TASMANIA

Tour	Days	Operator	Code	Full Itinerary
Royal Tasman	4	APT	RT04
Tasmanian Highlights	8	APT	TS08
Royal Tasman	12	APT	RT12
Royal Tasman	9	APT	RT09
Tasmanian Spectacular	6-12	AAT	Various
Tasman Discover	9	TM	TX9AA

Royal Tasman
From Launceston - 4 Days

Tour Code: RT04

What's included?

Itinerary effective 1 January 2001

Tours after September 2001 follow different itinerary, please contact us for details.

Departure Dates 2001

Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 / Feb. 6, 10*, 13, 20, 24*, 27 / Mar. 3*, 6, 13, 20, 27 / Apr. 3, 10, 17, 24 / May 1, 8 / Sept. 11, 25 / Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 / Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27 / Dec. 4, 11, 18, 25

Departure Dates 2002

Jan. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 / Feb. 5, 9*, 12, 19, 23*, 26 / Mar. 5, 9*, 12, 19, 26 / Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 / May 7 / Sept. 10, 24 / Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 / Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26 / Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24

* Operates on different day of the week.
Blue dates are guaranteed departures.

Legend: B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner

Your Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 Tue. Launceston, The Grove
Welcomed on arrival Launceston Airport. In the afternoon we drive through the unique Swiss-style village of Grindelwald, to George Town. Visit The Grove, a grand historical home and gardens, dating back to 1830 (during lavender flowering season mid December to mid January visit the Lavender Farm in lieu of The Grove). Tonight enjoy special Welcome Drinks, hosted by your crew. Accommodation: Novotel Launceston. (D)

Day 2 Wed. Freycinet National Park, Orford, Crayfish Dinner
Today discover the beautiful east coast of Tasmania. Leaving Launceston, travel through Scottsdale, located in a rich agricultural land area, then into the mountain scenery of Weldborough Pass. From here join the coastal road to Bicheno, stopping to visit the Birdlife and Animal Park. Opportunity to see a 'Tasmanian Devil' before continuing to Freycinet National Park, renowned for its jagged granite peaks and white sandy beaches. On arrival, we are joined by a Naturalist Guide for a walk along Richardsons Beach, Coles Bay. Savour a Tasmanian treat tonight as we dine on local crayfish (seafood platter outside cray season). Accommodation: Orford, Eastcoaster Resort, right on the beachfront. (BD)

Day 3 Thur. Tasman Peninsula, Guided Tour Port Arthur Historic Site
Travel the coastal road with views of Maria Island, then through the lush Wielangta Forest to Eaglehawk Neck. Visit the unique coastal features of the Tessellated Pavement, Tasman Blowhole, and Devil's Kitchen as we tour the Tasman Peninsula, passing the colonial township of Koonya. Experience the mystique of Port Arthur Historic Site this afternoon during our guided walking tour. Visit some of the more notable structures including the church, penitentiary and guard tower, set amongst an avenue of European Elm and Oak trees. There is free time to explore the ruins at leisure, then join a cruise around the 'Isle of the Dead'. Tonight after dinner, you might like to join an interesting lantern lit 'Ghost Tour' through Port Arthur's historic ruins (own expense). Accommodation: Port Arthur Motor Inn, located within the grounds of Port Arthur Historic Site. (BD)

Day 4 Fri. Richmond, Hobart, Cadbury's Factory, Dine Around Dinner
Visit the delightful Georgian village of Richmond this morning, classified by the National Trust. Free time to wander the quaint streets lined with sandstone buildings, cafes and restaurants, antique and craft shops. Continue into Hobart for a guided tour and free tastings at Cadbury's Chocolate Factory (closures occur, enquire for details). Visit the Antarctic Adventure Centre and take the opportunity to snow-ski down an ice-covered mountain in 'The Blizzard' simulator and experience the sub-zero temperatures of this isolated continent. Tour concludes at 5.00 pm (B).

Prices Per Person

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Tasmanian Highlights - 8 Days

Tour Code: TS08

What's included?

