From Hobart: 9-Day Tasmania Circle Tour

Exploring Tasmania on a 9-Day Guided Circle Tour from Hobart offers an enriching mix of history, wildlife, and breathtaking coastal scenery. We’re reviewing this experience based on traveler feedback and detailed itineraries, highlighting what makes this trip special and what to consider before booking.

What we love about this tour:

• The small group size of up to 12 guests, ensuring a personalized experience and friendly atmosphere.
• The fully guided nature, with local experts who bring Tasmania’s stories to life.
• The guaranteed departures, even with just two guests, giving flexibility and confidence to travelers planning ahead.

One potential consideration is the pace—this tour covers a lot, which means busy days and some early mornings. But if you’re after an authentic, comprehensive taste of Tasmania, it’s a fantastic option.

This tour suits couples, friends, solo travelers, and anyone eager to see Tasmania’s highlights without the hassle of planning. Now, let’s explore what makes this trip so compelling.

Key Points

• Intimate group setting provides a more personalized and engaging experience.
• Diverse itinerary covers Tasmania’s cities, coasts, and wilderness, offering a well-rounded view.
• Local guides enhance the experience with their knowledge and friendly approach.
• All entrance fees and tastings included, adding value to the price.
• Comfortable accommodations at quality hotels like the Mövenpick in Hobart and Cradle Mountain Hotel.
• Variety of activities from scenic walks and wildlife encounters to cultural visits.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 9-Day Tasmania Circle Tour

Day 1: Arrival and Hobart Orientation

Travelers arrive in Hobart at their leisure, with the night spent at the 4-star Mövenpick Hotel. This is a smart choice—comfortable, central, and a perfect base for exploring Tasmania’s capital. The initial day is flexible, allowing you to settle in and get a feel for the city.

Day 2: Coastal Adventures or Cultural Highlights

Here’s where you choose your adventure:

• A full-day Bruny Island tour, renowned for its rugged beauty, wildlife, and local produce.
• A 2.5-hour cruise around Hobart Harbour and The Channel, offering fantastic views of the waterfront and wildlife sightings.
• Or visit the MONA Museum, one of Tasmania’s top attractions, known for its eclectic art collection and striking architecture.

Travelers love the flexibility, and those who picked Bruny Island appreciated the chance to explore its wilderness and sample local oysters.

Day 3: From Hobart to Port Arthur via Historic and Scenic Stops

This day is packed with highlights. Starting with Mt Wellington (1270m), you’ll get sweeping views over Hobart and beyond. Visiting sites like the Female Factory and Cascade Brewery provides a tangible connection to Tasmania’s colonial past, while the historic structures reveal early convict stories.

Lunch at a local winery adds a touch of indulgence, and stops at Richmond with its charming bridge and the Federation Chocolate Factory make for sweet moments. The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the Tasman Peninsula, with scenic views at Pirates Bay, walks at Tasmans Arch & Devils Kitchen, and a visit to the Port Arthur Lavender Farm—a peaceful spot for photos and relaxation.

Overnight is in the historic Port Arthur area, immersing you in the region’s convict history and natural beauty.

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Day 4: Port Arthur and the East Coast

The guided tour of Port Arthur Historic Site offers a detailed look at Australia’s convict past, with insights into the lives of early prisoners. The afternoon takes you along the east coast, with stops at Raspins Beach, Spikey Bridge, and Spikey Beach—perfect for scenic photos and beach walks.

You might also catch the famous Fairy Penguins at dusk, a charming end to a busy day. The combination of history, stunning coastlines, and wildlife makes this part of the trip particularly memorable.

Day 5: East Coast Wonders and Launceston

The day begins with the famed Bicheno Blow Hole—a natural spectacle where the sea erupts through rocky formations. East Coast Nature World is a highlight, especially for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see Tasmanian Devils.

Travelers enjoy strolling along the Bay of Fires, renowned for its white sands and colorful rocks—picture-perfect scenery that’s hard to beat. The Oyster Farm at Lease 65 offers fresh oysters, and Pyengana Dairy provides cheese tastings that local food lovers will appreciate.

Arriving in Launceston, the city’s compact charm is on display through spots like Cataract Gorge and the Heritage-listed Post Office. Tasting local honey and ice cream at Melita Honey Farm adds a sweet touch to the day.

Day 6: Launceston to Cradle Mountain

The morning includes a guided tour of Marakoopa Caves, home to glowing worms—a magical experience for all ages. Lunch at the 41º Degrees South Salmon Farm allows you to sample fresh, local seafood.

