2 Day Tasmanian Highlights Tour – Bruny Island & Port Arthur

Two Days Exploring Tasmania’s Best: Bruny Island & Port Arthur

A two-day adventure that combines Tasmania’s stunning natural beauty with its intriguing past sounds like a perfect mini-break, especially when it’s priced at just over $165 per person. This tour, run by Tassie Tours Tasmania, offers a well-rounded taste of both Bruny Island’s scenic coastline and wildlife, and Port Arthur’s historic penal colony. At just under 8 hours for each day, it’s a well-paced experience that maximizes your time with thoughtfully planned stops, knowledgeable guides, and plenty of authentic local flavors.

What really makes this tour stand out is the mix of spectacular vistas and engaging stories. On Day 1, you’ll be wowed by world-class beaches, rugged cliffs, and wildlife habitats, plus delicious local produce – especially the chocolates and cheeses. Day 2 offers a compelling glimpse into Tasmania’s colonial past, with visits from Eaglehawk Neck to Remarkable Cave, and time to explore the famous Port Arthur Historic Site.

A possible consideration is that entry to Port Arthur is not included in the price, so travelers should budget for that separately. Also, lunch and drinks are on your own, which means you can choose to enjoy local cafes, pubs, or bring a picnic. This offers flexibility but requires some planning. The tour generally suits those who love nature, history, good food, and picturesque views, making it ideal for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activity and storytelling.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines stunning natural scenery with historic sites.
• Local Flavors: Includes stops at chocolate, cheese, honey, and oyster spots.
• Expert Guides: Reviewed as knowledgeable and friendly, adding depth to the trip.
• Flexible Budgeting: Not including entry fees or meals allows customization.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pickup make logistics easy.
• Photo Opportunities: Iconic vistas and wildlife sightings abound.

An In-Depth Look at Your Tasmania Adventure

Day 1: From Hobart to Port Arthur via Bruny Island

Your journey begins early at 7:30 AM, with pickup within 5 km of Hobart’s CBD. The first stop is Eaglehawk Neck, famous for its Pirate Bay lookout and the Dog Line monument. These spots offer sweeping views of the Tasman Sea and provide a fantastic introduction to the rugged coastline that defines much of Tasmania’s appeal. As one traveler noted, the scenery here is perfect for photos and sets a dramatic tone for the day.

Next, we visit the Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry, a treat for your sweet tooth. It’s a quick stop but one that leaves a memorable impression—imagine tasting handcrafted chocolates made from local ingredients, a flavor-rich reminder of Tasmania’s artisan spirit. One guest described it as a “mouthwatering” experience, hinting at how these small moments add depth to the tour.

The highlight of the morning is the Port Arthur Lavender Farm, where you can stroll through the fragrant fields and explore handmade lavender products. It’s a peaceful, sensory experience and a chance to appreciate Tasmania’s agricultural diversity. The scenic trails and aromatic surroundings make for lovely photos and a relaxing pause before heading to the Port Arthur Historic Site.

The Port Arthur Historic Site is a true centerpiece. While the entrance fee isn’t included, the 35-minute guided walk offers insight into the site’s dark and fascinating past as Australia’s most infamous penal colony. Travelers often find the history compelling, and guides weave stories that bring the ruins and buildings to life. One reviewer mentioned feeling “fascinated by the stories,” emphasizing how the guides add depth beyond the ruins.

Before wrapping up the day, you’ll stop at Remarkable Cave, where panoramic views of Maingon Bay and Penguin Rocks await. Descending the 115 steps to the lookout and viewing the cave’s interior offers spectacular photo opportunities and a sense of awe at Tasmania’s natural formations.

Day 2: Exploring Bruny Island’s Natural Beauty and Gourmet Delights

The second day kicks off with a 7:30 AM pickup, followed by a scenic drive across Bruny Island. The first stop, The Neck, is iconic, offering a 360-degree view of North and South Bruny, the Tasman Sea, and Mount Wellington. It’s a perfect spot for photos that capture the island’s diversity.

From there, you’ll visit Adventure Bay—a pristine beach ideal for a quick dip or a coffee from the local shop. It’s quiet, scenic, and a refreshing start to your day’s outdoor adventures.