Departure Dates

6/Jan/2001, 20/Jan/2001, 3/Feb/2001, 10/Mar/2001, 17/Mar/2001, 24/Mar/2001, 7/Apr/2001, 21/Apr/2001

Legend: B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner

Your Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 Sat. Launceston (D)
Welcomed on arrival Launceston Airport. This afternoon, visit "Entally House", a beautifully maintained National Trust restoration, and Cataract Gorge where you might wish to ride the chairlift over the deep river gorge (own expense). Enjoy pre-dinner welcome drinks tonight. Overnight: Novotel Launceston.

Day 2 Sun. Freycinet National Park (BD)
Today we discover Tasmania's beautiful east coast. Pass through the seaside resort of St. Helens to Bicheno, then on to Freycinet National Park. With our local guide, join an historical walking tour along Richardsons Beach, to Coles Bay. Savour a Tasmanian treat tonight as you dine on local crayfish (seafood buffet outside cray season). Overnight: Swansea, Waterloo Inn.

Day 3 Mon. Historic Ross, Hobart (BD)
See Ross Bridge with its unique hand carvings. We then drive on to Tasmania's capital, Hobart for a guided tour through Cadbury's famous chocolate factory (selected departures visit the Fudge Factory in lieu). In the afternoon, take in the sights of this harbour city including the Botanical Gardens, Battery Point and Salamanca Place. Enjoy the flexibility of our "Dine Around Dinner" tonight - your choice from an array of restaurants. Overnight: Hobart, Hotel Grand Chancellor for 2 nights, right on Hobart's historic waterfront.

Day 4 Tue. Port Arthur Historic Site, Richmond Georgian Village (B)
An entire day to absorb the "real" heritage that is part of Tasmania. Leaving Hobart we travel east through Sorell to Eaglehawk Neck, where a thin strip of land, just 410 metres, accesses the Tasman Peninsula. On arrival at Port Arthur, enjoy a guided tour through the convict settlement with free time to explore the ruins at your own pace. This afternoon, visit the Georgian village of Richmond, the streets of which are lined with antique and craft shops, quaint cafes and restaurants.

Day 5 Wed. Nelson Falls, Strahan (BD)
Follow the Derwent Valley to historic New Norfolk then deep into the World Heritage wilderness region and Lake St. Clair National Park. Continue to Nelson Falls, a sample of Tasmanian wilderness, and enjoy your boardwalk through the rainforest. For total contrast, as we approach Queenstown, the vegetation diminishes, its bare hills providing testimony to the smelting process of years gone by. Overnight: Strahan Village Hilltop.

Day 6 Thur. Gordon River Wilderness Cruise, Cradle Mountain (BD)
Join the cruiser this morning across Macquarie Harbour then past notorious Sarah Island to the Gordon River. At Heritage Landing, take a boardwalk through the untouched rainforest, containing a range of sassafras, myrtles and giant Huon Pine. Experience a unique wilderness retreat this evening during your stay at Cradle Mountain Lodge. Following dinner, relax by the open-fire with a glass of port and hand-made chocolates. Overnight: Cradle Mountain Lodge, individual Pencil Pine cabins, each with a cosy log fire.

Day 7 Fri. Stanley, "The Nut", Smithton (BD)
Following breakfast, there are a variety of leisurely nature walks to enjoy before driving to Dove Lake for the incredible view of Cradle Mountain towering behind. This afternoon we follow the scenic north-west coast to Stanley, best known for its striking feature "The Nut", an unusual rocky outcrop rising high from the sea. Overnight: Smithton, Tall Timbers Hotel/Motel, a showcase of native Tasmanian timbers. Tonight is our millennium celebration. Gather with your crew and fellow travellers for an exclusive dinner of Tasmanian fare and a drink with our compliments.

Day 8 Sat. Sheffield, Launceston (B)
This morning we turn inland to Sheffield, a town with a difference, noted for over 30 murals which have been painted on the walls of the town's buildings. Free time to wander the town before travelling to Launceston.

Prices Per Person

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Royal Tasman
From Launceston - 12 Days

Tour Code: RT12

Itinerary effective 1 January 2001

Tours after September 2001 follow different itinerary, please contact us for details.

