Interesting Tasmania facts
Although Aboriginal people have lived in Tasmania for at least 35,000 years, Abel Tasman, a Dutch explorer, was the first European to “discover” Tasmania.
At least one fifth of Tasmania is world heritage area. The area which covers 1.58 million hectares includes national parks, marine, and forests reserves. This means that 20% of the land is World Heritage Area!
Huon pine trees located in Western Tasmania some of the oldest living things on earth. The Huon Pine tree grows very slowly; a 20-meter tree could be thousands of years old.
With over 2000 km of walking trails you can experience world heritage, beautiful coastline, and amazing scenery of ancient rainforests on a variety of walking tracks that range from 9 hours to 9 days.
Lying some 175 miles south of Australia this is a land of rugged, scenic beauty with deserted beaches, snow-capped mountains and lush valleys dotted with farmsteads. About the same size as Ireland it’s ideal for a touring holiday and has some great sights from the perfect crescent of Wineglass Bay to the wilderness area of the Gordon River; virgin rainforest to Hobart’s historic waterfront; magical Cataract Gorge to Cradle Mountain’s forests and waterfalls.
Where to go in Tasmania
Hobart
Hobart, Tasmania's capital, is pressed between a mountain and a river and provides a diverse range of city activities and experiences. Wander among the city's beautiful sandstone architecture, drive to the summit of Mount Wellington for the best of Hobart's views, and dine on Tasmania's famously fresh produce in a number of outstanding restaurants.
Launceston
Tasmania's second major city, Launceston, is a vibrant hub for food and wine, culture and nature. In fact, the whole region is packed with city and country charm, gorgeous old towns, excellent food and wine and beautiful scenic highlights. As one of Australia's oldest cities, it has some of the most beautiful and elegant Colonial & Victorian architecture.
Freycinet National Park
On Tasmania’s east coast, Freycinet National Park is a place of bewildering beauty. Towering pink mountains, known as the Hazards, shadow the landscape, and at their foot are the calm, blue waters of Wineglass Bay. Explore the beautiful Friendly Beaches, dine on fresh seafood, or spend the night at one of Australia’s exclusive luxury lodges.
Cradle Mountain
The most famous of Tasmania's mountains is Cradle Mountain, a dramatic cliff-lined peak rising from the shores of Dove Lake in Tasmania's north-west. View it from the six kilometre (3.7 mile) Dove Lake Circuit walking track or, if you're feeling more adventurous, climb to Marions Lookout for a stunning view over mountain and lake.
