Off-shore wildlife reserve Maria Island is recognised for its convict era buildings and varied wildlife, from Cape Barren geese and Forester kangaroos, to a resident population of Tasmanian devils.
Lying just off the East coast, the island has no motor vehicles or shops; its only distractions are those of the natural world, with wide bays, rough-hewn cliffs, mountains and stunning views. Dartington Probation Station has changed little since the convict era and was recently World Heritage listed as part of the eleven Australian Convict Sites. The surrounding waters include a marine nature reserve, were the clear visibility makes for great diving or snorkeling, and the rich marine life attracts seals and whales.
A small number of healthy Tasmanian devils was recently translocated to the safe haven of the island as part of a breeding programme to help the population recover from an epidemic of disease that decimated them.
A tour of the island, on foot or by bicycle, reveals evidence plentiful fauna, present and past – a visit to the former quarry at the Fossil Cliffs gives an intriguing look at the many creatures captured as fossils in the limestone. Walk to the hop kilns, the convict reservoir or the spectacular Painted Cliffs, shaped by mineral rich rain and wind, or take a longer walk to the top of Bishop or Clerk peaks, keeping an eye open for Bennett’s wallaby, pademelons and endemics such as the green rosella, dusky robin and Tasmanian scrubwren. As you wander around, you cannot miss the large population of Cape Barren geese grazing in pairs, and the charismatic wombats.
To incorporate Maria Island National Park in your holiday itinerary contact our team who can tailor a trip to your exact requirements.
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