Tasmania's Tarkine & Cradle Mountain Explorer

SUMMARY

The dramatic, natural beauty of north west Tasmania awaits on this 5-day discovery tour. Make a loop from the historic city of Launceston, up along the coast and then back inland, passing though seaside towns, ancient rainforest and Aboriginal heritage sites along the way. Hike the coastal trails of Narawntapu and Rocky Cape national parks, explore the richness of the Tarkine and take in sweeping ocean views from clifftop lookouts. In between sightseeing, sample the best flavours of the region, from whiskey to chocolate truffles, with visits to locally owned shops on the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail.

TOTAL DURATION : 5 Days

GROUP SIZE : MIN 1 MAX 12

TOUR ITINERARY AND DATES

START : Launceston

END : Launceston

COUNTRIES VISITED : Australia

Validity : 01 JUL 2023 To 30 JUN 2024

Day :1

Location : Launceston / Stanley / North-West Coast

After this morning's meeting you head from Launceston, one of Australia’s oldest cities, to the seaside town of Stanley, with plenty of scenic stops along the way. Visit Narawntapu National Park, whose coastal plains are home to stunning scenery and abundant wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies and a variety of bird species. Learn about the rich Aboriginal heritage of this area, where artefacts can still be found along the walking trails. Together, we’ll enjoy a platter lunch at an amazing cidery that is part of Tasmania’s Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail. You may opt to sample their local brews – perhaps a vintage pear cider, and if you have a sweet tooth, Anvers Chocolate may be calling you to taste its famous truffles! After a brief stop in the picturesque town of Penguin continue along the rocky coastline to Stanley. Climb the famous landmark The Nut, an ancient volcanic plug that juts out into the Bass Strait and offers outstanding views from the top. Wander down to the working wharf where some of the freshest seafood in Tasmania comes in each day. Continue to our accommodation in the rural countryside of Tasmania's remote north-west corner, and perhaps enjoy the onsite heated pool.

Day :2

Location : The Tarkine / North-West Coast

The Tarkine is home to the largest temperate rainforest in Australia and the second largest in the world. It is rich with geological wonders, Aboriginal history and unique creatures and habitats not found anywhere else on earth. Explore sites like the hidden Trowutta Arch and the Lake Chisholm sinkhole, both examples of fascinating geological change. Other highlights along the Tarkine Coast include Marrawah, famous for its big wave surfing, and the desolate Edge of the World, marking the longest stretch of ocean on the planet – from here, there’s no land until Argentina. You’ll enjoy numerous short walks to explore the sites, with a picnic lunch along the way. Later return to our accommodation for the night.

Day :3

Location : North Coast / Corinna

Today you travel to Corinna via Rocky Cape National Park, home to windswept heathlands, sea caves, rock pools and twisted rocks that have formed over millions of years. Discover the cultural and spiritual connection to this area among the Aboriginal community. Continue to the historic lighthouse at Table Cape and on to the stunning Boat Harbour Beach before stopping for lunch at either the spectacular Hellyer Gorge or in the historic town of Waratah. Take a short walk (approximately 1.5 hours roundtrip) to see the pretty Philosopher Falls. In the remote, rural town of Corinna, settle into your accommodation in restored miners’ cottages and put away your phone – there’s no service out here anyway. Here you will enjoy a lovely dinner with your fellow travellers.

Day :4

Location : Corinna / North Coast / Devonport

Get active today with opportunities for kayaking and hiking around the Corinna area, exploring the Pieman River and Tarkine rainforest. After lunch in Corinna, begin your return towards to the North West coast, with another stop along the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail to enjoy a whisky tasting tour at Hellyers Road Distillery. Once in Devonport you'll stop at Mersey Bluff where you'll see Aboriginal petroglyphs and learn about the importance of this landscape to the palawa peoples, who are the traditional owners of the land on which Devonport is now located. Continue to your hotel where you'll spend the night.

Day :5

Location : Cradle Mountain National Park / Launceston

Head back to Launceston, via the one of Tasmania's outdoor art galleries, the Sheffield Murals. After this you will spending time in the stunning Cradle Mountain National Park. With many options to enjoy the breathtaking peaks, you can take a walk around the lovely Dove Lake in Cradle Valley or hike up to Marion’s Lookout for breathtaking views across the area - the options are open for you. Keep your eyes peeled for wombats at Ronny Creek. Along the way to Launceston, there will be more optional stops for tastings and shopping, including for locally grown raspberries, cheese and ice cream. Your trip comes to an end in Launceston.