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7-Day Tasmania Road Trip: Hobart to Launceston via Bruny Island & Cradle Mountain

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Day 1 · Sun, Dec 7
Hobart

Arrival in Hobart — settle in and explore Salamanca & Battery Point

11:30 AM:

Arrive at Hobart Airport (HBA). Collect luggage and pick up rental car from the airport counter (pre-book a compact or SUV for comfort on the later drives).

12:15 PM:

Drive into Hobart (approximately 20-25 minutes). Head straight to hotel to drop bags — recommended: The Henry Jones Art Hotel (historic waterfront) or MACq 01 for storytelling rooms in Salamanca Place.

12:45 PM:

Check in or drop luggage if early check-in isn't available. Freshen up quickly and get maps or the hotel concierge's local tips for the afternoon.

1:15 PM:

Lunch at Dier Makr or SOHO, both within easy reach in Hobart's inner city; alternatively try Mures Upper Deck for seafood with a view if you prefer waterfront dining.

2:30 PM:

Stroll Salamanca Place and Salamanca Market area (outside market stalls are quieter on non-market days). Browse galleries at Salamanca Arts Centre and pop into the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) for a short introduction to Tasmanian history and natural exhibits.

3:30 PM:

Walk up into historic Battery Point. Wander through picturesque streets: Arthur Circus, Kelly Street and Hampden Road. Stop at the Battery Point Sculpture Trail viewpoints for harbour photos.

4:15 PM:

Coffee and cake at Jackman & McRoss in Battery Point — a local institution with great pastries. Relax and watch the afternoon light over the harbour.

5:00 PM:

Return to the hotel to settle in properly. Unpack, check tomorrow’s Bruny Island day trip briefing (ferry times and pickup), and pre-book any necessary tours or restaurants.

6:00 PM:

Early evening walk along Hobart waterfront: stroll the wharves, see the fishing boats and visit Brooke Street Pier for a quick look at local produce stalls.

6:45 PM:

Dinner at The Glass House (waterfront with seasonal Tasmanian menu) or Frank Restaurant for a warm modern Australian meal in the city; book ahead for a relaxed first-night meal.

8:15 PM:

Optional: join a short evening ghost or historic walking tour of Battery Point and Salamanca for atmospheric stories of Hobart’s past (many depart around this time).

9:30 PM:

Return to hotel. Prepare gear for tomorrow’s Bruny Island excursion (layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, camera, sunscreen) and set alarm for an early start.

10:00 PM:

Lights out or quiet nightcap at the hotel bar. Rest well — tomorrow starts early for the full-day Bruny Island adventure that ties directly into your coastal Tasmania route.

Day 2 · Mon, Dec 8
Bruny Island (return to Hobart)

Bruny Island day trip — coastal scenery, wildlife and local produce

6:30 AM:

Wake and have a light hotel breakfast or takeaway from your hotel café; pack layers, binoculars, camera, sunscreen and waterproof jacket for a full-day coastal outing.

7:15 AM:

Drive from Hobart to Kettering (approx. 35-40 minutes). Aim to arrive early to avoid ferry queues and to collect any pre-booked Bruny Island tour check-in.

8:15 AM:

Catch the vehicular/passenger ferry from Kettering to Roberts Point, Bruny Island (ferry takes ~20 minutes). Enjoy morning sea views and watch for seabirds from the deck.

8:40 AM:

Arrive on North Bruny; head to the Bruny Island Neck Game Reserve for the iconic short walk to the Neck lookout and viewing platform—great early light for photos of the isthmus and dunes.

9:20 AM:

Climb the Neck lookout steps (20-30 minutes round trip) and scan for shearwaters and white-bellied sea eagles; then stroll the boardwalk along the sand spit to take in sweeping coastal vistas.

10:00 AM:

Drive south to The Neck Café for coffee and a light snack; relax on the deck while enjoying wild coastal scenery and local baked treats.

10:40 AM:

Continue south toward Adventure Bay, stopping at lookout points along the Adventure Bay Road for short photo breaks and to spot native wildlife (wallabies are common in the morning).

11:15 AM:

Arrive at Adventure Bay and join a pre-booked wildlife/cruise tour (if chosen) or head to Adventure Bay General Store for local maps and information; explore the beach and local heritage sites where Captain Cook landed.

