Days
5 Days
Tour Type
Walking
$2,480 Twin Share
- Start
-
Launceston
- Finish
-
Hobart
- Physical Rating
- Moderate to challenging
- Tour Distance
- Approx. 100km
- Group size
- Min 4, Max 12
- Code
- TASEC
Overview
The East Coast of Tasmania is a mecca for walking. We kickstart in the charming town of Launceston with a heart-warming welcome dinner, before starting fresh on our journey to the pristine shores of Wineglass Bay; where azure waters meet white sands. Next, we take the ferry to Maria Island, which beckons, with a vibrant history and the mesmerising 'Painted Cliffs'. The latter half of the tour is no less dramatic as we dive into the wonders of the Tasman National Park on the acclaimed Three Capes Track. A truely unique display of Tasmania's natural beauty with sprawling heathlands, dramatic dolerite cliffs, and the iconic pathways of Cape Hauy, crowned by awe-inspiring formations like The Candlestick and the Totem Pole.
Highlights of this walk
- Observe every shade of blue at Wineglass Bay
- Discover Maria Island’s rich history and diverse wildlife (including echidnas and wombats)
- Peek over 300m towering cliffs on the Three Capes Track
- Feel the achievement walking the vertical trails of Cape Hauy
- Dive into an enthralling experience that showcases Tasmania’s captivating landscapes and tales
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Itinerary
Arrive at any time during the day and make your way to your first nights stay in Launceston.
We will see you in the lobby of the hotel at 6pm for a tour briefing followed by a 7pm welcome dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Accommodation: Best Western Plus, Launceston (or similar)
Meals: Dinner
The view over Coles Bay toward the Hazard Range and the green-clothed peaks of the Freycinet Peninsula draws us in to this iconic national park.
Enjoy a gorgeous 11.5km circuit walk, which starts with a moderate climb on a well-formed path up and over a small saddle, then descends to the white sandy beach of Wineglass Bay. We follow the path across the isthmus to the more exposed Hazards Beach on the western side of the isthmus, then the track continues through coastal woodland and heathland around Mt Mayson (this part can seem to take longer than it should) before arriving back at the carpark.
After our walk, and perhaps a cool but refreshing swim, we head to Swansea, our home for
the evening.
Accommodation: Swansea Motor Inn (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A quick ferry ride and we alight at the beautiful Maria Island. An island steeped in interesting Tasmanian Aboriginal and post-Settlement history, there is lots to explore for the day. Visit the Fossil Cliffs, an old limestone quarry with fossils of ancient sea creatures embedded within the rock; and the Painted Cliffs, formed from Triassic sandstone that show-cases spectacular colouration from seeping groundwater and fantastic shapes sculpted by often fierce salt-laden winds.
Another landmark is Darlington township, with it's fascinating re-inventions, including starting life as a penal colony before a new owner tried their hand at silk and cement production, finally being reserved as a wildlife
sanctuary, which continues today.
Throughout the day, observe the numerous forester kangaroos, Cape Barren geese and the adorable waddling wombats from Flinders Island, whilst walking through various plant communities including dry sclerophyll Eucalypt woodlands, and cleared grasslands.
After our ferry trip back to the mainland we'll head to Orford and our accommodation for the night.
Accommodation: Eastcoaster Tasmania (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we will be travelling down the East Coast and you'll join a three hour wilderness cruises along the spectacular coastline between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck.
In the afternoon there is an option to visit Port Arthur or alternatively you can mix it up and do several short- to medium-length walks, taking in the unique and interesting shapes that time, wind and water have made in the Triassic sandstone, and visit one of a number of local attractions.
Accommodation: Fox & Hounds Historic Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we will explore the one of the capes on the famous Three Cape Track, after a short drive from Port Arthur.
Our walk today starts off inland where we get to enjoy some beautiful heath country. As we come closer to the coastline the bush opens up and we get some of our first glimpses of the absolutely spectacular dolerite cliffs of the Tasman National Park. If we're lucky we may encounter some of those intense winds the capes are famous for.
Eventually the trail starts heading east along the cliff tops and we descend onto the Cape Raoul plateau. Here we are rewarded with coastal banksia scrub and the odd glimpses of the northern coastline and the impressive 300m high cliffs of Cape Pillar in the distance. Once we've had plenty of time taking in all the beautiful scenery at the end of Cape Raoul we make our way back the same way to the bus.
From the end of the walk it is a short drive back to Port Arthur for our final night together.
Accommodation: Fox & Hounds Historic Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Our last walk for the tour, part of the Three Capes Track, is challenging and spectacular. As we've come to expect from Tasmania, there are plenty of ups and downs, and therefore absolutely incredible views to marvel at. As we walk along Cape Hauy, the promontory narrows and the views get better and better. Massive dolerite cliffs descend vertically into the ocean on either side, making this an exciting walk to finish on.
