Launceston to Hobart via Wineglass Bay – Active Tour

Planning a trip across Tasmania and wondering how to make the most of a day between Launceston and Hobart? This Launceston to Hobart via Wineglass Bay tour offers a full day of scenic views, active walks, and tasty local stops. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, there’s plenty to like about what it promises—and some things to keep in mind.

What we love about this experience is the chance to combine adventure and relaxation—walking in stunning national parks topped with a visit to a renowned winery. Plus, the thoughtfully designed itinerary hits the highlights of Freycinet National Park, which is a big plus for nature lovers. That said, it’s a fairly active day, so it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels. If you’re after a laid-back bus ride or have mobility issues, this might not be your perfect fit.

This tour seems well-suited for travelers who want an immersive, scenic experience with a touch of Tasmanian wine and seafood. It’s a good way to see a lot without sacrificing the chance to stretch your legs and enjoy Tasmania’s natural beauty.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines sightseeing, walking, and tasting experiences
• Scenic highlights: Wineglass Bay, Cape Tourville Lighthouse, Honeymoon Bay
• Active but doable: Uphill walks to the lookout are manageable for most with moderate fitness
• Local flavor: Stops at a winery with wine tasting and seafood treats
• Small group comfort: Tours cap at 20 travelers, making for a more personal experience
• Cost value: At around $154, includes park fees and guided walks—good value considering the full day

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

If you’re considering this trip, you’ll want to know what it’s really like. Here’s a detailed run-through based on the provided info, reviews, and common travel insights.

Starting Point and Transportation

You’ll meet your guide in central Launceston at the Hotel Grand Chancellor around 7:30am. From there, the journey begins in a climate-controlled van—a comfortable way to cover the distance. The drive itself is part of the experience, as you pass through picturesque countryside and historic Georgian towns like Evandale and Campbell Town. There’s a brief stop in Campbell Town to pick up lunch and explore the Convict Brick Trail or visit the Red Bridge. This gives you a window into the local history and a chance to stretch your legs.

Freycinet National Park: The Heart of the Day

Once you arrive at Freycinet, the entire day revolves around the park’s natural marvels. The views of the Hazards mountains are the first thing to catch your eye—an iconic backdrop for your day’s adventures.

The Cape Tourville Lighthouse Walk is the first stop—an easy 30-minute circuit that offers 360-degree views of the coast and surrounding landscape. It’s a quick but rewarding start, setting the tone for the day ahead.

Next comes the highlight: the walk to the Wineglass Bay Lookout. This is an uphill trek that takes roughly 45 minutes, but reviewers agree it’s worth every step. As one pointed out, the climb can be challenging for those not in great shape, but most find it manageable with a bit of effort. The view from the lookout is the kind of picture-perfect scene that lingers in your memory—white sands, shimmering water, and the iconic curve of the bay. Many reviewers, like Carole, mention the climb being “challenging but manageable,” and the view “lovely.”

Extending the Walk and Relaxing at the Beach

If you’re feeling energetic, there’s an option to continue down to Wineglass Bay Beach—a more demanding walk but one that rewards with a stunning stretch of white sand perfect for relaxing, swimming, or picnicking. Others may prefer to stay at the lookout or visit nearby spots like Honeymoon Bay and Sleepy Bay, which are also included in the tour’s sightseeing options.

One traveler, Jackie, shared that she found the walk “amazing” and thought the views on the way were beautiful. She also appreciated the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, which adds to the overall experience.

Lunch and Leisure

You’ll have a packed lunch in your bag, which you can enjoy at a scenic spot like Honeymoon Bay or near the beach. Bringing your own lunch is a thoughtful touch—giving you flexibility to eat where you prefer. If you prefer an easier day, you can opt for sightseeing around the park highlights instead of the full hike.

Visiting Other Highlights

If the climb to the bay isn’t for you, the guide can take you to other scenic spots like Sleepy Bay, Honeymoon Bay, and Cape Tourville Lighthouse. This flexibility makes the tour accessible to a broader range of fitness levels, though the day still involves some walking and uphill segments.

The Winery Stop

After exploring Freycinet, the journey continues to Devils Corner Winery. Here, you get to sample Tasmania’s renowned wines while soaking up spectacular views. Many reviewers highlight the quality of the wine and seafood options—woodfired pizza and oysters are available for purchase, providing a nice culinary touch to the day. It’s a great way to unwind after a busy morning of walking.

