West Coast & Hobart Adventure 2017

After breakfast this morning we depart Launceston along the Bass Highway, heading for the majestic north-west. Travel through Ulverstone, Penguin and Burnie before arriving at Stanley, home to 'The Nut'. If weather permits, we'll take the chairlift to the top of the Nut for stunning views over Bass Strait.

Stanley was once the administrative centre for the Van Diemen’s Land Company, a royal charter company formed in 1824 during the reign of King George IV. This afternoon we'll visit Highfield House, the company's original headquarters. We then continue on to Smithton where we spend the night at Tall Timbers Hotel. Meals (B.L.D)

This morning experience the 'Enchanted Walk', a 45- minute easy stroll amongst the area's unique alpine flora and fauna. We then visit Waldheim Chalet, a replica of the original built by Gustav and Kate Weindorfer in 1912. The original chalet was still used as a guest lodge up until 1974, at which point it was deemed structurally unsound. The replica was built in 1976 using the same local materials.

Later on we make our way up to the stunning glacialformed Dove Lake. Enjoy dramatic views of Cradle Mountain in the distance, the rugged jewel in the crown of this World Heritage Listed area. For the energetic, a 5.7 kilometre walk will take you around the lake and beneath the towering spires of Cradle Mountain. The track is a boardwalk for much of the way and is regarded as one of Tasmania's premier walks. Your guides will accompany you for the trek, which also passes through a magnificent cool temperate rainforest known as the Ballroom Forest. If you don't feel up to taking part in the walk, you'll be transferred back down to the Lodge where you can relax or enjoy the various short walks around the lodge.

This afternoon we'll sample some of Tasmania’s finest wines and cheeses at the Lodge. Meals (B.L.D)

This morning we board the 'Spirit of the Wild' for a cruise up the Gordon River and into the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. We'll be seated on the Premier Upper Deck and enjoy two guided shore excursions, including Heritage Landing (home to ancient Huon pines over 2,000 years old) and Sarah Island, once a dreaded penal colony. We also head out to Hells Gates where the harbour meets the ocean.

After returning to Strahan mid-afternoon, the rest of the day can be spent at your leisure. Wander through the village and perhaps call in to the Huon Pine Sawmill for a demonstration. Meals (B.L.D)

For today’s touring, you can choose from some of Hobart’s most popular attractions. Discover the highly-acclaimed Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) or delve into the natural world with a combined visit to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. MONA is home to the private ancient, modern, and contemporary art collection of David Walsh.

Noted for its unusual art curation, MONA makes for an invigorating change of pace with thought provoking artworks displayed alongside interactive and traditional museum pieces.

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary in Brighton is Tasmania’s largest wildlife rescue service. Come face to face with the native animals that the passionate Bonorong team are devoted to returning to the wild, including wombats, devils, quolls, birds, reptiles and more.

The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens are the second oldest Botanic Gardens in Australia. Spend some time exploring the collection of cool climate species, historic plants, and significant trees, many of which date back to when the gardens were first planted.

Later this afternoon we return to Hobart and embark on an historical walking tour. Your guide will take you to various places including the Hobart Docks, Salamanca Place and the CBD with fascinating commentary and local insights.

This evening we enjoy dinner together at the hotel. Meals (B.L.D)

This morning we enjoy a visit to Mount Wellington, which rises to 4170 feet above the city below. Admire the mesmerising views of Hobart and the Derwent River from several vantage points along the boardwalk, a perfect ending to your adventure around Tasmania.
For passengers departing Hobart today, you’ll be dropped off at the airport for your return flight. Please ensure return flights are booked for after midday. For those staying on you will be dropped off at the location of your choosing. (B)