This tour is conducted at a medium-fast pace. Some long travel days may be required to complete this itinerary and you will typically spend two nights at each destination, with some one night stays required. This trip includes a mix of sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage.
This tour is fully escorted by an expert English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.
These tours are our proudest creations. They have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for exact group size. Enjoy features such as hand-picked accommodation, a sampling of the region’s best culinary delights, and a range of optional activities to choose from to best suit your travel style.
Inspiring Vacations has been globally recognised and awarded for its handling of COVID-19 during the pandemic. The safety and wellbeing of our guests is our highest concern during this time of uncertainty, and we are continuously monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation.
We have adopted the advice of the WHO to ensure all customers can travel with the knowledge of how to travel safely and with confidence.
Australian owned and operated with 100% Australian Customer Service support
We are proudly 100% Australian owned and operated, with our head office located in Melbourne, Victoria. When you make your booking, you will receive dedicated and ongoing support from our team of travel professionals throughout your booking, up until you are due to depart.
✓ Four day guided & pack free walking tour of Bays of Fires
✓ Amazing walks including the historic lighthouse at Eddystone Point, Anson’s Bay, and the sweeping Bay of Fires Conservation Area.
✓ Full day guided tour of Tasman Valley
✓ Three nights accommodation at quaint Icena Farm House (twin share) near Mt William National Park
✓ Three nights at 4* accommodation in Launceston
✓ 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 3 dinners
✓ Small group of 10 or less
✓ All national park entry fees
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Launceston!
Make your way to your accommodation. You can arrive at any time as there are no organized activities.
Arrival & Check in information
The best way to travel from Launceston airport to your hotel is by Uber or Taxi. A ride will cost you between $35-$45.
Check in time at your hotel is at 3pm. Should you arrive earlier than this, hotel staff will do all possible to check you in as soon as possible. If your room is not available before check-in time, you are welcome to leave your luggage in storage and explore the surrounding area.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and gear up to the start of your walking tour. Our journey begins from the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Launceston at 7.45am for an 8am departure. On the way to the north-east coast we pass through Lilydale and the Pipers River wine region, before stopping by at the beach side village of Bridport for a short break.
It’s then on to Mt William National Park, and the white sands of Cape Naturaliste – the most northern point of our four-day wander. These first few hours are spent entirely on the beach, pleasantly easing one into their own natural walking pace and rhythm. Along the way, there are often resident sea birds to observe – including Oystercatchers and Hooded Plovers. Your guides will also be able to decipher any bizarre looking ocean life that has been washed ashore with the changing tides. We may discover cuttlebones, urchins, and even shark eggs.
Pausing for an afternoon tea break, we head inland to tackle a one-hour return walk to the summit of wukalina/Mt William. At an elevation of 216 meters, this is the highest point in the surrounding area – providing walkers with a far-reaching panoramic view of the area encompassed on our first two days of walking and beyond. In clear weather, the Furneaux group of islands stand proud as lofty remnants of what remains of an ancient land bridge which once connected Tasmania with mainland Australia. We then return to the bus, before heading back to our accommodation to unpack and settle in.
This evening we enjoy pre-dinner nibbles, followed by a delicious two-course meal prepared by your guides.
Walking Distance: 12kms, 4.5 hours approx
After breakfast and lunch making, we head out for our longest day of walking. We return to Boulder Point at the far end of Stumpy’s Bay, and continue south along a lovely stretch of coastline featuring successive small coves protected by rocky headlands. This section is particularly notable for its abundance of large granite boulders covered in bright orange lichen. This famously contrasting palette is a photographer’s paradise, and it’s easy to lose track of time exploring the rock pools and intricacies of such a spectacular landscape.
We soon reach the long sandy stretch of Cod Bay, one of the more remote sections of our walk, before picking up a series of inland tracks which cut across coastal heathland vegetation. These tracks are often ablaze with wildflowers and orchids in early spring. For lunch, we find ourselves a lovely secluded nook – where there may be an opportunity for a swim – before continuing around a hidden lagoon encircled by open marsupial lawns. Here we keep a sharp eye out for Wombats, Black Swans, and Tasmanian Native Hens – an endemic ground dwelling bird species.
