Port Arthur, Richmond and Lavender Active Day Tour

A comprehensive day exploring Hobart’s treasures — from convict ruins to fragrant lavender fields, coastal cliffs, and charming villages.

Starting early from Hobart, this 11-hour tour takes you on a well-paced journey through some of Tasmania’s most captivating spots. For around $115, you’ll visit the UNESCO-listed Port Arthur, enjoy a scenic cruise, stroll through the quaint Richmond village, and wander the Lavender Farm with its delightful café and distillery. Our guides, like Nick and others, earn high praise for their storytelling and local knowledge, making each stop engaging and meaningful.

What we genuinely love about this trip is how smoothly everything is organized — the small group size, often just 20 or fewer travelers, creates an intimate atmosphere. Plus, the coastal views from Waterfall Bay and the historical sites provide a varied experience that appeals to different interests: history buffs, nature lovers, and foodies alike.

A minor consideration is that the Lavender Farm might not always be in full bloom, depending on the season, which can slightly diminish the experience. Also, the tour’s fast pace means there’s limited time at each stop, particularly at Port Arthur, so those wanting a more leisurely visit might feel a bit rushed.

This tour is best suited for travelers who are eager to see a lot in one day without sacrificing depth — if you appreciate expert guides and a mix of scenic and historical sites, you’ll find plenty of value here.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Combines history, scenery, and local produce in one day.
• Expert guides: Highly praised for their knowledge and storytelling.
• Scenic coastal walks: Waterfall Bay and cliff top views offer breathtaking scenery.
• Quality inclusions: Entrance fees, harbor cruise, and small group size enhance the experience.
• Limited free time: Short stops can feel rushed, especially at the Lavender Farm and Richmond.
• Suitable for active travelers: Moderate physical fitness required for walks and sightseeing.

Exploring Tasmania’s Coastal and Cultural Highlights

This full-day tour is a well-rounded way to experience some of Tasmania’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning multiple trips. Starting at Pirates Bay/Eaglehawk Neck, you’ll immediately get a sense of the rugged coastline and the area’s storied past, including its convict history. The Waterfall Bay walk follows, offering a 45-minute trek along cliff tops, with stunning views over the ocean. As one reviewer noted, the views from this track are “spectacular,” making it a highlight for outdoor lovers.

Waterfall Bay isn’t just a scenic spot; it’s also part of one of Tasmania’s “Great Short Walks,” meaning it’s manageable for many, but still offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs. The undulating trail may be a slight challenge, but the vistas make it worthwhile.

Next, you’ll stop at the Port Arthur Lavender Farm — a place many travelers look forward to. While some reviews mention that the lavender may not be in bloom depending on the season, the farm also features a café and distillery, which serve local Tasmanian produce. You can stroll the lavender trail or enjoy a refreshing pause with some lavender-infused treats. If you’re fortunate enough to catch the blooms, the sight is truly lovely, and the smell, divine.

Moving on to Port Arthur Historic Site, the main event of the day, your entry includes a guided walk and a harbor cruise around the Isle of the Dead. This site is packed with ruins and restored buildings, reflecting Tasmania’s convict past. One reviewer called the visit “interesting,” but also noted that time can be a bit tight, especially if you want to explore every corner. The guided commentary brings the site alive, with stories from guides like Peter and Nick that keep even the most history-averse engaged.

The harbor cruise adds a different perspective, letting you see the site from the water and hear about the history of the Isle of the Dead, which was a burial ground for convicts and settlers. It’s a peaceful way to absorb the local stories while enjoying the sea breeze.

On the return journey, you’ll stop at Richmond, a charming village with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and local shops. It’s a perfect place for a quick stroll, a coffee, or a visit to the Chocolate Boutique or Lolly Shop. Several reviews praise this stop as a delightful way to wind down the day, even if the timing can be tight, with most places closing around 4:30 pm—so plan accordingly.

The Value of This Tour

At $115, the trip offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusions: entrance to Port Arthur, the harbor cruise, and the guided walks. The small group size guarantees more personalized attention and richer storytelling, which many travelers find enhances the experience considerably.

The tour’s balance of outdoor activity, historical exploration, and culinary delights makes it appealing for a wide range of travelers. Whether you’re into convict history, coastal scenery, or local Tasmanian produce, this trip covers all bases.

That said, it’s worth noting that some travelers feel the short stops can be a little rushed. For example, one review remarked that the Lavender Farm wasn’t in bloom, which was a disappointment, although they still enjoyed the walk and food offerings. Others mentioned that Port Arthur could use a bit more time, especially if you’re eager to explore every ruin or attraction thoroughly.

In terms of logistics, pickup from most Hobart city hotels is available, but not from private residences or Airbnbs. The moderate physical level required means you should be comfortable with walking and some uneven terrain, but no strenuous hiking is involved.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts who want an in-depth look at Port Arthur’s convict past, nature lovers eager for scenic coastal walks, and foodies interested in local Tasmanian produce. It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer a guided experience that takes care of logistics and storytelling, allowing you to relax and soak in the scenery.

Given the small group size and the engaging guides, it’s a great choice for those seeking a more personalized and authentic experience. If you enjoy learning through stories and context, this tour’s guides truly shine.

Final Thoughts

The Port Arthur, Richmond and Lavender Active Day Tour offers a thoughtfully curated sampling of Tasmania’s highlights in a manageable, full-day format. You’ll appreciate the expert guiding, the stunning coastal views, and the insider access to historic sites. It’s especially valuable if you want a mix of outdoor adventure, culture, and culinary treats without the hassle of planning individual excursions.

While the pace is quick and some stops may feel rushed, the overall experience is rewarding and well worth the price. It’s most suitable for travelers who are eager to see a lot, enjoy scenic walks, and learn local stories from passionate guides.

If you’re looking for an engaging, balanced day that packs in the essence of Tasmania’s east coast and its convict past, this tour will serve you well.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is provided from most Hobart city hotels, making it convenient to start your day without worrying about logistics.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 11 hours, giving you a full day of sightseeing and activities.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals are not included, but there are opportunities to purchase food and drinks at the Lavender Farm and in Richmond.

Can I bring luggage or personal items?
Luggage is not permitted on the tour; only a small day pack is allowed, so plan accordingly.

What if the Lavender Farm isn’t in bloom?
Depending on the season, the lavender may not be at its peak, which some find disappointing. Still, the farm offers a lovely walk and the café and distillery are worth visiting.

By choosing this tour, you’re getting a well-rounded taste of Tasmania’s scenic beauty, history, and local flavors. It’s a busy but rewarding day that promises engaging guides, gorgeous views, and memorable stories—ideal for curious travelers ready to dive into Tasmania’s treasures.