With 40 percent of its land area made up of national parks, Tasmania is the perfect getaway for those who enjoy outdoor activities and getting up close to Australia’s unique wildlife. A road trip is the ideal way to take in this island state’s breathtaking beauty.
3 Awe-Inspiring Tasmanian Experiences
Tahune AirWalk : Tired of city life and yearning for a day in the countryside? Then Tahune AirWalk located in the Tahune Forest Reserve, a 90-minute drive south of Hobart, is the perfect place. Feel on top of the world (literally!) as you take in mesmerising views of Tasmania’s raw beauty from the 20 to 30 metre-high steel treetop walkway. Don’t miss the chance to cross the swinging Huon and Picton footbridges for the unique feeling of being suspended above a mighty river. It might be heartstopping, but we guarantee that coupled with the spectacular forest and valley views, it is a must-try experience that you won’t regret! You’ll also have many Instagram-worthy shots to turn your friends green with envy. The AirWalk entry fee includes three forest walks as well as access to on-site barbecue and picnic facilities. Families also enjoy discounted group rates.
Devils@Cradle : If you’ve always wanted to get up close to one of Tasmania’s most famous but elusive residents in its natural environment, stop by this wildlife sanctuary at Cradle Mountain. An added bonus is that you’ll also meet two other rare native marsupials, the Eastern and spotted-tail quolls. The after-dark feeding tours offer the best chance to see the nocturnal marsupials at their most playful. There are also daytime tours where you’ll learn about these endangered animals and the ongoing efforts to safeguard them. Both tours offer discounted rates for families, while children below six years of age can enter for free. Devils@Cradle is located just 500 metres before the Cradle Mountain Lodge or National Park, about a four-and-a-half hour drive from Hobart and a 2-hour drive from Launceston.
Seahorse World : How’s holding a seahorse in the palm of your hand for the ultimate animal encounter and an experience your kids will never forget? Spend time discovering and unravelling the life of this intriguing marine dweller, where you will learn fun facts such as why these fish must eat constantly to stay alive, how the males bear the unborn young and why humans are threatening their survival. For a behind-the-scenes look into the world’s first working seahorse farm, join the park’s 45-minute guided tour. Dedicated to breeding and conserving seahorses, the Centre is located in Tamar Valley, less than an hour’s drive from Launceston or Devonport. Family packages include admission for two adults and six kids, and entry for children under three years old is free.
Salamanca Market, Hobart
A stalwart of picturesque Hobart, rain, hail or shine, every Saturday all year round, Salamanca Market is here for you to browse. Unwind and enjoy the buskers at this outdoor market while exploring the 300 stalls which feature a good mix of vintage finds, traditional crafts and fresh produce. You are bound to find lots of souvenirs and gifts from woodwork to jewellery, glassware and ceramics. Open from 8.30 am to 3 pm, once you are done shopping, drop by the nearby galleries or take a break at one of the surrounding cafes or restaurants.
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Want a holiday that includes a walk on the wild side, literally? Discover why Tasmania ticks all the right boxes when it comes to unique nature-inspired experiences.
