Exploring Tasmania from Launceston to Hobart via Wineglass Bay: A Detailed Review
Taking a road trip across Tasmania wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its natural beauty, charming towns, and delicious local produce. The Launceston to Hobart via Wineglass Bay Active One-Way Day Tour offers exactly that—a full day of scenic views, memorable stops, and engaging walks, all in a comfortable, guided setting.
What we love most about this experience is its perfect mix of nature, culture, and local flavors. The stunning vistas of Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay are sure to impress, while the chance to sample fresh oysters at Freycinet Marine Farm and wines at Devils Corner Winery adds a delicious local touch. The tour’s small group size makes it intimate and flexible, perfect for those who prefer personalized attention.
One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves some moderate uphill walks—not extreme, but certainly something to consider if mobility is a concern. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers looking for a well-rounded day of sightseeing with a touch of activity and a taste of Tasmania’s finest produce. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, or just want a hassle-free way to connect Launceston with Hobart, this tour delivers plenty of value.
Key Points
- Stunning scenery: The views of Wineglass Bay, Honeymoon Bay, and Sleepy Bay are unforgettable.
- Guided walks: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with informative commentary.
- Local tasting stops: Oysters, wine, and ice cream add delicious local flavor.
- Flexible hiking options: Walk to the Lookout or extend down to Wineglass Bay Beach.
- Comfortable transport: Climate-controlled van ensures a smooth journey.
- Small group size: Personal, friendly atmosphere with up to 20 travelers.
Looking for more options in Launceston? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Journey: From Launceston to Hobart with a Scenic Twist
Starting in Launceston, the tour kicks off early, with hotel pickups available, ensuring you’re on the road comfortably by 7:30 am. The ride through Tasmania’s lush countryside and historic towns like Ross and Campbell Town immediately sets the tone—this is a scenic, leisurely drive with plenty to see outside the window.
Ross Village and Its Charms
Our first stop is Ross Village, famous for its convict history and the Ross Bakery, known for scallop pies and possibly the best vanilla slice in Tasmania. Reviewers mention how this stop adds a touch of historic charm and a chance to taste some local treats—perfect for a quick snack or to stock up for later.
En Route to Freycinet National Park
From Ross, the journey continues eastward, with a quick visit to Freycinet Marine Farm. This stop is a highlight—cultivating oysters right in the ocean waters nearby. Visitors rave about the fresh oysters, which can be enjoyed on-site, and the friendly farm staff often explain the cultivation process, adding an educational twist to the tasting.
Entering Freycinet National Park
Once in the park, the landscape immediately captivates with panoramic views of the Hazards mountains and sweeping coastal scenery. The Cape Tourville Lighthouse Walk is a gentle, 30-minute circuit that offers 360-degree views of the coastline—ideal for snapping photos and getting your bearings.
The Showstopper: Wineglass Bay
The highlight of the tour is the walk up to the Wineglass Bay Lookout. The 45-minute uphill hike is described as moderate—challenging enough to feel like an achievement but accessible for most reasonably fit travelers. The reward is a picture-perfect view of the curving white sands and turquoise waters. Several reviews note that the view is absolutely worth the effort—”an amazing view,” as one traveler put it.
For those feeling energetic, there’s an option to extend the walk down to Wineglass Bay Beach itself, a 2.5-hour round trip. Here, you can swim, relax, or explore the sands, making it a memorable beach experience. Reviewers mention the beach as pristine and the walk as enjoyable despite the physical effort involved.
Alternative Sightseeing and Flexibility
Not everyone wants to hike to the beach, and that’s okay. The guide is flexible and can tailor your experience—visiting spots like Honeymoon Bay, Sleepy Bay, or simply enjoying the lookout and other park highlights. Based on reviews, many appreciate the personalized approach that allows them to see what interests them most.
Tasting Tasmania: Food and Drink Highlights
After exploring the park, the tour continues with a visit to Devils Corner Winery. Here, you can enjoy a wine tasting, take in stunning views over vineyards, and indulge in fresh seafood or wood-fired pizza (own expense). Several reviews praise the quality and variety of wines available, often noting the passionate commentary from guides about the region’s wine-making history.
