7 Day Top to Tail (Launceston to Devonport/Launceston)

Itinerary: day by day

Day 1 – Launceston to Bicheno

DEFAULT PICK UP: Launceston Backpackers, 07:30am

Enjoy a morning walk at Cataract Gorge in the heart of Launceston before we make our way to the East Coast and the beautiful Bay of Fires. Here we stretch our legs and take some quality time to enjoy this highly recommended coastal region. The beaches are gleaming and the water inviting, so jump in and enjoy a swim if the weather permits. Enjoy Tasmania’s most scenic coastal drive from St Helen’s to Bicheno, where we stay tonight. This evening you can join a guided viewing of the Little Penguins as they return to their rookeries on the edges of this seaside village (optional, seasonal and at own expense). (B)         

Day 2 – Freycinet National Park to Hobart

We start early and climb to the lookout, beating the crowds and the heat for that postcard photo of Wineglass Bay. Relax on the secluded beach or choose the more challenging Mt Amos or Hazzards Beach walk. This afternoon we take a break at the picturesque historical village of Ross. Sample the local Ross Bakery (at your own expense), or check out the convict built bridge. Come face to face with the famous Tasmanian Devil as we make a stop at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary to meet these endangered native animals, as well as some other creatures that are unique to Tasmania. A short drive returns us to Hobart — our stop for the next three nights. (BD)

Day 3 – Pt Arthur historic site

Start the day with a quick look at Richmond, Australia’s best preserved colonial village, before we head south for magnificent views of the Tasman Peninsula. Explore the Tasman National Park and learn about Tasmania’s ruthless convict past at the World Heritage Listed Port Arthur Historic Site (guided walk and harbour cruise included). You’ll hear all about the chilling realities of life as a convict, amid the restored sandstone prison buildings and preserved ruins. After a busy day we return to Hobart for the night. (B)          

Day 4 – Hobart and surrounds

Spend a day enjoying the sights of Tasmania’s capital city, Hobart. Some recommended activities include a Derwent River Cruise on a historical square rigger named the Lady Nelson, a tour of the Cascade Brewery or the Cadbury Chocolate Factory (week days only), half day bike hire, a visit to ‘Antarctic Adventure’ or a trip to the top of Mt Wellington. All meals and activities are subject to availability and are at your own expense. Overnight accommodation in Hobart is included.         

Day 5 – Hobart to Strahan

PICK UP DAY 5: Montgomery’s YHA, 07:00am

Today we traverse the island from east to west. Leaving Hobart behind, we travel first through the Derwent Valley, then we take a walk in the land of the giants and admire the beauty of Russell Falls and Mt Field National Park.  Next we visit Lake St Clair — Australia’s deepest freshwater lake. Enter the temperate time capsule that is the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. We end the day in Strahan beside Macquarie Harbour where we’ll spend the next two nights. Our West Coast host welcomes us with a BBQ dinner. (D)

Day 6 – Strahan and surrounding area

Discover the beauty of the wild west coast today with a visit to Ocean Beach and the Henty Sand Dunes. Search for elusive whale bones amongst the shifting sands or simply relax and breathe in the freshest air in the world. Today you have a range of options. Stroll by the foreshore of the harbour or walk amongst the rainforest to a waterfall. You can choose to cruise on the famous Gordon River, take a scenic sea plane flight over the Gordon and Franklin River system (complete with a river landing and walk), journey up the King River on a jet boat, or peacefully paddle in the harbour. Strahan optional activities are at your own expense and subject to availability. (B)

Day 7 – Cradle Mountain to Devonport or Launceston

Today we’ll climb 950m above sea level, to reach Cradle Valley — gateway to the World Heritage Area of Cradle Mountain National Park. After hearing about local knowledge of the landscape, you can choose a walk to suit your taste and fitness. There is an extensive range of walks available. Take it easy with a stroll around Dove Lake or take one of the many boardwalk tracks. Passengers looking for more of a challenge can tackle the hike to Marion’s Lookout. Next we’ll take a short drive to Sheffield, ‘the town of murals’, before continuing on through Devonport to Launceston. (B)