Best of Tasmania
Experience the best of Tasmania on this 10-day small group tour, starting and ending your tour in the island capital of Hobart. The journey covers Tasmania’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique wildlife, from the rugged West Coast to the tranquil East Coast, Bruny Island, and historic Port Arthur. Enjoy guided walks in iconic national parks, a peaceful river cruise through ancient rainforests, and a visit to a Tasmanian Devil sanctuary.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Hobart to Queenstown
Day 1 Hobart to Queenstown
Hobart - Mount Field National Park - Lake St. Clair - Queenstown. Our journey begins in Hobart, before we head north to the tranquil beauty of Mount Field National Park. Here we will stroll among some of the world’s tallest trees and marvel at the enchanting Russell Falls.
After soaking in the sights, we’ll head west to the serene Lake St Clair, Australia’s deepest freshwater lake, where you can appreciate the pristine waters. As we enter the rugged Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, we’ll embark on short scenic walks along the tannin-rich waters of the Franklin River, and visit the stunning Nelson Falls.
Continuing further west, you’ll be treated to expansive views of the buttongrass plains and the dramatic landscapes of Mt Lyell. We’ll explore the historic Iron Blow and admire the cascading Horsetail Falls, each offering a unique perspective of Tasmania’s breathtaking scenery. After a day of exploration, we arrive in the charming town of Queenstown for the night.
Day 2 Gordon River cruise to Tullah
Day 2 Gordon River cruise to Tullah
Queenstown - Macquarie Harbour - Sarah Island - Tullah. Enjoy a breathtaking cruise along the magnificent Gordon River, where we sail through the tranquil waters of Macquarie Harbour, surrounded by ancient rainforest, all the way to the imposing Hells Gates.
Stepping back in time, we explore the historic convict site of Sarah Island before venturing upriver into the heart of the World Heritage-listed rainforests. We take a leisurely stroll along a boardwalk surrounded by ancient Huon pines and enjoy an included lunch back on board, featuring the finest Tasmanian produce.
In the afternoon, we journey to the charming town of Tullah, where, on clear days, we can relish stunning views across Lake Rosebery to the rugged peaks of Mount Murchison. Our day will conclude with a delightful group dinner, followed by a relaxing stay in a cosy lakeside chalet.
Day 3 Tullah to Smithton
Day 3 Tullah to Smithton
Tullah - Waratah - Stanley - Smithton. Today we head north, stopping first in the quaint town of Waratah, where you’ll be enchanted by the cascading waterfalls. We continue through the picturesque Hellyer’s Gorge, arriving at the stunning north west coast of Tasmania.
In Stanley, take in the breathtaking views of The Nut, an ancient volcanic plug that offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding coastline. We’ll then venture further to the far north west coast, reaching the awe-inspiring ‘Edge of the World’ at Arthur River. This wild and rugged region, part of the Tarkine coast, holds deep spiritual significance for the Tasmanian Aboriginal people.
Dinner is included tonight at our accommodation for the night in Smithton.
Day 4 Tarkine Rainforest & Devonport
Day 4 Tarkine Rainforest & Devonport
Smithton - Tarkine Rainforest - Devonport. Today, after breakfast, we delve into the ancient Tarkine Rainforest. As the second-largest cool temperate rainforest globally, the Tarkine serves as a living museum, harbouring ancient species and a wealth of palawa Indigenous heritage that spans thousands of years. Today, we’ll guide you deeper into this enchanting wilderness, stopping at places like Sumac Lookout, where you can take in stunning views over the Arthur River, and the magnificent Trowutta Arch, a geological wonder that must be seen to be believed.
Following our exploration of the Tarkine, we’ll make our way back to the north west coast, visiting a series of charming coastal spots. Relax on the pristine sands of Boat Harbour Beach, admire the sweeping views from Table Cape, and wander through the delightful town of Penguin. As the day comes to a close, we’ll reach Devonport. There is an included group dinner tonight.