12:30 PM:

Lunch at The Bruny Hotel (if open) or the Bruny Island Cheese Co. café — sample local cheeses, smoked oysters and wood-fired breads while enjoying island produce and a relaxed pace.

1:30 PM:

Visit Bruny Island Premium Wines for a tasting or stop at the Bruny Island Berry Farm (seasonal) for fresh-picked fruit and desserts; both highlights of the island’s artisan food scene.

2:15 PM:

Drive to South Bruny’s dramatic coastline: stop at Fluted Cape or Cape Bruny Lighthouse precinct (check lighthouse opening times). Take the short walks to coastal viewpoints and dramatic cliff edges.

3:00 PM:

If pre-booked, take a guided 4WD or walking tour to Cape Bruny Lighthouse or a wildlife-spotting cruise to seek seals, dolphins and seabirds; otherwise enjoy relaxed exploration and photography time at the headlands.

4:00 PM:

Return north toward Adventure Bay, stopping at Get Shucked Oyster Farm for a tasting if available, or at Adventure Bay store for island souvenirs and honey products produced locally.

4:45 PM:

Drive to Roberts Point for the return ferry to Kettering; use any spare time to enjoy last views across the D'Entrecasteaux Channel as the afternoon light softens.

5:10 PM:

Board ferry back to Kettering (allow ~20 minutes crossing). Stretch your legs on deck and reflect on the day’s coastal highlights before the short drive back to Hobart.

5:40 PM:

Arrive at Kettering and drive back to Hobart (approx. 35-40 minutes). If energy allows, stop en route at a roadside lookout or bakery for a quick refreshment.

6:30 PM:

Return to Hobart hotel and freshen up. Take a few moments to unpack purchases (cheeses, oysters, honey) and relax after the full day.

7:15 PM:

Dinner in Hobart — choose from Franklin (seasonal Tasmanian tasting menu), Aloft (modern Tasmanian cuisine) or the relaxed Drunken Admiral for seafood on the waterfront; reserve ahead if possible.

9:00 PM:

If you have energy, enjoy a nightcap at Mures Upper Deck bar or a stroll along Salamanca Place to soak up the evening atmosphere and plan tomorrow’s drive toward Swansea.

10:00 PM:

Return to your hotel. Charge cameras and devices, lay out gear for the next morning’s departure toward the Tasman Peninsula and Swansea, and get a good night’s rest.

Day 3 · Tue, Dec 9
Swansea

Drive to Swansea via Tasman Peninsula highlights — coastal stops en route

6:30 AM:

Wake and enjoy an early hotel breakfast in Hobart; pack a day bag with sunscreen, water, comfortable shoes and your camera for the coastal drives and short walks ahead.

7:15 AM:

Check out and depart Hobart, heading east on the Tasman Highway (A3) toward the Tasman Peninsula; the drive to the Peninsula’s northern approaches takes roughly 1 hour 15 minutes without stops.

8:35 AM:

Arrive at Richmond village for a quick stretch and photo stop — walk across the Richmond Bridge (Australia’s oldest stone arch bridge) and browse the Richmond Bakery for a coffee and a pastry.

9:05 AM:

Continue toward the Tasman Peninsula, following signs to Eaglehawk Neck; enjoy coastal views and plan a brief detour to the Tasman Arch and Devils Kitchen lookout for dramatic cliff scenery.

10:00 AM:

Stop at the Tasman Arch and Devil’s Kitchen (short 15-30 minute visit) to walk the boardwalks and take photos of the rugged limestone formations and pounding surf.

10:35 AM:

Drive the short distance to Eaglehawk Neck and visit the historic Dog Line site and the Tessellated Pavement; spend 20-30 minutes exploring the unique rock formations and coastline.

11:15 AM:

Head to Port Arthur Historic Site (allow ~10-15 minutes from Eaglehawk Neck) and park for a 1.5-2 hour visit; take the introductory guided walking tour or short harbour cruise to learn about the convict-era history.

1:00 PM:

Lunch at the Port Arthur Café or nearby Sons of Van Diemen Café — enjoy fresh, local fare and a relaxed break before continuing your coastal journey northward toward Swansea.

2:00 PM:

Depart Port Arthur and set course for Swansea via the scenic Arthur Highway and A3; expect about a 2-hour drive with optional short stops for coastal views and photo opportunities along the way.

