Aerial stock photography of Central Highlands, Tasmania

The Central Highlands region of Tasmania covers an area of 7,976.4 km and is located nearly exactly within the centre of Tasmania. This region covers the most mountainous area of this state and the midlands are actually well-known for its agricultural and heritage values. The central highlands, however, are best known for its naturally beautiful isolated wilderness value. Central Highlands only boasts a small population of 2,337, which is mostly spread out through small country towns. This area, being quite small and decentralized, has a large number of these smaller towns, which include Bothwell, Bronte Park, Derwent Bridge, Ouse, Liawenee, Miena, and Tarraleah. Most of these towns were actually developed as support sites for those workers working on the numerous hydro-electric dams that are built along the Derwent River. The main towns of this region are considered to be Bothwell and Hamilton and the majority of the tourist industry is situated here. To the north of this region is Cradle Mountain, one of the most popular tourist destinations throughout the entirety of Tasmania. Cradle Mountain offers a secluded retreat, into the mountainous area of the central highlands, and its National Park is by far the most popular, however, it still retains its quiet beauty. This United Nations- recognized World Heritage Area covers over 161,000 ha as well as Lake St Clair, the deepest glacial lake in the Southern Hemisphere.