From start to finish, our time at Ali and Paul's beautiful Tasmanian farm was among our most unique, special, and memorable exchanges. At five weeks it was also our longest!
Traveling as much as we do, it's important not only to experience someplace new, but also to truly feel at home in someone else's space, especially on longer exchanges. For us, feeling at home means, above all, a comfortable environment both indoors and outside and a well-stocked kitchen with quality utensils and appliances. We couldn't have asked for better at Paul and Ali's house! The house is well organized with ample kitchen and household supplies, and being there in the fall we primarily used the wood stove for heat, with plenty of firewood available.
Five weeks gave us time to relax at home as well as to explore Tasmania. We picked blackberries on their property, hiked a number of tracks throughout their region, enjoyed local markets, visited wineries and cider houses, and ventured into the big-tree forests of Tasmania's southwestern mountains. We thoroughly enjoyed their two cows and chooks, and all the wild birds and unique wildlife at home on their property.
Overnight road trips included the Tamar Valley in the north of the island for its wine culture and much of the eastern coast, including spectacular Freycinet National Park and Bruny Island.
The 20-minute drive to Huonville (largest town in the region) is through rolling hills and scenic farm country along one of Tasmania's largest rivers, with some of the island's highest mountains always in view. Cygnet, Franklin and Geevestown are other charming towns in the area. The region is famous for its apples (harvested while we were there), and local grocery stores, butchers and outdoor markets offer lots of great produce.
We were thrilled with our time in Tasmania, and with our choice of Ali and Paul's farm as a base from which to explore the island. Communication with them was always timely, helpful, and enjoyable. They have our highest recommendation, and we look forward to hosting them in Estepona soon!