3:30 PM:

En route, stop at Dunalley (if time permits) for views across Blackman Bay and a quick walk along the foreshore; sample local oysters at a roadside stall when available or take a coffee break at a local café.

4:15 PM:

Continue north through Bicheno and stop at Bicheno Blowhole lookout for a brief walk and photos of the sea spray and rugged coastline (the lookout is a quick 15-20 minute visit).

5:00 PM:

Arrive in Swansea and check in to your accommodation — recommended options include Piermont Retreat for beautiful waterfront views or The Wharf Hotel for a central stay with harbour access.

5:30 PM:

Freshen up and take a short wander along Swansea’s waterfront and the Spiky Bridge area; enjoy the light over Great Oyster Bay and catch your first views of the Hazards in the distance.

6:15 PM:

Dinner at the acclaimed Malee’s Kitchen (seasonal Tasmanian fare) or at The Wharf Restaurant — both offer fresh local seafood and relaxed waterfront atmospheres (book ahead where possible).

7:45 PM:

After dinner, enjoy a peaceful walk along the esplanade or relax at your hotel with a glass of local Tasmanian wine; review tomorrow’s plan for Freycinet National Park and the Wineglass Bay lookout.

9:00 PM:

Return to your room to unwind; charge devices and lay out comfortable walking clothes and water bottle for an early start to Freycinet the following morning.

10:00 PM:

Lights out to rest after a day of coastal driving and discoveries, ready for the scenic Freycinet day tomorrow.

Day 4 · Wed, Dec 10
Swansea / Freycinet

Freycinet National Park — Wineglass Bay lookout and short walks

6:00 AM:

Wake early in Swansea and enjoy a light breakfast at your accommodation or pick up takeaway from The Lobster Shack Espresso for coffee and a pastry to fuel the morning drive to Freycinet.

6:30 AM:

Drive from Swansea to the Freycinet National Park Visitor Centre / day-use carpark at Coles Bay (approx. 25-30 minutes). Use this time to check park information, grab maps, and confirm trail conditions.

7:00 AM:

Begin the walk to the Wineglass Bay Lookout on the classic Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach circuit (allow 1-1.5 hours return to the lookout). The early start avoids crowds and offers softer light for photos of the Hazards and bay.

8:15 AM:

Arrive at the Wineglass Bay Lookout; spend 20-30 minutes taking in panoramic views and photographing the iconic crescent beach and turquoise water while enjoying a snack and water break.

8:45 AM:

If you feel energetic, continue down the steep track to Wineglass Bay Beach (adds ~45-60 minutes one-way). Walk along the sand and explore rockpools at low tide — watch for seabirds and occasional wallabies near the vegetation.

10:15 AM:

Return to the carpark via the lookout track or Hazards Beach track depending on time and energy (plan 45-60 minutes back to the visitor centre). Freshen up in the car and change into dry layer if needed.

11:00 AM:

Drive a short distance to the Freycinet Marine Farm for an early lunch — sample fresh Pacific oysters, mussels or their seasonal seafood platters on the waterfront (book ahead if possible).

12:15 PM:

After lunch, head to Cape Tourville Lighthouse boardwalk (approx. 20 minutes drive). Take the easy 20-30 minute circular boardwalk for sweeping coastal views and excellent whale- or dolphin-spotting opportunities in season.

1:00 PM:

Drive back to Coles Bay and visit Freycinet Marine Farm Shop or local galleries such as Blue Pig Gallery to pick up artisan food souvenirs and local artworks.

1:30 PM:

Enjoy a relaxed short walk on the Friendly Beaches track (if time and energy allow) or choose the short short-track at Sleepy Bay for dramatic granite boulder formations and sheltered coves (30-45 minute visit).

2:30 PM:

Return to Coles Bay township to cool down with an ice cream or coffee at Freycinet Coffee or The Bay Restaurant; take in the harbour views and rest before the afternoon activity.

3:00 PM:

Take an optional afternoon boat or kayaking trip (pre-booked) from Coles Bay to see Wineglass Bay from the water — expect 2-3 hours for guided cruises or self-guided kayak hire, which reveal secluded beaches and marine life.

5:30 PM:

If you opted out of the boat/kayak, drive back toward Swansea and stop at a lookout along the way for golden-hour photos of Great Oyster Bay and the Hazards; otherwise return from your on-water activity and drive back to Swansea.

