13 Day Premium Tasmania Tour (F13)

Day 1: Hobart

Meet and greet for an evening meal and drinks in Hobarts' city centre and get to know the host for your 13 day guided tour of Tasmania. Tonight, you will be staying at the lovely 4-star Mövenpick Hotel. Comprehensive tour itineraries will be provided along with a personalised map graphically depicting your 13-day Tasmanian journey which covers approximately 2,000 km.

Day 2: Hobart to Port Arthur

Pick up from the Mövenpick Hotel and set off for the summit of Tasmania's Mt Wellington (1270m), which boasts spectacular views in all directions. A short exploration around Australia’s 2nd oldest capital city of Hobart, including stops at Constitution Dock & the Cascade Brewery. A short stop off at Tasmania’s boutique Federation Chocolate factory in town is a must to taste what delicious and unusual flavours are available. Lunch with wine tastings is at a positively charming vineyard in the Coal Valley region before proceeding to the beautiful township of Richmond. This impeccable historic settlement boasts the country’s oldest bridge still in use, the lovely convict-built sandstone arch construction of the Richmond Bridge.

Then on to the Tasman Peninsula for more spectacular coastline of the Tasman National Park. From its towering sea cliffs, we look over Pirates Bay, Tasman’s Arch, the Devils Kitchen and the amazing Tessellated Pavements. See the infamous dog line at Eaglehawk Neck before overnighting right on the cusp of the Port Arthur Historic Site.

Spend several hours being personally guided through the most interesting buildings and attractions of the Port Arthur World Heritage Site. Learn about Point Puer, Isle of the Dead, and the history of convicts in Tasmania before taking a harbour cruise to view the site in panorama, as incoming convicts must have.

From here, we head north to take in the sights of Tasmania’s east coast. Stop for a wander on Raspins Beach with views across the passage to the beautiful Maria Island. See the quirky Spikey Bridge and enjoy coffee & snacks at Spikey Beach with panoramic views over Coles Bay to Tasmania's Freycinet Peninsula. Arriving at our accommodation in Bicheno, an optional & free penguin small group tour is available in the evening.

Bask in the morning sunshine while witnessing the amazing blowhole on the rocky coast of Bicheno. Spend time at the award-winning East Coast Natureworld wildlife park where we watch the iconic Tasmanian Devils feeding. Learn about this incredible little animal’s struggle for survival while petting wombats and hand feeding wallabies, kangaroos & Cape Barron geese.

Next up, we tour Tasmania’s most scenic coastal road with breathtaking views of the east coast Bay of Fires. Dip your feet while walking along one of Tasmania’s best beaches – Binalong Bay. Visit a working Tassie oyster farm, sample cheeses at the award winning Pyengana dairy, and enjoy afternoon tea & coffee at the highly emotive Legerwood memorial trees. Proceed through an ancient Myrtle rainforest and the renowned Tamar Valley region before arriving in Launceston for our first of 2 evenings in town.

Day 5: The Tamar Valley

Let’s slow the pace down just a little as we explore the landscape north of Launceston around the beautiful Tamar River, beginning with a morning tour of the famous Beaconsfield Gold Mine & Heritage Centre. Embark on an historical journey as you learn about the significance of this site in Tasmanian history and the dramatic collapse of the mine in 2006 which led to one of the most publicised rescue missions in Australian history.

Lunch will be on the banks of the Tamar River at the ever-delightful Beauty Point, after which we will take a short stroll to explore the wonders of the acclaimed Seahorse World. Our afternoon activities include a scenic drive up to George Town & Low Head, home of some amazing tree carvings by renowned artist Eddie Freeman, with tea & coffee at the Low Head Historic Lighthouse site. A second restful evening in the comfort of our Launceston CBD Best Western Hotel will end our day's guided touring.

Day 6: Launceston to Cradle Mountain

A short drive through downtown Launceston before enjoying a morning stroll at the lovely Cataract Gorge, a fantastic urban wilderness only minutes from the CBD. Heading west out of Tasmania’s biggest northern city, we lunch at a small, family-operated salmon farm hidden off the main Tasmania touring route. After, lunch visit the Melita Honey Farm which includes FREE tastings of Tasmania's famous Leatherwood Honey among many other flavours.

Next enjoy a private tour of the spectacular Marakoopa Caves with their 250-million-year-old crystal formations, the only show caves in Tasmania boasting resident glow worms! Travelling up onto Tasmania's Central Highlands we will reach the World Heritage listed Cradle Mountain National Park. Come for a short animal spotting jaunt in the evening before overnighting at the 4-star Cradle Mt Hotel.

Visit Tasmania’s divine Dove Lake at the foot of Cradle Mountain – a photographer’s paradise. Take in the stunning views of this iconic space from several angles as we complete a short walk to Glacier Rock. Wonders abound strolling through the mossy forests of the Enchanted Walk and the mesmerising cascades of Pencil Pine waterfall. Visit the old ‘Waldheim Chalet’ of pioneer Gustav Weindorfer – the father of this wonderous park.

After a delicious lunch, we make our way on to Strahan via the meandering forest highways of Tasmania's west coast. View the Southern Ocean from the best lookout point on the west coast and see as far as you can imagine – perhaps Madagascar? Your lungs will thank you as you inhale possibly the cleanest air on Earth. Arrive at Tasmania’s most westerly town, Strahan, for some afternoon relaxation and accommodation for the next 2 nights.

