From Hobart: Great Lake and Untamed High Country Small Group Tour

This 9.5-hour small group tour offers a deep dive into Tasmania’s wild heart, taking you from Hobart into the rugged landscapes of the Central Plateau and beyond. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of an authentic, scenic, and educational experience. If you’re after a day of stunning vistas, historical insights, and a taste of wilderness, this tour might be just what you need.

What I really like about it? First, the focus on local guides like David, who have scientific backgrounds and a passion for sharing Tasmania’s stories. Second, the variety — from heritage sites to pristine lakes — ensuring a well-rounded look at the region’s natural beauty and history. Third, the value — with an all-inclusive itinerary that manages to keep the price reasonable given the diverse sights. One thing to keep in mind: the tour is quite full, so if you prefer a slow, leisure-paced day, it might feel a bit rushed.

This tour suits travelers who love nature, history, and learning while enjoying comfortable transport. It’s perfect for those who want to see Tasmania’s high country without the hassle of planning or driving, and for anyone eager for a small-group experience that feels more intimate.

Key Points

• Authentic insight from guides with scientific and local knowledge
• Diverse scenery including lakes, escarpments, rainforests, and mountain views
• Historical sites like the Waddamana Power Station and heritage towns
• Convenient small group tour for personalized attention and flexible stops
• Value for money considering the number of sights and educational content
• Comfortable transport in an air-conditioned vehicle

Exploring Tasmania’s Untamed High Country: The Full Breakdown

The Convenience and Comfort of Small-Group Travel

Starting in Hobart, the tour keeps groups small — capped at ten travelers — which means you get more space, better storytelling, and fewer crowds. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, especially considering Tasmania’s sometimes unpredictable weather. Plus, since the tour is designed for most travelers, it’s quite accessible for different ages and mobility levels, provided you’re prepared for some walking.

The Historic Charm of Bothwell

The day kicks off with a scenic drive through Hobart’s southern Midlands farming district to Bothwell, a town that feels like stepping back in time. The heritage buildings, especially the mid-1800s colonial Georgian post office, give an authentic sense of Tasmania’s architectural history. This stop also provides a chance to grab a hot drink and stretch your legs, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

Waddamana Power Station: A Glimpse into Tasmania’s Energy Past

Next, the journey takes you to Waddamana, where you visit Tasmania’s first hydroelectric power station, built in 1916. Guides like David are known for sharing tales of the station’s rise and fall, making the visit more engaging. You’ll see antique equipment over a century old, connecting you to the pioneering spirit that powered a region. This stop is particularly appealing if you’re into industrial history, or just fascinated by how early infrastructure shaped modern Tasmania.

Exploring the Central Plateau: Lakes and Dams

Driving up onto the central plateau, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic. Arthurs Lake, with its expansive views, historic pumping station, and the fishing village of Flintstone, offers a picture of life in Tasmania’s highlands. Here, you have the chance for a warm lunch at the Arthurs Lake Road house, a simple but vital rest point for travelers.

The highlight is Great Lake, Tasmania’s third largest, where you see the massive Miena Dam and the historic 1922 concrete arch dam. The views here are spectacular — think sweeping water, islands, and distant mountains. The Reynolds Neck stop invites curiosity about whether Reynolds Island is truly an island, sparking some investigative fun. The drive along the lake’s shore reveals how pioneers built the dam without modern machinery, a testament to their ingenuity.

Panoramic Perspectives and Pristine Wilderness

The Great Lakes Lookout provides a bird’s-eye view of the entire region — lakes, islands, forests, and mountains stretch out before you, perfect for photography and awe. Following this, a short walk takes you to Pine Lake, where rare Tasmanian pencil pines grow. Guided by someone with a background in botany and geology, you’ll appreciate just how unique this flora is.

Further, the Liffey Forest Lookout offers a quick but breathtaking view of the escarpment and rainforest, revealing the steep, rocky terrain that defines Tasmania’s high country. The lush, leafy environment here contrasts sharply with the open lakes, providing a rich sensory experience.

Passing Through Conservation Areas and Heritage Towns

The drive passes through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, offering glimpses of alpine boulder fields, snow gum forests, and rare plants. It’s an impressive corridor of natural preservation that underscores Tasmania’s environmental significance.

A brief stop at Kempton, a historic midlands town, rounds out the day with a look at heritage buildings and local character. It’s a perfect spot for a quick photo and a bit of local flavor.

The Experience: What You’ll Really Get

The itinerary reveals a well-rounded journey through Tasmania’s high country, combining natural beauty with historical storytelling. Guides like David are praised for their knowledge and storytelling ability, making complex scientific and historical topics accessible and engaging. You’ll learn about Tasmania’s hydro history, the pioneering spirit of early settlers, and the unique flora and fauna of the region.

The scenic drives are arguably the star of this tour. From broad lakes and rugged escarpments to lush rainforests, every stop offers a fresh perspective. The short walks allow you to connect more intimately with the environment — whether it’s the pencil pines or the alpine rainforest. And the panoramic views from the lookout are picture-perfect, offering sweeping vistas you’ll want to photograph endlessly.

What to Expect in Terms of Logistics

The tour starts in Hobart, with pickups arranged from a central location. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is especially helpful on warmer days or in the rare cold snaps. Expect a full day of driving and sightseeing, with stops averaging between 10 to 25 minutes, plus longer breaks for lunch and exploration.

The group size, capped at 10, makes for a more personalized experience — your guide has time to answer questions and tailor some discussions. The total duration of about 9.5 hours means you should plan for a full day, but the variety of sights makes it worthwhile.

The Cost and Value

At $170.51 per person, this tour offers good value, considering the diversity of sites, the educational element, and the expert guiding. Entry to heritage sites is free, but the experience of visiting historic dams, lakes, and forests makes the cost worthwhile. Plus, everything is included in the price except for lunch and snacks, which you can purchase at designated stops.

The Bottom Line: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip appeals primarily to travelers who appreciate nature and history, and those who prefer a small, intimate group setting. If you’re eager for an educational experience with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers plenty of insights and stories that enhance the scenery. It’s well-suited for active travelers comfortable with some walking and a full-day itinerary.

If your idea of Tasmania is more about city life or coastal adventures, this tour might feel a bit off the beaten path — but that’s exactly what makes it special for those wanting to see the untamed, high-altitude wilderness.

In summary, it’s an excellent choice for curious travelers wanting a comprehensive, scenic, and educational exploration of Tasmania’s high country.

FAQ

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour runs for approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes, providing a full day of sightseeing with multiple stops.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. Guests can purchase food at the Arthurs Lake Road house or bring their own snacks. The stop at Arthurs Lake is a perfect chance to enjoy a packed lunch in a scenic spot.

How many people are in a group?
This is a small-group experience with a maximum of 10 travelers, which allows for more personalized attention from the guide.

Are the stops at natural sites short or long?
Stops vary between about 5 to 25 minutes. Longer breaks are scheduled at key points like the lakes and lookout, but most stops allow brief exploration and photo opportunities.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at certain sites like Pine Lake and the lookout.

What makes the guide special?
Guests frequently mention knowledgeable guides like David, who share engaging stories, scientific insights, and local anecdotes, enriching the experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changing schedules.

This Great Lake and High Country Tour from Hobart offers a thoughtful blend of natural grandeur, historical insight, and expert guiding — perfect for those wanting to see Tasmania’s wild side in a single, well-organized day.