In the early afternoon it's a ~1.5hr drive back to Hobart, arriving late afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Inclusions
Meals
-
5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
Accommodation
-
During our time in Tasmania we’ll stay in variety of accommodation from comfortable, self contained cottages and cabins to motel style rooms. Accommodation is on a double or twin share basis. A limited number of single supplements are available – please let us know if you would like this option when booking.
1 night: Grand Chancellor Launceston
Located in the heart of Launceston, we will stay here for the first night before an early departure for Wineglass Bay the next day. To celebrate our journey ahead we will enjoy dinner at the hotel restaurant. Rooms are standard Twin share/Queen rooms with ensuites.
1 nights: Swansea Motor Inn
Our launching pad to Maria Island, Swansea Motor Inn overlooks the Great Oyster Bay with the renowned Hazards of Freycinet National Park in the distance. Watch the sun rise over the water and pelicans fishing near the beach in the afternoon. We’ll head to the Bark Mill Tavern for a generous and hearty dinner.
2 night: Fox and Hounds Inn (2022 Departures) or Port Arthur Motor Inn (2023 Departures)
The Fox & Hounds Inn is a traditional Tudor style property, superbly situated on a beautiful waterfront and in bush surrounds. Rooms are standard ensuite style motel accommodation. Dinner will be at the onsite restaurant.
Nestled on the Tasman Peninsula, the Port Arthur Motor Inn offers comfortable ensuite rooms with spectacular views of the Port Arthur Historic Site. We will have dinner at the restaurant.
At all of the locations we will meet up together to share breakfast and to make our packed lunches for the day’s walk. We will enjoy dinner at local restaurants for the duration of the tour.
Included activities
-
Freycinet National Park - Wineglass Bay & Hazards Beach walk
-
Maria Island - Day trip
-
Tasman Peninsula - Boat Cruise
-
Tasman Peninsula - Cape Raoul Track
-
Tasman Peninsula - Cape Huay Track
Dates & Availability
$3,099 AUD
per person twin share
Want your own room? From an extra $590 (subject to availability).
Contact us to confirm availability.
$2,480 AUD
per person twin share
Want your own room? From an extra $590 (subject to availability).
5 spots available
$2,480 AUD
per person twin share
Want your own room? From an extra $590 (subject to availability).
5 spots available
$2,480 AUD
per person twin share
Want your own room? From an extra $590 (subject to availability).
6 spots available
$2,640 AUD
per person twin share
Want your own room? From an extra $600 (subject to availability).
8 spots available
$2,640 AUD
per person twin share
Want your own room? From an extra $600 (subject to availability).
6 spots available
$2,640 AUD
per person twin share
Want your own room? From an extra $600 (subject to availability).
5 spots available
$3,299 AUD
per person twin share
Want your own room? From an extra $600 (subject to availability).
8 spots available
Important Notes
- Single Supplement: A single supplement is bookable, subject to availability at the time of booking. Single supplement provides you with your own room but with shared bathroom facilities.
- Start & End Times: Arriving in Launceston, please make your way to the hotel by cab or shuttle bus. We will pick you up from the front of the hotel in the morning the day after the Welcome Meeting and Dinner. On drop-off in Hobart, we can provide transport at the airport for an evening flight, or at your accommodation if in Central Hobart. Those staying outside of Hobart CBD will need to arrange transfers – please contact our friendly customer service team for assistance should you need it.
- 2024 Itinerary changes: If you are travelling with us in 2024 please note that there are a few changes to the current itinerary. The new itinerary will be 6 Days/5 nights and there will be an included Pennicott Wilderness Cruise.
- In the event of unforeseeable circumstances that require a modification to the itinerary or accommodation, we will make every effort to provide a suitable alternative.
FAQs
Tasmania Walks FAQs
How should I prepare for the walks in Tasmania?
Most of the walks on this tour are moderate to challenging – and are more challenging without adequate preparation. Tasmania seems to be made of hills, and we’re set to climb a lot of them, which can be hard on the knees, thighs and glutes. However, the walks are achievable to those of good fitness. Training prior to the tour will ensure you enjoy it and reduce your chance of injury.
The best way to prepare physically for the trip is to walk up and down hills or stairs, over a variety of surfaces. Try to walk frequently. By the start of our tour you should be able to comfortably walk 15 km and be confident up and down hills.
One great tip to prepare for the rocky surfaces is to step over a series of milk crates. The key with rocky terrain is to lift up your leg nice and high.
Posted in: Tasmania Walks FAQs
How hard are the walks in Tasmania?
By our estimation, most of our guests will find the tour roughly;
30% easy, 55% moderate and about 15% challenging.
For those who choose to do the summit of Mt Rufus (optional walk on the Central Highlands Tour), the percentage of challenge, would be slightly higher.
Posted in: Tasmania Walks FAQs
About Walking Tours In General
How hard are the walks?
The difficulty of the walks ranges from tour to tour, from easy to challenging. We design all of our walking tours to be achievable for those with a moderate level of fitness. We do recommend doing some training before most tours, because physical activity is always more enjoyable if you are physically prepared. We will send you information about how to train when you book.
