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Day 01 Launceston
Welcome to Launceston, Tasmania's second largest city and gateway to the north. Its magnificent original Victorian streetscapes and architecture lend a historic ambience to the city. Take the chairlift ride across Cataract Gorge, a natural amphitheatre in the heart of Launceston or if you are seeking some adventure join Hollybank Treetops Adventure to zip through the forest canopy. Cruise on the Tamar River or visit the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery.
For the lovers of beer visit the J Boag and Son Brewery to learn how beer is made and taste some ales. Drive South and visit the Tasmanian Honey Company to sample Leatherwood honey and onto Tasmanian Gourmet Sauce Company to taste the delicious range of jams, chutneys and sauces located close to the Airport.
Overnight: Launceston
Day 02 Launceston to Tamar Valley to St Helens to Bicheno/East Coast
DISTANCE: 259KM, APPROX. TRAVEL TIME: 4HR
Head north to Tamar Valley, visit some of Tasmania’s acclaimed cool-climate wineries such as Daniel Alps at Pipers Brook’s Strathlynn Vineyard, Ninth Island, Moores Hill Estate and more. Smell theflowers at Lavender House and don’t miss Seahorse World and Platypus House at Beauty Point.
In the summer months visit Bridestowe Lavender Farm at Nabowla and walk through fields of lavender. Continue onto Scottsdale and visit the Forest EcoCentre, stop at Pyengana Dairy Company to sample some award-wining cheese and then onto St Helens on the east coast.
If you want to take the inland route, drive South from Launceston via Campbell Town, extend onto Ross to visit the Ross Bakery Inn with a 19th Century wood-fired oven producing a wide range of breads and pastries. Or head east to Bicheno.
Explore the Bicheno Sealife Centre to see Tasmanian marine life and then join Bicheno Penguin Tours at sunset to watch the little penguins emerge from the ocean and waddle up the beach to their nests.
Overnight: East Coast
Day 03 East Coast to Bicheno to Freycinet
DISTANCE: 38KM, APPROX. TRAVEL TIME: 30MIN
Spend the day on the east coast of Tasmania. Head north to the Bays of Fires, part of Mount William National Park, for exceptional granite rocks, white beaches and blue water. Or stay around Bicheno and then head South to Freycinet National Park. Visit the East Coast Natureworld, to get close to Tasmania’s native wildlife and stop at Freycinet Marine Farm to purchase some freshly shucked Pacific oysters, cooked Rock Lobster and Tasmanian Blue mussels.
In Freycinet National Park allow enough time to walk to the famous Wineglass Bay Lookout (approximately 1 ½ hour return) to view one of the world’s top beaches or visit Cape Tourville lighthouse for spectacular coast views. Take a four hour morning cruise to Wineglass Bay past granite cliffs and sea caves with Freycinet Sea Cruises or for some adventure join a 4WD motor bike tour. As the sun sets, join Freycinet Adventures for a twilight sea kayak through these clear blue waters past pristine beaches and secluded coves close to amazing marine life.
Overnight: East Coast
Day 04 East Coast to Richmond to Hobart
DISTANCE: 195KM, APPROX. TRAVEL TIME: 3HR
Head South for Swansea, stop at Kate’s Berry Farm for yummy ice-cream and scones before travelling onto Sorell to pick fruit (when in season) at the Sorell Fruit Farm. Visit the historic town of Richmond and continue to Hobart, one of the most beautiful cities in the world, nestled between Mount Wellington and the sea. White beaches on its outskirts, historic buildings at its heart, Australia's second-oldest city has a lifestyle of its own. Spend the afternoon discovering the harbour, galleries and gardens. Drive up to Mt Wellington for its splendid view of the city or take a tour to experience the thrill of a downhill bike ride.
In the evening, taste fresh seafood at a harbourside restaurant Fish Frenzy, Mures Upper Deck or Barilla Bay Restaurant.
Overnight: Hobart
Day 05 Hobart and surrounds
Head South to the Huon Valley and walk above the treetops at the Tahune Forest AirWalk. If you are feeling adventurous, cable hang glide down the valley from near the AirWalk. Visit the Forest and Heritage Centre to see a wood turner at work, learn about the history of the forestry region and purchase some Huon Pine products. Take a thrilling jet boat ride at Huon River Jet Boats or a scenic cruise on the Huon River to the township of Franklin. Visit the Apple & Heritage Museum to explore Tasmania's apple history.
In the evening, taste fresh seafood at a harbourside restaurant Fish Frenzy, Mures Upper Deck or Barilla Bay Restaurant.
Overnight: Hobart
Day 06 Hobart and surrounds
Browse through antique stores, discover stunning arts and crafts, linger over a coffee in one of the street cafes, explore the fishing harbour but don't whatever you do, miss Salamanca Markets on Saturday mornings where two blocks of stalls bustle with people offering you some of the finest arts and crafts found in Tasmania.
If you arrive on a weekday visit the Cadbury Chocolate Factory for shopping bargains.
Spend the afternoon in Hobart discovering the harbour, galleries and gardens. Enjoy an informative Cascade Brewery tour before driving up to Mount Wellington for its splendid view of the city.
Overnight: Hobart
Day 07 Hobart
Take a tour at the Tas Live Abalone and Barilla Bay Oyster Farm before flying out of Hobart.
For more information:
www.discovertasmania.com or
explore our
interactive Tasmanian self drive map.
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