Visit Maria Island National Park, Australia

Maria Island National Park offers the most amazing diversity of geography, flora and fauna experiences to be found anywhere in Tasmania.

There are pristine white sand beaches, bordered by granite boulders covered in startling red lichen, and dramatic mountains, with dense forests that vary from tall eucalyptus to alpine scrub as the altitude changes.

There is a strong colonial history, with buildings from the 19th century varying from penal settlements to the ghost town of Darlington, that was once home to hundreds. Aboriginal campsites can still be found on the shoreline and fossil cliffs reveal secrets of life from millions of years past.

Wildlife

Arguably the highlight, though, is the stunning amount of native wildlife, including wallabies, wombats, cockatoos and penguins, which can all be found within easy walking distance of the shores. The island can be visited for day trips by ferry or enjoyed at length on a guided three-day walk.