A motorhome tour of Tasmania!
Only 4% of travelers who go to Australia visit Tasmania. Why so few, I wonder? I spent 3 weeks traveling through Tassie, as the Aussies lovingly call the little island in the south, and would definitely recommend a visit. I would like to share in six good reasons why it is really worthwhile to definitely visit this beautiful Australian island.
1. Short distances
I can already hear you thinking, "I am already on an island (Australia) where there is a lot to see, why visit another island?" You can see it differently. A short flight of 1 hour and 20 minutes from Melbourne and 55 minutes from Sydney and you are in Tasmania. That is a shorter flight than to e.g. Ayers Rock. By Australian standards, the distances between sights on the island are relatively short and this allows you to see more. With an area twice the size of Belgium, it is a nice size to explore at your leisure.
2. Beautifully diverse nature
Tasmania is a spectacular and diverse natural paradise. From the beautiful turquoise Wineglass Bay, to the red rocks of the Bay of Fires and the rainforest around the Gordon River. The island is not called a mix between New Zealand and Australia for nothing, it is also a unique mix with the beaches of Australia and the rugged nature of New Zealand. I have had the privilege of visiting many places in the world, but the rugged nature of the Cradle Mountain National Park cannot be compared to anything else and is a must see. The hikes to South Cape Bay and Cape Huay are also highly recommended!
3. Delicious food and drink
Tasmania is known for its delicious fresh produce: from fresh fruit and cheese to oysters, smoked salmon and honey. In Hobart at the lively Salamanca market, you can try these products and many more. Bruny Island and the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail are other recommendations for foodies. In addition, there are roadside fruit stalls, always tasty for the road. Tasmania also has a great selection of local beverages. How about a delicious glass of wine from the Tamar Valley, a fruity-fresh cider (after all, Tasmania's nickname is Apple Island) and for those who prefer something a little stronger, there's whiskey from Sullivan's Cove, for example.
4. Unique animals
The Tasmanian devil is the most famous animal species and hard work is being done to keep it from becoming extinct. The Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is a good place to see this protected species. At night in Stanley, you can see the smallest penguin species in the world come ashore. Everywhere there is a great chance to encounter kangaroos and wallabies. A unique experience is also spotting platypuses in the wild. From my own experience I can say that this is a unique experience. Because of all the animals, driving after dark is also not allowed. It is literally swarming with animals on the road. The possibility of hitting one is too great.
5. MONA
You can take the ferry from Hobart to a unique experience: The most famous attraction of the capital is the Museum of Old and New Art, Australia's largest private museum. Besides the highs and lows of David Walsh's private collection (his own words), you will find temporary exhibitions, a winery, brewery and restaurants.
6. Extraordinary history
Port Arthur is a one of the best-preserved penal colonies in Australia. A visit gives a sober yet interesting insight into the lives of Britain's most notorious criminals. You will also encounter a piece of Dutch history in Tasmania with names such as Heemskirk and Zeehan and, of course, that of Abel Tasman.
If you are looking for a special experience, Tasmania is the place to go. The island is easy to travel by motorhome and offers so much natural beauty!