Next, a stop at Kate’s Berry Farm in Swansea offers a sweet ending—ice creams, jams, sauces, and chocolates—perfect for a refreshment and souvenir shopping. Reviewers mention the ice cream as a delightful treat on a warm day, adding a fun, relaxed moment before heading back to Hobart.
The Final Stretch to Hobart
The day wraps up with a scenic drive south, arriving in Hobart around 6 pm. The entire experience is designed to be seamless, leaving you free to unwind or explore the city afterward.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
Knowledgeable Guides: Multiple reviews emphasize the guides’ storytelling skills, local knowledge, and friendly attitude. One reviewer appreciated how the guides explained the background and stories of each site, making the day more engaging.
Stunning Views and Walks: The combination of easy and moderate walks allows you to see some of Tasmania’s most iconic scenery without feeling overwhelmed. The views from Cape Tourville and Wineglass Bay are often described as breathtaking, and many mention the impressive photo opportunities.
Local Food and Drink: Sampling fresh oysters, tasting wines, and enjoying ice cream at Kate’s Berry Farm make this tour more than just sightseeing; it’s a taste of Tasmania’s culinary scene.
Value for Money: At around $142 AUD per person, the tour offers a full day packed with diverse experiences, guided walks, and entry fees included—making it a good deal for those wanting a comprehensive day trip.
Practical Details and Considerations
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, with most of that time spent traveling and exploring. The small group size—maximum 20 travelers—ensures a more intimate atmosphere, with plenty of opportunity for questions and personal attention. The climate-controlled van makes the ride comfortable, even on a warm day.
Since some walks are involved, a moderate level of fitness is recommended. The tour is suitable for ages 8 and up, but those with mobility issues should consider the uphill parts of the walk to Wineglass Bay.
Food and drinks aren’t included, but there are ample opportunities to purchase meals or bring your own. Lunch options are flexible—either packed or bought at stops like the bakery or winery.
The tour operates rain or shine, and reviews suggest packing waterproofs if the weather forecast calls for rain. Many mention that even in gloomy weather, the scenery remains spectacular.
The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour For?
If you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and culturally rich day trip across Tasmania’s east coast, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal for nature lovers who enjoy light hikes and stunning vistas, as well as foodies eager to sample local oysters and wines. The small-group format ensures a personalized experience, and the knowledgeable guides make the day both educational and enjoyable.
Travelers who appreciate a blend of outdoor activity, local flavors, and scenic drives will find this tour highly satisfying. It offers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, without the hassle of planning logistics on your own.
However, if you’re looking for a very relaxed, no-walk day, or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider other options. Similarly, those wanting a purely cultural or historical experience should note that this tour’s focus is on natural beauty and regional foods.
FAQs
- What is the starting point for the tour? The tour begins with hotel pick-up at Launceston, primarily from central hotels, around 7:30 am.
- How long does the tour last? The entire experience runs for approximately 12 hours, ending around 6 pm in Hobart.
- Are meals included? No, food and drinks are not included, but there are stops for purchasing lunch, seafood, and ice cream.
- Is walking involved? Yes, there are walks ranging from easy to moderate, including uphill sections to Wineglass Bay Lookout.
- Can I extend my walk at Wineglass Bay? Yes, you can choose to walk down to the beach, which adds about 2.5 hours round trip.
- What stops are included in the itinerary? Key stops include Ross Village, Freycinet Marine Farm, Cape Tourville Lighthouse, Wineglass Bay Lookout, Honeymoon Bay, Devils Corner Winery, and Kate’s Berry Farm.
- Is entry to national parks included? Yes, all national park entry fees are covered.
- What should I bring? Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, water, and a camera.
- What if the weather is bad? The tour operates rain or shine, and many sites are still beautiful in gloomy weather—consider packing waterproofs.
- Who is this tour suitable for? Travelers aged 8 and up with moderate fitness levels, looking for scenic walks, local foods, and a hassle-free day trip across Tasmania.
Final Thoughts
This Launceston to Hobart tour offers a well-rounded taste of Tasmania’s best natural sights, local foods, and charming towns. While it involves some walking, the experience is tailored to provide stunning vistas and genuine regional flavor, all guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want a day packed with variety, beauty, and a bit of active adventure—without sacrificing comfort or ease. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a second dose of Tasmania’s charm, this trip promises a memorable, scenic journey through some of the island’s most iconic spots.