In some cities you can take an elevator to the top of one of the tallest buildings in the world and be gobsmacked by extraordinary views. Hobart doesn’t need to do skyscrapers. At 1270 metres kunanyi / Mt Wellington is more than twice the height of the world’s tallest building.

Cradle Mountain, at the northern end of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, safeguards part of the Tasmanian World Heritage Wilderness Area. The surrounding landscape is diverse and includes grassland, rainforest and ancient plants. The park also provides a rich habitat for wildlife including Tasmanian devils, quolls, platypus, echidna and several bird species. Embark on the Dove Lake Circuit track that hugs the lake shoreline for a pleasant, relatively flat six-kilometre walk beneath the towering spires of Cradle Mountain.

Put your hiking shoes on and plan a day trip up the magnificent Piton de Fournaise volcano - one of the most active peaks in the world. Joining a guided tour is highly recommended, not to mention wearing appropriate clothing, as temperatures tend to fall dramatically the higher up you go.