TASMANIA Tasmania is a special place, with unique natural features and a haunting sense of history. Wild rivers and deep forests, ancient cave shelters and intact convict built buildings, carnivorous pouched animals and native pines. The island uniqueness has much to do with ice and isolation. Tasmania's mountains and lakes were carved out during the Ice Ages and it was populated by a unique flora and fauna originating on the supercontinent of Gondwana. Isolation also played part in the island's choice as a convict stronghold. Tasmania's National Parks and Wildlife Service manages 16 national parks plus many other historic sites, caves, gorges, beaches, forests and marine life Tasmania's main features are the followings:

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is famous for it's superb mountains, lakes, forests and alpine moorlands, the park can be reached from the north of Cradle Valley or from the south of Lake St Clair. Both centres offer activities and facilities for short or long stays. more

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park on the west side is famous for it's rafting and also offers access to short walks to waterfalls and forests. From Strahan cruises travel the magnificent Gordon River. more

Freycinet National Park on the east is a coastal national park with granite peaks, sheltered blue waters and white sand beaches. more

Port Arthur Historic Site, once a British penal colony renowned for it's brutality, now provides a fascinating insight into the lives of its former inmates. Hear stories of hardened convicts and their tough living conditions, contrasting greatly with the 40 hectares of beautiful and tranquil gardens. more

There are guidede tours to see Tasmania from Hobart the capital, Launceston, and Devonport where the famous Spirit of Tasmania ferry arrives from Melbourne or Sydney. You need minimum a week to see Tasmania. Self drive options are also good way to discover the island, packages include flights or the ferry from the mainland, rent-a-car and accommodations. more

Copyright ©2005 Cairns Tour & Booking Centre