Flinder’s Island, the largest of the Furneaux group of islands located to the north east of Tasmania, is home to the Strzelecki National Park, Killiecrankie Diamonds and wilderness experiences that include deserted beaches, more than 100 species of bird life, rocky crags and pink granite cliffs.
Getting to the island is the start of your Bass Strait adventure and you will need to board a small plane from either Melbourne, Launceston or charter a flight from Hobart. Alternatively, there is a weekly freight barge from Bridport in the north east of the state if you prefer to travel by water.
There are two hire car companies on the island and we fully recommend that you self-drive, as you’ll want to explore the many secluded beaches, breathtaking lookouts and the walking tracks that you’ll find in the Strzelecki National Park. If driving, slow down, wave when passing locals and enjoy what the island lifestyle offers. Most importantly watch out for wildlife between dusk and dawn – there are more animals than there are humans in this part of the world!
On the island, spend a day in the Strzelecki National Park and admire the grandness and beauty in untouched wilderness. For the best views, experienced walkers can take on the Strzelecki Peaks walking track, a full day walk to the highest point on the island where you’ll be blown away, probably literally and definitely figuratively, by the views at the top. For less experienced walkers, the walk from Trousers Point along the secluded coast line is equally impressive and a must do.
In the evening, indulge in fresh crayfish, locally grown organic vegetables and some of the world’s finest beef and lamb. Flinders Island farmers are committed to creating food the slow way – and we can guarantee it tastes better that way!
Flinders Island offers around eight camp sites, some exceptionally romantic and all of them isolated and quiet. Local bed and breakfasts, luxurious self-contained accommodation, no fuss farm stays and small hotels make up the rest of the accommodation options on the island.
Before you depart this slice of paradise, be sure to check out the Furneaux Museum at Emita, which details the island’s Aboriginal and European histories whilst providing an insight into the way the island is as you will find it today.
Image credits: Dietmar Kahles (Acsending Mt Strzelecki & Rainbow at Trousers Point), Luke Tscharke (Aerial of coastline near Killiekrankie)