From Hobart: Great Lake and Untamed High Country Small Group Tour

A Day Exploring Tasmania’s High Country and Lakes: The Great Lake and Untamed High Country Small Group Tour

If you’re looking to escape the hum of Hobart and dive into Tasmania’s wild side, this small-group tour offers an authentic journey through the island’s highlands and lakes. For around $175, you’ll spend about 9.5 hours with a knowledgeable guide—David—who brings a scientific eye and a passion for sharing Tasmania’s remote corners. You’ll visit historic towns, hydroelectric sites, and breathtaking lookout points, all amid untouched wilderness.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to learn about Tasmania’s hydroelectric history from someone who worked directly in its management—David’s stories and insights make every stop feel personal. Second, the diverse scenery—from the rugged escarpment and alpine rainforest to pristine pencil pines—keeps the eye engaged.

A possible consideration? It’s a long day of driving, so travelers with limited mobility or those expecting a leisurely stroll might find the schedule a bit packed. However, if you’re eager to see Tasmania’s high country without multiple days on the road, this tour offers excellent value.

This experience suits nature lovers, history buffs, and those interested in Tasmania’s engineering achievements—all packed into an accessible, small-group setting for a more intimate experience.

Key Points

• Authentic Wilderness: Experience Tasmania’s remote highlands, lakes, and rainforests with expert insights.
• Historic Sites: Visit a 1916 hydro power station with stories from a guide who worked in the field.
• Spectacular Views: Enjoy panoramic lookouts over Great Lake and surrounding mountain scenery.
• Knowledgeable Guide: David’s background in science and hydroelectric management adds depth.
• Comfortable Transport: An air-conditioned vehicle ensures a relaxed trip through varied terrain.
• Value for the Price: A comprehensive day packed with scenic highlights, history, and nature.

Exploring Tasmania’s Untamed High Country

This tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, technical history, and local charm. Starting early in Hobart, we head north through the fertile farmland of the Southern Midlands, passing through small towns with heritage buildings that whisper stories of Tasmania’s past. Our first stop, Bothwell, becomes a quick snapshot of mid-1800s architecture, giving us a taste of colonial Tasmania. It’s a pleasant way to warm up and set the historical tone for the day.

Next, the scenery shifts as we drive toward Waddamana, home of Tasmania’s first hydroelectric station from 1916. Here, you’ll see the Waddamana Power Station Heritage Site, which played a key role in powering the island’s development. David’s recounting of the station’s stories—its construction, operation, and significance—adds layers to what might otherwise be just another old building. For history lovers, this stop is a highlight, offering a tangible connection to Tasmania’s pioneering energy efforts.

From there, we ascend onto the Central Plateau, a true wilderness zone. The drive through farmland and forest takes us past Penstock Lagoon, a historic hydroelectric lake, as we approach Arthurs Lake. This expansive waterbody is surrounded by mountains and is famous among anglers, although most visitors will be content with the striking views and the sense of remoteness. We’re treated to wide vistas of the lake and rolling moorlands—perfect for photography or just soaking in the silence.

The Magnificence of Great Lake

One of the tour’s major highlights is visiting Great Lake, Tasmania’s third-largest lake. At the Miena Dam, we see a large rock-fill dam and a historic concrete arch dam from 1922—both testaments to Tasmania’s hydroelectric ambitions. From the Great Lake Lookout, you’ll get an incredible birds-eye view of the lake, its islands, and the surrounding mountains. The expansive scene makes it clear why this landscape has inspired many and is a favorite among photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

This is a moment to really appreciate the scale of Tasmania’s high country. The panoramic views, combined with the crisp mountain air, create a memorable tableau. Travelers have noted that this spot offers a “great moment to get your camera out,” and it’s easy to see why. The scenery here is special—raw, vast, and beautifully unspoiled.

Pristine Pine Lake and Liffey Forest Lookout

Leaving the lake, we venture into a short walk through rare pencil pine forest to Pine Lake. Tasmania’s pencil pines grow only in this island’s high country, making this a unique botanical stop. David’s expertise in botany brings the forest into focus—he points out features that most visitors might miss, adding depth to the walk. The lake itself is crystal clear, and its untouched beauty is a reminder of Tasmania’s wilderness quality.

Further north, the Liffey Forest Lookout offers a dramatic view of a steep rocky escarpment and leafy rainforest. The contrast between the rugged rocks and lush greenery illustrates the diverse ecology of the high plateau. The brief stop here captures the eye with its striking landscape and fresh mountain scent.

Historic Charm and Wilderness Passages

The final stops include a quick visit to Kempton, a historic Midlands town with heritage buildings that evoke Tasmania’s rural past. This offers a nice breather after a day of driving and sightseeing. As the tour passes through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, you get a sense of the vast, protected landscape that makes Tasmania a unique destination for nature lovers.

What’s Included and Practicalities

The tour comes with an air-conditioned vehicle, making the long day more comfortable. It’s worth noting that lunch and snacks aren’t included, so it’s best to bring your own or plan to buy something during the stops. The group is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience, and the tour operates with a flexible cancellation policy—full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Starting at 8:00 am in Hobart, the tour ends back at the same meeting point. It’s a full day, but the pace is manageable and focused on quality rather than quantity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive glimpse of Tasmania’s high country in one day, combining scenic vistas, history, and nature. It’s perfect for those who enjoy guided insights from passionate locals and don’t mind a bit of driving to reach remote areas. It’s especially suitable for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Tasmania’s rugged landscape away from the crowds.

If you’re after a relaxed, informative day with stunning views and significant historical sites, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re craving a balanced mix of natural beauty and historical insight and prefer exploring with a guide who understands the landscape’s story, this tour offers excellent value. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, and David’s background enriches every stop.

While it’s a long day of driving, the scenery makes it worthwhile. It’s particularly well-suited for those interested in Tasmania’s hydroelectric development, botany, and highland wilderness. If you’re traveling on a tight schedule but want to experience some of Tasmania’s most awe-inspiring landscapes, this tour provides a fantastic snapshot.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to explore at your own speed, consider whether the packed itinerary suits your style.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9.5 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending back in Hobart.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and guided commentary. Lunch and snacks are not included.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the long driving hours may be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What stops are included?
Stops include Bothwell, Waddamana Power Station, Arthurs Lake, Great Lake, Pine Lake, Liffey Forest Lookout, and Kempton, with scenic drives through the Tasmanian Wilderness.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours in advance.

Are there any special requirements?
Good weather is needed for the best experience, and the tour is designed for small groups, so booking in advance is recommended.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, David brings a background in science and hydroelectric management, making the commentary both engaging and informative.

In summary, this small-group tour from Hobart offers a thoughtfully curated day of Tasmania’s highland scenery, historical sites, and environmental wonders. It’s ideal for those wanting to see the unspoiled wilderness that makes Tasmania so distinctive, with the added benefit of expert guidance. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply eager for spectacular views, this trip delivers a well-rounded experience that will leave you with memorable images and stories.