Tasmania
Pursue your Passion in Tasmania
Separated from mainland Australia by the 240 km stretch of Bass Strait, Tasmania is just an hour’s flight, or an overnight cruise aboard the Spirit of Tasmania, from Melbourne.
First settled as a penal colony in 1803, Tasmania boasts a fascinating history and rich heritage. With short distances between attractions, self-drive is an ideal way to discover the wild and beautiful landscapes, ancient wilderness, amazing wildlife, fresh local produce and wonderful cool-climate wines of this rejuvenating island state.
Pursue your Passion
in Tasmania
Separated from mainland Australia by the 240 km stretch of Bass Strait, Tasmania is just an hour’s flight, or an overnight cruise aboard the Spirit of Tasmania, from Melbourne.
First settled as a penal colony in 1803, Tasmania boasts a fascinating history and rich heritage. With short distances between attractions, self-drive is an ideal way to discover the wild and beautiful landscapes, ancient wilderness, amazing wildlife, fresh local produce and wonderful cool-climate wines of this rejuvenating island state.
Click to enlarge map
Hobart
- Discover the heritage charm of picturesque Hobart, the pristine waters of Bruny Island, or the mesmerising history of Port Arthur
- Walk, kayak, dive or cruise the intense aqua waters, or simply relax on the secluded beaches and enjoy the stunning scenery of The East Coast
- Marvel at MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art
- Admire the fine Victorian buildings of Launceston, visit the boutique cool climate wineries of the Tamar Valley, or explore the charming historic towns of The North
- Share the creative spirit of local artists and craftsmen, inspired by the fertile green hills, picturesque protected harbours and unspoilt wilderness areas of The North West Coast
- Explore The Western Wilderness to discover convict history, pioneering heritage and one of the most significant World Heritage areas on earth
Nestled between the lofty heights of Mount Wellington and the sparkling estuary of the Derwent, Tasmania’s historic capital is a charming, picturesque city with a busy working waterfront and thriving arts and crafts scene. Hobart’s architecture reflects a colourful colonial history founded on convicts, wealthy merchants, and seaman. Many of its early grand homes, public buildings, heritage parks and gardens remain intact, whilst beautiful sandstone warehouses have been restored as artist studios, galleries, cafés, and restaurants.
Here is a small selection of the accommodation available in Hobart but we have many alternative Hotels and Apartments to suit all tastes and budgets.
The Henry Jones Art Hotel, Hobart
A touch of artistic class inside a former jam factory on Hobart’s docks, the Henry Jones Art Hotel oozes sophistication. Australia’s first dedicated art hotel, it retains the framework of its jam-making days, but the walls are splashed with modern art and the rooms are exceptional. Step out the front door and you are among Hobart’s fishing fleet or stay inside for one of the hotel’s weekly art tours and a cocktail at the cosy IXL Long Bar.
Somerset on the Pier Hobart
Hobart’s a waterfront city, and accommodation comes no more waterfront than Somerset on the Pier Hobart. These serviced apartments are strung along Hobart’s Elizabeth Street Pier, which juts out into the heart of the city’s docks. The wide water views are exceptional, and you can grab an apartment with a balcony, or a large family apartment. The T42 bar and restaurant and the casual Fish Frenzy restaurant are immediately downstairs, and it’s just a few steps to the floating Brooke Street Pier and the ferry to the Mona art gallery.
Some of the experiences available in Tasmania are outlined below, but there are many, many more, so please ask for details of any other activity you would like to include during your stay.
Hobart City Package, 4 Nights
This city package includes 4 nights’ accommodation, 1½ hour historic walk, full day tour of Port Arthur and full day tour of the Huon Valley. It can be booked with your choice of accommodation and adapted to suit the time you have available. Please request a quotation for your preferred travel dates.
Day 1: Arrive Hobart
On arrival you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore the city.
Day 2: Hobart Historic Walk
This morning let a knowledgeable, historian trained guide bring Hobart’s history alive in this essential 1½ hour familiarisation. The easy 2 km walk highlights some of the oldest and most attractive spots around old Hobart Town, lively Salamanca Place and beautiful Battery Point. Concluding at midday, enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
Day 3: Port Arthur and Richmond
Travel by modern vehicle on this personalized, small group tour and enjoy the scenic drive to Port Arthur. Following morning tea explore the history of the picturesque ruins and old restored cottages at this once grim penal settlement. Departing after lunch, marvel at the extraordinary coastal rock formations of the Tasman Arch and Blowhole at beautiful Eaglehawk Neck as you travel to the historic town of Richmond. Here you will see the oldest convict-built bridge and catholic church in Australia and have time to visit some of the shops and galleries before returning to Hobart, arriving back at approximately 5.30 pm.