6:15 PM:

Check into your Swansea accommodation if you moved rooms or refresh at your existing hotel (Piermont Retreat or The Wharf Hotel). Unpack purchases and relax before dinner.

7:00 PM:

Dinner at The Bay Restaurant & Bar (Swansea) or try the seasonal local menu at Malee’s Kitchen; order Tasmanian seafood or a local lamb dish and pair with a Pinot Noir from a nearby vineyard.

8:30 PM:

After dinner, take a gentle stroll along the Swansea waterfront promenade to enjoy evening views across Great Oyster Bay and reflect on the day’s coastal highlights.

9:15 PM:

Return to your room to charge devices, lay out comfortable clothes for tomorrow’s coastal drive to St Helens and the Bay of Fires, and pack any Freycinet souvenirs securely.

10:00 PM:

Lights out — rest well for an early departure toward the scenic northeast coast where more sandy bays and orange-lichen rocks await.

Day 5 · Thu, Dec 11
St Helens / Bay of Fires

Coastal drive to St Helens — Bay of Fires exploration

6:00 AM:

Wake in Swansea and pack the car for a coastal drive; grab a takeaway coffee and a savoury pastry from The Lobster Shack Espresso to fuel the morning.

6:30 AM:

Depart Swansea heading north on the Tasman Highway (A3) toward St Helens, enjoying early-morning light over Great Oyster Bay as you begin the scenic coastal leg of your trip.

8:00 AM:

Stop at Bicheno for a stretch and quick walk at the Blowhole lookout; enjoy sea-spray views and, if timing’s right, a short beachside coffee at Pasini’s or Lobster Shack Bicheno.

8:30 AM:

Continue the drive north, passing through pyalong and scenic farmland; plan a brief scenic-photo stop at Four Mile Creek lookout to take in the coastline and mountains in the distance.

9:30 AM:

Arrive at St Helens and head straight to the St Helens Visitor Centre to pick up maps, local tips and Bay of Fires access advice; use the restrooms and confirm parking for beach access points.

10:00 AM:

Drive 15 minutes north to The Gardens or Ansons Bay access (start with The Gardens) and begin a beach walk along the white sand and orange lichen-covered granite boulders — excellent photo opportunities and coastal birdlife.

11:00 AM:

Move to a second Bay of Fires highlight, Binalong Bay; stroll the boardwalk and beach, exploring rock pools and the iconic orange granite formations that make this stretch unique.

11:45 AM:

Lunch at Wharf on George in St Helens or the locally loved Eastcoaster Café — order fresh local fish or a seafood platter and pair with a crisp Tasmanian white wine if you’re lingering.

12:45 PM:

After lunch, drive a short distance to Pyengana or a nearby artisanal producer if you want to sample local cheeses (optional detour to Pyengana Dairy Falls for a scenic 30-45 minute stop on-route back inland).

1:45 PM:

Return toward Binalong Bay to join a guided Bay of Fires eco-tour or a local kayaking excursion (pre-booked) to see the coastline from the water and learn about the ecology and Aboriginal connections to the land.

3:30 PM:

If you chose self-exploration, spend this time photographing the morning to mid-afternoon light on the orange lichen rocks, walking further along the beaches toward Swimcart Cove and Smaller Beaches for quieter stretches.

4:15 PM:

Head back to St Helens township and visit the St Helens History Room or wander the waterfront foreshore for a calmer end to the afternoon; grab a gelato at a local shop for a sweet treat.

5:00 PM:

Check in to your St Helens accommodation — recommended: The Sebel St Helens Apex Motel for comfortable waterfront rooms or The Gables for boutique charm; freshen up and unpack.

6:00 PM:

Dinner at The Wharf Restaurant (St Helens) or The Fish Van for a more casual fish-and-chips experience; choose local seafood and a Tasmanian Pinot Noir to complement the coastal evening.

7:30 PM:

After dinner, take a gentle stroll along the St Helens waterfront as the sun sets; watch fishing boats return and enjoy the laid-back coastal town atmosphere before the next day’s drive north to Cradle Mountain.

8:15 PM:

Optional: visit the St Helens Brewery for a tasting of local craft beers, or relax at your accommodation with a glass of wine and review plans/packing for the longer inland drive to Cradle Mountain tomorrow.

9:30 PM:

Return to your room to charge devices and prepare warm layers for the higher-elevation weather tomorrow; lay out walking shoes and camera gear for early departure toward Cradle Mountain.

