Australia : Maria Island Walk, Tasmania

Maria Island has had a colourful history, originally home to the Tyreddeme Aboriginal people who lived here for thousands of years prior to the arrival of 19th century European explorers. The island was subsequently used by sealers and whalers, then became a significant penal settlement before enjoying an industrial boom in the late 19th century.

Today it is a national park in its entirety, with no permanent human population. As such, the wildlife of the island has become increasingly abundant, and during your walk you should see Tasmanian kangaroos, wallabies, wombats and echidnas. The unique birdlife includes the endangered forty spotted pardalote, Cape Barren geese (the world’s second rarest breed), eagles and numerous sea bird species. The crystal clear waters include protected marine reserves home to fish, dolphins, seals and migrating whales.

The Maria Island Walk is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty. With a maximum of 8 walkers per group, and accompanied by experienced and knowledgeable guides, each day’s walking ends with a candlelit gourmet meal of fresh local produce, complemented by some of Tasmania’s finest wines.

Accommodation is included at two wilderness camps, situated amongst beautiful bush and only a stone's throw from the beach. With the sounds of the bush and a warm comfortable bed, a good night’s sleep is assured. On the last night you will enjoy an authentic colonial experience, staying in the beautifully restored and heritage-listed home of Diego Bernacchi.