Day 4: Huon Valley and Tahune AirWalk
Travel by modern vehicle on this personalized, small group tour through peaceful apple growing country to Huonville and enjoy morning tea beside the Huon River. At Tahune Forest Reserve walk along the Arve River to see ancient Huon pines and beautiful rainforest plants and experience the breath-taking Tahune Forest AirWalk. After lunch travel back to Hobart via The Big Tree and Geeveston.
Day 5: Depart Hobart
Today you will be transferred back to the airport for your onward flight.
Duration: 3 hours. Includes Lunch.
Tasmania Self Drive
This self-drive tour of the unique island of Tasmania departs from Hobart and requires 9 days car rental and 8 nights’ accommodation. We will be pleased to help you choose the best rental car and accommodation options to suit your personal preference and provide a quotation on request.
Hobart – Strahan – Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park – Launceston – Freycinet National Park – Port Arthur – Hobart
Day 1: Hobart to Strahan (301km)
Depart Hobart following the Derwent River. From New Norfolk and Hamilton, the drive takes you up into the mountain region of the imposing Tasmanian Alps, through the Lakes District and the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
Two nights: Strahan
Day 2: Strahan
With a full day to explore at leisure, perhaps take a cruise on the magnificent Gordon River, or travel through steep rain forested landscapes on the historic West Coast Wilderness Railway to Queenstown.
Day 3: Strahan to Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park (145km)
Depart Strahan and follow the ‘Back Road’ to Zeehan. Take time to visit the excellent West Coast Pioneers’ Memorial Museum, then continue on through Rosebery to Cradle Valley.
Two nights: Cradle Mountain
Day 4: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
With a full day to explore at leisure, perhaps take a wander through the ancient forests, or indulge in a luxurious spa treatment.
Day 5: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park to Launceston (149km)
Depart Cradle Valley and travel through Tasmania’s prime dairy and produce farming region via Deloraine to Launceston. Spend the afternoon at the Cataract Gorge Reserve or explore the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery at Inveresk and Royal Park.
Overnight: Launceston
Day 6: Launceston to Freycinet National Park (177km)
Travel south through the historic village of Evandale, then head east to St Marys and down the exciting Elephants Pass to join the coastal road. Passing through Bicheno, head towards Coles Bay and the entrance to Freycinet National Park.
Two nights: Freycinet
Day 7: Freycinet National Park
With a full day to explore at leisure, perhaps take a stroll along Richardson Beach, or make the fairly steep climb to the Wineglass Bay Lookout.
Day 8: Freycinet National Park to Port Arthur (200km)
Travel south to Port Arthur, a significant historic site and vivid reminder of Australia’s convict heritage. Explore the ruins of this former penal colony and perhaps join a cruise to the Isle of the Dead, the final resting place for many of Port Arthur’s convicts and officers.
Overnight: Port Arthur
Day 9: Port Arthur to Hobart (90km)
On the comfortable drive back to Hobart you will travel through the historic villages of Sorell and Richmond. Set in gently undulating country on the banks of the Coal River, Richmond has 45 buildings listed on the National Estate and is home to Australia’s oldest bridge.
Tasmanian Eastcoaster (Hobart to Launceston) 4 days
When you self drive Australia, Tasmania is well worth a visit. This self drive tour includes 5 days car rental with Hertz Australia, 4 nights ‘boutique’ accommodation, meals indicated and daily driving notes. Price includes car pick up from downtown depot – supplements may apply from airport.
Hobart – Berriedale – Coles Bay – Binalong Bay – Launceston (East Coast)
Tasmanian Highlights (Launceston to Hobart via West Coast) 4 nights
5 days/4 nights Launceston – Cradle Mountain – Strahan – Hobart (West Coast).
This wonderful self drive tour taking in Tasmania’s great sights includes 5 days car rental with Hertz Australia, 4 nights ‘boutique’ accommodation, meals indicated and daily driving notes. Price includes car pick up from downtown depot – supplements may apply from airport.
Launceston – Cradle Mountain – Strahan – Hobart (West Coast)
Prices depend on seasonality and based on twin share accommodation.
DAY 1 LAUNCESTON – CRADLE MOUNTAIN (NM)
Pick up your HERTZ INTERMEDIATE AUTOMATIC rental car at the Launceston City Depot or Launceston Airport Depot and commence drive via Deloraine, Elizabeth Town, Moltema, Sheffield, Gowrie Park and Daisy Dell to arrive at Cradle Mountain.