Departure Dates 2001

Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 / Feb. 6, 10*, 13, 20, 24*, 27 / Mar. 3*, 6, 13, 20, 27 / Apr. 3, 10, 17, 24 / May 1, 8 / Sept. 11, 25 / Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 / Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27 / Dec. 4, 11, 18, 25

Departure Dates 2002

Jan. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 / Feb. 5, 9*, 12, 19, 23*, 26 / Mar. 5, 9*, 12, 19, 26 / Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 / May 7 / Sept. 10, 24 / Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 / Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26 / Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24

* Operates on different day of the week.
Blue dates are guaranteed departures.

Legend: B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner

Your Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 Tue. Launceston, The Grove
Welcomed on arrival Launceston Airport. In the afternoon we drive through the unique Swiss-style village of Grindelwald, to George Town. Visit The Grove, a grand historical home and gardens, dating back to 1830 (during lavender flowering season mid December to mid January visit the Lavender Farm in lieu of The Grove). Tonight enjoy special Welcome Drinks, hosted by your crew. Accommodation: Novotel Launceston. (D)

Day 2 Wed. Freycinet National Park, Orford, Crayfish Dinner
Today discover the beautiful east coast of Tasmania. Leaving Launceston, travel through Scottsdale, located in a rich agricultural land area, then into the mountain scenery of Weldborough Pass. From here join the coastal road to Bicheno, stopping to visit the Birdlife and Animal Park. Opportunity to see a 'Tasmanian Devil' before continuing to Freycinet National Park, renowned for its jagged granite peaks and white sandy beaches. On arrival, we are joined by a Naturalist Guide for a walk along Richardsons Beach, Coles Bay. Savour a Tasmanian treat tonight as we dine on local crayfish (seafood platter outside cray season). Accommodation: Orford, Eastcoaster Resort, right on the beachfront. (BD)

Day 3 Thur. Tasman Peninsula, Guided Tour Port Arthur Historic Site
Travel the coastal road with views of Maria Island, then through the lush Wielangta Forest to Eaglehawk Neck. Visit the unique coastal features of the Tessellated Pavement, Tasman Blowhole, and Devil's Kitchen as we tour the Tasman Peninsula, passing the colonial township of Koonya. Experience the mystique of Port Arthur Historic Site this afternoon during our guided walking tour. Visit some of the more notable structures including the church, penitentiary and guard tower, set amongst an avenue of European Elm and Oak trees. There is free time to explore the ruins at leisure, then join a cruise around the 'Isle of the Dead'. Tonight after dinner, you might like to join an interesting lantern lit 'Ghost Tour' through Port Arthur's historic ruins (own expense). Accommodation: Port Arthur Motor Inn, located within the grounds of Port Arthur Historic Site. (BD)

Day 4 Fri. Richmond, Hobart, Cadbury's Factory, Dine Around Dinner
Visit the delightful Georgian village of Richmond this morning, classified by the National Trust. Free time to wander the quaint streets lined with sandstone buildings, cafes and restaurants, antique and craft shops. Continue into Hobart for a guided tour and free tastings at Cadbury's Chocolate Factory (closures occur, enquire for details). Visit the Antarctic Adventure Centre and take the opportunity to snow-ski down an ice-covered mountain in 'The Blizzard' simulator and experience the sub-zero temperatures of this isolated continent. Dine as you please tonight and enjoy the flexibility of our Dine Around Dinner. Accommodation: Hobart, Hotel Grand Chancellor for 2 nights, on Hobart's historic waterfront. (BD)

Day 5 Sat. Huon Valley, Royal Botanical Gardens, Salamanca Market
This morning we take a drive through the beautiful Huon Valley gateway to Tasmania's south-west and a renowned apple-growing region. Returning to Hobart, take in sweeping views over the city and yacht-studded harbour from atop Mt Wellington (weather permitting). Visit the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens before enjoying the sights of elegant Battery Point and Salamanca Place, boasting a terrace of Georgian warehouses. Enjoy the opportunity to wander around the colourful stalls at the famous open-air market (open Saturdays) and the pretty waterfront area. The harbour and Constitution Dock have retained a lot of early character and it is easy to imagine the bustling seaport and whaling days that founded this beautiful city. (B)

