 1000 kilometres, starting in Sydney Harbour and ending in Hobart. This spectacle is undoubtedly an absolute highlight of the Australian summer.

Fancy a little road trip?

If you are in Hobart and want to set off from here with a rental car, a short road trip along National Highway 1 is a good idea. From the south, you head north of the island, past lovely towns such as Launceston and Devonport, which are definitely worth a visit, to Burnie, a delightful town with a penguin observatory on the northwest coast of Tasmania. It’s starting to get difficult to decide on a route, right? But let me tell you: once you’ve been here, you’ll definitely want to come back to discover the many other sights on the island.

Off into the Tasmanian wilderness!

Of course, this was only a fraction of all the natural beauty seen and admired on the island. But one report is not enough to cover everything. The best thing is to set off for yourself to get an idea of this great, untouched island paradise in the south of Australia. Take a round trip along the picturesque east coast to the action-packed west coast, where plenty of adventure awaits you, and visit the most beautiful towns and national parks. Plenty of cheap and unique accommodations here, such as luxurious eco-lodges. Otherwise, a camping experience is guaranteed to round off the adventure perfectly. So let’s get going – off into the Tasmanian wilderness!