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East Coast - Nature and heritage

Duration: 4 days

Day 1 - Launceston and its surrounds

 

Fall in love with Launceston's natural and historic charm on this morning sightseeing tour. Walking through the city is a great introduction to Tasmania's second largest city. As you walk through the elegant Victorian streets, take in the historic architecture, a mixture of Georgian, Edwardian and Federation. The major sites being Boags Brewery, the impressive Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery and the scenery of beautiful City Park with its dazzling array of flowers, Japanese Macaque monkey enclosure and the John Hart Conservatory.

 

Within walking distance of the city is Cataract Gorge, with its magnificent vistas and home to more than 70 species of native flora and fauna. The Gorge, as the locals call it, is a rare and unique cliff and canyon formation within the city.

 

An opportunity on this tour is to take a cruise into the magical Cataract Gorge and through Launceston's riverfront precinct. Head north past Tamar Island, historic buildings, churches, hotels and significant homesteads. Sample the rich diversity of life as we cruise past quaint riverfront communities, vineyards and farms to the notable Batman Bridge. Enjoy a light lunch with Tasmanian cheeses and fruit platters plus local beer and wine tasting.

 

Day 2 - Tasmania's East Coast and Freycinet National Park

 

The east coast of Tasmania is known to have the finest weather in the state and located not far from Launceston in the north of the state are the island's main lavender farms. The lavender begins blooming from December and is harvested in the first or second week of January. Stroll through the vast fields of aromatic purple flowers or take a tour of the oil-producing factory and try some lavender cheese, chocolate and tea - you will be surprised!

 

Enter the temperate rainforest with their giant myrtle trees, some over 300 years old and continue to the coast. The two largest towns on this coastline are St Helens and Bicheno, both wonderful fishing ports. At Bicheno visit the East Coast Natureworld to see the Tasmanian Devils and other native animals before
arriving at Cape Tourville in the Freycinet National Park.

 

The Cape Tourville walk in the Freycinet National Park is rated as very easy, and therefore suitable to all levels of fitness and all ages and the chance to sample some of the most stunning coastal scenery in Tasmania. For those who don't feel inclined to take the steep hill track to the Wineglass Bay lookout, the short 600m, 20-minute Cape Tourville circuit is almost as pleasing aesthetically and with panoramic views over Coles Bay, the walk is certainly worth it.

 

Day 3 - Freycinet National Park to Hobart

 

Before travelling to Hobart today allow yourself the pleasure of a swim in the turquoise blue waters of one of the many stunning beaches that are located in the National Park. Or perhaps take a short detour drive to Cape Tourville Lighthouse for stunning views across Coles Bay and beyond.

 

En route to Hobart a stop should be taken at the historic township of Richmond with its famous convict- built bridge. This beautiful village provides a glimpse of what life might have been like in Tasmania's colonial era. Simply stroll through the winding streets to view the history and enjoy a cup of tea and a scone at one of the teahouses.

 

Continue to Hobart, Australia's second-oldest capital city. See many beautiful sandstone and brick buildings constructed by convict labour in the historical centre and take time at Salamanca Place, a fine example of early merchant warehouses and now home to quality art and craft galleries, fine restaurant and casual cafes - great atmosphere for people watching whilst sipping a cappuccino!

 

Day 4 - Port Arthur Historic Site 

 

Head out from Hobart today, along the rugged coastline of the Tasman Peninsular to Port Arthur. This UNESCO Heritage Site features over thirty buildings, ruins and restored period homes set in 40 hectares of landscaped grounds. Witness the penal colony ruins, explore the chilling prison facilities and cruise on Mason Cove and around the Isle of the Dead. An interesting and fascinating place to visit - be amazed about Australia's early colonial history.

 

On your return to Hobart make a stop at the Tasman National Park, made famous by its 300-metre high seacliffs, monumental rock formations, sea caves and arches with the names like Devils Kitchen and Tasman Arch.


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