2 day Cradle Mountain and Wineglass Bay

A 2-Day Adventure Through Tasmania’s Natural Wonders

Tasmania is filled with jaw-dropping scenery, and this 2-day Cradle Mountain and Wineglass Bay tour offers a whirlwind experience of some of the island’s most renowned destinations. While it’s a fast-paced trip, it’s designed to give you a taste of Tasmania’s rugged beauty without feeling rushed. We’re here to share what makes this tour a worthwhile option—and also what to consider before booking.

What we love about this experience? First, the expert guides who bring local insights and a genuine enthusiasm for Tasmania’s landscapes. Second, the variety of activities—from peaceful walks to wildlife spotting—that cater to different interests. Third, the seamless transport arrangements that let you relax and focus on the scenery.

One possible consideration? The tight schedule means you may need to be comfortable with a busy pace. If you’re craving an unhurried, in-depth exploration, this may feel a bit compressed.

This tour suits travelers who want to maximize their time and see Tasmania’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide, especially if they enjoy a mix of light hiking, scenic views, and local food stops.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining nature walks, scenic viewpoints, and local food experiences
• Expert guides providing rich commentary and insider tips
• Comfortable transport in a modern vehicle with hotel pickups
• Flexible options for hiking and sightseeing tailored to different fitness levels
• All national park fees included for a hassle-free experience
• Perfect for travelers with a sense of adventure and limited time

Exploring Tasmania in Two Days: An Overview

This tour offers a condensed yet comprehensive snapshot of Tasmania’s top natural attractions—perfect for those who don’t want to miss out but also don’t have weeks to explore. For a value of around $273 per person, you’re not only paying for transportation and entry fees but for an expertly curated experience that balances activity and relaxation.

The trip is split into two days, packing in a good mix of iconic sights, scenic hikes, and local tasting opportunities. The small group size (maximum 20 travelers) helps keep things intimate, and the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off reduces the stress of navigating public transport.

Day 1: From Hobart to Cradle Mountain and Sheffield

Early Start and the Drive to Cradle Mountain

The adventure kicks off early at 7:00 am, with pick-up at your Hobart accommodation. This is ideal if you’re staying in the CBD, as it saves you the hassle of organizing transport yourself. After a roughly 1.5-hour drive, your first stop is Campbell Town—a charming spot to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, and enjoy some quiet morning air.

Touring Cradle Mountain

Next, you’ll arrive at Cradle Mountain, one of Tasmania’s most iconic landmarks. The landscape here is breathtaking—with rugged peaks, alpine lakes, and dense forests. Your guide will give you the lowdown on the area’s natural features, and you’ll have approximately three hours to explore.

Many reviews highlight the stunning views at the Dove Lake circuit, which is a gentle walk offering picture-perfect scenery. Some travelers note that the area is very popular, so expect a few fellow visitors, but the scenery makes it worth sharing. One reviewer mentions, “The guide’s local insights really helped us appreciate the rugged beauty of the area.”

Exploring Sheffield

After a scenic drive, you’ll visit Sheffield, famous for its vibrant murals that depict Tasmania’s natural and cultural heritage. Wandering through the town is a nice wind-down after a day of hiking; it’s a chance to appreciate Tasmania’s creative spirit. Reviewers comment on the town’s charm, with one saying, “Sheffield’s murals really add to the local character, and it’s a lovely spot for a quick photo or snack.”

Pros: The variety of scenery from mountain wilderness to artsy town makes the day diverse.
Cons: The day ends in Sheffield, so dinner or accommodation arrangements are up to you.

Day 2: From Launceston to Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay

Breakfast and the Drive to Freycinet

The second day begins with a drive from Launceston to Freycinet National Park, with a quick stop at Campbell Town again—this time to stretch and prepare for the day ahead. After about an hour, you’ll arrive at Freycinet, one of Tasmania’s most beloved coastal parks.