10:00 PM:

Lights out — rest well after a day of spectacular Bay of Fires coastline, ready for the next stage of your Tasmania road trip.

Day 6 · Fri, Dec 12
Cradle Mountain (nearby accommodation en route to Launceston)

Drive toward Cradle Mountain — alpine walks and sunset at Dove Lake

6:00 AM:

Early wake-up in St Helens; enjoy a hearty breakfast at your accommodation or grab takeaway from The Wharf Café to fuel the long inland drive. Double-check luggage, park passes and that cameras, binoculars and layers are packed for alpine conditions.

6:30 AM:

Depart St Helens heading west on the Tasman Highway (A3) then follow the A4/A2 inland toward the West Tamar/Launceston roads; expect roughly 3.5-4 hours driving with scenic stops en route. Fill up the rental car with fuel in St Helens before leaving town.

8:15 AM:

Quick comfort stop at Scottsdale (approx. 1.5 hrs from St Helens) — stretch legs, use facilities and grab coffee and morning snacks at Coffee on Queen or The Old Church Gallery Café. Take a short roadside photo break to enjoy the agricultural landscapes of northeast Tasmania.

9:00 AM:

Continue west toward the Meander Valley; enjoy rolling countryside and consider a brief detour to the small township of Lilydale for a look at rural Tasmanian life and a chance to top up supplies.

10:15 AM:

Arrive in Deloraine for a mid-morning break — wander the artisan shops along Emu Bay Road and visit the Deloraine & District Folk Museum if you have time. Stop for brunch or a second coffee at The Fork in the Road Café to refuel before the final leg to Cradle Mountain.

11:00 AM:

Depart Deloraine and follow the B12/B13 toward Mole Creek and then onto the B19/B21 that leads into Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Enjoy the increasingly forested scenery and watch for roadside wallabies and birdlife.

12:15 PM:

Arrive at Mole Creek Karst National Park area for a short stretch if you want to explore the karst landscapes and caves (optional 30-45 minute stop) or continue directly toward the Cradle Mountain visitor facilities to ensure parking on arrival.

1:15 PM:

Arrive at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre / Discovery Centre carpark area; check in at your accommodation (recommendations: Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge for comfort or Cradle Mountain Hotel) or at nearby Cabins if staying slightly further out. Pick up park maps, ask rangers about walking track conditions and the best sunset vantage points.

1:45 PM:

Lunch at Highland Restaurant (Peppers) or The Tavern Bar & Bistro at the Cradle Mountain Hotel for local Tasmanian fare — choose a warming soup or a hearty pie if temperatures are cool. Change into walking layers and prepare a small daypack with water, snacks and a rainproof.

2:30 PM:

Begin a gentle alpine walk on the Enchanted Walk (20-30 minutes) to warm up and acclimatise to the park’s cool, mossy rainforest; this is an easy, family-friendly short loop with boardwalks and interpretive signs. Use this time to photograph the unique myrtle beech and ancient buttongrass plains.

3:00 PM:

Set off on the Dove Lake Circuit track — plan for a relaxed section of the 6 km loop, aiming to do 2-3 km initially (about 1-1.5 hours) to reach key viewpoints and experience alpine vegetation and craggy peaks up close. Keep an eye out for wombats in the later afternoon as they become more active.

4:15 PM:

Arrive at the spectacular northwest end of Dove Lake and find a good vantage point for photos of Cradle Mountain reflecting in the water. Pause for snacks, hydration and to enjoy the crisp alpine air while waiting for the changing light toward sunset.

5:00 PM:

Continue the Dove Lake Circuit toward the Boat Cove section, moving at a relaxed pace to reach prime sunset positions along the lakeshore; photographers should set up for golden-hour shots of the mountain and surrounding snow gums (even in summer the light is clear and cool).

5:45 PM:

Sunset at Dove Lake (exact time varies; arrive early to claim a scenic spot) — watch the sky colour the mountain peaks and enjoy the peaceful alpine ambience as the day cools. Bring a warm layer and windproof as temperatures can drop quickly after sunset.

6:30 PM:

Return to your accommodation as dusk falls; if staying at Peppers or Cradle Mountain Lodge, take the short shuttle or walk back, keeping an eye out for nocturnal wildlife such as pademelons and possums near the road. Freshen up and warm up with a hot shower.