Day 6 Sun. Russell Falls, Strahan
Follow the Derwent Valley to New Norfolk, centre of Tasmania's hop-growing district and supplier of hops for Australian beer. Enter Mt Field National Park where a short rainforest walk leads to the spectacular sight of Russell Falls. Continue into the World Heritage wilderness and visit Lake St Clair, encircled by mountain peaks, abounding with flora and fauna. As we approach Queenstown see a town literally carved out of the mountains, brightly stained hills bare of vegetation . Accommodation: Strahan, Strahan Village, enjoy harbour views from the restaurant. (BD)

Day 7 Mon. Gordon River Cruise, Wilderness Walk, Cradle Mountain
A cruise on the Gordon River takes the visitor into the heart of Tasmania's wilderness and to the edge of the State's acclaimed World Heritage Area. Join the cruiser and a local guide across Macquarie Harbour then past Sarah Island, to the Gordon River. At Heritage Landing, enjoy a stroll through the rainforest and discover the raw beauty of a 2000-year-old Huon Pine and a range of sassafras and myrtles. Experience a unique wilderness retreat this evening during our stay at Cradle Mountain Lodge. Following dinner, relax by the open fire with a glass of port and hand-made chocolates. Accommodation: Cradle Mountain Lodge, individual Pencil Pine cabins, each with a cosy log fire. (BLD)

Day 8 Tue. Dove Lake, Waldheim Chalet, Stanley, Smithton
Our morning drive to Dove Lake provides views of majestic alpine scenery and the distinct formation of Cradle Mountain. Visit Waldheim Chalet built from local materials, using just axe and saw. Leaving this wilderness region behind, we travel through peaceful farmlands in Tasmania's centre to Leven Canyon. Continue to the north-west coast and Stanley. See 'The Nut', a rocky outcrop rising high from the sea. Accommodation: Smithton, Tall Timbers Hotel for 2 nights, constructed from a selection of native Tasmanian timbers. (BD)

Day 9 Wed. Arthur River Wilderness Cruise, Lacrum Cheese and Dairy
Witness the isolated beauty of the west coast today as we cruise the Arthur River to the junction of the Frankland River. Following a barbecue lunch, enjoy a guided bushwalk complemented with informative commentary at Turks Landing. This afternoon, witness the feeding of rare and endangered white-bellied sea eagles as we return to Arthur River, then rejoin the coach to enjoy a tour and tasting at Lacrum Cheese and Dairy. Tonight gather with crew and fellow travellers for a dinner of fine Tasmanian fare. (BLD)

Day 10 Thur. Sheffield, Launceston
This morning we turn inland to Sheffield, a town with a difference, noted for over 30 life-size murals which have been painted on the walls of the buildings by local artists. Free time to wander the town before travelling on to Launceston. Accommodation: Novotel Launceston for 2 nights. (B)

Day 11 Fri. Historic Ross, Woolmers
Travel south to Ross and view the famous bridge, featuring over 180 unique hand carvings. Explore this historic village at leisure before skirting the immense Great Lake and across the Great Western Tiers to Woolmers. Admire the colourful gardens and fine antiques filling this building. Arrive back in Launceston and visit Cataract Gorge where there's the option to ride the chairlift over the deep river gorge (own expense) or wander the exotic gardens. Enjoy a Farewell Dinner tonight with fellow travellers and crew at 'Cameron's' at the Novotel. (BD)

Day 12 Sat. Launceston
Free time before transfer to Launceston Airport. (B)

Prices Per Person

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Royal Tasman
From Hobart - 9 Days

Tour Code: RT09

Itinerary effective 1 January 2001

Tours after September 2001 follow different itinerary, please contact us for details.

Departure Dates 2001

Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 / Feb. 6, 10*, 13, 20, 24*, 27 / Mar. 3*, 6, 13, 20, 27 / Apr. 3, 10, 17, 24 / May 1, 8 / Sept. 11, 25 / Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 / Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27 / Dec. 4, 11, 18, 25

Departure Dates 2002

Jan. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 / Feb. 5, 9*, 12, 19, 23*, 26 / Mar. 5, 9*, 12, 19, 26 / Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 / May 7 / Sept. 10, 24 / Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 / Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26 / Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24

* Operates on different day of the week.
Blue dates are guaranteed departures.

