This tour begins in Hobart with several days to explore the area's popular attractions, such as Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and the quirky Museum of Old and New Art. Spend a day navigating the food-lovers haven of Bruny Island before driving east along the coast to Port Arthur. Here, immerse yourself in Tasmania's convict history with a guided cemetery tour, before spending a relaxing evening in the pristine wilderness surrounding Stewart's Bay Lodge. Discover the wonders of the world-renowned Freycinet National Park from the water with an early morning kayak tour and an optional long lunch at the local wineries. From here you will return to Launceston, visit the popular Cataract Gorge which feels a world away, and finally spend a day exploring the breathtaking scenes of Cradle Mountain.
BeachesNational parksWildlife & natureSelf Drive Tour
This suggested tour costs from AUD$3,446 per person (twin share, low season)
Starts in Hobart, finishes in Launceston
9 days/8 nights
Apartments
Rental car included
Viewed 138 times in the last 7 days
Welcome to Hobart! The charming capital of Tasmania and the ideal gateway to many of the island’s most iconic attractions. As the second-oldest capital city in Australia, Hobart seamlessly blends its rich colonial history with natural beauty, surrounded by pristine beaches, lush bushland, and the majestic of kunanyi/Mount Wellington. Stroll through the vibrant Salamanca Place, home to galleries and multiple restaurants, and don’t miss the lively Salamanca Market on every Saturday. For a unique cultural experience, take a ferry along the Derwent River to visit the world-renowned MONA, where modern art meets the extraordinary. Don’t miss the historic Battery Point, filled with quaint streets and heritage architecture, or indulge in Hobart’s food and drink scene, featuring award-winning seafood, wines, and craft beers.
On arrival, you will be met by a private driver outside baggage carousel and transferred to your Hobart accommodation.
Your accommodation: Salamanca Inn
Salamanca Inn is located on the doorstep of the iconic Salamanca Place on the colourful waterfront of Hobart. Indulge in the historical ambience of this area, lined with plane trees and 1830s sandstone Georgian warehouses converted to Hobart’s best restaurants, cafes, bars, galleries & specialty shops. All of Hobart’s famous landmarks are within a short stroll of the hotel including, historical Sullivans Cove & Battery Point, Salamanca Market (Saturday only), St David’s Park, Parliament House, and the city centre.Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range or ask our team for a suggestion. From compact economy to prestige SUVs. First time driving in Australia? Check out this helpful guide.
Set between the River Derwent and the towering kunanyi/Mount Wellington, Hobart is Tasmania’s vibrant capital. This charming city blends rich colonial history with modern culture and natural beauty, offering something for every traveller.
Explore the bustling waterfront with its fresh seafood, Scenic Cruises, and lively atmosphere. Wander through Salamanca Place, home to heritage buildings, galleries, and the famous Salamanca Market every Saturday. Art enthusiasts can’t miss MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art, known for its provocative and diverse exhibits. For a taste of history, head to Battery Point, a charming district of historic cottages and quiet streets, perfect for a relaxing wander.
Nature lovers can hike or drive to the summit of Mount Wellington for breathtaking views or visit the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. Discover Hobart’s history in the quaint streets of Battery Point, and encounter native wildlife at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary.
With its thriving food and drink scene, including fresh seafood, cool-climate wines, and craft breweries, Hobart is a perfect destination for adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Discover the iconic Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), a world-renowned cultural destination on the banks of the River Derwent. Start your adventure with a scenic ferry ride from Hobart —just look for a giant camouflaged catamaran with fibreglass animals for seats. The ferry offering spectacular views of the city and waterfront as you cruise towards the museum.
Arrive at MONA, Australia’s largest private museum, where ancient artifacts and contemporary art collide in a provocative and thought-provoking collection. Explore the underground galleries at your own pace, encountering works that challenge, inspire, and ignite curiosity. The museum’s architecture is a masterpiece in itself, blending seamlessly with the Tasmanian landscape to create an unforgettable setting. Enhance your visit by indulging in a meal or drink at one of MONA’s acclaimed dining spots, featuring locally sourced produce and wines. MONA is also home to the Moorilla Winery, The Source restaurant, a bunch of other bars and restaurants, luxury accommodation pavilions, and Tasmania’s biggest craft brewery (Moo Brew).
At the end of your visit, relax on the return ferry to Hobart and admire the incredible views of the Hobart landscape.
In this exclusive tour, you will sample the finest local whisky, meet the distillers, get behind the scenes, and taste spirit direct from the stills and the cask. Join the team at Drink Tasmania for an incredible day visiting the estates, touring the distilleries, and tasting the finest whisky Tasmania has to offer.
Experience Tasmania’s incredible wildlife like never before on the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary Night Tour. This exclusive after-dark experience offers a unique opportunity to encounter native animals in their natural habitat as they come to life at night.
