History, Heritage & Wildlife

OVERVIEW

Return to Tasmania’s colorful past in historic Richmond, a village largely built by convict labor, then get immersed in colorful nature at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. A brief, scenic drive into the countryside brings you across Australia’s oldest bridge and into the area where Tasmania was first settled. You’ll see the spire of St. John’s Church from Richmond Bridge, just one of the lingering reminders of the devout 19th-century settlers who first brought Christianity to this island. Dating from 1824, well-preserved Richmond village still boasts fine Georgian buildings made of native sandstone, the handiwork of conscripted convict labor. These days, visitors are free to roam the galleries, shops, and cafés now housed in those same venerable structures at will. You, too, will have time to explore at leisure. Don’t forget to bring your favorite camera; this place is outstandingly photogenic. So are the residents of your next stop, Bonorong Sanctuary, where you’ll be invited to get up close to some of the country’s most legendary wildlife. Top on the list is the endangered Tasmanian devil, but wombats, koalas and free-roaming kangaroos round out the roster nicely. Knowledgeable park guides can provide fascinating background on this fascinating and often downright bizarre menagerie.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Travel by coach into the countryside around Hobart, a region rich in history, flora and fauna.
• Cross a graceful stone bridge built in 1823 to visit one of Tasmania’s earliest-settled villages.
• Browse the cafes, shops and galleries of Richmond, housed in Georgian sandstone buildings dating back to the convict era.
• Enter a world of free-roaming ‘roos, plump wombats and rare Tasmanian devils at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Get up close to a bettong and other native animals unique to Australia.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.