Day 5 Cradle Mountain to Launceston
Day 5 Cradle Mountain to Launceston
Devonport - Cradle Mountain - Sheffield - Launceston. Today we will discover the stunning alpine and glacial landscapes of Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair National Park. Begin your day with the opportunity to spot wombats at Ronny Creek, accompanied by experts who will teach you all about this native species. We will visit the historic Waldheim Chalet to gain insight into the fascinating history of the area. For those keen to stretch their legs, the magnificent Dove Lake Circuit awaits - a 6km walk around a pristine glacial lake, providing unparalleled views of Cradle Mountain’s rugged peaks.
En route to Launceston, we’ll stop in the charming town of Sheffield, known for its street murals. Once we arrive in Launceston, Australia’s second oldest city, the evening is yours to explore at your leisure.
Day 6 Bay of Fire to Bicheno
Day 6 Bay of Fire to Bicheno
Launceston - St. Helens - Bicheno. We begin our day with a visit to Cataract Gorge, a magnificent nature reserve just minutes from downtown Launceston, where we hope to catch a glimpse of wallabies. We then travel towards the east coast, stopping for lunch in the charming fishing town of St Helens (not included).
Our main highlight today will be exploring the breathtaking Bay of Fires (Larapuna), where we stroll along the pristine white sands, enjoy the crystal-clear waters, and admire the striking orange-hued boulders. The contrast of turquoise waters against rust-coloured boulders creates a truly unforgettable scene.
As evening falls, we arrive in Bicheno, the most picturesque coastal town on the east coast, famous for its resident little penguins. After dinner, you may wish to stroll down to the blowhole or enjoy the panoramic views of the Tasman Sea from the lookout.
Day 7 Freycinet to Hobart
Day 7 Freycinet to Hobart
Bicheno - Freycinet National Park - Hobart. Today we explore the stunning beauty of Freycinet National Park. We begin at Honeymoon Bay before enjoying a walk to the iconic Wineglass Bay Lookout, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of Tasmania’s most famous beach, its white sands beautifully contrasted by turquoise waters.
After that, we’ll make our way to Cape Tourville, where stunning panoramas of Freycinet National Park and the endless ocean await. As the day comes to a close, we’ll return to Hobart along the scenic Great Eastern Drive, with the rest of the day free for you to head out and explore the city.
Day 8 Tasmanian Devils, Richmond & Wellington Park
Day 8 Tasmanian Devils, Richmond & Wellington Park
Today we have the oppurtunity to encounter a variety of Tasmanian wildlife, including quolls, birds, wombats, kangaroos, and the iconic Tasmanian devils at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. Afterward, we stroll through the colonial village of Richmond, which boasts the oldest convict-built bridges still in operation in Australia. Take in the heritage buildings before we return to Hobart via the scenic Coal River Valley, known for its wineries.
This afternoon, we’ll share some of our favourite spots in Hobart’s Wellington Park. Affectionately referred to by locals as “The Mountain,” Mount Wellington (Kunanyi) is a diverse nature reserve with several trails leading to fern glades, eucalyptus forests, dramatic rock columns, boulder fields, and stunning lookouts. This evening, you can relax in one of the city’s historic pubs or restaurants with the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 9 Bruny Island day trip
Day 9 Bruny Island day trip
This morning we will embark on an unforgettable day trip. From Hobart, we have a short drive and a ferry ride across the D’Entrecasteaux Channel to reach Bruny Island. Our first stop is the renowned Truganini Lookout, where a climb of 279 steps will reward you with stunning views of the narrow isthmus connecting North and South Bruny.
Next, we shall explore South Bruny National Park, where the striking coastline at Cape Bruny Lighthouse provides breathtaking views. Keep an eye out at Adventure Bay, where we’ll hopefully spot the rare white wallabies that inhabit this area. To complete your Bruny experience, we’ll visit local shops where you can sample some of the island’s finest delights, including fresh oysters, artisanal cheeses, and craft beers.
