After what has been a big year for us all, many Tasmanians are looking forward to getting out and exploring their own backyards.

The smell of fresh wood shavings announces that David Rauenbusch is in the office. More precisely, he is in his tree-fringed studio in the southern Tasmanian hamlet of Cygnet, on the banks of the Huon River.

In the dark hours before dawn, Robin and Antonia O’Brien park their ute in a clearing in the World Heritage-listed wilderness near Strathgordon.

The puffer jacket has gone unworn for an entire week. Daylight hours are nearly double those of the night. The suggestion of a swim almost sounds like an invitation rather than a dare. It must be summer in Tasmania.

Our tour group shuffles into Yard 1 at the Cascades Female Factory Historic Site. We look out into the shell of a building to see a woman.

Our friends from West by North West share some of their favourite places to visit on a western Tassie road trip. There's no better way to start a local adventure than with local advice.

If virtual events are bringing you down, perhaps it's time to switch off your screen and tune in to the natural environment just beyond your doorstep.

When picturing Tasmania's east coast, iconic images spring to mind of beautiful Wineglass Bay, tranquil Maria Island and pristine Bay of Fires. With summer adventures fast approaching, let's take a moment to explore beyond the icons.

Looking for a good book to read? We've put together some featured books for you to take a look at.