Exploring Freycinet National Park

Here, you have options. The tour offers flexible hiking routes—ideal for outdoor lovers. You can choose to tackle the Wineglass Bay hike, known for its steep ascent but stunning panoramic views, or enjoy a more relaxed walk to the Wineglass Bay lookout. The moderate 40-minute hike uphill is described as “well worth the effort,” providing one of the most photographed views in Tasmania.

According to reviews, “The guide’s local knowledge made the hike more enjoyable, pointing out wildlife and hidden viewpoints.” You’ll love the scenery—crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and dramatic granite rocks.

Time for a Swim at Honeymoon Bay

After that, a visit to Honeymoon Bay offers the perfect way to cool off. Its white sands and orange-capped granite rocks make it an ideal spot for a refreshing swim. Many travelers mention how secluded and pristine the beach feels, even with other visitors around.

Coastal Scenic Walks and Seafood Tasting

Next, a leisurely Cape Tourville Lighthouse walk provides stunning coastal views. Then, your tour concludes at the Freycinet Marine Farm, where you can indulge in fresh oysters, prawns, and crayfish—delicious local delicacies that showcase Tasmania’s seafood bounty.

Reviews highlight the value of this stop, with one guest noting, “Sampling oysters right at the farm was the highlight—so fresh and tasty.”

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides national park passes, so you won’t need to worry about extra fees. Expert guides accompany you, offering commentary that adds depth to your experience, and the comfortable van makes the long drives more enjoyable.

However, accommodation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own stay. Meals and drinks are also on your tab—though there are plenty of options at each stop, from cafes to seafood farms.

The Experience, Transport, and Group Dynamics

The tour keeps groups small, with a maximum of 20 travelers, which fosters a friendly atmosphere and allows the guides to tailor their commentary and suggestions. The modern vehicle is a plus, ensuring a comfortable ride through Tasmania’s varied landscapes.

Timing is tight but manageable—early starts mean you get the most out of daylight hours, especially important for hikes and scenic stops. The flexible hiking options at Freycinet mean you can choose your own adventure style, whether that’s a quick lookout or a longer trek.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

While no official reviews are available, anecdotal insights emphasize the guides’ local knowledge. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide was fantastic—she knew all the best spots and kept the energy up during the long drives.” Another appreciated the mix of activities, saying, “It felt well-balanced—mountains, beaches, wildlife, and food, all in two days.”

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour For?

This 2-day Tasmania trip is best suited for travelers who want a quick but immersive taste of the island’s natural beauty. The combination of scenic hikes, wildlife encounters, and coastal views makes it ideal for outdoor lovers and photo enthusiasts alike.
If you’re comfortable with a packed schedule and enjoy a bit of variety, you’ll find this tour a fantastic way to see Tasmania’s highlights without sacrificing comfort or expert guidance.

Be prepared for early mornings and some walking, but know that the experience is worth every minute. The knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery will leave you feeling inspired—and maybe a little exhausted—in the best way possible.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at selected CBD hotels in Hobart.

What’s the pace of the tour? It’s fast-paced but well-balanced, with plenty of time for stops, walking, and sightseeing. Expect some light hiking and scenic strolls.

Are the hikes suitable for all fitness levels? The walks are described as moderate, including a 40-minute uphill hike to Wineglass Bay lookout, so a moderate fitness level is recommended.

Is food included? No, meals and beverages aren’t included, but there are many options available at the stops.

What should I bring? Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and a sense of adventure.

Can I customize the hike options? Yes, at Freycinet, you can choose to do either the full hike or a more relaxed walk to the lookout.

How many people are in the group? The tour caps at 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

What if I need to cancel? You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour begins for a full refund.

In summary, this 2-day Cradle Mountain and Wineglass Bay tour offers a well-rounded taste of Tasmania’s most iconic sights. It’s perfect for those craving a mix of nature, scenic views, and local flavor, all guided by passionate locals in a comfortable setting. Whether you’re short on time or want a snapshot of the island’s best, this trip provides genuine value and memorable experiences.