Exploring Tasmania’s Natural Beauty and Heritage on the Full-Day Wineglass Bay Explorer Active Tour
If you’re planning a day trip from Launceston that combines stunning scenery, a bit of history, and some delicious local wine, then the Full-Day Wineglass Bay Explorer Active Tour might be just what you need. For $115 per person, you get approximately 11 hours of diverse experiences, guided by knowledgeable locals who know how to make it memorable. You’ll visit Freycinet National Park, renowned for its world-class beaches, hike to the famous Wineglass Bay lookout, and enjoy a relaxed afternoon at a hillside Devils Corner Winery with food and wine options.
What we love about this trip is its balance: the moderate hikes provide incredible views without being overly strenuous, and the inclusion of historic stops like Campbell Town gives it a local touch. Plus, the chance to unwind in a vineyard after a busy morning of exploring is a genuine highlight. One thing to keep in mind is that some of the walks involve uphill climbs, so a reasonable level of fitness helps, especially for the 45-minute ascent to the Wineglass Bay lookout.
This tour is well-suited for travelers who enjoy active outdoor experiences and want a taste of Tasmania’s natural and cultural highlights without renting a car. It’s ideal if you appreciate guided trips that pack a lot into a single day, but expect some walking and outdoor weather. It’s perfect for those with reasonable mobility and a sense of adventure who want to see the best of Freycinet without the hassle of planning multiple stops on your own.
Key Points
- Balanced itinerary: Combines hikes, sightseeing, and wine tasting in one day.
- Expert guides: Guides like Damian and Simon are praised for their local knowledge and friendly approach.
- Beautiful vistas: The views from Cape Tourville Lighthouse and Wineglass Bay are truly some of the most breathtaking in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Authentic experiences: Visit historic Campbell Town and enjoy Tasmanian wines and seafood at Devils Corner Winery.
- Active but manageable: The walks are accessible for most, with some uphill sections that are rewarding rather than overwhelming.
- Small group size: Limited to 20 people for a more personalized experience.
A Detailed Look at the Wineglass Bay Explorer Active Tour
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Planning more time in Launceston? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Out in Launceston
The journey begins early, with a pickup from the Hotel Grand Chancellor at 7:20 am. The bus ride to Freycinet is part of the adventure, offering scenic views and a chance to settle in with your small group. We appreciated that the tour keeps the groups intimate—around 20 people—allowing for a more relaxed atmosphere and easier interaction with guides like Simon, who impressed with his local knowledge and friendly demeanor.
Reviews consistently praise the guides; one traveler from Australia noted, “Damian was attentive and accommodating to different levels of abilities,” highlighting how guides tailor the experience to ensure everyone has a good time. The ride also includes a stop in Campbell Town, a picturesque Georgian town that offers a glimpse into Tasmania’s colonial past. Here, you can grab supplies, explore convict relics, and get a taste of local history—all before heading into the National Park.
Freycinet National Park: A Natural Wonder
As soon as we entered Freycinet National Park, the scenery was captivating. Towering granite peaks, rugged coastlines, and vivid beach vistas are the backdrop for the day’s activities. The highlight is the Cape Tourville Lighthouse walk—a short, 20-minute circuit that offers 360-degree views of the coast, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos or just soak in the scenery.
We loved the simplicity of this walk—it’s easy enough for most, yet the vistas are expansive enough to keep everyone awestruck. One reviewer called it “spectacular,” with another mentioning that the views make the climb worthwhile even if you’re not in the mood for a longer hike.
The Iconic Wineglass Bay Hike
The centerpiece of the tour is the 45-minute uphill hike to the Wineglass Bay lookout. It’s challenging in parts, with approximately 400 steps and some steep sections, but the reward is immense. The view from the top is often described as “one of the best in the Southern Hemisphere,” and we can confirm it lives up to its reputation. The sweeping white sands, sparkling turquoise water, and lush green cliffs create a postcard-perfect scene.
The guide typically offers the option to extend this hike down to the actual beach, giving you the chance to swim, relax, or spot dolphins. Many reviews mention that this is well worth the extra effort if you’re physically able, and it adds a personal touch to the experience. One traveler from the UK appreciated the flexibility, saying, “The walk up to Wineglass Bay is around 45 minutes and includes around 400 steps up. It’s not as bad as it sounds! The view is 100% worth it.”
