Tasmania Explorer

Days: 13 Days

Activity: 3. Active Moderate

Transport: Fly/Drive

$6,995.00

Tour description

TO BOOK THIS TOUR – CALL OUR OFFICE ON (02) 9986 2400

Tour Dates: 24th February – 8th March, 2027


Discover the very best of Tasmania on this comprehensive 13 day journey showcasing the island’s spectacular natural beauty, fascinating history, unique wildlife and world class food and wine.

Beginning in Hobart, enjoy a guided city sights tour, stunning views from kunanyi/Mount Wellington and visits to iconic attractions including Port Arthur Historic Site, MONA and the famous Salamanca Market.

Travel through the picturesque Derwent and Huon Valleys to explore Mount Field National Park, Russell Falls and the breathtaking Tahune AirWalk. Visit the charming heritage village of Richmond before continuing to Tasmania’s beautiful East Coast. Cruise the pristine waters of Wineglass Bay within Freycinet National Park and experience the relaxed seaside atmosphere of St Helens.

Explore the colourful town of Derby, the remarkable soldier memorial trees of Legerwood and the fragrant fields of Bridestowe Lavender Estate before arriving in Launceston. Discover Cataract Gorge, the historic Woolmers Estate, Beaconsfield Mine and the unique attractions of Platypus House and Seahorse World. Enjoy a tasting in the renowned Tamar Valley wine region.

Journey into Tasmania’s rugged West Coast through Sheffield, Tullah and Strahan. Experience a memorable Gordon River World Heritage Cruise, witness the craftsmanship of Huon pine artisans and enjoy the acclaimed live performance of The Ship That Never Was. Complete your adventure with a visit to The Wall in the Wilderness before returning to Hobart for a historic harbour cruise and farewell lunch.

Tour Highlights

• Hobart city sights tour including Salamanca Place, Battery Point and the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
• Spectacular views from kunanyi/Mount Wellington
• Full day Port Arthur Historic Site experience with harbour cruise
• Visit Mount Field National Park and beautiful Russell Falls
• Self guided exploration of MONA
• Browse the famous Salamanca Market
• Explore the scenic Huon Valley and Tahune AirWalk
• Visit historic Richmond Village and Richmond Bridge
• Two night stay in St Helens on Tasmania’s East Coast
Wineglass Bay cruise with included lunch
• Discover Derby and Legerwood Memorial Trees
• Visit Bridestowe Lavender Estate
• Guided tour of Woolmers Estate World Heritage Site
• Experience Cataract Gorge in Launceston
• Visit Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre
• See platypuses and seahorses at Beauty Point
• Wine tasting in the Tamar Valley
• Travel through Tasmania’s rugged West Coast landscapes
Gordon River World Heritage Cruise
• Live performance of The Ship That Never Was in Strahan
• Visit The Wall in the Wilderness at Derwent Bridge
Historic Hobart harbour cruise

Itinerary

Arrive in Hobart and meet your Tour Director before enjoying a welcome lunch on the waterfront. This afternoon discover Tasmania’s capital on a guided city sights tour taking in Salamanca Place, historic Battery Point, Sullivans Cove and the beautiful Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. Later, travel to the summit of kunanyi/Mount Wellington, weather permitting, for spectacular panoramic views across Hobart, the Derwent River and surrounding landscapes. Check in to your accommodation and settle in before joining your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner.

Accommodation: Old Woolstore Hotel, Hobart
Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Travel through the scenic Tasman Peninsula to Port Arthur Historic Site, Australia’s most significant convict settlement. Enjoy time exploring the extensive grounds, heritage buildings and fascinating stories of Tasmania’s colonial past. Included is a harbour cruise providing unique views of the settlement from the water. Following lunch, return to Hobart via Eaglehawk Neck, stopping to admire the dramatic coastal formations of Tasman Arch and Devil’s Kitchen. Arrive back at your hotel with time to relax before dinner.

Accommodation: Old Woolstore Hotel, Hobart
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Journey through the Derwent Valley passing the historic towns of New Norfolk and Plenty. Arrive at Mount Field National Park where towering tree ferns and ancient forests surround the picturesque Russell Falls. Enjoy a leisurely walk through this beautiful wilderness area before lunch. This afternoon visit MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art, where you can explore the unique and thought provoking exhibitions at your own pace. Return to Hobart and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Accommodation: Old Woolstore Hotel, Hobart
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Spend the morning browsing the famous Salamanca Market, one of Australia’s premier outdoor markets, featuring local produce, arts, crafts and artisan goods. After collecting a picnic lunch, travel south into the picturesque Huon Valley, renowned for its apple orchards, vineyards and rural scenery. Continue to the Tahune AirWalk where a gentle self guided walk leads to elevated platforms high above the forest canopy, providing magnificent views across the surrounding wilderness. Return to Hobart in the late afternoon.

