Solo Exploration of Tasmania's Pristine Wilderness

High Above the Forest Floor

Today was all about embracing my inner adventurer and immersing myself in the natural beauty of Tasmania. I ventured into Hollybank Forest, a place that promised both adrenaline-pumping activities and serene woodland walks. It was a day filled with laughter, a little bit of fear, and a whole lot of appreciation for this stunning corner of the world.


Explore Hollybank Forest, a stunning Tasmanian nature preserve offering serene trails, thrilling adventures, and a rich biodiversity for all to enjoy.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Elements Cafe. I needed to fuel up for the physical challenges ahead. The cafe was conveniently located, and I grabbed a quick bite and coffee. While the reviews I read mentioned mixed experiences, I found it to be perfectly adequate for a pre-adventure meal. I enjoyed the convenience of the location as well as its accessibility features.


Discover the warm charm of Elements Cafe in Cradle Mountain, where delicious meals meet breathtaking views amidst Tasmania's natural beauty.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I headed into Hollybank Forest. The crisp air and the towering trees immediately enveloped me, creating a sense of tranquility that was quickly replaced by excitement as I approached Treetops Adventure Hollybank. I chose to experience the Tree Ropes course, eager to test my agility and courage high above the forest floor. Having grown up in Norway, surrounded by forests, I always feel a sense of homecoming when I'm among tall trees.


Explore the treetops and experience thrilling zip lines at Treetops Adventure Hollybank in Tasmania, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty.

Strapped into a harness and given a thorough safety briefing, I felt a mix of nerves and excitement. As I started on the lower levels, navigating wobbly bridges and rope ladders, I found myself laughing at my initial apprehension. It was surprisingly challenging, requiring both physical strength and mental focus. I imagined Astrid would have loved the yellow course, designed for younger children, while Maximilian would have probably breezed through the red course, the most difficult one. I, however, was content with the green and blue courses, which offered a perfect balance of challenge and fun.

The forest is a place of wonder, a playground for the adventurous, and a sanctuary for the soul.

There was a moment, suspended high between two trees, when I paused to take in the view. The forest stretched out before me, a sea of green broken only by the occasional glimpse of the Pipers River. It was breathtaking. I felt a profound sense of connection to nature, a reminder of why I embarked on this solo journey in the first place. It was a welcome change from my translation work in Munich.

After conquering the Tree Ropes course, I decided to explore the forest floor. I embarked on the Hollybank Forest Walk, a leisurely 3.5km circuit that wound through native bush and plantation forests. The walk was peaceful, the only sounds the rustling of leaves and the occasional birdsong. I admired the unique ash trees, remnants of a bygone era when they were planted for cricket bats and tennis racquets. I thought of my father, who loved cricket, and wished he could have been here to see these trees.

As the afternoon drew to a close, I made my way to Tasmania & Beyond, a shop located at Hobart International Airport. I wanted to find a small souvenir to remind me of my time in Hollybank Forest. The shop was filled with locally crafted art, gourmet food products, and other Tasmanian treasures. I finally settled on a small wooden carving of a Tasmanian devil, a perfect memento of my wilderness adventure.


Discover authentic Tasmanian souvenirs and Australian goods at Tasmania & Beyond, the ultimate shopping destination at Hobart International Airport.

For dinner, I decided to treat myself to a meal at Tavern Bar & Bistro. The bistro offered a cozy atmosphere, complete with a rustic timber interior and a roaring fireplace. I opted for one of their wood-fired pizzas, and it was a perfect way to end a day of physical activity. I'd read that the restaurant offers vegan options as well, which is something I will keep in mind.


Discover exquisite local cuisine at Tavern Bar & Bistro in Cradle Mountain – where nature meets flavor in Tasmania's breathtaking wilderness.

Before heading back to my campsite, I took a moment to reflect on the day. Hollybank Forest had exceeded my expectations, offering a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. It was a place where I could challenge myself physically, connect with nature, and appreciate the simple beauty of the Tasmanian wilderness.

Tomorrow, I'm heading to Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park and Nelson Falls. I'm looking forward to more hiking and exploring another stunning part of Tasmania. I'm also planning to check out Evolve Spirits Bar. Good night from Tasmania!

My day in Hollybank Forest was a reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures are found in the most unexpected places. It was a day of conquering fears, embracing nature, and appreciating the simple joys of life. And as I drifted off to sleep under the Tasmanian stars, I couldn't help but smile, already anticipating the adventures that tomorrow would bring.

I am so grateful for this opportunity to explore Tasmania on my own, a chance to reconnect with nature and enjoy some solitude. I am so glad I decided to come here. I am looking forward to what tomorrow brings.