Tasmania beyond the devil

You might remember the bad-tempered, whirling cartoon Tasmanian devil, but that is as far from Tasmania’s temperament as cabbage is from a giraffe. Indeed, this Australian state that seems to have been flung off to the south of the mainland, has a curiously sweet nickname, Tassie, and an interesting story to tell.

Did you know, for instance, that Tassie was the site of the establishment of the first environmental party in the world? Or, that nearly 45% of the state, which includes 334 smaller islands, is protected in reserves, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 17 national parks – and all wrapped up in a space about the size of West Virginia or Ireland?

This is a nature lover’s dream come true. And, for walkers…. Well, if you have a walker in your family, don’t expect him or her to rush home anytime soon once they’ve landed in Tassie.

Walking the remote reaches of this island rewards you with unbelievably dramatic landscapes and ridiculously stunning marine views. There is no better way to connect with this natural wonderland than with your own two feet.

Four of the eight multi-day “great walks of Australia” are here.  There are walks to suit all interests and abilities – walks to mountain peaks, through temperate rainforests and along truly pristine beaches. There are heritage and city walks, and walks to discover Tasmania’s food and wine.

Walking the Freycinet is one such walk. On the east coast, this four-day trek takes you through the pink granite Hazard Mountains and lush coastal forests, and some of the purest of white-sand beaches, including the world-renowned Wineglass Bay. You follow the footsteps of the Oyster Bay Tribe, hiking the same ancient bush tracks that have been used for 30,000 years.  Add a walking experience to your Tasmanian adventure such as our new Australia’s Ancient Landscapes.  Note: By staying at Saffire Freycinet, you are helping to support Save the Tasmanian Devil.