Plenty of hidden gems await exploration

AS Tasmanians make the most of holidaying at home, a new initiative is encouraging the exploration of an often overlooked area of the state.

A new visitor map launched by the Tasman Business and Tourism Association highlights all the top natural and historical sites throughout the stunning Tasman Peninsula.

Impression Bay Distillery head distiller and association committee member Michael Moore said it was hoped the new map would help encourage more tourists to explore the peninsula and its hidden gems.

“There’s just so much to see that it’s well and truly worthwhile for someone to at least spend an afternoon looking around, but even better still if they stay for a night or two — there’s enough to keep people interested,” he said.

“The map is part of a push for tourists to head out and do something more than visit Port Arthur and head home again.”

With the impacts of COVID-19, Mr Moore said it was “vitally important” for Tasmanians to support local businesses.

“I’ve managed to keep my head above water, but many accommodation businesses and cafes have been affected, and some of them profoundly,” he said.

This comes as Port Arthur reopened its doors on Friday after closing due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Tour guide Andrew Smith said there was a feeling of excitement among staff to be back on site.

“It’s low visitor numbers right now, but we expect it’ll pop up pretty quickly.

“It gives us time to reorientate and get familiar again,” he said.

Visitors were loving having the site mostly to themselves, he said.

“It’s groups of under 10 at the moment, so it’s great for a bit more intimacy on the tours, and you can address a few more personalised questions and delve into some specialised subjects,” he said.

He said the downtime had also allowed for important restoration work to be undertaken.

“It’s probably the quietest it’s been here since 1829 — before they opened up the prison.”

Natalie Walker and Lucy McGeorge-Oanta were among the first visitors to the site on Friday.

“My husband is actually in the UK, he went in February. He’s from the UK and I’m trying to get a visa to get over there,” Mrs McGeorgeOanta said.

“So we’re having a few days down here to have a look at a few things,” Ms Walker said.

“It’s pretty quiet, which is nice. It’s good to understand and appreciate the history.”

She said alongside visiting Port Arthur, they also took in the sights at Devils Kitchen, the Tasman Arch and the Tessellated Pavement.