ONCE a far-flung colonial outpost, the Australian island of Tasmania is famous for its stunning natural settings.

Mr Cameron Hindrum, 37, director of the Tasmanian Poetry Festival, is a native of the island. When he was in his 20s, he spent a couple of years exploring various parts of the world, 'but I just couldn't stop thinking of Tasmania and decided to head back here', he says.

Here are some of his tips to make the most of your visit to Tasmania:

1. Getting there

WALK ON THE WILD SIDE: Painted Cliffs, a 90-minute drive from Hobart, and Cradle Mountain National Park are on Tasmanian Poetry Festival director Cameron Hindrum's must-see list.

Tasmania is a little over an hour's flight from Melbourne, the nearest mainland city. A number of airlines such as Jetstar, Tiger Airways and Qantas fly to Tasmania. There are direct flights from Brisbane, Sydney and Adelaide as well. But Mr Hindrum suggests cruising on the Spirit of Australia, which sets sail from Melbourne to Devonport in Tasmania every evening.

2. Rent a car

'The best way to explore the picture postcard-like landscapes and the wilderness in Tasmania, for example, the Painted Cliffs, is by driving,' he says. Remember to fill up your tank if you are travelling long distances off the main routes or if you plan to start driving some time in the evening as most petrol stations close by 6pm.

3. History and culture

From the 10,000-year-old stone carvings at Tiagarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre to the pock-marked sandstone walls of convict-built buildings of Port Arthur Historic Site, there are several interesting historical and cultural sites in Tasmania.

You can also visit Launceston's Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery or the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery in Hobart, he says. Admission to most public galleries and museums is free.

4. Head to Cradle Mountain National Park

Mr Hindrum suggests trying the Enchanted Walk which goes along cascading rivers to dense, old-growth rainforest in about 20 minutes.

Depending on your level of fitness, you can even attempt getting to the summit of Cradle Mountain, which offers breathtaking views.

If you are not fit enough for that, try the Lake Dove Circuit, a 6km track ranked as one of Tasmania's premier walks.

It will take you around Dove Lake and beneath the towering spires of Cradle Mountain.

5. Vineyard tour

'Try the Tamar Valley wine route where you can eat among the vines in the wine regions. Some of these places serve tasting platters with wines, others have a la carte menus but, more importantly, the locations themselves are worth a visit,' says Mr Hindrum.

While there, also head to the Boag Centre For Beer Lovers where you get to tour the brewery and learn more about Tasmania's famous James Boag's Premium Lager.

6. Cheese tour

If you have ever wondered how brie is made or what to look for in a blue cheese, then a cheese tour is just the thing for you.

'Apart from the selection and types, you also get to see the cheese-making process through big glass windows. It is quite fun to watch the process and sample the various types of cheese after that,' Mr Hindrum says. Most places, such as the Ashgrove Farm Cheese, offer free tasting and counter sales as well.

7. Cadbury's Chocolate Factory

'If you have a sweet tooth, make time for a tour of the Cadbury's Chocolate Factory that has been operational in Hobart since 1921,' he suggests. You can buy chocolates at a discount here.

8. Food

Mr Hindrum suggests visiting Salamanca Market in Hobart and trying the local produce. It offers special herb vinegars, mustards, bush honeys and organic goods. When you are driving around Tasmania, make sure you stop at the various delicatessens to try locally produced condiments, smoked salmon, fresh salads and some great cheese.

9. Drinks

Don't leave without a drink at the Royal Oak in Launceston. 'It has good live music which goes perfectly with James Boag's Premium Lager,' he says.

This article was first published in Life!, The Straits Times on June 10, 2008.