Maria Island is a natural wildlife sanctuary and off-shore retreat with historic ruins, sweeping bays, dramatic cliffs and plenty of stories to tell. Located off Tasmania's east coast and accessible only by ferry, Maria Island contains the most intact example of a convict probation station in Australia. Spend the night and piece together Tasmania’s intriguing convict history, encounter very cute wildlife and explore Maria Island’s pristine beaches and ancient forests. The island offers excellent walking and cycling journeys and a limestone quarry at the Fossil Cliffs provides a fascinating close-up look at the many ancient creatures immortalised as fossils in the rocks. The Painted Cliffs at Hopground Beach are beautifully patterned sandstone shaped by the mineral-rich water and wind.

Embark on a captivating journey through nature at Biotopia, an interactive museum nestled in the picturesque Vasaparken. Designed for individuals of all ages, this museum offers a unique exploration of Uppland's rich natural heritage. Its permanent exhibit unravels the origins of Uppland, while lifelike dioramas showcase hundreds of Swedish animals in their natural habitats.

At first, one man’s dream of creating his own castle had many people shaking their heads. But the simple postman Ferdinand Cheval struggled for 33 years, stone by stone, to create a castle, which is now world famous for its mythical scenes.