A short walk to Mavista Falls immerses you in Tasmania’s lush temperate rainforest. The 20-minute return walk rewards you with fresh air, lush greenery, and a sense of being far from the urban world. Many travelers enjoy these immersive nature experiences, commenting on how peaceful and rejuvenating they are.

Next, it’s time to indulge your sweet tooth again at the Bruny Island Chocolate Company, a premier spot for sampling local chocolates. Alonnah, the island’s main town, provides a laid-back setting for lunch, often enjoyed at the Hotel Bruny pub. The relaxed atmosphere and good food make it a highlight, especially after a morning of sightseeing.

The afternoon is packed with scenic and culinary stops: the Cape Bruny Lighthouse, one of Australia’s oldest, offers striking vistas and history. The Bruny Island Honey stop introduces you to local honey production, with samples and stories of the island’s bee industry. The Bruny Island Cheese Company allows for cheese tastings, pairing well with the honey and oysters from Get Shucked—famous for their fresh, local oysters.

The tour wraps up with a short visit to the oyster bar, where you’ll get to sample some of the freshest oysters you’ve ever tasted. These stops not only satisfy your palate but give you a taste of Bruny’s thriving artisanal scene.

Transportation & Group Size

Both days feature air-conditioned vehicles and small group sizes (up to 20 travelers), ensuring comfort and a more personalized experience. The pickup service within Hobart makes logistics simple, letting you relax and focus on the scenery and stories.

Pricing & Value

At around $165.70 per person, this tour offers good value considering the number of stops, expert guides, and transportation included. The cost does not cover entry fees or meals, so budget accordingly, but it leaves room for you to enjoy local eateries or explore on your own. For travelers keen on authentic experiences and diverse scenery, this tour strikes a good balance.

Authentic, Guided Insights

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, who bring the stops to life with engaging storytelling and friendly professionalism. One reviewer called Ben an “exceptional guide,” whose approach made everyone feel at ease — a big plus when navigating a packed schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This two-day adventure suits curious travelers eager to see Tasmania’s natural beauty and uncover its history. It’s perfect if you enjoy beautiful vistas, local flavors, and stories that bring places to life. Those who like small-group atmospheres and want to avoid the hassle of planning individual tickets** will find this tour fits well. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive taste of Tasmania’s highlights.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Tasmania’s scenic and historic treasures. The stops at Bruny Island’s beaches, farms, and artisanal producers showcase the island’s vibrant local culture, while Port Arthur’s historic ruins reveal a compelling story of Australia’s past. The guided experience makes it easier to appreciate the significance of each site, all while enjoying Tasmania’s stunning scenery and tasty surprises.

If you’re after a value-packed, authentic, and scenic introduction to Tasmania, this tour delivers. It’s especially enjoyable for those who love a mix of outdoor beauty, history, and good food. Just remember to bring your appetite, some extra cash for entry fees, and a camera ready to capture unforgettable views.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off within 5 km of Hobart CBD, making it convenient for most travelers staying in the city.

How long are the stops at each site?
Stops vary from about 15 to 50 minutes, giving enough time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed.

Do I need to buy my own entry tickets?
Yes, the tour price does not include entry to the Port Arthur Historic Site, so you should budget for that separately. All other stops are free.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
While the tour operates year-round, good weather is recommended, as the experience depends on outdoor sightseeing and scenic views.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but check individual activity details, especially for walking or climbing at sites like the lighthouse or cave.

Can I purchase lunch or drinks during the tour?
Not included, giving you the freedom to choose local cafes or bring your own picnic. The lunch stop at Alonnah offers a relaxed, local experience.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 20, ensuring a more intimate experience and better interaction with guides.

Is the guide knowledgeable about Tasmania’s history and nature?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Ben as friendly and deeply informed, adding value through engaging storytelling.

This 2-day tour presents an excellent mix of Tasmania’s natural landscapes, culinary delights, and historic sites. It’s designed for curious travelers who want a comprehensive, authentic experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or nature lover, this trip offers a memorable taste of Tasmania’s diverse charm.