Take in the breathtaking scenery of the Tarkine Wilderness and Arthur River

If you love the idea of being in unspoiled wilderness but don't have the time or inclination to risk your life trekking deep into a rainforest, then Arthur River is just what you're looking for. There is just enough to keep you feeling like you're still in touch with civilization, but not so much that you will feel like you're still being pampered by luxury. If you want to sit back and relax in the sun, don't go to Arthur River. Its location on the far northwest tip of Tasmania makes it take the full fury of the Roaring Forties. If you want a thrilling wilderness experience, though, then you will love it.

Launceston Tasmania is the jumping off point for your adventure in Arthur River. It is 181 miles (292 km) northwest of Tasmania's second largest city. While the drive from Launceston to Arthur River on the Western Explorer route is spectacularly scenic and on a good day can take less than 4 hours, the road is not all unsealed and in places leaves you exposed to the full brunt of the weather. This may put some travelers off, but is one of the main attractions for others. There are plenty of those good days, but be prepared for anything and take a full complement of wet weather gear and warm clothes with you.

Once you arrive in Arthur River, you will find you are in a settlement rather than a town. The most recent census put the total population of the settlement at 121, so don't expect to find much of anything except what you came to see: unspoiled wilderness. You will find that in abundance.

Brian Inder is a well-known Tasmanian and was a pioneer in promoting tourism in Tasmania. When he visited Arthur River and the northwest coast, he was inspired to write a poem. In the poem, he eloquently writes: Mute witness for the aeons/That today I came and stood/At the edge of the world. His poem can be seen on a plaque at the mouth of Arthur River and closing words, "the edge of the world" have been echoed by tourists to the area ever since.

Why does Arthur River inspire poetry? The magnificent Tarkine Wilderness is one of its attractions. Tasmania is famous for its National Parks and wilderness areas and in fact, they comprise nearly 50% of its land mass. The Tarkine Wilderness is the largest unprotected wilderness in the state. Tasmanians are fiercely protective of their wilderness areas and it is now being considered as being declared a National Park. So as to legally qualify as a wilderness park, it must be demonstrated that it has suffered little or no damage by humans and its ecosystem has to be mainly unspoiled. There are many areas found in Tarkine Wilderness that fulfill that requirement.

Don't let the Roaring Forties, the small population of Arthur River or the vast wilderness surrounding it put you off. The primary industry in the little settlement is tourism. You will discover well-maintained campgrounds there and in fact can find a comfortable Arthur River accommodation if you prefer the comforts of home. It is possible to even explore the Arthur River in safety and comfort on an Arthur River Cruiise. You won't find the same level of luxury that you will find in our Launceston accommodation, but you will find a magical wilderness experience that you will never forget.Take in the breathtaking scenery of the Tarkine Wilderness and Arthur River



Take a few days off, find Arthur River accommodation, things to do and other travel related information about the area on bookitnow.com.au. Or visit our Australia blog for more Australian holiday ideas.