Tasmania is the best state in Australia for adventurous river sports, largely because the mountainous terrain combines with heavy rainfall to guarantee rugged whitewater rivers almost year-round. The journey along the Franklin River is the most famous such trip, not only because of the dramatic conservation battle which prevented the river being dammed for hydro-electricity, but also because, whether it’s done in a kayak or on a raft, it offers an unrivalled experience of the Tasmanian wilderness. Although there have been fatalities, professional rafting companies make the expedition a relatively safe undertaking for anyone who is fit and adventurous. Other worthwhile rivers include the Picton, which is presents few difficulties, the Mersey, and the North and South Esk, with the latter running through Launceston’s dramatic Cataract Gorge.