6-Days Discovery Tour of Tasmania – Comfort Style

Exploring Tasmania in just six days might seem ambitious, but this Comfort Style Discovery Tour makes it both manageable and memorable. Priced at $1,496.96 per person, it offers a well-rounded taste of Tasmania’s extraordinary wilderness, historic sites, and rugged coastlines. With a maximum of 20 guests, the tour balances intimacy with the opportunity to meet fellow travelers, all while exploring some of the island’s most iconic landscapes.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines comfort and adventure—staying in cozy motels, enjoying guided walks, and visiting wildlife sanctuaries. Plus, the tour’s eco-certification from Ecotourism Australia reassures environmentally conscious travelers that their journey supports sustainability. On the flip side, the itinerary is packed, so minimizing downtime, it’s best suited for active travelers who want to see as much as possible in a short time.

This tour is perfect for those who appreciate cultural history, breathtaking scenery, and wildlife, but want to do so without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Whether you’re a nature lover, a first-time visitor to Tasmania, or someone looking for a well-organized, scenic escape, this trip offers a comprehensive experience.

Key Points

• Comfortable Accommodation: Stay in cozy motels with a maximum group size of 20, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Diverse Landscapes: From rainforests and alpine lakes to rugged coastlines and historic sites, Tasmania’s variety is front and center.
• Wildlife Encounters: See Tasmanian devils, and enjoy guided walks that bring the island’s flora and fauna to life.
• Sustainable Travel: The tour is eco-certified, reflecting a commitment to responsible tourism.
• Full Itinerary: Highlights include Cradle Mountain, the Bay of Fires, Freycinet National Park, and Port Arthur.
• Active Elements: Short walks each day, suitable for those who enjoy gentle hiking or scenic strolls.

A Detailed Look at the 6-Day Tasmania Discovery Tour

Day 1: Into the Wilderness of Tasmania’s West

Starting bright and early from Hobart, we’re whisked away into the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, a region that’s as dramatic as it is vast. Our first stop is Russell Falls, a true icon of the rainforests, with cascades that seem to defy gravity. The short walk here is accessible and rewarding, giving us a taste of Tasmania’s lush greenery and misty atmosphere.

Next, we head to Lake St. Clair, Australia’s deepest freshwater lake. The scenery here feels almost otherworldly, with reflections that mirror the surrounding trees and mountains—an ideal spot for a quick photo or a peaceful moment. The drive then takes us through Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, where towering mountains and tannin-stained rivers create a rugged, untouched feel.

One of the tour’s highlights is arriving at Queenstown, a town with a mining past that’s still visible in its industrial remnants. Here, we’ll enjoy views of Horsetail Falls and Mt Lyell, culminating in a group dinner that sets the tone for the adventure ahead. The day begins with a stop at Salamanca Market in Hobart, perfect for grabbing a quick breakfast and browsing local crafts.

What travelers love: The stunning waterfalls and the dramatic river scenery. The guide’s enthusiasm, especially about the flora and fauna, enhances the experience for all.

Consideration: The full day involves a lot of driving—around 12 hours—so be prepared for a long but rewarding day.

Day 2: Cruising the Gordon River & Historic Strahan

Depart from Strahan, a charming harborside village, and hop aboard the Gordon River Cruise. The cruise is a major highlight—six hours of floating through pristine, ancient rainforests. You’ll see towering trees and learn about the UNESCO World Heritage status of the surrounding wilderness. The guided boardwalk is a fantastic walk into the rainforest, with some travelers noting that the guides’ knowledge brings the landscape alive.

Back in Strahan, the town provides a feel of old-world charm and a gateway to Tasmania’s wilderness. The journey to Tullah is scenic, with clear days offering impressive views of Mount Murchison. The lakeside chalet where we stay offers a relaxed setting after a full day on the water.

What travelers love: The detailed commentary during the cruise and the chance to see Tasmania’s ancient forests up close.

Consideration: The day involves a 6-hour cruise plus additional travel time, which can be tiring but is worth every minute.

Day 3: From Cradle Mountain to Sheffield & Launceston

Today, the focus shifts to Cradle Mountain National Park, a landscape of glaciers, alpine lakes, and ancient forests. The scenery is breathtaking, and the walk around Dove Lake offers views of the mountain’s iconic silhouette. Many travelers mention the opportunity to spot wildlife like wombats and wallabies.

After soaking in the alpine atmosphere, we visit Sheffield, renowned for its murals—bright, street-sized artworks depicting local history and nature. It’s a colorful stop that adds a splash of creativity to the journey. The day concludes in Launceston, Tasmania’s second-largest city, where you can explore at your leisure.

What travelers love: The diverse scenery from mountain peaks to vibrant murals, and the chance to spot native wildlife.