CRADLE MOUNTAIN – LAKE ST. CLAIR NATIONAL PARK is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. The wildlife most commonly seen in the park are Bennett’s wallabies, rufus wallabies and potoroos. Bird life consists of parrots, birds of prey and numerous smaller bush birds. Vehicle access is only possible to Cradle Valley in the north of the park, and Lake St. Clair in the south. Lake St. Clair is the deepest lake in Australia. A short walk from the Cradle Mountain Lodge is the Visitor Centre where there is a good source of information about the fauna and flora in the region as well as the walks available ranging from gentle nature rambles and day walks to the internationally famous Overland Track.
OVERNIGHT: Cradle Mountain Lodge, Cradle Mountain (2 nights)
DAY 2 CRADLE MOUNTAIN
Enjoy a full day at leisure to experience the spectacular scenery around the lodge and the National Park. Cradle Mountain forms the northern end of the wild Cradle Mt – Lake St Clair National Park, itself a part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. The jagged contours of Cradle Mountain epitomise the feel of a wild landscape, while ancient rainforest and alpine heathlands, buttongrass and stands of colourful deciduous beech provide a range of environments to explore. Icy streams cascading out of rugged mountains, stands of ancient pines mirrored in the still waters of glacial lakes and a wealth of wildlife ensure there is always something to captivate you. A visit will reveal why. Take a walk through various terrains, from pandanus and wildflowers to Tasmanian myrtle and King William pine forests. Visitors planning to take any of the lengthier walks are well advised to be prepared for changing weather conditions.
DAY 3 CRADLE MOUNTAIN – STRAHAN (NM)
Depart Cradle Mountain and travel to the Murchison Highway, where you will head south-west, past the towns of Tullah, Rosebery and Zeehan to reach Strahan.
ZEEHAN is rich in both history and minerals and the discovery of silver and lead in 1882 saw it become the third largest settlement in the early 1900s. Many historic buildings line the main street of Zeehan and one of the best mining displays and history of the region can be found at the West Coast Pioneers Memorial Museum.
STRAHAN, located on the Tasmanian west coast, is the gateway to South West World Heritage National Park – one of the world’s most beautiful cool climate rainforests. The town is situated on beautiful Macquarie Harbour and was once a penal colony, until 1833 when the convicts were all moved to Port Arthur on the east coast. Macquarie Harbour is also the departure point for cruises on the magnificent Gordon River – a major sightseeing attraction. (We suggest pre-booking this cruise).
OVERNIGHT: Ormiston House, Strahan (2 nights)
DAY 4 STRAHAN
Today is yours to tour Strahan and its surrounds at your will. Ocean Beach, 6 km west of Strahan, is Tasmania’s longest beach, 33 km in length. Keep an eye out here for the platypuses inhabiting the small creeks that run to the beach. There is also a muttonbird (shearwater) rookery here in season (October to March). Along this stretch of beach are the Henty Sand Dunes, the largest moving dune system in Tasmania, with guided 4 wheel motor bike tours available. If you decide to explore the beach on your own in a 4WD vehicle, beware of quicksand in some locations, particularly in the winter. There are some pleasant diversions close to the town. These include the Peoples Park Rainforest Walk to Hogarth Falls, Strahan Historic Foreshore Walkway, Swan Bay picnic area and lookout and West Strahan beach, where there is safe swimming and a barbeque and picnic area. The lookout at Water Tower Hill has fine views over the town and harbour.
DAY 5 STRAHAN – HOBART (NM)
Depart Strahan via the Lyell Highway, travelling past the towns of Queenstown, Derwent Bridge, Lawrenny, New Norfolk and Granton to reach Hobart. A detour well worthwhile taking today is to leave the Lyell Highway at Lawrenny and travel via Ellendale to the beautiful Mt Field National Park. A major highlight here is a visit to magnificent Russell Falls. Departing Russell Falls, travel via the towns of Westerway and Glenora to rejoin the Lyell Highway at Gretna, and continue on to Hobart. This detour is approximately 75km to the eastern side of the National Park.
LAKE ST CLAIR has an excellent Eco Centre and restaurant. It is only approximately 5 minutes off the highway and well worth a lunch stop, if this fits in with your itinerary.
MT. FIELD NATIONAL PARK is Tasmania’s oldest National Park. The striking landscape of the park is bountiful in flora, from rainforest to towering forests of swamp gum, stringybarks and conifers. The bird and animal life is abundant and major attractions are the Lady Barron, Horseshoe and Russell Falls.
HOBART is the smallest of Australia’s state capitals. It is situated on the Derwent River, one of the deepest harbours in the world. The old city centre, with its wealth of colonial buildings, clusters around Sullivans Cove, backed by wooded slopes rising to the often snow-capped peak of Mount Wellington. Its limited size, rich architectural heritage and beautiful setting make Hobart a delight to explore. Please note, each Saturday there is an excellent market in Salamanca.
Return your vehicle to the Hobart Airport depot or Hobart city Hertz Depot.
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