This morning, set off for the eerie silence of the Port Arthur Historic Site. Despite its scenic surrounds, this former prison holds a dark and complex history. Making your way through the Port Arthur Gallery, you’ll follow a self-guided audio experience to uncover the stories of hardship that filled the halls of this inescapable prison. Spanning over 30 historic buildings, ruins and scenic walking trails, your exploration brings you to the chilling heart of Tasmania’s colonial past, with complimentary site talks at key locations throughout the morning.
Contemplate this site’s solemn history and its contrast with the natural beauty of the region on a short harbour cruise around the Isle of the Dead and Point Puer, where the British colonies established a juvenile boys’ prison.
Back ashore, take a short drive along the coast to Remarkable Cave, a hidden tunnel through sandstone rocks leading to a secluded, secret beach. Take in the sights over Penguin Rocks from Maingon Bay Lookout, then hit the trail on your way to Tunnel Hill Mushrooms. Thanks to the unique climate of this island, you’ll find abundant oyster mushrooms at one of only a handful of such farms in the country. After a guided tour, educating you about these fantastical fungi, continue back to Hobart for a well-deserved dinner at Mures Upper Deck, featuring the region’s freshest local seafood and lovely views over Victoria Dock.
Depart on a day of wild wonders as you ascend through the lush greenery of Mount Field National Park. Turn your gaze to the sky as you admire some of the world’s tallest eucalypt trees and walk the winding scenic trails to the elegant, three-tiered cascade of Russell Falls.
Continuing on your way to Hamilton, you’ll arrive at Curringa Farm for the chance to experience Tasmania’s pastoral tradition. At 750 acres and housing around 3,000 sheep, this working farm also comprises a dedicated conservation area where native birdlife and flora are allowed to flourish. Take a tour of the farm to witness a sheep-shearing demonstration, working dog round-up and guided forest walk, learning about the importance of landcare.
Enjoy a barbeque lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing at your farm stay, getting to know the farm animals or enjoying some peace in your bright and comfy room. This evening, tuck into a delicious homemade dinner with your hosts.
Rise and shine for a day along the spectacular east coast, starting with a visit to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. This passionate social enterprise is dedicated to supporting the surrounding environment by offering visitors the chance to meet the local wildlife. From prickly echidnas to waddling wombats and the beloved Tasmanian devil, say hello to the native fauna and learn about the critical need to protect their habitat.
Travel onward to Richmond Village and step into settler history as you wander the galleries and antique shops along the historic main street. You may wish to unearth the story of Isaac ‘Ikey’ Solomon at the infamous Richmond Gaol, believed to have inspired the character of Fagin in Charles Dickens’ classic Oliver Twist. Cross the Richmond Bridge – the oldest of its kind in Australia, constructed by convicts in 1825 – and admire the 19th-century architecture of Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church.
Later, take to the road again for one of Tasmania’s most beautiful scenic roads. Over a leisurely three-hour journey along the Great Eastern Drive, you’ll pass rugged cliffs, white-sand beaches, crystalline waters and lush forests, stopping at charming coastal towns on your way to idyllic Coles Bay. Tonight, indulge in dinner at Freycinet Lodge and relax afterward in your cabin.
Wake early for an 1.5-hour hike to the breathtaking Wineglass Bay Lookout. Walk through coastal woodlands and granite rock formations on your way to panoramic views over the bay, perhaps even spotting a passing whale or a playful pod of dolphins.
On your return to the trailhead, take your transfer to Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm and start your gourmet journey along the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail. Sit down for a local lunch, where fresh raspberries are the stars of the show.
Further along, stop in at Ashgrove Cheese to explore over a century of dairy farming heritage. Visit the cheese factory and learn how the region’s particular climate lends itself to the creamy, flavourful produce for which Ashgrove has become known.
This evening, check in at your Cradle Mountain stay and breathe in the fresh air as you settle in before dinner. For those wishing to encounter local wildlife, from the fuzzy pademelon to the ever-shy possum, join an optional night spotting tour with a professional guide.
This morning, welcome the grandeur of Cradle Mountain. Combining tens of thousands of years of Indigenous connection with the land and a dramatic combination of jagged peaks and glassy lakes, Cradle Mountain-Lake Saint Clair National Park is a wondrous wilderness. Walk the six-kilometre track around serene Dove Lake and weave through the mountain terrain, watching for native buttongrass and sassafras, then pass through the tranquil rainforest as you circle back to your starting point. For those not up for the longer walk, a more leisurely trail is available.
For thrill-seekers, you can choose to join an optional 20-minute helicopter flight over the sweeping scenery of Cradle Mountain and Fury Gorge.
This afternoon, take the road to Sheffield and admire the vibrant street art that has earned it its title as the ‘Town of Murals.’ Once you’ve wandering this living art gallery, you’ll be transferred to Launceston Airport (LST) or your central Launceston accommodation, where your Tasman trip concludes.