More Great Tours NearbyExploring Honeymoon Bay, Sleepy Bay, and Cape Tourville
After the main hike, the tour often continues with visits to other stunning spots. Honeymoon Bay, with its calm waters and secluded feel, is perfect for a quick break. Sleepy Bay offers more dramatic rock formations and peaceful scenery, ideal for relaxing and taking photos. When time permits, the guide may take you back to Cape Tourville Lighthouse or other lesser-known viewpoints, giving you a broader perspective of the park’s diversity.
Lunch and Relaxation at Devils Corner Winery
The afternoon is reserved for unwinding. The group heads to Devils Corner Winery, which is perched on a hill with sweeping views of Freycinet. Here, you can enjoy a local wine tasting—many reviews gush about the quality and variety—and a seafood platter or woodfired pizza. This setting offers a peaceful conclusion to an active day, with the chance to reflect on the day’s sights and sounds.
Multiple travelers note that the wine tasting and food options are excellent value. One reviewer remarked, “Devils Corner is the ideal place to kick back with a glass of wine, fresh seafood platter, pizza, tea, coffee, or artisan gelato.” It’s a spot that combines relaxation with local flavor, making it a perfect end to the outdoor adventures.
Practical Details and Tips
The tour provides all park entrance fees and guides for a comprehensive experience. Meals and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks, water, and weather-appropriate clothing is essential. The daypack requirement means you should pack light but be ready for some walking and outdoor exposure.
The group size of 20 ensures you get ample attention from your guide, but keep in mind this is an active tour—good footwear and a reasonable fitness level are advised. The walk to the Wineglass Bay lookout is the most demanding part, but it’s manageable for most travelers with a basic fitness level.
For those with mobility issues or traveling with very young children (under 8), this tour might not be suitable, as it involves some uphill walking and longer hikes.
Authenticity and Value
What sets this tour apart is the combination of natural beauty, history, and local flavor in one packed day. Many reviews mention the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, enhancing the experience. The price appears quite reasonable given the amount of activity, the quality of food and wine, and the exclusivity of the small group setting.
You’re not just seeing pretty pictures—you’re actively engaging with Tasmania’s landscape and heritage. The stops at historic Campbell Town, the scenic hikes, and the wine tasting at Devils Corner make this a well-rounded day trip for those seeking adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect if you’re comfortable with moderate outdoor activity, enjoy picturesque scenery, and appreciate local food and wine. It appeals especially to travelers who want a guided, well-organized day that covers the highlights of Freycinet without the hassle of planning multiple stops.
It’s particularly suited for those who value guides with local insight, as many reviewers speak highly of their knowledgeable and friendly guides. If you’re looking for a day that combines nature, history, and culinary delights in a manageable format, this tour offers excellent value.
Final Thoughts
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The Full-Day Wineglass Bay Explorer Active Tour from Launceston brings together Tasmania’s most iconic sights with a personal touch, thanks to small groups and enthusiastic guides. You’ll get inspiring views, a taste of local history, and a chance to unwind with Tasmanian wine in a stunning setting—all in one day.
While it involves some walking and outdoor exposure, the experience is designed to be accessible for most with a reasonable fitness level. The value lies not only in the scenery but in the expertly guided insight and cultural stops that enrich the trip.
If you’re after a balance of activity, scenery, and relaxation, and want an authentic taste of Tasmania’s east coast, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.
FAQ
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Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Launceston, with some optional hotel pickups when booked in advance.
What is the tour duration?
It lasts around 11 hours, starting at 7:20 am and returning around 6:00 pm.
Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but you can purchase a bakery-style lunch en route to the National Park.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a daypack, snacks, water, and possibly a camera. Closed-toe shoes are recommended.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for children aged 8 and above. Those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users may find it challenging due to the walking involved.
How difficult are the hikes?
The walk to the Wineglass Bay lookout is about 45 minutes uphill with around 400 steps. Most with reasonable fitness can manage it, but it’s a good idea to assess your stamina beforehand.
Can I extend my time at Wineglass Bay?
Yes, your guide will discuss options, including walking down to the beach for swimming and dolphin spotting if you’re feeling active.
Is the tour good value?
Considering the guided walks, scenic stops, and wine tasting, many reviews say it’s excellent value for the price.
Will I get enough time to explore each site?
The itinerary balances sightseeing and leisure, giving you time to enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed, especially at key viewpoints.
What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While the article doesn’t specify, Tasmania’s weather varies, so spring through early autumn tend to have milder, more predictable weather for outdoor activities.
In all, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Tasmania’s natural beauty and local charm. If you love active days with scenic rewards and cultural stops, it’s a trip worth considering.
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