We make our way back to Hobart, where the evening is at leisure.
Day 10 Port Arthur & Tasman Peninsula
Day 10 Port Arthur & Tasman Peninsula
Today we delve into the rich history and natural beauty of Tasmania, our journey begins at the Port Arthur Historic Site, an open-air museum renowned as Australia’s best-preserved convict settlement and a World Heritage Site. We can wander through the expansive gardens and historic convict buildings. Port Arthur was also the site of Australia's deadliest mass shooting in 1996, an event that led the authorities to end the right to bear arms across the country.
Our journey continues along the spectacular Tasman Peninsula, where we visit several viewpoints. Take in the dramatic coastline from Pirates Bay Lookout, explore the intriguing rock formations at the Tessellated Pavement, and marvel at the natural wonders of Tasman Arch and Devil’s Kitchen.
As the day draws to a close, we’ll return to Hobart, where your unforgettable Tasmanian tour comes to an end.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
The West Coaster Motel, located on the west coast of Tasmania, offers heated accommodation and features a restaurant along with a lounge bar that has an open fireplace. Wi-Fi access is available throughout the motel. The West Coaster Motel is 900 metres from the centre of Queenstown and just a short stroll from local nature trails and museums. It is a 30-minute drive from the historic town of Strahan. Room service and a pizza/takeaway menu are available from Monday to Saturday.
Nestled among the mountains, this relaxed lodge on the banks of Lake Rosebery is 2 km from Mount Farrell, 6 km from Mackintosh Dam, and 35 km from Montezuma Falls. The unpretentious rooms offer Wi-Fi and flat-screen televisions, along with mini fridges and tea and coffee-making facilities. There is a lakeside bar and grill with a patio, and kayak rentals are also available.
Surrounded by trees and green space, this peaceful hotel with annexes is located 14 km from Anthony Beach on the Bass Strait, 2 km from the Circular Head Heritage Centre, and just half a kilometre off the A2 Highway. The modest rooms feature Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, and mini fridges, along with tea- and coffee-making facilities. Amenities include a pond, tennis courts, an indoor pool with a 20-person hot tub, a fitness room, a cosy restaurant/bar, a gaming room, and a sports bar. There's also an off-licence on-site.
The Gateway Hotel By Nightcap Plus is ideally situated in the heart of Devonport's Central Business District, just a 13-minute drive from Devonport Airport and 10 minutes from the ferry terminal. The hotel’s top floor offers lovely views over the river and sea, while the Rooms ensure comfort with a 76 cm flat-screen TV, voicemail, and a luxury spa bath, along with complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy meals prepared with fresh local produce at the Gateway Bistro Bar and Grill, or relax at the Cider Bar with a light lunch or refreshing drink. The hotel also features multi-functional meeting rooms suitable for business and social events, and the tour desk is available to provide advice on nearby attractions such as the Don River Railway and the Devonport Maritime Museum.
This relaxed hotel is 3 km from Cataract Gorge Reserve, 2 km from the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania, and just a 4-minute walk from Penny Royal Adventures. The modest rooms feature complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, and mini fridges, along with safes and tea and coffee-making facilities. There is also a cosy restaurant and bar with exposed stone walls.
Overlooking Maclean Bay, this laid-back hotel on the Tasman Highway is just a 5-minute walk from the town centre and 13 km from Freycinet National Park. The relaxed rooms offer complimentary Wi-Fi and flat-screen televisions, along with minibars and tea and coffee-making facilities. Amenities include a restaurant, a bar, and an outdoor pool, as well as a BBQ area and a children’s playground.
This no-frills hotel is just a minute's walk from the nearest bus stop, an 8-minute walk from the Maritime Museum of Tasmania, and 3 km from the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. The straightforward rooms feature carpeted floors, bright accent walls, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, mini fridges, en suite bathrooms, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Additional amenities include a simple restaurant, meeting space, and an airport shuttle, along with breakfast and parking options.
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