Exploring Tasmania: five days, 300 kilometres and numerous unforgettable experiences.
DAY ONE: Hobart to Orford – 78 kilometres
Kickstart your holiday by spending the day on beautiful Maria Island. Beginning in Hobart, take a leisurely hour’s drive down the Tasman Highway to Triabunna. From here, board the ferry that will take you on the 30-minute ride to Maria Island. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll soon realise that this island is not only picturesque, but also very peaceful, with no cars or shops ton detract from its natural wonder.
DAY TWO: Orford to Swansea – 60 kilometres
The seaside town of Orford is situated at the mouth of the Prosser River, where it runs into the sea to create the scenic inlet known as Prosser Bay. These protected waters make it the perfect destination for a number of aquatic adventures, including swimming, diving or just relaxing and lounging around by the water.
Once you’re ready to continue your journey, it is a 1.5-hour drive north to Swansea along the coast. Sitting on a gorgeous stretch of coastline, Swansea is not only a beachside town but also one of Tasmania’s oldest with an abundant history. Pop into the visitor centre, where you’ll find the East Coast Heritage Museum, or pick up a Heritage Walk booklet that will take you on a self-guided tour through the town.
DAY THREE: Swansea to Freycinet National Park – 58 kilometres
A 45-minute drive along the Tasman Highway will lead you to the spectacular pink granite mountains and white sandy beaches of Freycinet National Park.
Here, you’ll also find the iconic Wineglass Bay, home to one of Tasmania’s most photographed views, so make sure to pack your camera. The perfectly curved beach can be observed from the Wineglass Bay lookout, which is a bit of an uphill trek, but worth the view once you get there.
DAY FOUR: Freycinet National Park to St Helens – 117 kilometres
Start your fourth day by visiting some of Tasmania’s unique creatures at East Coast Natureworld, a 40-minute drive north on the Tasman Highway in Bicheno. This attraction is made up of 150 acres of natural parklands and lagoons. Here, you’ll be able to meet a variety of birds, reptiles and furry friends; but of course, it wouldn’t be a visit without paying a visit to see the iconic Tasmanian devil.
DAY FIVE: St Helens to Bay of Fires – 29 kilometres
A short 20-minute drive north will find you in the resort town of Binalong Bay, the gateway to the Bay of Fires. This famous area has been attracting visitors for years, luring them in with its pristine waters, white sand and huge granite boulders covered in bright orange lichen. It’s no surprise that the area is known for its diving and snorkelling, what with the abundant marine life calling these waters home.
Whatever your interests, the east coast of Tasmania will undoubtedly provide unforgettable memories for all who visit.
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