Accommodation: Old Woolstore Hotel, Hobart
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed start before travelling to the historic village of Richmond. Wander the charming streets, browse local shops and visit Australia’s oldest stone bridge. Lunch is provided from the famous Richmond Bakery before continuing to Hobart Airport to farewell passengers concluding their tour. The journey then continues across Tasmania’s beautiful East Coast to St Helens, gateway to the Bay of Fires region. Check into your accommodation and enjoy dinner overlooking the coast.

Accommodation: Panorama Hotel, St Helens
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Travel to Coles Bay and board your unforgettable Wineglass Bay Cruise. Cruise along the spectacular Freycinet coastline, passing granite cliffs, secluded beaches and abundant wildlife. Enter the world renowned Wineglass Bay and enjoy uninterrupted views of one of Australia’s most photographed landscapes. A delicious lunch is served onboard while you take in the pristine surroundings. Return to St Helens later in the day.

Accommodation: Panorama Hotel, St Helens
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Depart St Helens and travel to the vibrant township of Derby, now famous for its mountain biking trails and relaxed village atmosphere. Enjoy morning tea before continuing to Legerwood where memorial trees honour local soldiers who never returned from war. Visit Bridestowe Lavender Estate and enjoy lunch while learning about one of Tasmania’s most iconic agricultural attractions. Continue through Lilydale to Launceston, where a brief city sights tour introduces the region’s rich history and heritage.

Accommodation: Hotel Grand Chancellor, Launceston
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning visit the stunning Cataract Gorge Reserve, one of Launceston’s most treasured attractions. Explore the walking paths, gardens and suspension bridge, with the option to experience the scenic chairlift. Continue to Woolmers Estate, a World Heritage listed property that tells the story of Tasmania’s colonial past. Enjoy lunch before a guided tour of the historic homestead, gardens and outbuildings. Return to Launceston with free time to explore the city at your leisure.

Accommodation: Hotel Grand Chancellor, Launceston
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Travel to Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre to learn about the area’s mining history and the remarkable rescue that captured national attention. Continue to Beauty Point to visit Platypus House and Seahorse World, providing unique opportunities to observe these fascinating creatures up close. Enjoy free time for lunch before visiting Tamar Ridge Winery for a tasting of premium cool climate Tasmanian wines. Return to Launceston for dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel Grand Chancellor, Launceston
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner


Depart Launceston and travel through the fertile farming country of northern Tasmania to Sheffield, known as the Town of Murals. Enjoy morning tea and time to view the impressive outdoor artworks. Continue through spectacular mountain scenery to Tullah on the shores of Lake Rosebery for a picnic lunch. Travel through Rosebery and Zeehan before arriving in Strahan. Visit Morrison’s Huon Pine Sawmill for a fascinating demonstration of traditional timber craftsmanship before checking into your accommodation.

Accommodation: Strahan Village
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is a highlight of the tour as you board a Gordon River World Heritage Cruise. Travel through Macquarie Harbour and Hells Gates before entering the tranquil Gordon River. Enjoy informative commentary, stunning wilderness scenery and opportunities to walk amongst ancient rainforest. Morning tea and lunch are included onboard. Back in Strahan, enjoy free time before attending the acclaimed live performance of The Ship That Never Was, Australia’s longest running play.

Accommodation: Strahan Village
Meals: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Dinner


Travel through the dramatic landscapes of Queenstown to Derwent Bridge. Visit The Wall in the Wilderness, an extraordinary series of hand carved timber panels depicting Tasmania’s pioneering history. Enjoy morning tea before continuing to the historic township of Hamilton, where time is available to purchase lunch. This afternoon travel through the Midlands and return to Hobart. Celebrate your Tasmanian adventure with a farewell dinner.

Accommodation: Old Woolstore Hotel, Hobart
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy a leisurely morning before checking out of your hotel. Board a Hobart Historic Cruise and discover the city’s rich maritime heritage while viewing the waterfront from a different perspective. Following the cruise, gather for a farewell lunch before transferring to Hobart Airport for your flight home, taking with you wonderful memories of Tasmania’s spectacular landscapes, history and hospitality.

Accommodation: None
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Activity Levels

  • 1. Easy
  • 2. Moderate
  • 3. Active Moderate
  • 4. Adventurous

Testimonials

Hi I would just like to say what a wonderful Australian Open tour Kevin and I had with On Course. We think Hans and Debbie were fantastic. Everything was so clearly explained every step of the way and they were so patient with all of us (especially considering the age group). We will definitely be keen to go again on the 2025 AO tour.

Many thanks, Andrea & Kevin

Thank you so much to Indigo for delivering my backpack, containing my computer, to me at home in Willoughby. I thoroughly enjoyed my two day trip to the Hunter Valley Gardens. Our driver, Peter was delightful, patient, knowledgeable and a most competent driver. The drivers that picked us up and delivered us to Hornsby in smaller vehicles were also kind and patient. I was quite distressed at having left such a valuable piece of equipment behind and am so grateful to Indigo for going out of her way to deliver it to me. You have wonderful staff and I am looking forward to my next excursion with you soon in 2026. Happiness, good health and all good wishes to you all . Sincerely, Gabrielle Dec – 2026

Gabrielle, Hunter Valley Gardens Tour