Best Buys
Tassie's Wilderness Icons
6 Day Guided Vacation | Hobart to Launceston
Travel Period
Tasmania may be Australia’s smallest state, but it packs a big punch when it comes to natural attractions. World Heritage-listed wilderness areas, unpeopled valleys, mirror-like lakes and dramatic mountains all await on this Tasmania tour from Hobart.
Prices From Code: FHHL
$2365
$3080
Child prices are available on request
Secure your trip with a deposit
Tassie's Wilderness Icons
Best Buys
6 Day Guided Vacation
Hobart to Launceston
Tasmania may be Australia’s smallest state, but it packs a big punch when it comes to natural attractions. World Heritage-listed wilderness areas, unpeopled valleys, mirror-like lakes and dramatic mountains all await on this Tasmania tour from Hobart.
Highlights
Flexible Vacations
Do as much (spot wombats and Tassie devils after dark) or as little (sip wine by the fire) as you like. This is your holiday, after all.
Time For You
The view from the top of Stanley’s ‘The Nut’ is impressive. But if you don’t fancy a hike, then explore the atmospheric town at your own pace.
Iconic Sites
From Cataract Gorge to the Gordon River, Cradle Mountain to ‘The Nut’, Tasmania is not short on natural attractions.
Sustainable Travel
Your entry fees into the state’s national parks assist with the conservation of these pristine natural environments.
Natural Wonders
World Heritage-listed wilderness is your playground in Mount Field National Park, a soul-stirring union of soaring eucalypts and thundering waterfalls.
Itinerary
Tassie's Wilderness Icons (Travel Period: 01 Apr 2023 – 31 Mar 2024)
At the mouth of the River Derwent, Australia’s southernmost city embraces its history, but has one eye firmly planted on the future. You only need to visit Salamanca Place to see how forward-thinking purveyors and curators have transformed heritage spaces into restaurants, cafés and galleries. Step back in time once again at Battery Point, settled as a defensive outpost in the 19th century, and Constitution Dock – this is where yachts finish when competing in the annual Sydney to Hobart race. Put your destination into perspective from the summit of Mt. Nelson, offering a dreamy outlook over the capital. Touring Tasmania never looked so good.
Hotel: Best Western Hobart
Included Meals: Dinner
Not many people live in the West of Tasmania – even less visit. This is not for want of appeal. Mount Field National Park dials up the drama from the moment you arrive, delivering World Heritage-listed wilderness in the form of soaring eucalypts (some of the tallest on Earth) and thundering waterfalls. Russell Falls will take your breath away in more ways than one. And just when you think nature couldn’t get any more humbling, you arrive at Lake St. Clair, the deepest freshwater lake in Australia. It’s one of numerous waterways breaking your path to Strahan, gateway to World Heritage-listed Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park.
Hotel: Strahan Village
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
The inky waters of the Gordon River – given its colour by amber button-grass tannins – are as eery as they are beautiful, the mirror-like surface only broken by your Gordon River cruise chariot out to Sarah Island. It’s hard to reconcile the beauty of this part of the state with its grim history as a penal colony; a place where convicts would fell Huon pines for boat building. Thankfully, they didn’t get to the 2,000-year-old pine that still stands proud at Heritage Landing. Early settlers didn’t mince their words when they called the treacherous entrance to the river’s harbour Hells Gates. You’ll understand why when you drift past. Cradle Mountain awaits to the north. If you’re content by the fire with a glass of wine – stay there. Otherwise, follow your guide into the night to spot Tassie devils in the wild.
Hotel: Cradle Mountain Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
When the first thing you see is 1,545-metre Cradle Mountain, you know you’re in for a good day. This is your backdrop as you wander to Dove Lake on your Cradle Mountain tour, the bucolic landscape here a natural magnet for Bennetts wallabies, echidnas, and pademelons. Just when you thought the west coast couldn’t get any more dramatic, ‘The Nut’ appears on the horizon. This 152-metre bluff created by the remains of an ancient volcanic plug guards over Stanley, an atmospheric fishing village with remarkably well-preserved heritage buildings. Browse boutiques at your leisure, or lace up your walking shoes – The Nut summit awaits.
Hotel: Tall Timbers
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
While you may not see any shy, nocturnal penguins on your visit to the town of Penguin, you will find dozens of statues commemorating just how cute these creatures are. Be sure to snap a picture in front of the 10-metre-high installation. You’ll also want to have your camera ready arriving in Sheffield, home to a surprise collection of 60 murals telling the area’s history. All this exploring builds an appetite. Refuel at Ashgrove Tasmanian Farm, where happy cows contribute to award-winning cheeses – everything from cheddar and red Leicester to creamy Tasmanian blue.
