Maria Island Walk Recognised Among the World’s Best by Time Out
The Maria Island Walk, part of the Great Walks of Australia collection, has been officially named by Time Out as one of the 20 best hikes in the world. This four-day guided walk off Tasmania’s east coast blends pristine wilderness, rich history, and intimate luxury — creating an unforgettable Australian walking holiday.
Where Nature and History Unite
Maria Island is a short boat ride from Tasmania’s east coast, yet feels a world away. Known as “Tasmania’s Noah’s Ark,” the island is a sanctuary for wildlife including wombats, wallabies, Cape Barren geese, and rare bird species. The surrounding waters are home to dolphins, seals, and migrating whales.
Along the trail, walkers traverse 25–43 kilometres through diverse landscapes:
- White sand beaches lapped by turquoise waters
- Fossil-rich cliffs dating back millions of years
- Lush eucalypt forests alive with birdsong
- Rolling grasslands dotted with native animals
The walk also explores the island’s cultural history — from its deep First Nations heritage to its UNESCO World Heritage-listed convict-era settlement at Darlington.
Guided Comfort in the Wilderness
Over four days, expert guides lead small groups through ever-changing terrain. By day, walkers enjoy spectacular scenery and wildlife encounters; by night, they retreat to award-winning wilderness camps with comfortable beds, hot showers, and candlelit gourmet dinners prepared from fresh Tasmanian produce. The final night is spent in a beautifully restored heritage home, steeped in history.
Why Time Out Chose the Maria Island Walk
In May 2025, Time Out placed the Maria Island Walk alongside some of the world’s most iconic hiking trails, such as Spain’s Camino de Santiago and France’s Tour du Mont Blanc. The editors praised its unique combination of accessibility, biodiversity, and storytelling, making it a truly world-class walking experience.
Plan Your Adventure
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply looking for an immersive nature-based holiday in Australia, the Maria Island Walk offers the perfect balance of physical challenge and personal connection. It’s more than a walk — it’s a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to experience one of the world’s best hikes? Learn more and book your Maria Island Walk here.
Tasmania’s Bay of Fires Best Australian Beach 2025 title has been officially awarded, marking the first time a Tasmanian beach has taken out the top spot in Tourism Australia’s annual list.
Stretching across 10 kilometres of Tasmania’s northeast coast, the Bay of Fires Best Australian Beach 2025 is renowned for pristine turquoise waters, long white-sand beaches, and striking orange-lichen covered granite boulders. Backed by tranquil lagoons and lush coastal vegetation, it’s a destination that blends breathtaking natural beauty with rich cultural heritage.
This year’s recognition was announced by Australia’s beach ambassador, Brad Farmer AM, who visited and assessed over 12,000 beaches across the country using his world-first 130-point selection criteria. Farmer described the Bay of Fires as a “fusion of environmental gifts”, noting not just the scenery, but the abundance of local seafood, fresh produce, and the warm Tasmanian welcome.
“Australia is globally renowned among international travellers for our beaches, so to have Tasmania on the top of this list is a huge win,” said Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff. “It’s another reminder for visitors to explore our unique and diverse regions.”
A Cultural and Natural Treasure
The Bay of Fires holds deep cultural significance for the palawa people, the Traditional Custodians of this Country. Guests walking in the area can connect with this heritage through stories, landscapes, and the region’s enduring cultural history.
Why Walkers Love the Bay of Fires Best Australian Beach 2025
For Great Walks of Australia guests, the Bay of Fires offers a rare combination of:
- Spectacular landscapes – from crystal-clear seas to dramatic rock formations.
- Wildlife encounters – seabirds, wallabies, and dolphins often spotted along the shore.
- Exquisite local food and wine – celebrating Tasmania’s paddock-to-plate culture.
- Luxury in nature – with eco-luxe lodge stays and knowledgeable local guides.
Whether it’s a guided coastal hike, a sunrise beach walk, or a swim in the invigorating cool waters, the Bay of Fires delivers an unforgettable Australian walking experience.
Plan Your Bay of Fires Signature Walk
Visitors can experience the Bay of Fires Best Australian Beach 2025 on the Bay of Fires Signature Walk Walk — a five day guided journey combining breathtaking scenery, cultural insights, and luxury lodge stays. Discover why the Bay of Fires Best Australian Beach 2025 is now officially number one — and experience it on foot.