Legend: B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner

Your Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 Fri. Dine Around Dinner
Dine as you please tonight and enjoy the flexibility of our Dine Around Dinner at The Cove. Accommodation: Hobart, Hotel Grand Chancellor for 2 nights, on Hobart's historic waterfront. (BD)

Day 2 Sat. Huon Valley, Royal Botanical Gardens, Salamanca Market
This morning we take a drive through the beautiful Huon Valley gateway to Tasmania's south-west and a renowned apple-growing region. Returning to Hobart, take in sweeping views over the city and yacht-studded harbour from atop Mt Wellington (weather permitting). Visit the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens before enjoying the sights of elegant Battery Point and Salamanca Place, boasting a terrace of Georgian warehouses. Enjoy the opportunity to wander around the colourful stalls at the famous open-air market (open Saturdays) and the pretty waterfront area. The harbour and Constitution Dock have retained a lot of early character and it is easy to imagine the bustling seaport and whaling days that founded this beautiful city. (B)

Day 3 Sun. Russell Falls, Strahan
Follow the Derwent Valley to New Norfolk, centre of Tasmania's hop-growing district and supplier of hops for Australian beer. Enter Mt Field National Park where a short rainforest walk leads to the spectacular sight of Russell Falls. Continue into the World Heritage wilderness and visit Lake St Clair, encircled by mountain peaks, abounding with flora and fauna. As we approach Queenstown see a town literally carved out of the mountains, brightly stained hills bare of vegetation . Accommodation: Strahan, Strahan Village, enjoy harbour views from the restaurant. (BD)

Day 4 Mon. Gordon River Cruise, Wilderness Walk, Cradle Mountain
A cruise on the Gordon River takes the visitor into the heart of Tasmania's wilderness and to the edge of the State's acclaimed World Heritage Area. Join the cruiser and a local guide across Macquarie Harbour then past Sarah Island, to the Gordon River. At Heritage Landing, enjoy a stroll through the rainforest and discover the raw beauty of a 2000-year-old Huon Pine and a range of sassafras and myrtles. Experience a unique wilderness retreat this evening during our stay at Cradle Mountain Lodge. Following dinner, relax by the open fire with a glass of port and hand-made chocolates. Accommodation: Cradle Mountain Lodge, individual Pencil Pine cabins, each with a cosy log fire. (BLD)

Day 5 Tue. Dove Lake, Waldheim Chalet, Stanley, Smithton
Our morning drive to Dove Lake provides views of majestic alpine scenery and the distinct formation of Cradle Mountain. Visit Waldheim Chalet built from local materials, using just axe and saw. Leaving this wilderness region behind, we travel through peaceful farmlands in Tasmania's centre to Leven Canyon. Continue to the north-west coast and Stanley. See 'The Nut', a rocky outcrop rising high from the sea. Accommodation: Smithton, Tall Timbers Hotel for 2 nights, constructed from a selection of native Tasmanian timbers. (BD)

Day 6 Wed. Arthur River Wilderness Cruise, Lacrum Cheese and Dairy
Witness the isolated beauty of the west coast today as we cruise the Arthur River to the junction of the Frankland River. Following a barbecue lunch, enjoy a guided bushwalk complemented with informative commentary at Turks Landing. This afternoon, witness the feeding of rare and endangered white-bellied sea eagles as we return to Arthur River, then rejoin the coach to enjoy a tour and tasting at Lacrum Cheese and Dairy. Tonight gather with crew and fellow travellers for a dinner of fine Tasmanian fare. (BLD)

Day 7 Thur. Sheffield, Launceston
This morning we turn inland to Sheffield, a town with a difference, noted for over 30 life-size murals which have been painted on the walls of the buildings by local artists. Free time to wander the town before travelling on to Launceston. Accommodation: Novotel Launceston for 2 nights. (B)

Day 8 Fri. Historic Ross, Woolmers
Travel south to Ross and view the famous bridge, featuring over 180 unique hand carvings. Explore this historic village at leisure before skirting the immense Great Lake and across the Great Western Tiers to Woolmers. Admire the colourful gardens and fine antiques filling this building. Arrive back in Launceston and visit Cataract Gorge where there's the option to ride the chairlift over the deep river gorge (own expense) or wander the exotic gardens. Enjoy a Farewell Dinner tonight with fellow travellers and crew at 'Cameron's' at the Novotel. (BD)

Day 9 Sat. Launceston
Free time before transfer to Launceston Airport. (B)

Prices Per Person

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Tasmanian Spectacular
6 - 12 Days

Tour Code: TLL/TDL/TLH/TDLH

What's included?

