A little slice of Heaven right at our door steps

Throughout my 25 years in the travel industry I’ve been extremely fortunate to explore the world we live in.

When I was approached by the wonderful team at Maria Island Walk (Founder Ian Johnstone) to come join them on a four day walk of a lifetime, I jumped at the chance to (a) visit one of my favourite places in Australia, Tasmania and (b) explore this little slice of heaven tucked away 90 minutes from Hobart.

The Maria Island Walk, is one of Australia’s most awarded tourism experiences, it’s a personalised four-day guided walk on one of Tasmania’s most beautiful and historic islands. It’s located off the east coast of Tasmania and the National Park is renowned for its natural beauty and unspoilt tranquillity.

Now, I’m not a huge bush walker in fact, my idea of bush walking is a nice stroll maybe tackle a small mountain admiring the scenery then coming home to the comforts of a shower and bed.

So, you can imagine when I was told I would be walking an approx. 42km from one side of the island to the other with a small backpack, guide, no shower and bush cabins all in a space of 4 days I’m like “what am I crazy!”

We carried only light packs and walk at a gentle pace so there was plenty of time to observe the abundant Tasmanian birds and wildlife or explore the fascinating history that includes a convict settlement recently listed as an UNESCO World Heritage site.

We travelled in a small group of no more than 10 people with two wonderful guides who had so much knowledge and passion for what they do, leading us all the way. By day, we walked along pristine beaches and through ancient Blue Gum forests, and by night, relaxed and enjoy candlelit gourmet dining organised by our very own guides / chiefs… “they cook as well” utilising all Tasmanian fresh produce. I felt like I have walked into a Michelin star restaurant.

It was 5 star all the way!

The accommodation is not what you would expect either, both wilderness camps we stayed in for the two nights, were extremely cosy wooden bush cabins. AND, to finish off for the last night we were treated to the beautifully restored Bernacchi House at Darlington, a rare, heritage listed house dating back to 1880 and YES, finally a shower!!

The four-day guided walk caters for different abilities and is a great option for both first timers (like myself) and experienced bush-walkers. The trips are highly personalised and I met some lovely people along my journey,

I left feeling refreshed, recharged and ready to conquer the world.