7:15 PM:

Dinner at Highland Restaurant (Peppers) or the Overland Track Kitchen & Bar (if staying at Cradle Mountain Hotel) — choose locally sourced Tasmanian produce, such as seared salmon, wallaby or cool-climate vegetables paired with a Tasmanian pinot noir. Reserve in advance during peak season.

8:30 PM:

Optional evening wildlife walk or a ranger-led talk if available at your accommodation — this is a great chance to learn more about the park’s ecology and possibly spot wombats or spotlighted marsupials. Alternatively, relax in the lounge with a hot drink and review tomorrow’s early-morning plans for more alpine walks or a longer Cradle summit option if weather permits.

9:30 PM:

Return to your room to charge devices and lay out warm layers and walking shoes for an early start the next morning; set alarms and confirm breakfast time with reception. Ensure your park passes and permits are handy for tomorrow’s activities.

10:00 PM:

Lights out — rest after a long travel day and an invigorating afternoon in Cradle Mountain, ready for a full morning on the trails before you continue toward Launceston the next day.

Day 7 · Sat, Dec 13
Launceston

Morning at Cradle Mountain then drive to Launceston — city sights and Cataract Gorge

6:00 AM:

Early wake-up at Cradle Mountain accommodation; enjoy a hearty breakfast at your lodge (Highland Restaurant or hotel buffet) and pack a day bag with water, camera, warm layers and driving essentials for the trip to Launceston.

6:45 AM:

Short pre-dawn stroll or quick Enchanted Walk loop (20-30 minutes) near the lodge to catch morning light, spot wallabies or wombats and appreciate the mossy rainforest before you depart the park.

7:30 AM:

Check out of your Cradle Mountain accommodation and load the car; confirm any late charges with reception and set GPS for Launceston (allow about 1.5-2 hours driving depending on stops).

7:45 AM:

Depart Cradle Mountain, heading east on the Lyell Highway/B19 toward Deloraine; enjoy forested mountain views and plan a coffee stop in Deloraine if you’d like to break the drive.

9:15 AM:

Arrive in Deloraine for a mid-morning coffee and pastry at The Fork in the Road Café or Coffee with Attitude; stretch your legs and browse a couple of artisan shops along Emu Bay Road if time allows.

9:45 AM:

Continue the drive toward Launceston via the B54/B51, passing through rolling farmland and river valleys; tune into the changing landscape as you approach Tasmania’s second-largest city.

11:00 AM:

Arrive in Launceston and head straight to your accommodation to drop bags if early check-in is available (recommendations: Peppers Silo Hotel or Hotel Grand Chancellor for central convenience). Otherwise, leave luggage with reception.

11:20 AM:

Walk to nearby Cataract Gorge Reserve—park if you drove—or head to the Basin area and take in the initial river gorge views; pick up a map at the visitor kiosk and plan your short exploration.

11:35 AM:

Take the Gorge chairlift across the South Esk River for panoramic views and to access the cliff-top walking trails (the chairlift offers a quick, scenic route and great photos of the sandstone cliffs and river below).

12:00 PM:

Stroll the Kings Bridge and Cliff Grounds walking tracks, visiting the First Basin and the suspension bridge; pause at the Basin Café for a light lunch or coffee with river views if you prefer a relaxed midday break.

12:45 PM:

Enjoy a sit-down lunch at the Basin Café (simple seasonal dishes) or drive/ walk back into Launceston CBD for a more substantial meal at Stillwater Bar & Restaurant — set in a converted 1830s flour mill with a focus on Tasmanian produce.

2:00 PM:

After lunch, explore Launceston’s city centre: walk through the Cataract Gorge to the City Park with its famed Japanese Macaque enclosure and the Prince’s Square bandstand, or visit the Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery (QVMAG - Inveresk) for local history and natural science exhibits.

3:15 PM:

Drive (or take a short taxi) to the Tamar Valley lookout at Windermere or to the Seaport for views along the Tamar River; if you prefer wine, detour to Josef Chromy Wines (nearby in Relbia) for a quick tasting and vineyard views (book ahead).

4:15 PM:

Return to central Launceston for a late-afternoon coffee or gelato on Brisbane Street; use this time to pick up any last-minute souvenirs or local specialty foods (Tasmanian honey, leatherwood jelly, or pinot noir).