Hotel: Best Western Plus Launceston
Included Meals: Breakfast
There are few places in the world where you can leave the city behind and within minutes be amid an immense wilderness are. Launceston is one. Blink and you’re at Cataract Gorge, a yawning chasm carved by ancient rivers. This rare natural phenomenon unites bushland with neat Victorian gardens, replete with ferns and exotic plants. Get a different perspective of the green cavern on the scenic chairlift, zipping you over the water to a lofty lookout. Now for an orientation of the city. You won’t want your time here to come to an end; it’s a good thing you have afternoon options. Perhaps sign up to cruise the river that carves the gorge, linger on a Launceston city tour, or get a taste for the region on a Tamar Valley wine expedition. How you end your Tasmania tour is completely up to you.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Please note: This itinerary may be subject to change.
Accommodation
Your Guided Holiday includes a range of quality accommodation for your comfort.
The accommodation you will enjoy on this tour includes:
- WiFi / Internet Access
- Gym facilities
- Restaurant and In Room Dining
Features
Strahan Village is an ideal base for exploring Tasmania's stunning wilderness. Journey into the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park with Gordon River Cruises, encounter west coast wildlife and history on the Bonnet Island Experience and discover Strahan’s culture and heritage as you explore the museums, galleries and attractions of this historic fishing port.
- Ensuite
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Mini-bar (surcharge)
- Refrigerator
- TV
- Phone
- Alarm Clock
- Hairdryer
- Radio
- Iron / Ironing Board
- 220/240 V AC
Features
Cradle Mountain Hotel is a stylish, wilderness hotel, located at the northern boundary of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.
Set on the edge of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Cradle Mountain Hotel offers warm, welcoming accommodation within easy reach of Tasmania’s most iconic wilderness experiences.
- Heater
- TV
- Ensuite
- Bathtub and shower
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Shared self-service laundry facilities
Features
Tall Timbers offers its guests holiday accommodation on the North West Coast of Tasmania, ranging from luxury self contained apartments to cabin style units. Our accommodation is situated at the rear of the main hotel complex. Tall Timbers Tasmania boasts unique and stylish accommodation, set out to take advantage of the stunning rural views. Relax and unwind, take a walk around the lake or picnic in the grounds near the waterfall. A modern guest laundry is provided to cater for visitors’ requirements.
- Ensuite
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Room service
- Mini-bar (surcharge)
- ISD/STD phone
- Wireless Internet access
- In-house movies
Features
With its distinct style and personalised guest services – all features of the BEST WESTERN PLUS brand, whether your travel needs are for leisure or work, the Best Western Plus Launceston hotel caters for all guest needs with comfort and ease.
Staying at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Launceston locates you close to several Launceston attractions, and a short walk from the main shopping area.
- LCD TV
- Wi-Fi
- Pay TV
- Foxtel
- Ensuite
- Hairdryer
- Bathroom Amenities
- Free wireless internet access
- Work Desk
- Mini-bar (surcharge)
- Heater
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Direct Dial Telephone
- Radio
- Iron / Ironing Board
Features
Need accommodation before or after your tour?
Our special discounted rates make booking accommodation with us during your holiday both easy and affordable at selected AAT Kings hotels and resorts. Ask our friendly reservations at the time of booking.
Optional Experiences
To ensure your holiday is filled with memorable experiences, we have included a range of quality Optional Excursions for you to choose from and partake in, if you wish, during your holiday. The excursions can be booked on tour through your Travel Director.
Adult Price: AUD 49.00 Child Price: AUD 29.00
Cradle Mountain at dusk is the best time to see the many nocturnal mammals and marsupials in their native habitat. Join us on a 2 hour tour as we go spotlighting for wallabies, wombats, possums and maybe even a devil.
Adult: 25.00 AUD
Child: 15.00 AUD
One of the experienced keepers will lead you through the sanctuary and provide you with a thorough insight into the operation of a working sanctuary, and explain the importance of various conservation programmes that they are involved in for these unique and threatened animals.
Adult Price: AUD 34.00 Child Price: AUD 16.00
Explore the Old Launceston Seaport before cruising to Kings Wharf viewing historic vessels and Launceston’s delightful riverfront precinct. The highlight of the experience is then cruising into the spectacular Cataract Gorge as we engage the Lady Launceston’s unique and silent electric drive. View the sheer cliffs and cascades from your comfortable seat with unobstructed views on our multi award winning 1890’s style vessel. Enjoy the skippers captivating commentary on the history of this fascinating area.
