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3 TO TRY Independent book stores

Devonport Bookshop

Devonport locals Tim and Annie Gott have run this local bookstore since 1995. Located on the pedestrian-only Rooke Street Mall, its shelves are lined with the latest releases and classics.

Luxury island escape

PETRARCH’S BOOKSHOP

Named after the Italian poet Petrarca, this family-owned-andoperated bookshop in Launceston stocks a wide range of book categories and regularly hosts author readings and reader events.

Hobart Bookshop

Swing by this vibrant store in Salamanca Square for a curated selection of previously loved books as well as an entire section that specialises in Tasmanian fiction and non-fiction.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Great Southern Ocean, King Island’s Shore House (formerly Porky Beach Retreat) is a stylish sanctuary, refreshed and refurbished in 2022. Available as an exclusive hire for up to eight people, it’s remote enough to provide a safe haven for guests, though still allow access to the island’s many offerings. For more, visit shorehousekingisland.com.au

In Full Flight

On an 8ha property overlooking Kettering you’ll find Raptor Refuge: home to three of the largest raptor flight aviaries in the southern hemisphere, purposebuilt to flight-train birds recovering from injury. Book a tour to get up close to the birds, or for something extra special,

Relax and unwind Scandinavian-style at the wood-fired Floating Sauna on Lake Derby. Just the thing for weary cyclists after a long day on the trails, indulge in the soothing heat of the sauna before diving into the lake’s icy water. Repeat as needed. For more, visit floatingsauna.com.au

As the gateway to Tasmania’s oldest national park – Freycinet National Park – Coles Bay is as much about nature as a night’s nurture, writes Andrew Bain. One of the state’s favourite holiday towns, it’s somehow retained a village-like atmosphere in sight of some of the east coast’s most spectacular coastal scenery.