The north west of Tasmania is perhaps one of our most diverse regions, home to the takayna/Tarkine, which contains Australia’s largest area of temperate rain forest as well as coastal and river regions that have been important to Tasmanian Aborigines for tens of thousands of years. The takayna/Tarkine contains a diverse range of plant, animal and bird life and offers many experiences for the budding naturalist and photographer alike.
The Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair National Park is also based within the boundaries of our north west region, home to the world famous Overland Track, a 65 kilometre, 6 day trek for well prepared and experienced bush walkers. For a taste of this life affirming experience, the Dove Lake track is a 2 hour walk found inside the national park and has stunning views of Cradle Mountain along the way. Nearby Ronnie Creek is also a great nearby short walk and sightings of local wildlife are almost guaranteed.
Further North, there are plenty of things to do in Stanley, a charming seaside town that is forever overlooked by the Nut, an ancient volcanic plug which can be accessed by foot or by the chair lift that takes you to the top, where you can wander the circumference in around around 2 hours.
Should you choose to follow the coast roads back towards Launceston and the east, you will discover quaint seaside villages, brimming with art galleries, artisan shops and local markets to explore and seasonal festivals, such as the Wynyard Tulip Festival, held every October. Also not to be missed is the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail, designed to help visitors discover the very best local produce that the region has to offer.
King Island is located off the far north west tip of Tasmania is accessed through flights run by Par Avion or Sharp Airlines and accommodation varies from camping to small hotels and self-contained housing. Two world famous golf courses exist on King Island, Cape Wickham and Ocean Dunes, both seaside courses design according to the Scottish links tradition.
Along with golf, King Island produces famous cheese and dairy products whilst also being extremely popular among surfers… when the weather’s right, of course!
Image credits: Jess Bonde (Arthur River), Emilie Ristevski (Overland Track, Barn Bluff), Table Cape Tulip Farm (Table Cape Tulip Festival)