Great Eastern Drive - Triabunna to Maria Island, TAS

Take the morning Encounter Maria Island ferry from Triabunna to Maria Island, the island national park blessed with mountains, beaches, convict history, naturally painted cliffs and teeming wildlife. Note: the ferry runs on fewer days from May to August.

Wander the grounds of Darlington – mind the wombats – and explore the Darlington Convict Probation Station and scattered remains of the grand industrial empire envisaged by Diego Bernacchi in the late 19th century. There's bunkhouse-style accommodation inside the old penitentiary cells.

From Darlington, it's a 4.5km return walk to the Fossil Cliffs, where ancient ocean relics coalesce in a striking display.
Return on the ferry, grabbing fish and chips on Triabunna's wharf. Pick up a hot cuppa on the marina, then take a stroll to see convict-era buildings on the Discovery Walk. Visit the Tasmanian Seafarers Memorial before returning to your accommodation.