4:45 PM:

Collect luggage from your hotel (if left at reception) and make your way toward Launceston Airport (LST) — allow roughly 20-30 minutes driving time depending on traffic and your location in the city.

5:15 PM:

Arrive at Launceston Airport; refuel and return your rental car, check in for your flight, and clear security with ample time for a relaxed departure at 6:00 PM.

6:00 PM:

Depart Launceston Airport — farewell to Tasmania. If you have any extra minutes before boarding, enjoy one last cup of Tasmanian coffee and reflect on the week’s highlights from Bruny Island to Cradle Mountain.

Day 8 · Sun, Dec 14
Launceston (depart)

Launceston morning — wineries or Tamar Valley, depart from Launceston Airport at 18:00

6:30 AM:

Wake early and enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a local café — try Geronimo Aperitivo Bar & Restaurant for espresso and pastries or Black Cow Bistro for a heartier Tasmanian beef breakfast. Double-check flight details and confirm rental car return times.

7:15 AM:

Pack final items and check out of your accommodation, leaving luggage with reception if you plan to visit a winery before heading to the airport. Fill up the petrol tank if needed for the short drive into the Tamar Valley.

7:30 AM:

Drive north along the West Tamar Highway toward the Tamar Valley wine region (approx. 20-30 minutes to the first cellar doors). Enjoy the morning light on the river and look out for vineyard rows beginning to glow in summer.

8:00 AM:

Arrive at Josef Chromy Wines (Relbia) for a relaxed morning tasting and a stroll through the gardens — their breakfast menu and cellar-door tastings pair well with the estate’s cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Reserve ahead if possible for a short sit-down.

9:15 AM:

Drive a short 10-15 minutes to Tamar Ridge Cellar Door for panoramic views over the Tamar River; enjoy a guided tasting or sample locally made sparkling wine while photographing the valley vistas. Ask the staff for quick local food pairings if you want a snack.

10:15 AM:

Head to Clover Hill Vineyard (15 minutes drive) for another tasting of premium Pinot Noir and a chance to learn about sustainable viticulture in the Tamar Valley. If you're short on time, pick one tasting flight and purchase a bottle to enjoy later.

11:15 AM:

Return toward central Launceston and stop at Penny Royal or Seaport for a riverside walk and light lunch — Penny Royal’s café offers laid-back seasonal dishes, or try Stillwater (if you prefer a longer, refined meal and have a reservation).

12:15 PM:

If you skipped wine tastings or prefer a museum stop, visit the Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery (Inveresk) for 45-60 minutes to see local history and natural science exhibits. Otherwise, stroll through City Park and enjoy the seasonal gardens and parrots.

1:15 PM:

Pick up any last-minute Tasmanian produce or souvenirs from Harvest Market (if open) or local shops on Brisbane Street — look for leatherwood honey, Tasmanian cheeses or a bottle of Pinot Noir from a cellar you visited. Confirm luggage with the hotel and collect any stored items.

2:00 PM:

Have a relaxed late lunch at Stillwater or Geronimo (book ahead) to savour local produce and a final Tasmanian glass of wine; allow roughly 60-75 minutes so you're not rushed before your airport transfer. Settle the bill and prepare to depart the city.

3:15 PM:

Drive back toward Launceston Airport (allow 20-30 minutes). Stop for a short photo at the West Tamar lookout if the light is favourable, or head straight to the airport to allow comfortable time for car return and check-in.

3:45 PM:

Arrive at Launceston Airport (LST); refuel and return the rental car at the agreed counter, then proceed to airline check-in and security. If you have airline lounge access, this is a good time to relax before boarding.

4:30 PM:

Clear security and spend a little time at the terminal shops or café — pick up snacks for the flight and a final jar of Tasmanian honey or chocolate. Double-check boarding time and gate on the flight screens.

5:15 PM:

Relax near the gate, charge devices and enjoy a last cup of Tasmanian coffee while reflecting on the trip highlights from Bruny Island to Cradle Mountain. Make sure passports and boarding passes are ready for boarding.

5:45 PM:

Begin boarding when called; stow carry-on luggage and settle into your seat. Confirm any onward transport arrangements at your destination and prepare to depart Tasmania.

6:00 PM:

Depart Launceston Airport — farewell to Tasmania. Sit back, enjoy the flight, and review photo highlights from your week exploring coastlines, wilderness and island flavors.

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