Maria Island’s Painted Cliffs are nothing short of a natural wonder: their swirling rust-coloured patterns seem as though they were drawn by a giant’s hand. As part of a moderate 4.5-kilometre return walking route, you’ll get maximum access – and impressive photo opportunities – by approaching the cliffs at low tide. Stay for sunset to see the sandstone look spectacularly ablaze – though you’ll need to sleep overnight in a bunk in the old penitentiary building. Worth it.  

^{Image credit: Tourism Tasmania/Popp Hackner Photography}