Itinerary

Day 1 Thur. New Norfolk, Lake St Clair, Derwent Valley, Mt Field National Park (D)

Our tour begins as we follow the Derwent River through the Derwent Valley to the historic town of New Norfolk. See Australia’s oldest pub and hear about local larrikins. Later, we travel to Mt Field National Park and take a short walk to see the beautiful Russell Falls cascading over tiered rocks. From here we continue into stunning Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park The shores of Lake St Clair, were formed by glaciers more than 10,000 years ago and are wonderful to photograph. We arrive in the quaint and delightful town of Strahan this evening. Perhaps take in the pantomime, ‘The Ship That Never Was’, documenting the area’s fascinating convict history (own expense).
Accommodation: Strahan, Strahan Village Hilltop.

Day 2 Fri. Strahan, Gordon River Wilderness Cruise, Sarah Island, Heritage Landing (BLD)

Start the day aboard the Lady Jane Franklin II, for a guided cruise on the World Heritage-listed Gordon River. Travel this ancient river course as Nature Guides detail the area’s unique flora and fauna. Later, wander through one of the world’s oldest rainforests at Heritage Landing. With a local guide providing commentary, visit Sarah Island, an infamous penal settlement which housed the colony’s toughest convicts. We then cruise pass Hell’s Gate, a narrow passage that has claimed many ships. Enjoy lunch on board before returning to Strahan. This afternoon we head for Cradle Mountain National Park.
Accommodation: Cradle Mountain, Cradle Mountain Chateau – luxury in the wilderness.

Day 3 Sat. Cradle Mountain, Dove Lake, Sheffield, Stanley and The Nut (BD)

Today we discover World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Starting at the Visitor Information Centre to learn about this beautiful part of Tasmania, we then journey to Waldheim Chalet. Walking through evergreen myrtles and King Billy pines, we arrive at the shores of Dove Lake with its magnificent backdrop, Cradle Mountain. Leaving the park, we travel to Sheffield, the Town of Murals, where artists have immortalised pastoral scenes on local buildings. This afternoon travel to the fishing village of Stanley and see The Nut, a rocky outcrop soaring 150 metres from the sea.
Accommodation: Smithton, Tall Timbers Hotel.

Day 4 Sun. Ashgrove Cheese Factory, Great Lake, Launceston (BD)

Visit Ashgrove Cheese Factory for a tour and tasting of their famous cheeses. Later, we travel through Deloraine, set in the shadow of the Great Western Tiers. Our journey then leads us to the Great Lakes Plateau and on to the shores of the Great Lake, a popular freshwater fishing spot. Our journey today ends in scenic Launceston, Tasmania’s second largest city. Tonight enjoy our special Farewell Dinner.
Accommodation: Launceston, Sandors on the Park. Stay in guaranteed City Park View rooms.

Day 5 Mon. Cataract Gorge, Tamar Valley Cruise, Woolmers Estate, Home (B)

Today we enjoy a trip to beautiful Cataract Gorge just outside the city of Launceston, for a stroll through the charming European-style gardens. Later board a cruise where a Tour Guide will highlight characteristics of the Tamar River. On your last touring afternoon we visit Woolmers Estate, renowned for its famous rose garden and historical mansion. Wander around the property before heading back to Launceston, where you’ll transfer to the airport for your onward journey.

Departure Dates

2008: Sept. 25; Oct. 9, 16, 30; Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27; Dec. 4, 18.
2009: Jan. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26; Mar. 5, 12, 19, 26; Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23; May 7;
Sept. 24; Oct. 8, 15, 29; Nov. 5, 12, 26; Dec. 3, 17, 31.

*Seniors Card holders and Aust./NZ Pensioners deduct $15 pp.