Departure Dates 2001

Jan 4, 11 / Feb 1, 8, 15, 22 / Mar 8, 15, 22, 29 / Apr 5, 12, 19 / May 3, 31 / Jul 5 / Sep 6, 27 / Oct 4, 11, 18, 25 / Nov 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 / Dec 6, 20, 27

Departure Dates 2002

Jan 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 / Feb 7, 14, 21, 28 / Mar 7, 14, 21, 28 / Apr 4, 11, 18 / May 2 / Jun 6 / Jul 4 / Sep 5, 26 / Oct 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 / Nov 7, 14, 21, 28 / Dec 5, 19, 26

Please note that there are several different duration combinations available for this tour in either direction. Please take care when calculating the actual departure date for any of the shorter duration options, as they differ from the ones shown. If you require any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Legend: B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner

Your Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 Thu: Devonport - Cradle Mountain (Tours TDL and TDLH start here)
You will be met at Devonport Airport (flights prior to 10.00am, airfare not included). At Sheffield, the 'town of murals', inspect the remarkable wall paintings before touring to Cradle Mountain National Park. From the wild moorland vantage point, the view across Lake Dove to the jagged peaks of Cradle Mountain is one to savour. Visit the Information Centre and stroll along the boardwalk through the Pencil Pine Forest to view the falls down below. This evening make friends with the native animals that may come to the Lodge including possums, wallabies, Tasmanian devils, tiger cat and native quoll. You will stay in individual Pencil Pine Cabins, each with a cosy log fire. Tonight enjoy dinner and a welcome drink with your Tour Director and travelling companions. Accommodation: Cradle Mountain Lodge, Cradle Mountain. (D)

Day 2 Fri: Western Wilderness
This morning we wind our way through Hellyer Gorge State Reserve. Continue to the coast to visit the massive promontory known as The Nut, which dominates the picturesque fishing village of Stanley. This afternoon at Allendale Gardens there is time to stroll through these privately owned gardens and adjoining temperate rainforest, an enchanting experience. Accommodation: Tall Timbers Hotel, Smithton. (BD)

Day 3 Sat: Launceston - St Matthias Vineyard (Tours TLL and TLH start here)
Today we travel the scenic north west coast to Table Cape and continue hugging the coast through the seaside towns of Penguin and Ulverstone. Arrive in the riverside city of Launceston for some free time. 10 day passengers (Tour Code: TLL) and 6 day passengers (Tour Code: TLH) are met on arrival in Launceston and join the tour this afternoon. This afternoon stop at the Swiss Village of Grindelwald, before we visit the St Matthias Vineyard, set on a hillside overlooking the Tamar Valley. Sample local wine and cheeses whilst enjoying the spectacular views. Accommodation: Novotel Launceston. (BD)

Day 4 Sun: Cataract Gorge - The Grove
Discover the natural charm of Launceston's unusual Cataract Gorge and Cliff Grounds. There is the opportunity to ride the chairlift over The Basin. Travel through the scenic Tamar Valley and cross the Batman Bridge to George Town. Stop at The Grove, one of the earliest homes in Tasmania. En route to the East Coast, pass through lush rainforest and enjoy the magnificent scenery around Weldborough Pass. Accommodation: Scamander Beach Resort Hotel. (BD)

Day 5 Mon: Freycinet National Park
Journey through the beautiful east coast to Bicheno, calling in at the Birdlife and Animal Park. Meet a Tasmanian Devil and other wildlife of the region. Proceed to Freycinet National Park on the Freycinet Peninsula, beneath an inspirational cluster of pink granite peaks known as the Hazards. At Freycinet Lodge a naturalist guide will escort you on a walking tour along Richardson's Beach. Accommodation: Freycinet Lodge, Coles Bay. (BD)