Adult: $160.00
Travel through the picturesque Tamar Valley this afternoon visiting some of the region's boutique vineyards and cellar doors. Meet the winemakers whilst you taste their delicious award-winning, cool-climate wines, and enjoy a lunch platter made up of the finest local produce that this region has to offer . *Monday only*
Optional Experiences indicated are Australian or New Zealand dollars. Please note that occasionally weather or seasonal conditions may not permit their operation. Some also depend on a minimum number of participants and suitable time being available. Please see your Travel Director for a full list of experiences.
Trip Details
What's included
- • Specialist team of two highly experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
- • 1 UNESCO World Heritage Site – Tasmanian Wilderness
- • Centrally located premium hotels
- • Franklin-Gordon Rivers National Park, and Cradle Mountain-Lake St Claire National Park entrance fees
What to Bring
- • Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat
- • Water bottle
- • Warm layers in cooler months
- • Camera
- • Comfortable walking shoes
Fitness Requirements
- • Russell Falls and Cataract Gorge - Low to medium level of fitness required
Dining
- • 5 Full Breakfasts
- • 1 Lunch
- • 4 Dinners
Flight Information
- • Day 1: Flights to arrive by 12:30pm into Hobart Airport
- • Day 6: Flights to depart after 2:00pm from Launceston Airport
- • Airline schedules may change at short notice. Please consider possible flight disruption when booking your flights.
Tassie's Wilderness Icons
Best Buys
6 Day Guided Vacation
Hobart to Launceston
Coveting the world’s cleanest air and water, Tasmania is also home to some of Australia’s wildest natural attractions. Many are in the west, a part of the state few other travellers venture. On this Hobart to Launceston tour, you’ll cruise World Heritage-listed rainforest carved by rivers, explore Tassie’s tallest peak and bask in Russell Falls’ beauty. Stellar food and wine await, when it’s time to refuel.
Highlights
Flexible Vacations
Want to get active spotting Tassie devils in the wild, or prefer to sip local wine by the fire? Do both if you like – it’s your holiday.
Iconic Sites
Is this the ultimate roll-call of Tasmanian nature? Cradle Mountain, Cataract Gorge, Stanley’s The Nut, the Gordon River, Russell Falls. Phew!
Time For You
With a free afternoon in Launceston, enjoy time to cruise the Tamar, take a wine tour or visit the Beaconsfield Mine.
Sustainable Travel
Your entry fees into the state’s national parks assist with the conservation of these pristine natural environments.
Itinerary
Tassie's Wilderness Icons (Travel Period: 01 Apr 2022 – 31 Mar 2023)
Your Tasmanian holiday begins today with an afternoon tour of Hobart. You’ll see historic Battery Point, Salamanca Place, take a wander through the Botanic Gardens, Constitution Dock, the destination of yachts participating in the Sydney to Hobart race each year, and Mt. Nelson, which affords panoramic views over Australia’s southernmost city. Enjoy the company of your Travel Director and fellow travellers this evening at a Welcome Reception and dinner.
Hotel: Wrest Point
Included Meals: Dinner
This morning, you’ll head west to New Norfolk and magnificent Mt. Field National Park. Here, you'll take a stroll through lush rainforest to the many-tiered cascade of picturesque Russell Falls. Then enjoy the scenic drive to iconic Lake St. Clair, the deepest freshwater lake in Australia, and continue through the rainforest to the coastal town of Strahan. Nestled on the shores of Macquarie Harbour, a waterway six times the size of Sydney Harbour, Strahan is the gateway to the World Heritage listed Franklin- Gordon Wild Rivers National Park.
Hotel: Strahan Village
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today's highlight experience is a lunch cruise on the Gordon River. You’ll be awestruck by the beauty of the dark waters. Stained amber by Button-grass tannins, they reflect the untouched wilderness that surrounds them. Stop at Sarah Island for an insight into a relic of Tasmania’s lesser-known convict history, the Macquarie Harbour Penal Settlement. See Hells Gates, the treacherous entrance to the harbour, and Heritage Landing, site of a 2,000-year-old Huon Pine. Travel through the mining towns of Rosebery and Tullah on your way to your hotel. After dinner tonight, you may choose to do an optional animal night spotting tour or perhaps take advantage of a rare opportunity to see Tasmanian Devils feeding after dark.