Consideration: The day’s mileage is considerable, but it allows for a rich variety of scenery and cultural sights.

Day 4: Coastal Beauty & the Bay of Fires

The morning begins at Cataract Gorge, a stunning natural reserve within Launceston. The walk through the gorge offers a chance to see resident wallabies and enjoy the peaceful scenery. Then, we hit the coast, heading to St Helens, a small town that’s a perfect base for exploring the famous Bay of Fires.

Here, the white sands, orange lichen-covered boulders, and clear waters are postcard-perfect. The shorelines are inviting for leisurely walks, and the scenery is often described as pristine. The optional visit to Honeymoon Bay and Wineglass Bay later in the day provides some of Tasmania’s most iconic views—curved beaches with turquoise waters.

What travelers love: The combination of forest, coast, and striking rock formations. The guide’s local insights make the experience richer.

Consideration: The day involves some outdoor walking, so sturdy shoes and sun protection are advisable.

Day 5: Freycinet National Park & the East Coast

Freycinet is often called Tasmania’s jewel, and for good reason. The day covers Honeymoon Bay, Wineglass Bay, and Cape Tourville Lighthouse, all offering picture-perfect moments. Expect walks to the Wineglass Bay Lookout, where the view of that iconic curved beach is worth the climb.

Eaglehawk Neck provides dramatic coastal scenery, with stops at Pirates Bay and Tasman Arch showcasing the rugged coastline. As the day winds down, the tour settles in on Eaglehawk Neck, with the Tasman Sea stretching endlessly beyond.

What travelers love: The panoramic vistas and the chance to walk along some of Tasmania’s most celebrated beaches. The guide’s storytelling adds to the experience.

Consideration: The day involves some walking, but most routes are accessible and rewarding.

Day 6: Port Arthur & the Tasman Peninsula

Our final day is packed with history and geology. The Port Arthur Historic Site offers a glimpse into Tasmania’s convict past—walking among ruins and colonial gardens, you’ll feel transported back in time. Then, the stunning rock formations of Tasman National Park come into view, with highlights like Tessellated Pavement, Waterfall Bay, Tasman Arch, and Devils Kitchen.

The trip ends in the charming colonial village of Richmond, where you can stroll beneath the historic convict-built bridge and admire heritage buildings. The return trip to Hobart wraps up a journey full of contrast—nature’s raw power and human history.

What travelers love: The vivid landscapes and the historic sites, especially the guided commentary that makes history come alive.

Consideration: The day is quite full, but it leaves you with a lasting impression of Tasmania’s wild and human stories.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for active travelers who want to see the highlights of Tasmania without sacrificing comfort. The combination of scenic drives, short walks, wildlife encounters, and cultural sights makes it perfect for those with a curiosity about both nature and history. If you’re looking for a well-organized experience that blends adventure with relaxation, and you appreciate eco-conscious travel, this trip could be your ideal introduction to Tasmania.

The high praise from past travelers about knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery suggests you’ll come away with a true appreciation for the island’s natural beauty and stories. Keep in mind that the long days and packed itinerary suit those who don’t mind a busy schedule, but the thoughtful accommodations and small group size make it manageable.

FAQs

Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, transportation is included, with pickup offered from the meeting point in Hobart, and all travel between stops is arranged as part of the tour package.

Are the walks difficult?
Generally, the walks are short and manageable, around scenic spots like Dove Lake and Wineglass Bay Lookout. Most are suitable for travelers comfortable with mild outdoor activity.

What kind of accommodation is provided?
Comfortable motels are used for overnight stays, offering a cozy and convenient base after each day of exploring.

How many people are in each group?
The tour limits group size to 20 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and easier interactions.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers most activities, park entrance fees, guided walks, and accommodation. Meals are not included but are often provided as part of group dinners during the trip.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Hayden and Campbell for their enthusiasm and knowledge about wildlife, flora, fauna, and history.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Most walks are short and accessible, but it’s best to check with the tour provider about specific mobility requirements.

What is the best time to take this tour?
While not explicitly stated, the scenery and wildlife are most likely to be at their best during Tasmania’s milder seasons—spring and early summer.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
Absolutely. The tour is eco-certified through Ecotourism Australia, emphasizing responsible travel.

What if I want to extend my stay in Tasmania?
Given the comprehensive nature of this trip, consider adding extra days before or after to explore Hobart, the wineries, or other regions at your own pace.

To sum it up, this 6-day Discovery Tour offers a well-balanced mix of Tasmania’s wilderness, history, and coastlines, all while maintaining a comfort level that encourages relaxation amidst adventure. It’s perfect for travelers who want a reliable, guided experience with knowledgeable guides, and who value sustainability. If you’re eager to see Tasmania’s highlights in a manageable, thoughtfully organized package, this tour could be your ideal introduction to this extraordinary island.