Day 6 Tue: Port Arthur - Convict Ruins
Travel today across the Tasman Peninsula to Port Arthur, site of Australia's most infamous prison during the convict era. Enjoy a guided tour of the immaculate grounds and ruins of the once notorious Port Arthur penal settlement. Accommodation: Fox & Hounds Inn, Port Arthur. (BD)

Day 7 Wed: Hobart - Botanic Gardens
Returning across Eaglehawk Neck, we visit Tasman's Arch, Devils Kitchen and the Blowhole. We continue to the lovely old village of Richmond which boasts Australia's oldest bridge. In Hobart enjoy a tour of the harbour capital visiting the Botanic Gardens, Battery Point, Salamanca Place and Constitution Dock. Travel to the summit of Mt Nelson for magnificent views over the city. This evening enjoy local Tasmanian fare at the historic Ball & Chain Restaurant. Local seafood, succulent grilled steaks, free range seasoned chicken and the all time favourite, Huon Apple Strudel, are just a sample of what's on the menu tonight! Accommodation: Hotel Grand Chancellor, Hobart, 3 nights. (BD)

Day 8 Thu: Huon Valley - Hastings Caves (TLH and TDLH end here)
6 day passengers (Tour Code: TLH) and 8 day passengers (Tour Code: TDLH) depart this morning after breakfast. Today we travel through the rolling green hills of the Huon Valley to Geevston. At the Forest and Heritage Centre you will observe the resident wood turner at work. Continue south for a guided tour of Newdegate Cave in the Hastings Caves State reserve. There is time to enjoy a swim in the thermal swimming pool. The crystal clear pool is heated by a thermal spring. This afternoon we call into the Apple and Heritage Museum where you will see 500 different varieties of apples. Dinner at our hotel, is a sumptuous buffet which features Tasmanian seafood. (BD)

Day 9 Fri: Chocolate Factory
Visit the Cadbury Chocolate factory for a guided inspection. Note: Tours of the Cadbury Choclate Factory are sometimes unavailable. On these occasions we visit the equally interesting Tasmanian Whisky Distillery. This afternoon is at leisure to explore Hobart. (B)

Day 10 Sat: Russell Falls - Strahan
An early departure this morning will allow some time to browse through the colourful stalls at the popular Salamanca Markets. Follow the Derwent Valley to the beautiful New Norfolk hop growing district. Continue to Mt Field National Park and walk through the rainforest to Russell Falls. Travel to Lake St Clair in the Cradle Mountain - Lake St Clair National Park. View wild mountain scenery, before crossing the Franklin River and proceeding through the mining township of Queenstown to Strahan. Accommodation: The Strahan Village, Strahan. (BD)

Day 11 Sun: Gordon River Cruise
This morning join an exciting cruise across Macquarie Harbour, past infamous Sarah Island and onto the beautiful reflective waters of the Gordon River. At Heritage Landing, stroll through the rainforest and view a 2000 year old Huon Pine, myrtle beech and leatherwood (honey) trees. Return to Strahan via the convict-named 'Hell's Gates' entrance to the harbour. This afternoon tour through West Coast mining towns into the rich farmlands of the north. Accommodation: Gateway Inn, Devonport. (BD)

Day 12 Mon: Depart Launceston
A leisurely departure this morning takes us to Ashgrove Farm Cheese factory. See the production process in operation before taste testing the finished product. We continue to Launceston where you will be transferred to the airport (flights after 1.00pm). (B)

Historic Home B & B option

You may choose to substitute your accommodation on Day 9 for an overnight stay at The Lodge on Elizabeth. This Georgian mansion, built in 1829, is one of Australia's oldest buildings. The Lodge has been restored to its former glory and offers today's comforts with yesteryear's ambience. (Subject to availability, must be requested at time of booking. No additional surcharge applies, dinner is at own expense, breakfast is included).

Prices Per Person

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Tasman Discover
Launceston to Launceston - 9 Days

Tour Code: TX9AA

What's included?