Hotel: Cradle Mountain Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, marvel at the inspiring beauty of Cradle Mountain National Park. Join your Travel Director for a guided walk by Dove Lake, where you may spot Bennett’s wallabies, echidnas and pademelons along the way. Travel on through rolling green hills to Table Cape for spectacular views of Bass Strait. Picturesque Stanley is in your sights as you head west. Enjoy views of the sheer-sided Stanley bluff known as ‘The Nut’ and take some time to explore. Your destination this evening is Smithton.
Hotel: Tall Timbers
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel along the picturesque northwest coast visiting townships such as Burnie and Penguin where you’ll stop for morning tea and get a chance to wander around the shops and beachfront. Continue on to Ulverstone before heading inland to Sheffield, home to over 60 murals depicting the area’s rich history. You’ll learn about dairy production methods at the award-winning Ashgrove Tasmanian Farm on your way to Launceston, Tasmania’s ‘northern capital’.
Hotel: Best Western Plus Launceston
Included Meals: Breakfast
This morning visit the unique natural formation of the Cataract Gorge, home to the longest single-span chairlift in the world. You may choose to take the easy walk around the First Basin and across the historic suspension bridge, or why not relax in one of the gorge’s cafes and just soak up the tranquillity? The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure, exploring all that Launceston has to offer. Consider an optional experience on a Cataract Gorge River Cruise. Alternatively, why not stay local with a visit to the Art Gallery or the historic Tramway Museum? Your journey concludes this afternoon.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Please note: This itinerary may be subject to change.
Accommodation
Your Guided Holiday includes a range of quality accommodation for your comfort.
The accommodation you will enjoy on this tour includes:
Experience an absolute Hobart waterfront destination at Wrest Point; with spectacular river and mountain views and great service.
- Air-conditioning
- Business Facilities
- Foxtel
- Wi-Fi
- Guest Laundry
- Mini Bar
- Austar
- Shower Over Bath
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- TV
Features
Strahan Village is an ideal base for exploring Tasmania's stunning wilderness. Journey into the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park with Gordon River Cruises, encounter west coast wildlife and history on the Bonnet Island Experience and discover Strahan’s culture and heritage as you explore the museums, galleries and attractions of this historic fishing port.
- Ensuite
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Mini-bar (surcharge)
- Refrigerator
- TV
- Phone
- Alarm Clock
- Hairdryer
- Radio
- Iron / Ironing Board
- 220/240 V AC
Features
Cradle Mountain Hotel is a stylish, wilderness hotel, located at the northern boundary of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.
Set on the edge of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Cradle Mountain Hotel offers warm, welcoming accommodation within easy reach of Tasmania’s most iconic wilderness experiences.
- Heater
- TV
- Ensuite
- Bathtub and shower
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Shared self-service laundry facilities
Features
Tall Timbers offers its guests holiday accommodation on the North West Coast of Tasmania, ranging from luxury self contained apartments to cabin style units. Our accommodation is situated at the rear of the main hotel complex. Tall Timbers Tasmania boasts unique and stylish accommodation, set out to take advantage of the stunning rural views. Relax and unwind, take a walk around the lake or picnic in the grounds near the waterfall. A modern guest laundry is provided to cater for visitors’ requirements.
- Ensuite
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Room service
- Mini-bar (surcharge)
- ISD/STD phone
- Wireless Internet access
- In-house movies
Features
With its distinct style and personalised guest services – all features of the BEST WESTERN PLUS brand, whether your travel needs are for leisure or work, the Best Western Plus Launceston hotel caters for all guest needs with comfort and ease.
Staying at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Launceston locates you close to several Launceston attractions, and a short walk from the main shopping area.
- LCD TV
- Wi-Fi
- Pay TV
- Foxtel
- Ensuite
- Hairdryer
- Bathroom Amenities
- Free wireless internet access
- Work Desk
- Mini-bar (surcharge)
- Heater
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Direct Dial Telephone
- Radio
- Iron / Ironing Board
Features
Need accommodation before or after your tour?
Our special discounted rates make booking accommodation with us during your holiday both easy and affordable at selected AAT Kings hotels and resorts. Ask our friendly reservations at the time of booking.
Optional Experiences
To ensure your holiday is filled with memorable experiences, we have included a range of quality Optional Excursions for you to choose from and partake in, if you wish, during your holiday. The excursions can be booked on tour through your Travel Director.
