Discover Tasmania

Welcome to Hobart, capital of Tasmania. This charming city offers a distinct blend of heritage, scenery and culture nestled between its charming sandstone buildings and calm waterfront. Begin the adventure by checking into your hotel, then consider taking some time to explore the area. Salamanca Markets, often touted as one of Australia’s best outdoor markets, is full of excellent local produce and food stalls if you’re feeling a little peckish. A walk along the waterfront also yields a great view of the mountains clasping the River Derwent, and the nearby Museum of Old and New Art is a must see for any art aficionados.

Later in the afternoon, meet with your guide and fellow travellers for a brief run-down of the adventure ahead, then perhaps opt to spend the evening sampling some of Hobart’s incredibly fresh seafood over dinner with the group.

Journey south to the Tasman Peninsula and begin a wilderness cruise along the spectacular coastline, sailing underneath one of the highest vertical sea cliffs in the southern hemisphere in the process. The area plays home to a variety of spectacular native sea life – seals, migrating whales and seabirds are often spotted in the area, so keep a camera handy for a chance to snap some of these charming critters.

After returning to shore, take a guided walk around the Port Arthur Historic Site – the former location of Australia’s most notorious convict prison. After learning more about this piece of colonial antiquity, travel back to the hotel in Hobart for the evening.

After departing from Hobart, visit Mount Wellington Park to savour some magnificent views of the city and its surrounding mountains, forests and waterways as you trudge towards the summit (weather permitting). Head back to town and visit the Museum of Old and New Art (or MONA, as it’s more commonly known as), one of the most influential and culturally significant museums in all of Australia thanks to its quirky and often provocative exhibitions. Drive up towards Tasmania’s Central Plateau in the afternoon, passing through Bothwell and Yingina (Great Lake) as you take in some of the stretching views of the placid waters as you drive by.

Tonight’s stay lies at an incredible lodge near Lake Augusta, surrounded by rugged shrubbery, tiny mires and open highland scenery. Previously used as an arctic training base, the accommodation features a charming fireplace, comfortable leather couches and best of all, a larder stocked with delicious local meats and cheeses for some particularly classy snacking options.

Take a plunge through the Greater Western Tiers, heading down into the Meander Valley. The local apiaries are responsible for churning out delicious clover honey with light citrus and vanilla flavours – take a sample of this sweet local treat before heading to a wildlife sanctuary for a chance to visit the local Tasmanian Devils (they’re not as fiendish as they sound!). Continue hiking onwards to Tulampanga (Alum Cliffs), a place considered spiritually important for the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander tribes due to the ochre found in the surrounding ranges.
Following the trail forged by the trappers, hunters and loggers of old, stop for a break at mural filled Sheffield before returning to the mountains route to Cradle Valley, the gateway to Cradle Mountain National Park.

Once you arrive, either relax around the hotel or pause to absorb the beautiful natural landscapes of this World Heritage-listed area. Consider dropping into the Wilderness Gallery’s for the evocative art, photographic and film exhibitions while you’re here.

The day is yours to explore this magnificent wilderness along a number of different walking tracks. For those who prefer to travel at a leisurely pace, consider taking a trip to Waldheim Chalet or wandering along the Dove Lake circuit. For those with a little more grit, or people who simply love views of gorgeous lakes with rugged mountain backdrops, the hike to Marion’s Lookout is perfect. The afternoon is free to extend your walking options, discover more of the local flora and fauna or relax and enjoy the facilities at the hotel.

After departing the hotel, head down the mountain for a visit to Ashgrove Farm to witness the production of some of Tasmania’s most famous cheese. Take a nibble of this dairy-based delight before experiencing the rugged, awning beauty of Cataract Gorge. Next stop, Launceston: Australia’s third oldest city. Head to the city centre for a bit of exploration and a lunch break, then spend the afternoon driving along the historic Evandale through the Fingal Valley for stunningly scenic views of the East coast.

Following a brief stop-off at Bicheno, arrive at a lodge in the Freycinet National Park where you’ll stay the night. Perhaps catch the last shreds of sunlight painting the waters of Great Oyster Bay with a serene glow as you sip a glass of chilled local wine.

Freycinet National Park contains a counterpointed mix of harsh, granite mountains and inviting beachscapes – spend a day beholding the dramatic peaks of the Hazards, attempt to spot soaring white-bellied sea-eagles or consider travelling on optional walks to Wineglass Bay, Cape Tourville or the park’s nearby lookout. There’s always the luxury of the lodge to entertain you throughout the day and time spend beach-hunting around the nearby area is bound to result in some relaxing ocean-side experiences.

Leaving Freycinet, travel further south along the coast. Pass through Swansea, then stop at Triabunna before jumping on a ferry for ride to breathtaking Maria Island – a place riddled with Aboriginal and European history. Make sure you pack your camera for this one – the Painted Cliffs, Fossil Cliffs and peeping local wildlife are well worth catching on film. Soak in some of the stunning island scenery as you walk along one of the island trails, stopping by a historic settlement before resting over a delicious picnic lunch.

Afterwards, head back to the mainland for a visit to Richmond, a town full of quaint 19th-century architecture. Check out the beautifully preserved Richmond Bridge, local Gaol, Catholic Church (one of the oldest in Australia) and more before returning to Hobart for the evening. Maybe head back to Salamanca Markets for one last drink with your new friends before this Tasmanian adventure ends tomorrow morning.

After breakfast, check out of the hotel and enjoy a little more time in Hobart. Your adventure comes to an end today, and there are no further activities planned.