Led by an expert guide, the tour takes you behind the scenes at the sanctuary, where you’ll get up-close with iconic Tasmanian wildlife. Hand-feed friendly kangaroos, observe playful wombats, and learn about the sanctuary’s rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Enjoy meeting the elusive Tasmanian devil and discovering the fascinating behaviours of other nocturnal creatures.
The intimate group setting ensures a personalised and immersive experience, allowing you to connect with these remarkable animals while learning about their importance to Tasmania’s ecosystem.
Your accommodation: Salamanca Inn
Salamanca Inn is located on the doorstep of the iconic Salamanca Place on the colourful waterfront of Hobart. Indulge in the historical ambience of this area, lined with plane trees and 1830s sandstone Georgian warehouses converted to Hobart’s best restaurants, cafes, bars, galleries & specialty shops. All of Hobart’s famous landmarks are within a short stroll of the hotel including, historical Sullivans Cove & Battery Point, Salamanca Market (Saturday only), St David’s Park, Parliament House, and the city centre.Experience the best of Bruny Island on this full-day guided tour, showcasing its stunning scenery, rich history, and delicious local produce. Visit iconic landmarks such as The Neck Lookout and Adventure Bay, and enjoy tastings of fresh oysters, artisan cheese, whiskey, honey, and fudge. Explore pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and spot native wildlife, including the island’s famous white wallabies. With expert commentary and comfortable transport, this tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, gourmet indulgence, and fascinating insights into Bruny Island’s unique charm.
Your accommodation: Salamanca Inn
Salamanca Inn is located on the doorstep of the iconic Salamanca Place on the colourful waterfront of Hobart. Indulge in the historical ambience of this area, lined with plane trees and 1830s sandstone Georgian warehouses converted to Hobart’s best restaurants, cafes, bars, galleries & specialty shops. All of Hobart’s famous landmarks are within a short stroll of the hotel including, historical Sullivans Cove & Battery Point, Salamanca Market (Saturday only), St David’s Park, Parliament House, and the city centre.As you leave the city heading east, make your way over the River Derwent and onto Tasman Highway. Not long after starting your drive, you will reach the Pitt Water Nature Reserve. For those with a keen interest in birdwatching, this internationally recognised wetland is home to a number of Tasmanian shorebirds and seabirds including sooty oystercatchers, red-capped plover and Caspian terns. Hop back onto the Tasman Highway and follow signs to Forcett. Just before Forcett, turn off towards Lewisham Beach and follow this road as you wind along the coastline, taking in the fantastic beaches along the way. Hop across the Carlton River and follow signs until you see the Arthur Highway. As you head south towards Port Arthur, consider stopping off at the Tasman Blow Hole and Tasman Arch, unusual geological formations found in the Tasman National Park. Continuing south, you reach the historic village of Port Arthur. Sitting on the Tasman Peninsula, it was a 19th-century penal settlement and is now an open-air museum. Ruins include the huge penitentiary and the remaining shell of the Convict Church, which was built by inmates.
The Isle of the Dead holds the stories of many of the people of Port Arthur – in life and death. Port Arthur’s tiny cemetery island is the final resting place for more than 1000 convicts, military and civil officers, women and children, who were buried here between 1833 and 1877. On the Isle of the Dead tour, you’ll journey to the island aboard the MV Marana, and take a guided walking tour of the island. You’ll hear the personal stories of convicts who were transported here from across the world, the soldiers who gave their lives to guard the prison, the officers, and their families who followed them to the ends of the earth.
Your accommodation: Stewarts Bay Lodge
Stewarts Bay Lodge is nestled in Australia’s infamous Port Arthur Historic Site, 90 minutes from Hobart in the Tasman Peninsula, and offers a variety of self-contained cabin and chalet accommodation with a restaurant, function rooms and recreation facilities all surrounded by white-sand beaches and beautiful woodlands.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 95 kms / 59 miles : 1.3 hours
The drive from Port Arthur to Coles Bay is a scenic trip along the east coastline of Tasmania, creating a picturesque journey. Just up the road is the Tasmanian devil UnZoo located right before the small town of Taranna, which is the first 'UnZoo' in the world where the wildlife are free to come and go in their natural habitat. Carrying on up the road is an award-winning winery, providing the perfect stop for lunch to break up the trip. The final stint of the drive is surrounded by coastal beaches and eucalyptus forests before reaching your destination of Coles Bay situated in Freycinet National Park a haven for wildlife.
