For years, Australia has been a magnet for Britons heading abroad, with many back in the UK either having family or friends settled on the island.
More than half a million head there every year, yet most stick to the well-trodden path.
Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide are the heavy hitters when it comes to settling down, though it is the first two that most visit for holidays.
There is, however, an altogether quirkier, wilder, and quieter slice of paradise just off the coast of the mainland in the form of Tasmania.
Tasmania, which sits off the southern coast of the mainland, receives approximately 1.3 million visitors per year.
Most of these come from Victoria, the closest state, with Melbourne, its capital, around 250km (155 miles) north across the Bass Strait.
Of the 1.3 million, just 30,000 British tourists reach Tasmania – just 5% of the total number of Brits who visit Oz every year.
An island state, Tasmania is quickly emerging as a must-visit destination for travellers, especially those seeking natural wonders, rich history, and a world-class gastronomic scene.
However, while welcoming holidaymakers, this destination is trying to get tourists to visit it outside of peak season too, and has now launched for four years in a row the “Off Season” campaign aiming to attract visitors during the traditionally quieter travel period between May and August.
Known for its diverse and rugged landscapes, Tasmania offers visitors a chance to rugged peaks of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, hike through the ancient rainforests of the Tarkine, or marvel at the dramatic coastal cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula.
Meanwhile, adventure seekers can tackle the Overland Track, a multi-day trek through pristine wilderness, or kayak along the serene waters of Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot unique species like the Tasmanian devil or embark on a Bruny Island eco-cruise to observe seals, dolphins, and seabirds in their natural habitat.
If ambling around the great outdoors is not your thing, history lovers can opt to stay urban, stopping off at Port Arthur Historic Site which provides a deep dive into Australia’s convict past, while MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) in Hobart offers an avant-garde cultural experience that attracts art lovers from around the world.
Salamanca Market, held every Saturday in Hobart, is a vibrant hub where visitors can sample local produce, artisan goods, and fresh seafood.
Then there’s the food scene at large. In 2021, Launceston was granted status as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. The island is renowned for its premium oysters, cheeses, and cool-climate wines. Foodies can indulge in farm-to-table dining experiences, tour vineyards in the Tamar Valley, or enjoy whisky tastings at distilleries like Lark and Hellyers Road.