Tassie's East Coast Highlights

You don’t have to arrive early into Launceston, but we highly recommend you do. Time on your side? Walk the short distance to Cataract Gorge, home to the longest single-span chairlift in the world. It’s quite the ride, taking you up high into this intensely beautiful, and spiritual, place, yours on an Optional Experience. Otherwise, meet your Travel Director and fellow Tassie companions for a drink in the evening.

You’ll smell Bridestowe before you see it. This huge lavender farm perfumes the countryside when it blooms from late spring to early summer. The lavender isn’t just for pretty photos either, it turns up in ice cream, teas and jams, so you can taste the region too. Next, stop at the Legerwood Carved Memorial Trees, a moving tribute where trees have been sculpted into WWI soldiers. By evening, you’ll be in Bicheno. Want a cute local moment? Join an Optional Experience for an after-dark penguin spotting and watch little penguins waddle in from the sea.

Freycinet Peninsula is postcard-perfect and then some. In Freycinet National Park, the colours look dialled up, with ocean blues washing into Coles Bay and pink granite cliffs framing the scene. Take it all in and enjoy travelling in a way that supports the protection of local wildlife. Later, step back in time in Richmond, where 1820s Georgian buildings now host boutiques, galleries and cafes. To round out the day, visit the Derwent River for a warm Welcome to Country from local palawa people. You’ll learn about bush tucker and connect with Tasmania’s living culture in a meaningful way.

Today is big on history and stories. Port Arthur Historic Site is the best-preserved convict site in Australia and one of the world’s most significant convict-era destinations. Nearby names like the Isle of the Dead, Devil’s Kitchen and the Blowhole hint at the harsh realities of the past. Walk through the ruins, picture the lives lived here and let the place do the talking. It’s powerful, confronting and unforgettable. This evening, settle in for dinner at a historic waterfront pub, a relaxed end to a thought-provoking day.

Short and sweet and packed with highlights – this Tasmania tour is sure to inspire future travels.