Hidden Tasmania Gems Tour

Welcome to Hobart! The charming capital of Tasmania and the ideal gateway to many of the island’s most iconic attractions. As the second-oldest capital city in Australia, Hobart seamlessly blends its rich colonial history with natural beauty, surrounded by pristine beaches, lush bushland, and the majestic of Kunanyi/Mount Wellington. Stroll through the vibrant Salamanca Place, home to galleries and multiple restaurants, and don’t miss the lively Salamanca Market every Saturday. For a unique cultural experience, take a ferry along the Derwent River to visit the world-renowned MONA, where modern art meets the extraordinary. Don’t miss the historic Battery Point, filled with quaint streets and heritage architecture, or indulge in Hobart’s food and drink scene, featuring award-winning seafood, wines, and craft beers.

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Set between the River Derwent and the towering kunanyi/Mount Wellington, Hobart is Tasmania’s vibrant capital. This charming city blends rich colonial history with modern culture and natural beauty, offering something for every traveller.
Explore the bustling waterfront with its fresh seafood, Scenic Cruises, and lively atmosphere. Wander through Salamanca Place, home to heritage buildings, galleries, and the famous Salamanca Market every Saturday. Art enthusiasts can’t miss MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art, known for its provocative and diverse exhibits. For a taste of history, head to Battery Point, a charming district of historic cottages and quiet streets, perfect for a relaxing wander.
Nature lovers can hike or drive to the summit of Mount Wellington for breathtaking views or visit the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. Discover Hobart’s history in the quaint streets of Battery Point, and encounter native wildlife at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary.
With its thriving food and drink scene, including fresh seafood, cool-climate wines, and craft breweries, Hobart is a perfect destination for adventure, culture, and relaxation. 

MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art, is Australia’s largest privately-owned gallery and a cultural icon. Founded by Tasmanian gambler and self-proclaimed maths enthusiast David Walsh, MONA showcases an eclectic collection ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts and modernist masterpieces to innovative installations like a word waterfall and a human digestive system simulator. Located on the picturesque banks of the River Derwent near Hobart, the MONA site offers more than just art. It’s home to the renowned Moorilla Winery, The Source restaurant, several unique bars and dining options, luxury accommodation pavilions, and Moo Brew, Tasmania’s largest craft brewery.

Discover Hobart by foot and hear the fascinating stories of how Tasmania’s capital city was established and how it grew to become the vibrant waterfront city it is today. A local Tasmanian guide will identify the heritage-listed buildings of Hobart while walking the old town. Hear the stories of the hardened characters and issues that were major influences in the early days of Hobart.

Embark on a scenic journey from Hobart to the Cradle Mountain Township, a drive that showcases Tasmania’s diverse landscapes. The Midland Highway will take you through quaint towns such as Kempton, home to the Old Kempton Distillery where you can try local gin or whiskey, or just grab a snack at the café. Further along is Oatlands, one of Tasmania's oldest settlements and home to more than 150 sandstone buildings, the largest collection of any Australian town. Continue heading north, and pass through historic towns like Campbell Town and Ross, where heritage buildings and charming streets invite a quick stop for coffee or a stroll. In Ross, you may wish to stop at the Ross Bakery for a highly awarded delicious Vanilla Slice. 
Continuing through the Midlands, the rolling farmlands give way to the lush greenery of the Meander Valley as you approach Deloraine, a picturesque riverside town known for its arts and crafts. From here, the route ascends into the rugged terrain of Tasmania’s highlands, offering breathtaking views of forests, rivers, and alpine landscapes. As you near Cradle Mountain Township, the air becomes crisper, and the scenery transforms into dramatic peaks and ancient rainforests. 

Cradle Mountain, located within the stunning Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, is one of Tasmania’s most iconic and breathtaking destinations. Known for its dramatic peaks, pristine lakes, and ancient rainforest, it offers a truly immersive experience in the heart of the Tasmanian wilderness.
Visitors can explore a network of walking trails, from short, family-friendly strolls to challenging hikes like the famous Overland Track. Discover the beauty of Dove Lake, where crystal-clear waters reflect the rugged silhouette of Cradle Mountain, or venture deeper into the park to uncover waterfalls, alpine meadows, and endemic wildlife, including wombats, echidnas, and Tasmanian devils.
Beyond hiking, Cradle Mountain offers a range of activities for nature lovers. Enjoy guided wildlife tours, and scenic helicopter flights, or simply soak in the serenity of this World Heritage-listed wilderness. Accommodation options range from cozy cabins to luxury lodges, providing the perfect base to relax and unwind after a day of adventure.