Day 8: The Gordon River Cruise

Spend the day enjoying one of the most scenic and unique tourist attractions in Australia – the Gordon River Cruise. Aboard the famous ‘Harbour Master’ in upper deck Gold Class luxury, your 6-hour cruise will include stunning views of Hells Gates and Macquarie Harbour, Sarah Island, the salmon farms and of course the jewel in the crown – the Gordon River World Heritage area itself. The cruise will also include a freshly prepared buffet lunch meal onboard the vessel.

Our afternoon plan will see us visit the Morrison Sawmill for a close-up look at Tasmania’s most famous timber – Huon Pine. Overnight once again in Strahan Village. There is some optional entertainment this evening for those that would like to see Australia’s longest running performance play The Ship That Never Was.

Day 9: West Coast Wilderness Railway

Today we journey back in time on Tasmania’s beautifully restored West Coast Wilderness Railway. Departing from Strahan we travel premium ‘Wilderness’ class and will be welcomed onboard with complimentary sparkling wine. The 2.5hr journey heads deep into the heart of the  west coast. Journey over the Iron Bridge at Teepookana, once a thriving port town, before disembarking at Lower Landing Station on the King River. Enjoy a short nature walk and taste honey, with its origins from local & endemic species, before heading back to Strahan.

Listen to your guide bring stories of the railway and its resilient people to life and enjoy the beautiful sights of the King River waterway, this is truly one of Tasmania’s premier  experiences. Lunch back in quaint Strahan Village and enjoy the views over Macquarie Harbour from Strahan’s highest scenic lookout point. Next journey towards Queenstown where tonights evening meal will be provided by your hosts. 

Day 10: Queenstown to Tarraleah

Take in the views from the Iron Blow lookout above Queenstown. The cantilever platform allows panoramic viewing over the colourful surrounds. Head into the World Heritage area for a morning stroll through thick forest to the imperial Nelson Falls – beautiful any time of year. A little further along we stop on the bank of the infamous Franklin River. The waterway at the centre of huge controversy and a  major conservation effort in the late 1970’s and early 80’s. After lunch at the famous Lake St Clair lodge we stroll down to the jetty to take in Australia's deepest natural, freshwater lake at nearly 200m deep and surrounded by numerous stunning mountain peaks. 

Next we stop at a true gem in Australian Art – The Wall in the Wilderness.  Learn about the  history and significance of the 100m long Huon Pine carvings by artist Greg Duncan and enjoy lunch in unique surroundings. This is legitimately one of the most incredible privately owned art galleries in Australia. 

Our afternoon travels will see us arrive at the old Hydro township of Tarraleah for our evenings lodgings. Now converted to a beautiful tourism venue Tarraleah Estate is one of the most unique locations we overnight at on tour. Learn about the monstrous hydro-electricity project and how it came to life back in the 1950’s. Wander the grounds to see abundant wildlife in the late afternoon and the resident Highland cattle that roam the property. In the evening dine in the very comfortable and warm Highlander restaurant.

Day 11: The Derwent Valley

Wake up feeling amazing after your night in 5-star luxury. First up see the beautiful Tarraleah lookout gazing over the hydro power station down below. We then continue via a magical drive into the Derwent Valley with its meandering, rolling hills. A stop at Lawrenny Distillery is in order, a stunning 1800’s built house & estate on the banks of the Derwent River. For those inclined there is optional Whiskey & Gin tastings or tea, coffee and snacks instead.

We then continue on to one of Tasmania’s most frequented national parks - Mt Field NP. This is the location of the states very iconic waterfall - Russell Falls. The large 3 tier falls is quite a sight to see especially in flood and is easily accessible for guests of all physical abilities. The 40-60min walk features some of the most beautiful trees on the island. Giant Eucalyptus trees 300+ years old are as big as you will find in Tasmania. Tree ferns standing 6+ meters high dating hundred of years also line the pathway giving this walk a prehistoric and enchanted feel. Keep your eyes open for the many pademelons and other creatures that are very regularly seen along the pathway.

We are lunching at a cute local venue in the Derwent Valley. Relax and enjoy the delicious home made foods on offer. This evening we return to Hobart city for 2 more nights stay at the very stylish, 4-star Movenpick Hotel. 

Day 12: The Tahune Airwalk

Journey down the beautiful Huon Valley for a wilderness experience at the acclaimed Tahune Airwalk. The Airwalk itself is an elevated walkway 30 meters above the forest floor, with the final cantilever section standing 50m above the Huon River. It boasts spectacular views to the confluence of the Huon & Picton Rivers and beyond. Enjoy the Huon Phone walk, a leisurely stroll along the river bank and through lovely forest to see some of these ancient trees up close.

Stop at the Geeveston Timber Museum to learn the story of the early settlers harvesting timber from this area. On our return journey to Hobart we visit the famous Willie Smith’s Apple Shed with the opportunity for an afternoon snack or refreshment - we recommend trying the apple cider made from apples grown in the surrounding orchards. Enjoy another relaxing evening at the Movenpick Hotel. Being Friday there are plenty of opportunities for night time entertainment and many great Hobart city restaurants & venues close by.

Day 13: Salamanca Markets

The world-famous Salamanca markets are held every Saturday and we wouldn’t want to miss them. Explore the market at your own leisure and sample the abundance of street foods. This officially concludes one of our most extensive and premium guided tours of Tasmania. We hope you have enjoyed an amazing travel experience and take home many great memories, stories, and photographs.

All dates listed for this guided Tasmania tour are guaranteed departure with a minimum of 4 guests. Please contact us to check the status of your planned travel date.