End of the Day: Hobart Arrival

Your day wraps up with a drop-off in Hobart around 6 pm. It’s a long, rewarding day, but most travelers find it worth the effort. As one reviewer noted, despite weather challenges, they enjoyed the scenery and appreciated the friendly guides and local insights.

What’s Included and What You Should Consider

The tour’s price of around $154.21 per person covers park entry fees, guided walks, and the tour guide, which adds value, especially given the comprehensive itinerary. The small group size (maximum 20 travelers) means more personalized attention, useful for questions or specific interests.

However, food and drinks are not included, so bringing some snacks or planning to purchase at the winery or in town is necessary. Also, airport drop-offs aren’t offered, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation back to your accommodation.

Physical Fitness and Suitability

This is classified as an Active Tour, so it’s best for those with at least a moderate fitness level. The climbs, especially to the Wineglass Bay lookout, are manageable for most but may be challenging if you have knee problems or mobility issues. The reviews suggest that even those who found the walk strenuous still enjoyed the views and felt the effort was worthwhile.

Timing and Logistics

Starting early at 7:30 am and returning around 6 pm, it’s a full day. The hotel pickup is available from select accommodations, typically between 7 am and 7:30 am. Be prepared for a day that involves a fair amount of walking, some uphill sections, and a bit of time spent in the van.

The Genuine Value of this Experience

For travelers who love combining outdoor activity with scenic beauty, this tour hits the mark. The chance to see Wineglass Bay—one of Tasmania’s most photographed spots—paired with visits to other park highlights, makes this a memorable day. The inclusion of a wine tasting at Devils Corner adds a relaxing culinary element to balance the active outdoors.

Reviews reinforce the value, with many praising the knowledgeable guides, the stunning scenery, and the quality of local wine. The tour’s price seems fair considering park fees, guided walks, and transportation.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy walking and sightseeing, are comfortable with moderate physical activity, and want a comprehensive taste of Tasmania’s coast. It’s not the best choice for those seeking a leisurely, sit-back kind of day, or for travelers with mobility restrictions.

Wrapping Up: Is It Worth It?

All in all, this Launceston to Hobart via Wineglass Bay tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and active way to explore the best of Tasmania’s east coast. The combination of breathtaking views, guided walks, and local wine tasting makes it a good value for those wanting to get a sense of Tasmania’s natural beauty and local produce in one day.

If you’re after a balance of adventure and comfort, and don’t mind a day on the move, this tour could be a great fit. Just come prepared for some uphill walking, dress appropriately, and bring your camera—and you’re set for a memorable Tasmanian experience.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 8 years, and the tour is designed for those with a moderate fitness level. Children should be comfortable with walking and some uphill sections.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 12 hours, starting at 7:30 am and ending around 6 pm.

What should I bring?
Bring a small backpack with essentials like water, sun protection, and a camera. You’ll also want to have some lunch or snacks for the day, though the tour provides options to buy food at the winery.

Are park entry fees included?
Yes, all national park entry fees are included in the price.

Can I customize the walk?
Yes, if you prefer a shorter sightseeing route, your guide can focus on highlights like Honeymoon Bay, Sleepy Bay, or Cape Tourville Lighthouse instead of the full walk to Wineglass Bay.

Is hotel pickup included?
Pickup is available from select hotels, generally between 7.00 am and 7.30 am. Confirm your pickup time when booking.

What’s the group size?
The tour caps at 20 travelers, making for a more intimate experience than large bus tours.

What about food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring your own lunch or buy at the winery stop. The winery offers wine tastings, oysters, and pizza for purchase.

What if the weather is bad?
Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable. It’s wise to bring waterproof clothing or an umbrella. The tour still proceeds in most weather conditions, and the scenery can be just as stunning in rain or mist.

Is this a good way to travel from Launceston to Hobart?
Absolutely, especially if you want to make the journey more than just a transfer. You’ll see spectacular sights along the way, making it a memorable part of your trip instead of just a drive.

In summary, this active day tour offers a blend of beautiful scenery, light adventure, and local flavor, making it a solid choice for those looking to see Tasmania’s coast in a single day. Just remember, it’s designed for those who enjoy a bit of activity and are ready for a busy, scenic adventure.