 A valid parks pass is required for entry to all of Tasmania's national parks, with several options available to suit your visit. The fees collected from these passes directly support the maintenance of Tasmania’s parks, including upgrading visitor facilities, maintaining walking tracks, and supporting visitor services. Additional fees may apply for specific activities, such as guided cave tours, multi-day walks, shuttle services, and camping. Parks passes can be purchased per vehicle or per person if arriving by bus, motorbike, bicycle, or on foot. However, no pass is required to visit state reserves. Daily passes provide access to national parks for 24 hours, with specific passes needed for Cradle Mountain, available from the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre. Passes can be purchased through the online Parks Pass Portal, at National Park visitor centres, accredited Tasmanian Travel Information Centres, onboard the Spirit of Tasmania vessels, and at Service Tasmania shops.

Experience the magic of Tasmania’s wildlife after dark with the Tasmanian Devil Feeding Tour at Devils @ Cradle. This unique evening experience lets you witness Tasmanian devils and quolls in their natural environment as they feed, while expert guides share fascinating insights about these incredible creatures and their conservation. Devils are primarily a nocturnal species therefore far more active at night, they use environmentally sensitive lighting and focus on the social interactions and feeding habits of these unique carnivores, allowing visitors a rare up-close opportunity to see Tasmanian devils in a group feeding situation – quite a spectacular sight!

 Discover the beauty of Cradle Mountain on the Park Explorer Tour with McDermott’s Coaches. This guided tour takes you through the heart of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, featuring stunning views, ancient rainforests, and the iconic Dove Lake. Learn about the area's unique wildlife and rich history from expert guides while enjoying comfortable transport and plenty of photo opportunities.

Travel from Cradle Mountain Township to Launceston, taking a scenic route through the charming town of Sheffield, known as the "Town of Murals." Stop to admire its vibrant outdoor art, depicting local stories and landscapes, and explore its quirky shops and cafes. As you continue, enjoy views of rolling farmlands and lush greenery before passing through the picturesque Meander Valley. Deloraine is another excellent stop, offering riverside charm and a thriving arts and crafts community.
Approaching Launceston, the landscape transitions to vineyards and orchards, reflecting the region's reputation for fine wine and fresh produce. With highlights like Cataract Gorge, gourmet dining, and boutique shopping, Launceston offers something for everyone.

One of Australia's oldest cities, Launceston is one of the best-preserved examples of elegant Colonial and Victorian architecture in Australia, coupled with its century-old parks strung along the banks of the River Tamar. As Tasmania's second-largest city, it is also a vibrant hub for food and wine, and one of only two cities in Australia to be named as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery offer a remarkably diverse and constantly evolving collection of art and museum exhibits. One of Launceston’s standout attractions is Cataract Gorge, a breathtaking natural reserve just minutes from the city centre. Explore walking trails, take a ride on the world’s longest single-span chairlift, enjoy a Scenic Gorge Cruise or simply relax by the river amid native wildlife and manicured gardens. It offers beautiful gardens, 5 kilometres of forested river reserve and walking trails, a swimming pool and a delightfully slow retro chairlift ride that offers far-reaching views over the dramatic gorge. Nearby, the Tamar Valley offers a scenic escape with its rolling vineyards, cellar doors, and charming riverfront towns.

Embark on an unforgettable journey on the Cataract Gorge Adventure Cruise with Tamar River Cruises. Departing from Launceston’s picturesque waterfront, this unique experience takes you through the iconic Cataract Gorge, where dramatic cliffs, lush vegetation, and stunning scenery create a breathtaking backdrop.
As you cruise along the tranquil waters of the South Esk River, knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories about the region’s history, geology, and wildlife. Marvel at the towering cliffs of the gorge and enjoy unparalleled views from the comfort of the vessel.

This journey to St Helens is slightly longer than the Tasman Highway, but provides a lot more opportunities for interesting scenery and stops along the way. Your first stop should be Lilydale Falls, about 30 minutes into the journey. This is an easy walk that is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels.
Pass through the picturesque countryside before arriving in Derby, a former mining town now famed for its world-class mountain biking trails and vibrant history. Stop for a coffee, explore the Derby Tunnel, or take a short walk to admire the scenic Ringarooma River. If you are up for a quick detour, stop by the Little Blue Lake located near Gladstone for a serene oasis of strikingly vibrant blue water.
Follow the Tasman Highway and if you'd like something a little unique, take a short detour to Pyengana to the Pub in the Paddock, licensed since 1880 and one of the oldest pubs in Tasmania. The town is also home to Pyengana Dairy, famous for its artisan cheeses. Continuing east, the landscape transitions to lush forests and winding roads as you approach St Helens, the gateway to the stunning Bay of Fires. Along the way, you’ll pass breathtaking coastal views and opportunities to stop for fresh oysters or a picnic by the water.

