AAT Kings: Tassie Getaway 26/27

Arriving at Bridestowe Lavender Estate, you could be forgiven for thinking you’ve been transported straight to Provence in France. This patch of purple is a feast for all the senses (lavender blooms from late Spring to early Summer). Wander neat rows of flowers while engulfed by soothing aromas (did you know lavender is a great sleep aid?). Then taste the property’s wares, whether in lavender ice-cream or honey made from the 500,000 very happy bees that spend their days here, fluttering amid flowers. Moving moments await at Legerwood Carved Memorial Trees, an avenue of  sculpted trees, carved in homage of fallen WWI soldiers. It’s a poignant reminder of just how privileged we are to have Tasmania’s scene-stealing landscapes to gaze over today. Head out tonight to catch a glimpse of the little penguins that call Bicheno home.

Staying in:

• Diamond Island Beach Resort (1 night)

Embarking on your Freycinet adventure, you may think someone has taken the glasses off your nose and cleaned them for the first time. The towering Hazards Range gleams pink in the morning sunshine. Fun fact: the prized granite here was used to build the foyer of New York’s Empire State Building. Beyond, the brilliant blue ocean curves into perfect coves carpeted with golden sand. And dusty greens patchwork Cape Tourville’s virgin eucalypt forest, stretching as far as the eye can see. And you get to take it all in on a Wineglass Bay lunch cruise.

Staying in:

• Eastcoaster Tasmania (1 night)

Begin your day heading south to the picturesque shores of the Derwent River. Here, a local palawa host will warmly welcome you to country and introduce you to bush tucker. Continue to the historic village of Richmond, where you can explore the convict-built gaol and bridge or enjoy browsing the boutique shops. Make sure to visit Old Hobart Town, an award-winning model village recreating life in Hobart during the 1820s. Your accommodation tonight is at the serene Iron Creek Bay Farm, surrounded by 70 hectares of lush orchards producing cherries, apricots, apples, and grapes. Guests are welcome to pick fruit at their leisure or join a guided tour to fully experience the charm of the farm. In the evening, dine at the farm’s renowned restaurant, where you’ll indulge in hearty, globally inspired dishes crafted with locally sourced seasonal Tasmanian ingredients. As the sun sets, soak in the breathtaking views of Iron Creek Bay and Mount Wellington, a tranquil moment to end your day. It’s an opportunity to savour the flavours of Tasmania, connect with the local culture, and simply unwind amidst the island's natural beauty. Let yourself embrace the taste and pace of Tassie life.

Staying in:

• Iron Creek Bay Farm (1 night)

While the World Heritage listed Port Arthur Historic Site has a grim convict history, you wouldn’t know it today – the countryside is all rolling green fields and ocean views, best glimpsed on a Port Arthur guided tour with an in-the-know historian. The secrets they can tell… Today you will cruise around the Isle of the Dead, glimpse rugged sea cliffs from Pirate’s Bay Lookout, and marvel at Tasman’s Arch, Devils Kitchen and the Blowhole. Tonight is at your leisure in Hobart – we can recommend any number of stellar restaurants and wine bars. There’s no shortage in Tasmania’s cool little capital.

Staying in:

• Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart (1 night)

Today is one of choices. Do you fancy lingering on a Hobart tour of the city centre, exploring gallery-lined streets and taking in glorious Georgian architecture, either at your leisure or with a guide? Or perhaps you’re inclined to explore the Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery, occupying one of Australia's most historically significant sites and home to an eye-watering 800,000 objects ranging from fossils to fine art. Maybe you want to end your Launceston to Hobart tour the way it began: savouring the state’s end-of-the-Earth wilderness areas. Take on Mount Wellington, with its glorious alpine forest and views of the River Derwent. Or cruise to spot playful fur seals and ogle Australia’s highest sea cliffs around Bruny Island (own expense). That’s an island, off and island, off an island.

Staying in:

• Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart (1 night)

Epic landscapes, tasty food and wine, historic attractions – we’ve packed a lot into the last week. Today, digest all your touring from Launceston to Hobart (those money-can’t-buy adventures and experiences) as we bid adieu.