On arriving at Deep Creek, depending on water levels, it may be necessary to make a shallow wade across a small outlet to reach our designated afternoon tea stop and the completion of our day’s walking. Again, in good weather – this is a lovely spot for a quick refreshing dip. If energy and time permit, some may choose to continue on along the next stretch of beach for an additional 20 minutes of idyllic beach walking, to the prominent rock formation of Picnic Rocks. Here the bus will meet the group, before returning to our accommodation.
This evening’s dinner will consist of nibbles, followed by an excellent two-meal prepared by your guides.
Walking Distance: 14kms, 5-6 hours approx
Today’s walk is packed full of highlights. We start our day at larapuna/Eddystone Point – adorned with its beautifully grand lighthouse, built in 1889 from locally quarried granite. This natural promontory is a fascinating site of historic importance to both European and Aboriginal Tasmanians, and we will spend plenty of time exploring some of the wonderful natural and man-made attractions in the area.
Leaving the lighthouse, we break out onto an expansive dune swept beach, often teeming with birdlife. Here we may observe gulls, terns, albatross and gannets – or occasionally migratory species such as short-tailed shearwaters and ruddy turnstones.
The remainder of the day is spent enjoying seemingly endless coves – each being worthy of their own picture-perfect postcard. There are numerous shelly beaches to inspect, and lovely small bays for swimming. This area also boasts some of the more interesting rock formations of the trip, awaiting decipherment from a creative types’ imagination.
After passing across another dune swept beach, we finish our day at Ansons Bay – wading a narrowing in the lagoon to reach our designated afternoon tea spot, and meet back up with the bus.
We return to our accommodation for one final relaxing night – enjoying pre-dinner nibbles and a fabulous two course meal prepared by your guides.
Walking Distance: 10kms, 4-5 hours approx
This morning we get a slightly earlier start before heading out for our final walk. Today’s hike is an interesting mix of changing landscapes within the Bay of Fires Conservation Area – consisting of secluded beaches, dark tannin stained lagoons, and contrasting stretches of pebbly shoreline.
Beginning at Policeman’s Point, we often get the chance to spot many species of bird which congregate around the outlet of Ansons Bay. These may include pelicans, cormorants and oystercatchers. After a stretch of sand walking, we reach the first segment of the aptly named Pebbly Beaches – featuring numerous 1km long stretches of coastal cobble stones. Being a little awkward to navigate, trekking poles are highly recommended for this section.
Shortly, another stunning expanse of white sandy beach is obtained – being so remote that you are unlikely to notice any signs of other visiting people. Regular granite headlands are crossed once again – each guarding their own hidden pocket of paradise. Somewhere along here we will select a suitable lunch spot, and maybe take the opportunity for one last refreshing swim.
Passing over a forested hill, it’s not much farther until we reach The Gardens – the final destination of our trip. This is a beautiful place to finish, before slipping back into the “real-world.” We wave goodbye to the white sand and orange rocks of the Bay of Fires, before returning to Launceston via the lovely sea-side town of St Helens.
Walking Distance: 14kms, 4 hours approx
Today you will be picked up from your hotel before taking a short drive up the West Tamar River to visit Tamar Valley Truffles. Uncover the mystery behind the all elusive truffle and learn about this highly prized culinary delight. Where do they grow? How are they found? All will be answered on an exclusive private tour of the family run property with Marcus, the dedicated manager of the truffiere.
The next chapter of our itinerary is wine, with the picturesque Tamar Valley having no shortage of stellar vineyards to choose from. The riverbanks are scattered with quality wineries that produce some of Tasmania’s most famed drops. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sparkling wines are just a few varieties that have highlighted the Tamar Valley as one of Australia’s best wine growing regions. Today we will enjoy intimate tastings at family run wineries to uncover the stories of being a winemaker in one of Tasmania’s most stunning regions.
Our first stop is Swinging Gate where Doug, Corrie and their friendly four legged assistant Nellie will share their wonderful range of wines at their gorgeous cellar door.