The Bay of Fires is one of Tasmania’s most breathtaking natural wonders, celebrated for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and striking orange lichen-covered boulders. Stretching along Tasmania’s northeastern coast from Binalong Bay to Eddystone Point, this iconic destination offers a stunning contrast of colours and unspoiled beauty.
Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers, the Bay of Fires is an idyllic spot for swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking in its calm, sheltered waters. The area is also home to abundant wildlife, with opportunities to spot seabirds, wallabies, and even dolphins along the coast. Hikers will enjoy the many coastal trails, including the renowned Bay of Fires Walk, which provides stunning views and the chance to explore secluded coves. For those seeking tranquillity, the area’s remote beaches and quiet atmosphere make it an ideal escape into nature.
Rich in Aboriginal cultural heritage, the Bay of Fires also offers a deeper connection to Tasmania’s history, with evidence of ancient habitation visible in the form of shell middens and other sites. Explore the vast white-sand beaches and turquoise seas between Anson’s Bay and Eddystone Point or discover the many beaches like the Gardens, Jeanneret, Swimcart, and Cosy Corner. These magnificent secluded beaches and inlets are a sight to behold and give the Bay of Fires its reputation as one of the most pristine natural wonders of the world.

Travel from St Helens to Freycinet National Park on a scenic drive that showcases Tasmania’s stunning east coast. Begin your journey along the Great Eastern Drive, passing rolling farmlands and beautiful coastal vistas. Take a short detour to explore Bicheno, a charming seaside town famous for its blowhole, local wildlife, and fresh seafood. Stop by the Bicheno blow hole to view this unique hole in the granite rocks that produces a powerful jet of water through the hole. 
Continuing south, you’ll encounter breathtaking views of the coastline, including glimpses of the pristine beaches and turquoise waters that define the region. As you near Freycinet National Park, the iconic Hazards mountain range comes into view, signalling your arrival at one of Tasmania’s most beloved natural attractions. With highlights like Wineglass Bay, Honeymoon Bay, and a wealth of walking trails, Freycinet National Park promises unforgettable experiences, making this drive as rewarding as the destination itself.

The town of Coles Bay on the east coast of Tasmania is the perfect base to explore the famous Freycinet National Park. The village sits at the foot of the striking pink granite mountains known as the Hazards, fringed by the stunning national park and the sheltered waters of Great Oyster Bay. Freycinet National Park is home to one of the world's top ten beaches, Wineglass Bay - which is a must-do short walk while you are there. A haven for all things outdoors, Coles Bay is a picture perfect place to jump in a kayak, lounge on a cruise, visit a local producer to sample East Coast oysters, or simply pack a picnic and spend a lazy afternoon on one of the peninsula's incredible beaches.

Cruise the spectacular coastline of Freycinet National Park from Coles Bay to Wineglass Bay. Be enthralled by the stunning granite coastline, including the dramatic pink peaks of the Hazards range.

Discover the beauty of Freycinet National Park on this relaxing twilight kayaking tour through Coles Bay. Led by expert guides, glide past pristine beaches and the Hazards mountain range as the sunset casts a golden glow. Spot wildlife, learn about the region, and enjoy a refreshment as you soak in the tranquil ambiance.

Follow Coles Bay Road back to the Tasman Highway and head south, through the East Coast Wine Region. This is one of Tasmania’s premier wine-growing regions and is known for its fine cool climate varieties. Cellar doors along the coast offer tastings and wine sales, and east coast restaurants showcase these, as well as handcrafted whiskeys, beers and ciders.
Swansea is home to some of the east coast's more spectacular beaches. Originally established as Waterloo Point in 1820, it is one of Tasmania's oldest towns and is steeped in rich history. Pass through Rocky Hills and Little Swanport on your way to Orford. Once a port for a convict station on nearby Maria Island, it is now a very popular holiday spot for locals, it offers plenty of picturesque swimming beaches that are often connected by beautiful walking tracks.
Head inland through Buckland and Orielton and south towards Pitt Water Nature Reserve, this internationally recognised wetland is home to a number of Tasmanian shorebirds and seabirds including sooty oystercatchers, red-capped plover and Caspian terns.
Your journey ends in the state capital, Hobart. With a dynamic food scene, daring art and a wealth of natural attractions, Hobart is a small city with big ideas.

Explore more of Hobart before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

Your tour comes to an end today, but if you are itching to explore more amazing sights throughout Australia, we can customize your holiday to include more days or additional destinations. Our trusted travel specialists can book transfers to your onward flight, and even assist in booking these flights for you. Our team can't wait to help you design your ultimate getaway!