This trip was created for two friends that truly wanted to get the best of Tasmania or Tassie as the locals say. Over two-thirds of Tassie is rugged wilderness. We created this self drive outdoor adventure for them that allowed them to travel Tassie top to bottom, off the tourist beaten path and meeting the locals. We started them with Hobart for the weekend markets and the Mt. Wellington Bike Descent. They hiked the locals’ favorite track, the Bay of Fires, and they visited the pubs in the paddocks and then did a quad bike through the bush lands to a locals hidden gem beach. They did a wildlife adventure to see the state’s beloved Tasmanian Devil. Suggested Length: 9 Days
Day 1
Fly into Hobart, Tasmania. Collect your rental car from the airport depot and make your way into town. On Saturdays the Salamanca Markets are a must-see and an excellent chance to stretch your legs, taste local produce and see the local artists perform live. If you are interested in wildlife, the Bonorong Sanctuary is an excellent stop just outside the city and is best experienced at night time.
3 star hotel in Hobart
Day 2
Start your morning with an adrenalin charged descent of Mount Wellington on bikes. At the summit you’ll have magnificent 360 degree views of Hobart and surrounding regions. Your guide then fits you with a bike and helmet, followed by a detailed cycle safety briefing. Winding down the mountainside, you will stop at several locations. Towards the bottom you have the choice of a thrilling off-road section, before entering back into Hobart. Enjoy lunch in Hobart before making your way north to Bicheno. Tonight watch the penguins waddle up the beach at sunset as they come to nest in the shrubs surrounding your accommodations.
3-star hotel in Bicheno
Day 3
You hotel will gladly pack a picnic backpack for you today. Make your way to Freycinet National Park and enjoy a hike to Wineglass Bay lookout. In the afternoon join a small group tour for two hours quad biking through the National Park to a remote beach only the locals know about. Haven’t had enough? For the ultimate Freycinet day, end with a kayak at sunset on the tranquil waters.
3-star hotel in Bicheno
Day 4
Make your way north to Launceston via the scenic east coast. Stop in at The Pub In The Paddock and explore waterfalls. Alternatively stop at a winery for a leisurely lunch in the Tamar Valley. Arrive at your charming homestead this afternoon, for a gear check and review for your next adventure.
3-star homestead near Launceston
Day 5 (B,L,D)
Tasmania is a hikers dream on the road less travelled. During this four day guided hike, your small group will be led by a well-informed, young Tasmanian guide, offering insight to the flora and fauna of the stunning East Coast of Tasmania. Enjoy incredible meals featuring local produce; experience the best practice of sustainable tourism and stay two evenings in an award winning Eco Lodge. Day one includes a 4 hour hike of Mt. William National Park with lunch on one of many pristine beaches. Spend the evening at your beach camp in a semi-permanent tent and enjoy dinner on the deck enjoying the sights and sounds
Tented beach camp
Day 6 (B,L,D)
Approximately 7 hours of hiking today (but only 14 kms). Following a relaxed breakfast, you will head out to explore the coastline, learning about the local animals by their tracks in the sand. A chance to meet the quiet local marsupials on the lawns of a lighthouse before arriving into the Bay Of Fires Lodge for a wonderful afternoon tea. A relaxing evening dinner with fine Tasmanian wine and beer completes your day.
3-star lodge in Bay of Fires
Day 7 (B,L,D)
A day around the lodge today. Enjoy a kayak down the winding Anson’s River. For the early risers, the local native bird population is extensive, and if you are lucky you may see the dolphins surfing the waves or whales migrating along the coast. Go exploring or relax and unwind, the choice is yours. This evening you will go for a walk to meet the locals. You may encounter wombats, wallabies, kangaroos, possums and even the Tasmanian devil.
3-star lodge in Bay of Fires
Day 8 Launceston (B,L)
TIme for a morning swim or beach walk before breakfast, and departing the lodge. Walking through eucalyptus forests to a remote lunch spot where you may have the chance to spot the endemic black cockatoo. Board the vehicle for your transfer back to your homestead for a nice relaxing evening.
3-star homestead near Launceston
Day 9 Depart (B)
Following breakfast, if you have time, enjoy zip lining through the trees. Drop off your rental car at the airport and catch your flight on to your next destination.
***We love the great outdoors. Ask us about other hikes in Tasmania and we will pick the one that suits your style and pace.