Tasmania, Oz
Tasmania is commonly known as the jewel of Australia. It is a separate island and state off the coast south of Melbourne and as such is less than an hour flight from Melbourne. From the plane the island looked quite yellow but vegetated as rain has been rare in the south this summer.
Our trip was a comic one. From the start this became apparent when we collected our camper van. The van itself was the size of a four person MPV. This would be fine except we also had to sleep in it and “we” are three grown men. Therefore to say it was cramped would be quite the understatement. However, we made it home for five nights and planned to travel around the north western tip of Tasmania.
Our first stop was Launceston (pronounced Laun-ces-ton – much to my difficulty). A small town and yet the second largest on the island set in fjord like surroundings:
Even thought the town was not much to shout about, it had stunning scenery and great eateries. In fact food and culinary delights is one of the topics on which Tasmania is best known – much to my understanding from our final night meal which was the most expensive and delicious meal I have ever had in my life.
Our road trip covered many kilometres not just by vehicle but by foot as well. Walking or tramping is available wherever you are and the island provides some fantastic natural landscapes:
Not just over ground either. The cave network south west of the Cradle Mountain area was stunning:
All in all a great trip. Fine food, fine walks and a miniature camper van is the best mix!