Departure Dates 2001

Apr. 07, 14, 19, 21, 28 / May. 05/ Sep. 15, 22, 29 / Oct. 06, 13, 20, 27 Nov. 03, 10, 17, 24 / Dec. 08, 15, 25, 29

Departure Dates 2002

Jan. 01, 05, 12, 19, 26 / Feb. 02, 09, 16, 23, 26 / Mar. 02, 05, 09, 16, 23, 30 Apr. 06, 13, 18, 20, 27 / May. 04, 11

Legend: B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner

Your Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 Sat. Launceston, Cataract Gorge, Entally House (D)
Arrive Launceston no later than 1.00.pm. Tour Launceston in the afternoon and visit Cataract Gorge for a walk through the gardens, or take a chairlift ride (at own expense.) Visit Entally House and enjoy a Welcome Drink and Dinner. Overnight Launceston, Commodore Regent for 1 night.

Day 2 Sun. Grindelwald Swiss-style Village. The Grove Historical Home, Scamander (BD)
Explore Grindelwald, visit The Grove*, an 1820's home, then proceed to Scamander. Tonight enjoy a crayfish (lobster) dinner (seafood platter, outside crayfish season.) Overnight Scamander, Scamander Beach resort for 1 night.
*During lavender season (from Dec to Jan) visit the famous Bridestowe Lavender Farm in lieu of The Grove

Day 3 Mon. Historic Richmond, Tasman Peninsula, Port Arthur (BD)
We journey through historical Ross and Richmond. There's time to browse through craft and gift shops. See the Tessellated Pavement, Devil's Kitchen and Tasman's Arch and continue on to Port Arthur. Overnight Port Arthur, Fox and Hound Motor Inn for 1 night.

Day 4 Tue. Port Arthur Historical Site, "Isle of the Dead", Mt. Wellington, Hobart (BD)
A guided tour of Port Arthur Historical Site starts our day, taking us back to the days of convict settlement. Board the cruise around the "Isle of the Dead", resting place for some 2,000 people who dies during convict times. This afternoon we head for Hobart and ascend Mt. Wellington for views of the city and Capital of Tasmania. Overnight Hobart, Hadley's Hotel for 2 nights.

Day 5 Wed. Tour Hobart, Cadbury's Chocolate Factory, Wildlife Park (B)
Take a tour of Hobart, including a guided tour through Cadbury's Chocolate Factory (seasonal) with tastings. See Salamanca Place, a terrace of Georgian warehouses dating back to the 1830's and the Royal Botanical Gardens. We visit Bonorong Wildlife Park to see the famous Tasmanian Devil.

Day 6 Thu. Mt. Field National Park, World Heritage Wilderness Region (BD)
We follow the Derwent River through the Derwent Valley and see Australia's oldest pub and Tasmania's oldest church. We enter Mt. Field National Park to view Russell Falls and travel deep into the World Heritage Wilderness Region, where a short rainforest boardwalk takes us to Nelson Falls. Overnight Queenstown, Westcoaster Motor Inn

Day 7 Fri. Gordon River Wilderness Cruise (BLD)
Travel to Strahan for a cruise across Macquarie Harbour and along the Gordon River, passing the former penal settlement of Sarah Island. Nature guides on board will detail the areas diverse fauna and flora. At Heritage Landing, take a walk through one of the world's oldest rainforests, before returning to Strahan and continuing on to Burnie. Overnight Burnie, Voyager Motor Inn for 1 night.

Day 8 Sat. Stanley, "The Nut", Cradle Mountain, Dove Lakes, Devonport (BD)
To Stanley and "The Nut", an unusual rocky outcrop, then on to Cradle Mountain and the Visitor Information Centre. View Dove Lake and Waldheim Chalet, then to Sheffield, the "Town of Murals" and on to Devonport. Overnight Devonport, Gateway Inn for 1 night

Day 9 Sun. Great Lake, Evandale Market, Launceston (B)
Ascend to the Great Lake Plateau and visit the markets in the colonial village of Evandale. Return to Launceston and this is where the tour end and transfer if required to the airport after 4.30.pm.

Prices Per Person

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