Adult Price: AUD 49.00 Child Price: AUD 29.00
Cradle Mountain at dusk is the best time to see the many nocturnal mammals and marsupials in their native habitat. Join us on a 2 hour tour as we go spotlighting for wallabies, wombats, possums and maybe even a devil.
Adult: $38.00
Child: $20.00
Adult Price: AUD 240.00 Child Price: AUD 175.00
Cruise alongside some of Australia’s highest sea cliffs, beneath towering crags and drift up close to listen to the awesome ‘Breathing Rock’. Enter deep sea caves, pass through the narrow gap between the coast and ‘The Monument’ and feel the power of nature at the point where the Tasman Sea meets the might of the Southern Ocean. Join in the search for the abundant coastal wildlife such as seals, dolphins, migrating whales and sea birds. The highly trained interpretive guides love what they do. *Please Note: This tour returns to Hobart at approximately 5:30pm. In order to partake on the last day of your tour, you will need to have post tour accommodation booked or an outbound flight that departs after 8pm approx.
Adult Price: AUD 210.00 Child Price: AUD 175.00
Savour a delicious al fresco morning tea and a cellar door lunch of specialty local produce including Bruny Island Cheese, oysters, salmon, wine, bread and berries - all grown, made or harvested on Bruny. At The Neck, see the narrow isthmus stretch away south in graceful curves. Enjoy short walks in the South Bruny National Park and see white wallabies, native wildlife and birds in their natural habitat. Hear the stories of the people who have shaped Bruny Island, from the whalers who used to camp at Adventure Bay, to the lighthouse keepers and their families who braved difficult conditions to keep the light burning at Cape Bruny. *Please Note: This tour returns to Hobart at approximately 5:30pm. In order to partake on the last day of your tour, you will need to have post tour accommodation booked or an outbound flight that departs after 8pm approx.
Adult Price: AUD 50.00 Child Price: AUD 25.00
On this half day tour, pass through various eco systems as we ascend the mountain look out for the massive rock formation known as the Organ Pipes Crowned by alpine vegetation, dusted by snow in winter, kunanyi/Mt Wellington enables the visitor to glimpse the unfolding panorama of river, fields and aquatic setting of Hobart. Be mesmerised by the dramatic setting and breathtaking views of Hobart from Mt Wellington’s majestic summit. Before ending the tour visit the remains of the Female Factory - a one time female prison.
* Post tour booking only. In order to partake in this experience you will need to ensure your flight departs after 2:00pm on the final day of tour. Or have post accommodation booked.
Adult Price: AUD 70.00 Child Price: AUD 32.00
Travel to Richmond, one of Australia’s most original historic villages. Nowhere else in Tasmania is the romance and nostalgic charm of the colonial days more alive than in the village of Richmond. Free time to explore the village.
* Post tour booking only. If your tour ends in Hobart, you must have post tour accommodation or a late departing flight. Ask us for details
Adult Price: AUD 95.00 Child Price: AUD 48.00
The Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary offers close up experiences of Australian native animals including Tassie’s famous Tasmanian Devil, kangaroos, koalas, wombats and emus. Our tour passes through Richmond, a Georgian style village which will take you back in time to the convict days. *Note: This is an afternoon tour starting at 1.10pm and finishing at 5pm therefore in order to partake in this experience on the last day of your tour, you will need to have a flight departing after 7.30pm, or post tour accommodation booked.
Optional Experiences indicated are Australian or New Zealand dollars. Please note that occasionally weather or seasonal conditions may not permit their operation. Some also depend on a minimum number of participants and suitable time being available. Please see your Travel Director for a full list of experiences.
Trip Details
What's included
- • Specialist team of two highly experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
- • 1 UNESCO World Heritage Site – Tasmanian Wilderness
- • Centrally located premium hotels
- • Franklin-Gordon Rivers National Park, and Cradle Mountain-Lake St Claire National Park entrance fees
What to Bring
- • Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat
- • Water bottle
- • Warm layers in cooler months
- • Camera
- • Comfortable walking shoes
Fitness Requirements
- • Russell Falls and Cataract Gorge - Low to medium level of fitness required
Dining
- • 5 Full Breakfasts
- • 1 Lunch
- • 4 Dinners
Flight Information
- • Day 1 – flights to arrive prior to 12.30pm into Hobart Airport
- • Day 6 – flights to depart after 2.00pm from Launceston Airport
- • Airline schedules may change at short notice. Please consider possible flight disruption when booking your flights.