A special experience is just a short drive away, where we will visit historic Waterton Hall. On a 45 minute progressive history and tasting tour, stroll through the vineyard and grounds of their stunning 1850’s built property on the banks of the Tamar River. While sampling their award winning wines with matched snacks at different picturesque locations, you’ll learn of the captivating convict history of the property and the people that called it home before.
Please note this activity requires a minimum of 4 travellers to operate. In the event that it doesn’t meet minimum numbers you will be refunded the cost of this activity.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this extraordinary journey.
Check out & departure information
Hotel check out is by 10.00am. You are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring Launceston or, alternatively, please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. An Uber or taxi ride to Launceston airport will cost between $35 to $45
Most healthy adult can participate in this tour. If you can walk upwards of 15 kilometres or more in a day, carrying a lightweight day pack, you will find our tours totally achievable.
While we typically walk on well forged walking tracks, the quality and degree of difficulty can vary greatly. You may find some tracks rocky and lumpy underfoot, soft and sandy, or muddy and slippery.
Sometimes there is the need to negotiate obstacles such as fallen trees, sections of scree or steep steps.
Ensure you come along with, not only the right footwear, rain gear and clothing, but also the right frame of mind!
What to bring
Please bring your gear in a soft bag rather than hard suitcase to help guides pack the trailer.
Day pack. Here is a list of what you normally wear and need carry in your day pack during walking days. A 20 litre capacity bag is generally sufficient to carry these items:
Main bag. Your main bag stays at your accommodation. You only carry your light day pack while walking.
Inspiring Vacations has been globally recognised and awarded for its handling of COVID-19 during the pandemic. The safety and wellbeing of our guests is our highest concern during this time of uncertainty, and we are continuously monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation.
We have adopted the advice of the WHO to ensure all customers can travel with the knowledge of how to travel safely and with confidence.
Australian owned and operated with 100% Australian Customer Service support
We are proudly 100% Australian owned and operated, with our head office located in Melbourne, Victoria. When you make your booking, you will receive dedicated and ongoing support from our team of travel professionals throughout your booking, up until you are due to depart.
Cooling off period
If you change your mind within 7 days of making your booking online, you can request a refund of your initial deposit payment as part of our cooling off period.
Once your purchase date falls outside of the 7 day period, our standard terms and conditions will apply. Please ensure that any request to cancel your booking is received via email to support@inspiringvacations.com, including the reason for cancellation.
Deposit & Payments
Booking Process
Booking On Request:
You can enhance your holiday by arriving early or staying longer upon conclusion of the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre and post tour accommodation
Pre and Post accommodation is subject to availability and pricing may differ based on your season of travel.
Please note: If your travel dates fall between 1st and 6th of February, 2022, these rates will change to be from $250 per night and will be re-confirmed with you upon confirmation
COVID-19
Due to COVID there maybe disruptions to standard operating schedules of particular components of this itinerary. Should a component be effected a substitute will be confirmed prior to departure.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This tour is 'Active';
Whether it’s an Everest trek or a cycling tour through Europe, these tours are all about the great outdoors. Explore destinations away from the masses. You’ll require a good level of fitness, but they are not technically challenging. At the end of an active day, you can expect to rest in comfort and explore the culinary delicacies of each region. You’ll join an existing tour, not just with Inspiring Vacations guests
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $1,065 per person in addition to the twin-share price.
Triple Share
Not Available
Children
Children must be 5 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are the same price as adults.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation including e-tickets and hotel details will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Group Size
Max 10 for the hiking portion of this trip.
When travelling with a group, no matter the size, we ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience.
Bedding requests
We do our best to meet your bedding preference, however, bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only and cannot be guaranteed. All efforts will be made to meet your preference, however, any changes are beyond our control and limited by the hotel facilities and availability.
Tour Styles - This package is a Fully Escorted style.
To meet the needs of various types of travellers, we choose to operate various types of tours and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
Who is operating this package
We have partnered with a wide range of third party operators who assist in fulfilling your booking and delivering an enjoyable on-tour experience. Each package will consist of multiple operators meaning both guides and fellow travellers may change day to day. But don't worry, regardless of the operator, you'll be in good hands to experience the most out of each destination.
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