Freycinet National Park, located on Tasmania’s stunning east coast, is a haven of natural beauty, offering a mix of rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife. Known for its iconic pink granite peaks, The Hazards, and the crystal-clear waters of Wineglass Bay, this park is one of Australia’s most celebrated destinations. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from hiking and kayaking to birdwatching and wildlife spotting. The park’s walking trails cater to all fitness levels, from short, scenic walks to the Wineglass Bay Lookout, to more challenging treks like the Hazards Circuit and Mount Amos, which reward hikers with panoramic views. The surrounding waters are equally inviting, offering opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, and exploring the coastline by kayak. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including wallabies, echidnas, and sea birds, as well as playful dolphins and seals in the bay. Easily accessible from the town of Coles Bay, Freycinet is a must-do for all visiting the east coast of Tasmania whether you come to relax or explore.
Your accommodation: Edge of the Bay Resort
Situated on the Freycinet Peninsula, Edge of the Bay Resort offers beachfront accommodations with stunning views of Great Oyster Bay and The Hazards. Stay in modern studios or self-contained cottages, enjoy private beach access, and savour local seafood at the on-site restaurant. Perfect for exploring Freycinet National Park or relaxing in serene coastal surroundings.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 200 kms / 124 miles : 2.8 hours
The Freycinet Paddle is the perfect way to experience Freycinet National Park in 3 hours. On this relaxed guided tour of the Freycinet coastline, you’ll glide beneath pink granite mountains, past pristine sandy beaches and across waters so clear you feel you can touch the marine life below. You’ll experience Freycinet’s abundant wildlife as you weave along the coastline. Guides will share little known stories of the area and give you the chance to find out some fantastic facts.
After enjoying your morning exploring the beautiful national park - join us for an afternoon filled with wine and cheese. Venturing through the east coast, visiting three 5-star vineyards. Starting at Freycinet Vineyard, here you can immerse yourself in the vineyard and understand the wine making process with a winery tour, next heading to Milton where you will taste a range of beautiful wines. The final stop of the long afternoon will be Craigie Knowe Vineyard for a tasting and cheese plate ( all included) , sit back and relax with a glass of wine in the relaxing while soaking up the picturesque views.
Your accommodation: Edge of the Bay Resort
Situated on the Freycinet Peninsula, Edge of the Bay Resort offers beachfront accommodations with stunning views of Great Oyster Bay and The Hazards. Stay in modern studios or self-contained cottages, enjoy private beach access, and savour local seafood at the on-site restaurant. Perfect for exploring Freycinet National Park or relaxing in serene coastal surroundings.From Coles Bay you will head northwest towards Launceston roughly a 2 hour drive. You will head through Lake Leake which is the name of the small town aswell as the scenic body of water. We also recommend stopping to look at the historical "Red Bridge" situated in Campbell town built in 1838, a famous landmark being one the oldest standing brick arch's in Australia. Once you have Reached your final destination Launceston the riverside city that mixes city and country into one, if you are around for the weekend make sure you stop in at their well renowned Saturday farmers market or visit the Cataract Gorge to see the breath-taking views for yourself.
Embark on an unforgettable journey on the Cataract Gorge Adventure Cruise with Tamar River Cruises. Departing from Launceston’s picturesque waterfront, this unique experience takes you through the iconic Cataract Gorge, where dramatic cliffs, lush vegetation, and stunning scenery create a breathtaking backdrop.
As you cruise along the tranquil waters of the South Esk River, knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories about the region’s history, geology, and wildlife. Marvel at the towering cliffs of the gorge and enjoy unparalleled views from the comfort of the vessel.
Your accommodation: Elphin Serviced Apartments
Elphin Motel offers spacious and comfortable guest rooms and apartments. It is conveniently located in the heart of Launceston, only few minutes drive from the CBD and main places of interest and attractions.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 177 kms / 110 miles : 2.2 hours
Depart Launceston and travel via Sheffield, the Town of Murals before travelling up into the mountains through gorges, rain forest, and button grass plains to reach the destination of Cradle Mountain, one of Tasmania’s most recognisable landmarks and one of Tasmania’s most visited attractions. On this fully guided day tour you experience the unique flora, fauna and geographical features of the World Heritage listed National Park.
Departing from Launceston, head out on a full day of exploring the stunning red granite rocks and picturesque crystal-clear water! Begin the day of adventure at the Bridestow lavender farm - a signature tourist spot! After a quick stop at Scottsdale to purchase a treat from the award-winning cottage bakery, next up is Legerwood. If time permits, here you will see the tree carvings as you embark on a short walk through the moss-covered trees in the Welborough Pass. Arriving at one of the most beautiful places - The Bay Of Fires, soak up the views and take some photos to capture the beauty of the area! Up next is a beach stop at remote beach, Binalong. Here you will have the chance to taste some of the most amazing oysters from the farm and Lease 65, before ending the day with a real fruit ice cream.
Your accommodation: Elphin Serviced Apartments
Elphin Motel offers spacious and comfortable guest rooms and apartments. It is conveniently located in the heart of Launceston, only few minutes drive from the CBD and main places of interest and attractions.Drop your vehicle at the Launceston Airport depot as stipulated in your itinerary.