Discover West Coast Tasmania – Nature, History & Connection in 9 Days | 6th – 14th December 2025

This morning, we have some time to explore Cataract Gorge, a magnificent reserve in the city centre. At your own pace, stroll along the pleasant walks through the landscaped gardens to the tea rooms, or take a ride on the chairlift (own expense) which crosses the gorge.

Our next stop is Entally House, one of Tasmania’s Historic Trust Houses, thought to have been built in 1819 and opened to the public in 1950. We enjoy morning tea, a talk, and a look around the property and outbuildings.

Located in the foothills of the Great Western Tiers mountain range, we arrive in Deloraine. Here, we visit the Yarns Artwork in Silk, a large-scale textile artwork with four soft sculptured panels made of hand-dyed silk. The main highlight here is the light and sound show presentation in the auditorium. Also, wander through the indoor/outdoor museum and gift shop before taking time to purchase lunch (own expense) in town.

This afternoon, we stop just outside Devonport for a tasting and possibly a treat at the House of Anvers Chocolate Factory. Located on the property grounds formerly known as Wyndarra Lodge, this stylish 1931 Californian Bungalow is set on 12 hectares of gardens with mature trees and plants from all over the world.

Arriving in Devonport, we check into our accommodation with time to settle in before dinner.

Argosy Motor Inn, Devonport | 2 nights 
Breakfast and dinner at motel | Lunch at own expense

Today, we explore the picturesque north-west coast of Tasmania. The drive offers beautiful views as the Bass Highway winds its way along the coast—often right next to the water.

Our first stop this morning is the village of Penguin, which sits on the shores of Bass Strait. The town is named after a nearby rookery and pays tribute to its feathered friends with a three-metre-tall sculpture, The Big Penguin, proudly standing on the esplanade to commemorate the town’s centenary in 1975.

Travelling west, we arrive in Wynyard for our morning tea break before continuing through towns such as Table Cape and Boat Harbour Beach, admiring the magnificent coastal views along the way.

As we approach Stanley, you’ll notice an ancient volcanic rock formation on the horizon—The Nut. Nestled at its base is the historic fishing village of Stanley. Rich in early Tasmanian history, this charming town boasts beautifully preserved heritage buildings.

Upon arrival, we enjoy lunch before taking the chairlift to the summit of The Nut, where we are treated to spectacular views across Bass Strait and over the township. This is said to be one of the prettiest spots on the north-west coast of Tasmania.

Mid-afternoon, we return to Devonport.

Breakfast and dinner at motel | Lunch at Stanley Hotel

Today, we travel south towards Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park, home to rugged peaks, ancient rainforests, and stunning alpine scenery.

We tour the national park and visit key sights including Dove Lake, a glacially carved lake directly beneath Cradle Mountain, offering breathtaking views. We also explore Waldheim Chalet, once the forest home of pioneer Gustav Weindorfer.

Lunch will be served at the Cradle Mountain Hotel, followed by a visit to Devils @ Cradle, a conservation sanctuary dedicated to Tasmania’s iconic devil. Our guide will introduce us to the alpine lifestyle of these unique creatures. We’ll then enter a special viewing area for an up-close encounter—where we may see the devils sunbathing, resting in dens, or roaming in their enclosures.

We continue our journey via Zeehan, arriving in Strahan where we will stay for the next three nights.

Strahan Village | 3 nights 
Breakfast and dinner at motel | Lunch at Cradle Mountain Hotel

Today, we’re in for a truly scenic experience as we join a World Heritage Cruise through the wild and remote waters of Macquarie Harbour and the Gordon River. This immersive cruise brings the river’s beauty and history to life for a memorable day on the water.

As we travel the tranquil waterways, we’ll hear fascinating stories about the region’s past, pass through Hells Gates, and step ashore Sarah Island to view some of Australia’s oldest convict ruins. A highlight of the cruise is the serenity and mirror-like reflections of the Gordon River, offering one of Tasmania’s most iconic natural sights.

