The rugged peaks of the south-west
The Southwest National Park is the largest in Tasmania. A region of wild rivers and jagged mountain ranges, rolling buttongrass plains and silent, green rainforests, the southwest encompasses some of the finest wilderness country in Australia, and indeed is among the last remaining temperate wilderness areas on Earth.
The drive along the Gordon River Road to Strathgordon is nothing short of spectacular. The greatest asset of this national park is the sheer scale of its wilderness regions. On a fine day, a drive along this road will be a memorable experience.
Some of the best fishing in Australia can be found in the Southwest National Park, while bushwalkers will find some of Australia's premier wilderness walks, including the South Coast and Port Davey Tracks. There is also a range of less demanding walks, including the popular Creep Crawly Trail.
Photographing the rugged
mountains of the southwest
The Bathurst Harbour - Port Davey region is an excellent example of a drowned river valley. Beneath the waters of Bathurst Channel lives a range of fascinating marine species, such as sea pens. These animals are usually found in much deeper water. In the Channel, the dark, tannin-stained water allows the sea pens to thrive in very shallow water.
The area is also the sole breeding grounds of the highly endangered orange-bellied parrot. Visitors to Melaleuca can see these beautifully coloured parrots at the Bird Hide.