When on tour we find that a positive mental attitude is most important and that if you focus on the scenery, the company and the moment, and not on the kilometres, then you find yourself reaching your destination with little problem. You can always have a day or sometimes an afternoon off to relax if you feel like it. If you have any concerns about your fitness or ability to complete a walk, give us a call or send us an email and we can talk you through it.
Posted in: About Walking Tours In General
Do I have to twin-share accommodation? Can I have my own room?
Our tour prices are based on rooms being twin share (two single beds in one room) or double (one double/queen bed in a room, shared by a couple). If you are travelling alone, we will place you in a room with someone of the same gender. If you have opted for a single supplement, this means you will have your own room but we won’t always be able to guarantee your own bathroom and king/queen bed due to the types of accommodation we use for group bookings. Often we stay at 2 or 3 bedroom chalets so that we can cook and have a common area for the group to relax and mingle at the end of your days walk. If having your own bathroom is important, give us a ring and we will see if it is possible.
Posted in: About Walking Tours In General
Will I hold up the group if I’m a slow walker?
We find a lot of people who haven’t been on a walking tour before worry about this, but it’s rarely an issue. We keep a comfortable steady pace with plenty of opportunities to rest and take in the scenery along the way. Usually the group will spread out over a couple of hundred metres as we walk.
Normal walking pace on a formed surface like a road or footpath is around 4.5 – 6 km per hour and we tend to average just over 3 km per hour on bush tracks. It’s not a stroll but it’s not a brisk walk either. If you feel you may be slower than this, try some longer training walks to increase your walking fitness.
Posted in: About Walking Tours In General
What is the average age of Inspiration Outdoors’ guests?
About 80% of our walkers are aged between 45 – 75, but we welcome all adults on our tours. We get a roughly 60/40 female to male split.
Posted in: About Walking Tours In General, Day Walk FAQs
What’s the food like? Can you cater for my dietary needs?
We serve simple, nutritious and delicious food on tour prepared by our guides, using fresh and local ingredients as much as possible. Sometimes we also eat out at restaurants. Breakfast, morning tea, lunch, fresh fruit, pre-dinner nibbles and a two course evening meal are all included. We are happy to adapt our menu to suit many dietary needs including gluten free, vegetarian and vegan diets – please ask when you book.
Posted in: About Walking Tours In General
Are your walking tours just for “bushwalkers”?
Our walks are for anyone who enjoys walking and nature – bushwalkers or not. Our walks are conducted in safe, supportive and fun environments and you don’t need specialised equipment or experience to undertake them. We give you information about what you will need to bring and how you should prepare for each tour and we’re always here to answer any questions or concerns.
Posted in: About Walking Tours In General, Day Walk FAQs
Do I have to walk every day on tour?
Of course not – it’s your holiday and you should do what you feel! Relax at the accommodation, come for a drive, get dropped off in town or go for a stroll of your own. On some days there is also the opportunity to walk for part of the day. This last option depends on whether there is vehicle access to the track.
Posted in: About Walking Tours In General
What do I have to carry when I walk?
Very little. A water bladder or bottles, lunch/snacks/fruit for the day. a rain jacket, some personal first aid supplies and, on some days, lunch. You will probably want a camera as well. We return to accommodation each evening so there is no need to carry a large backpack.
Posted in: About Walking Tours In General
Not sure if this is the right tour for you?
At Inspiration Outdoors, we understand that choosing the right tour can be a difficult decision. That’s why we’re here to help make the process as smooth as possible. If you still have questions, give us a call or drop us a line. Whether it’s a question about the tour itinerary or your fitness level, our customer care team is ready to answer it. We have product specialists for every tour who are eager to share their knowledge and help you plan your next adventure.
What our customers say
Our Booking Process
What happens after I book?
After you have filled in a registration form, we will send you all extra information you may need, including a list of what to bring and how best to prepare for the tour.
Payment in full is required at least six weeks prior to the tour (bookings can still be made within six weeks of tour start date if there are places available). We will email or call you to remind you when this is due.
Finally, we will contact you prior to your tour to confirm pick-up times and locations. If you have any questions or concerns at all before or after you have booked, please don’t hesitate to get in touch so we can go through them with you.
What are my payment options?
Payment can be made by:
- Direct deposit
- Cheque
- Credit card
Can I cancel my booking?
If you need to cancel your tour;
(a) 84 days or more prior to departure, we will refund your deposit minus $50 administration fee;(b) 30 and 84 days prior to departure, loss of deposit
(c) between 24 and 29 days prior to departure, we charge a cancellation fee of 25% of the total booking cost;
(d) between 15 and 23 days prior to departure, we charge a cancellation fee of 50% of the total booking cost;
(e) 14 days or fewer prior to departure, we charge a cancellation fee of 100% of the booking cost.
If you have any concerns about cancelling, please take out travel insurance covering this contingency. This policy will be adhered to despite the most compelling and compassionate circumstances.
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