In the afternoon, you’ll head up into the central highlands towards Cradle Mountain. The hotel here offers a cozy base for exploring the stunning national park, with chances to spot wombats and other wildlife at dusk—an authentic encounter with Tasmania’s wilderness.

Day 7: Cradle Mountain and West Coast

A morning drive to Dove Lake offers iconic views of Cradle Mountain. Short walks on glacier-rock formations and waterfalls like Pencil Pine give you a taste of Tasmania’s rugged beauty.

A visit to the Waldheim Chalet provides insight into the area’s pioneering history. The day continues westward with stops at Zeehan and Morrison’s Saw Mill in Strahan, rounding out your wilderness experience before overnighting in Queenstown.

Day 8: Queenstown to Hobart via Wilderness and Waterfalls

From Queenstown, you’ll take in panoramic views at Iron Blow and enjoy a rainforest drive through the Franklin-Gordon National Park—a lush, ancient landscape. The scenic Nelson Falls waterfall is a highlight, offering fantastic photo opportunities.

Turning at Derwent Bridge, you’ll visit Lake St Clair and the impressive Wall Art Gallery, a hidden gem of Tasmania’s wilderness. The day concludes with visits to Tarraleah Lookout and Mt Field National Park, home to the spectacular Russell Falls.

Back in Hobart, the tour ends with a sense of having seen Tasmania’s diverse natural landscapes.

Day 9: Departure Day

The trip wraps up with hotel check-out by 11 am. While airport transfers are not included, the tour’s comprehensive schedule means you’ll leave with a thorough understanding of Tasmania’s landscapes, history, and wildlife.

Practical Aspects and Value

This tour balances guided convenience with enough flexibility for individual exploration. The small group size means fewer crowds and more personalized attention, which many travelers find adds to the overall enjoyment. The fully guided nature ensures you won’t miss key stories or viewpoints—your guides from Fun Tassie Tours are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making each day engaging and informative.

The accommodation at quality hotels, like the Mövenpick in Hobart and the Cradle Mountain Hotel, offers comfort after days packed with activity. Daily breakfasts and most lunches are included, along with tastings of local produce—adding significant value and reducing daily planning stress.

Pricing seems reasonable considering the scope of the tour, the inclusions, and the expert guides. The fact that entry fees and attraction passes are included means there are no unexpected costs, and you can focus on enjoying each location.

What Travelers Say

William from the UK highlighted the excellent organization and friendly guides, noting that the tour was “well organized from initial communications right through to the end,” and that the guides “know and have empathy with their customers.” His comment about Tasmania’s weather suggests packing layers is wise—Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable and changeable.

Who Would Love This Tour

This guided circle is ideal for those wanting to see Tasmania’s highlights comfortably and efficiently. It’s perfect if you prefer having an expert handle logistics while you focus on experiencing the scenery and culture firsthand. It suits adventurous couples, curious solo travelers, and groups of friends who appreciate varied landscapes, wildlife encounters, and historical insights.

Final Thoughts

The 9-Day Tasmania Circle Tour from Hobart offers a well-balanced blend of natural beauty, history, and local flavors. With expert guides, a small-group setting, and a thoughtfully planned itinerary, it’s a fantastic way to explore Tasmania without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

While it’s a busy schedule, the variety and depth of experiences—be it wildlife, scenic drives, or historic sites—make every moment worthwhile. The inclusions of tastings, entry fees, and cozy accommodations enhance its value, making it a compelling choice for travelers eager to dive into Tasmania’s essence.

For those craving an immersive, authentic, and comfortably paced adventure through one of Australia’s most stunning regions, this trip hits the spot. Just remember to pack layers and a sense of curiosity—and let Tasmania surprise you.

FAQ

Is airport transfer included in this tour?
No, airport transfers are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to and from the tour starting point at the Mövenpick Hotel in Hobart.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 12 guests on a 17-seat vehicle, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to large bus tours.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, all attraction entry fees and national park passes are covered in the tour price, simplifying your planning and budgeting.

What meals are included?
Breakfasts are included daily. Lunches are provided on most days, and one evening meal is included. Two lunches on arrival and departure days are not covered.

Can this tour accommodate solo travelers?
Absolutely. The tour is described as being suitable for solo travelers, and the small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere.

What is the best time to take this tour?
While specific months aren’t mentioned, Tasmania’s weather can vary, so packing layers is advised. The tour’s flexibility and guaranteed departures make it accessible year-round.

This guide should help you decide whether this comprehensive small-group tour matches your travel style. Tasmania’s diverse landscapes await, and with an experienced guide leading the way, you’re set for a memorable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: