Maria Island is a natural wildlife sanctuary and off-shore retreat with historic ruins, sweeping bays, dramatic cliffs and plenty of stories to tell. Located off Tasmania's east coast and accessible only by ferry, Maria Island contains the most intact example of a convict probation station in Australia. Spend the night and piece together Tasmania’s intriguing convict history, encounter very cute wildlife and explore Maria Island’s pristine beaches and ancient forests. The island offers excellent walking and cycling journeys and a limestone quarry at the Fossil Cliffs provides a fascinating close-up look at the many ancient creatures immortalised as fossils in the rocks. The Painted Cliffs at Hopground Beach are beautifully patterned sandstone shaped by the mineral-rich water and wind.

Mount Coolum National Park offers a hike up its impressive 208-metre peak. The hike is a breeze, taking you through a well-built path in just 30 minutes. Enjoy spectacular 360-degree views of the coast and hinterland. The park also protects rare plant communities and diverse wildlife habitats.

Scone is a charming village nestled in the picturesque Upper Hunter. The town is known as the horse capital of Australia with studs dotting the shire. It's the second-biggest horse-breeding town in the world. Horse enthusiasts will enjoy the Scone and Upper Hunter Horse Festival and the Emirates Park Scone Cup Carnival.