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.

Riders worldwide are making tracks to Tasmania. Blue Derby is a network of trails that surround the town of Derby. Once the centre of a tin mining boom, these days it’s the mountain bikers carving up the dirt. Cruise to the top of the hill. Tear downhill as fast as you can. Repeat.

Laxtrapporna marks the site of the 1767 sawmill, Nya Mölla. Now, a waterfall here powers a hydroelectric plant, offering a serene setting for picnics and summer swims in the fish ladder. With convenient parking and bike access right up to the waterfall, it's an ideal starting point for Munka Möllestig, a scenic trail along the river.