We’ll also enjoy a boardwalk stroll through ancient rainforest at Heritage Landing, where you’ll get a close look at the incredible Huon pine trees, some of the oldest living organisms on Earth.

After a stunning day on the water, we return to Strahan. In the early evening, enjoy a lively performance of “The Ship That Never Was”, a pre-dinner show that brings convict history to life through humour and storytelling, depicting the fate of Sarah Island’s last convicts.

Breakfast and dinner at motel | Lunch included

We join the West Coast Wilderness Railway for a return rail journey on the *Rinadeena, Rack and Rainforest route. We board the heritage steam train at Queenstown Station and travel to Lynchford, once a hub for pioneers, adventurers, and those chasing gold.

Travelling in the Wilderness Carriage, we begin with a glass of Tasmanian sparkling wine and canapés, followed by a traditional Devonshire tea. At Lynchford Station, we disembark to follow in the footsteps of early settlers—try your luck panning for gold or explore the fascinating Lynchford Museum.

As the train begins its ascent towards Rinadeena Saddle, enjoy the feeling of complete immersion in the rainforest. Along the way, we experience three kilometres of the unique rack and pinion railway, a historically significant innovation still central to this railway’s cultural heritage. At Rinadeena Station, once a small settlement where families lived and worked, we take some time to explore before boarding for our return to Queenstown.

A light lunch will be included during the day’s experience.

In the afternoon, we visit the Eric Thomas Galley Museum, located in the heritage-listed Imperial Hotel, built in 1887 from locally made bricks. The museum showcases 30 themed rooms of historical significance, sharing the story of survival, endurance, and sacrifice. It also provides a personal record of the people and their lives shaped by the discovery of gold and other minerals at Mount Lyell in the last century.

Breakfast and dinner at motel | Lunch included

Leaving Strahan, we journey into the pristine wilderness of the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, stopping at the impressive Nelson Falls for our morning tea break.

We continue to Derwent Bridge, known as the geographical centre of Tasmania, where we enjoy lunch at the Wilderness Hotel. Afterwards, we visit the Wall in the Wilderness, a magnificent art installation that tells the story of the region through intricately carved wooden panels. When complete, the “Wall” will stretch 100 metres in length—an awe-inspiring tribute to Tasmania’s rich heritage.

In the afternoon, we continue our scenic drive towards Hobart, taking in the spectacular Tasmanian landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, we check into our accommodation and enjoy dinner at the motel.

Wrest Point Hotel Casino, Hobart | 2 nights 
Breakfast and dinner at motel | Lunch at Wilderness Hotel

We’re fortunate to be in Hobart on a Saturday—perfect timing to visit the vibrant Salamanca Markets. Set beneath a canopy of elm trees, the markets host hundreds of stallholders, offering a wide array of local crafts, jewellery, fashion, and gourmet produce. Enjoy time at your leisure to wander through the stalls and purchase lunch (own expense).

In the afternoon, we join a guided tour of Hobart, learning about this charming city set between Mount Wellington and the Derwent River. Founded in 1804 as a penal colony, Hobart is Australia’s second-oldest capital city, where history greets you at every turn.

Our final visit is to the Cascades Female Factory, a self-contained, purpose-built institution designed to reform female convicts. During the early 1800s, approximately 7,000 women passed through the gates of this historic site. Our guided tour offers insight into the punishment, reform, and daily life of the women transported to Van Diemen’s Land.

For our final evening, we enjoy a special farewell dinner at the Point Revolving Restaurant, where panoramic views over Hobart and the Derwent River provide a stunning backdrop to reflect on our journey.

Breakfast and dinner at hotel | Lunch own expense

After breakfast, we farewell our hosts and make our way to Hobart Airport for our return flight home. We arrive later this afternoon, bringing to a close our wonderful holiday through the wild and beautiful West Coast Tasmania.

Breakfast at hotel | Lunch own expense