Unspoiled wilderness - Almost a quarter of Tasmania is protected wilderness--jagged mountain peaks, giant tree ferns, enormous trees, some 400 years old, towering over moss, rushing brooks, lakes and secluded beaches.
Over the course of the almost 15,000 years it has been isolated from the Australian mainland, plants and animals have evolved here that can be found nowhere else on earth. The island, 300 km from the south coast of the continent, on the way to Antarctica, is the smallest and coolest state in Australia. Most of the 400,000 people here live either in Hobart in the South, or Launceston in the North. Between the two is nothing but green--pure nature or farmland. Tasmania is a dream destination for many hikers and bikers, but for gourmets as well. They traverse the island to sample local dairy products, fruity wines, fresh vegetables, crisp fruits, and tasty salmon and lobster. The best way to see Tasmania is to rent a car and drive. You should set aside ten to 15 days for this. The website http://www.discovertasmania.com.au offers information and reservations for the entire state.
