Hobart to Launceston via Wineglass Bay – Active one-way Day Tour

Travelers looking to experience the natural beauty of Tasmania often find the island’s highlights scattered across different regions. This Hobart to Launceston tour offers an excellent way to connect those points in one day, with a focus on Freycinet National Park and its iconic Wineglass Bay. With a balance of scenic walks, wildlife encounters, and local food and wine stops, this tour promises a comprehensive taste of Tasmania’s coast.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, it offers the chance to explore spectacular coastal landscapes with walk options suitable for various fitness levels. Second, it combines breathtaking views with authentic regional tastings, from fresh oysters at Freycinet Marine Farm to wine at Devils Corner Winery. Lastly, the small tour group size and knowledgeable guides help make the journey more personal and engaging.

However, one thing to consider is the long duration—around 11.5 hours—which might be tiring for some travelers. It is best suited for those comfortable with a full day on the road and light to moderate walking. If you enjoy scenic outdoor adventures with a mix of leisure and active exploration, this tour could be a highlight of your Tasmania trip.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Explore Freycinet National Park’s pink granite mountains, beaches, and bays.
• Flexible walking options: Moderate uphill walk to Wineglass Bay Lookout with the possibility to extend to the beach.
• Local tastings: Enjoy fresh oysters, seafood, and wine at renowned Tasmanian spots.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides who enrich the experience with stories and insights.
• Comfortable transportation: Climate-controlled van that makes the long day comfortable.
• Small group size: Up to 20 travelers for a more intimate experience.

A Detailed Look at the Hobart to Launceston Tour

The Scenic Drive from Hobart to the Coast

Starting early in Hobart, the journey covers approximately 11.5 hours, including stops that add value to the trip. The ride itself is comfortable, thanks to a climate-controlled van, and offers glimpses of Tasmania’s diverse landscape—ranging from rolling hills to seaside towns like Orford and Swansea.

Traveling east then north, you’ll notice the scenery shifting as you approach the coast, setting the stage for the day ahead. Multiple travelers have praised the guides, with reviews highlighting how they made the drive lively and informative, sharing stories that add context to Tasmania’s geography and wildlife.

Freycinet Marine Farm: A Fresh Start

On entering Freycinet National Park, a brief stop at the Freycinet Marine Farm is a highlight for seafood lovers. Cultivating oysters in pristine waters nearby, this farm offers a chance to sample some of Tasmania’s best oysters—fresh, briny, and straight from the source. Reviewers like Peter_S appreciated this stop, noting how it “made the journey worthwhile,” especially with the stunning weather that day.

The Walk to Wineglass Bay Lookout

The main feature of this tour is undoubtedly the walk to Wineglass Bay Lookout. The 45-minute moderate uphill trek (about 1.3 km) rewards you with one of Tasmania’s most photographed vistas. As Irene_E mentioned, the views are “just amazing,” and the walk is manageable with good mobility.

For those who want to hike further, there’s an option to extend the walk down to Wineglass Bay beach—a longer 2.5-hour round trip, perfect for those who crave more. The beach itself, with its white sands and clear waters, is an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch, swimming, or just soaking up the scenery.

Other Park Highlights

Not everyone might want to tackle the full walk to the beach, and that’s perfectly fine. The tour offers alternatives to explore Honeymoon Bay, Sleepy Bay, and the Cape Tourville Lighthouse—all equally stunning spots with easier access and equally photo-worthy views. The Cape Tourville walk is an easy 20-minute stroll offering 360-degree panoramic views, which guests have found both accessible and rewarding.

Lunch and Relaxation Time

After the walks, you’ll have about four hours in the park, giving ample time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the natural surroundings. Reviewers like Lawrence_E appreciated the flexibility, saying it was a “great way to enjoy the park without feeling rushed.”

The Stop at Devils Corner Winery

On the way back south, the tour makes a stop at Devils Corner Cellar Door. Here, you can sample wines and enjoy the incredible views. Reviewers like Irene_E loved this part, describing the experience as “enjoyable,” with some even trying oysters, gelato, and coffee at their own expense. It’s a perfect way to unwind, savor local flavors, and take in Tasmania’s scenic vineyards.

The Final Leg to Launceston

The last stretch takes you inland to Launceston, arriving around 6:30 pm. The tour’s ending point is conveniently located at the Hotel Grand Chancellor, making it easy for travelers to plan their evening. The journey back through the lush inland scenery provides a nice contrast to the coastal views, wrapping up a day filled with diverse sights and flavors.

Price, Value, and Practicalities

With a ticket price of $142.18 per person, this tour offers fair value considering the inclusions: guided walks, transportation, and the variety of stops. The price doesn’t include meals or drinks, but there are plenty of opportunities to purchase fresh oysters, seafood, wine, or gelato along the way, making it flexible for different budgets and preferences.

The tour’s small group size (max 20 travelers) enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention from the guides. Reviewers have noted guides like Nicholas and Graham for their knowledge, storytelling, and friendly demeanor, which makes a big difference in a full-day trip.

What to Pack and Expect

Because there’s some walking involved—moderate uphill and optional longer hikes—wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for Tasmania’s variable weather. While the day is scheduled for roughly 11.5 hours, your guides aim to balance sightseeing with relaxation, so you won’t feel rushed.

Accessibility and Fitness

The tour is suitable for those with a moderate fitness level, as the walks are mostly manageable, but some hill climbing is involved. Reviewers appreciated the option to choose shorter walks, especially if mobility is a concern.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits travelers who want a full day of scenic exploration without sacrificing comfort. It’s ideal for those who love nature, wildlife, and good food, and are comfortable with some walking. It’s also a great choice for first-time visitors wanting a curated, informative experience of Tasmania’s coast and vineyards.

If you’re someone who enjoys small groups and guided walks that enrich the scenery, this tour offers a memorable way to see Tasmania’s highlights. Conversely, if you prefer a more relaxed, less active day or have limited mobility, some of the walks might be challenging.

The Sum Up

This Hobart to Launceston tour via Wineglass Bay combines stunning landscapes, local culinary delights, and guided expertise in a well-organized package. For around 11.5 hours, you’ll experience Tasmania’s coast, from dramatic bays and granite peaks to scenic vineyards—making it a fantastic value for nature lovers and foodies alike.

The tour’s highlights—such as the lookout, optional beach walk, and the wine stop—offer a balanced mix of activity, relaxation, and indulgence. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, making it more engaging and personalized.

It’s perfect for travelers who want to see a diverse slice of Tasmania’s coast and countryside in one day, with the flexibility to customize some walks. While the duration may not suit everyone, those with a moderate fitness level and an adventurous spirit will find it a rewarding way to discover Tasmania’s natural beauty.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Hobart to Freycinet National Park?
The drive takes about 2 hours, with scenic views and stops along the way to break up the journey.

Are there options for shorter walks?
Yes, if you prefer to avoid the longer hike, you can opt to only visit the Wineglass Bay Lookout and explore other sections of the park, like Honeymoon Bay and Sleepy Bay.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation, guided interpretative walks, and visits to key sites. Food and drinks are not included but can be purchased during stops.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is suitable for travelers aged 8 and above, provided they have a moderate fitness level and are comfortable with light walking.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and possibly a packed lunch if you prefer not to buy one. There are opportunities to purchase seafood, oysters, and wine at stops.

How many people are in the group?
The tour maintains a small group size of up to 20 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience with plenty of personal attention from guides.

Can I join this tour if I am solo or in a couple?
Absolutely. The tour welcomes solo travelers, couples, and small groups, creating a friendly atmosphere for all.