Discover stunning scenery , premium & unique stays and handpicked activities.
Climb the southern hemisphere’s steepest steam rail track under the unique power of the Abt rack and pinion rail system.
Explore the ruins of the Post Arthur Historic Site - one of Australia's most notorious penitentiaries.
Join the Glenbrook Vintage Railway for an unforgettable 14-day rail adventure through Tasmania, where wild landscapes and timeless charm come together in spectacular style.
Travelling by road, rail and river, we wind through Tasmania’s hidden rail routes, reveal dramatic coastlines, alpine highlands, and historic towns along the way. This fully escorted journey takes in the very best of the Australia's 'Holiday State'—with exclusive experiences and handpicked stays that showcase the island’s natural wonders and rich heritage.
Highlights include the untamed beauty of the West Coast, with a magical Gordon River Cruise through ancient rainforest and mirrored waterways. Marvel at the dramatic alpine scenery of Cradle Mountain, relax in the coastal charm of Devonport, and soak in the heritage and elegance of Launceston. Our journey continues along the spectacular East Coast, where we unwind amidst the white sands and turquoise waters of Freycinet—a perfect base to explore the world-famous Wineglass Bay.
From the wild to the refined, this 14-day tour is a celebration of Tasmania’s diverse landscape, culture, and the enduring romance of rail travel. Let the Glenbrook Vintage Railway take you beyond the ordinary—on a journey you’ll never forget.
Our fully escorted tour ensures every moment is filled with discovery, enhancing the allure of rail travel for enthusiasts of history, nature, and adventure alike.
Journey onboard a steam train departing Queenstown and travelling deep into Tasmania’s western wilderness and ancient rainforest. Climb the southern hemisphere’s steepest steam rail track under the unique power of the Abt rack and pinion rail system.
The World Heritage Cruise departs Strahan for Hells Gates, the narrow entrance to Macquarie Harbour. Step onshore Sarah Island, where guides tell you stories that make up the rich history of the ex-penal settlement. Cruise the spectacular Gordon River and enjoy a boardwalk through the cool-temperate rainforest at Heritage Landing. See a demonstration of an old Huon Pine sawmill.
Explore Tasmania's rich rail history with visits to iconic heritage railways like the Wee Georgie Wood Railway and Don River Railway. Riding these historic trains through lush rainforests and scenic coastlines offered a nostalgic glimpse into Tasmania’s pioneering past.
We take a scenic trip to Cradle Mountain and on to Dove Lake for a short stopover. The imposing summit – the fifth highest in the state – stands supreme above Dove Lake, which provides the classic Cradle Mountain view. The ridges and peaks around the lake, meanwhile, add new angles to the panorama.
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Port Arthur Historic Site, located 90 minutes drive from Hobart is Australia’s most intact and evocative convict site. There is a lot to see and do with more than 30 historic buildings and ruins to explore over 100 acres.
Today we arrive in Hobart, on Air NZ/Qantas flights arriving early afternoon.
After our group has gathered at Hobart's International Airport we will commence our trip in to town, via the scenic Mt Wellington, Tasmania's highest peak. The summit of kunanyi / Mount Wellington has wonderful views of Hobart and much of southern Tasmania. Head to the summit’s west side for views deep into the Southwest wilderness.
Reccommend flight details are below:
Air NZ/Qantas Flights
These flights can be booked together and through-checked. This also means your bags will be automatically transferred between flights.
Today, step back in time with a visit to the Port Arthur Historic Site, one of Australia's most fascinating and well-preserved convict-era settlements. Begin your day with a guided walking tour through this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, learning about its chilling history as one of the most notorious penal colonies of the 19th century.
Marvel at the imposing ruins of the sandstone Penitentiary, once home to hundreds of convicts. Explore the Convict Church, built by inmates, and the eerily silent Separate Prison, designed for solitary confinement—a stark insight into early penal reform.
Next, embark on a scenic harbor cruise to the Isle of the Dead, where you'll hear haunting tales of convicts, soldiers, and free settlers who lived—and died—here. Your guide will share stories that bring the past to life as you drift past the windswepLunch is at your leisure, with a variety of cafes and eateries onsite offering fresh Tasmanian produce and scenic views to enjoy while you take a break and reflect on the morning’s experiences. Afterwards, take time to wander the grounds, visit the visitor center, or browse the gift shop for a memento of your journey into Australia’s convict past.
This morning we depart Hobart by coach, we start by head northwest through the Derwent Valley, passing through the historic town of New Norfolk before reaching the lush rainforest of Mount Field National Park, home to the iconic Russell Falls.
As the road climbs into the Central Highlands, the scenery shifts to alpine plains and glacial lakes, with highlights like Lake St Clair and the stunning wood carvings at The Wall in the Wilderness. We stop here for lunch and to view the impressive wood carvings in the Huon Pine.
Continuing west, we descend into temperate rainforest before the terrain grows more rugged near Queenstown, with its stark, mineral-rich hills and winding mountain roads. Finally, we descend down to Strahan, a remote and tranquil harbor town nestled on the edge of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
Once we have checked in to our hotel, we gather for dinner.
After breakfast today we take the short walk to the start of our River Cruise with World Heritage Cruises.
Today we embark on a captivating journey with World Heritage Cruises from Strahan, Tasmania, to explore the pristine wilderness of the UNESCO-listed Gordon River. This family-owned company, with over 125 years of experience, offers a six-hour cruise that departs daily at 9:00 AM.
The voyage begins with a visit to Hells Gates, the narrow and historically significant entrance to Macquarie Harbour. Next, you'll step ashore at Sarah Island for a guided tour, delving into the compelling history of this former penal settlement. The cruise then continues along the serene waters of the Gordon River, where you'll disembark for a tranquil boardwalk through ancient, temperate rainforest at Heritage Landing.
Throughout the journey, enjoy engaging commentary that enriches your understanding of the area's ecology, geology, and human history. A freshly prepared lunch featuring local Tasmanian produce is served on board, enhancing this immersive experience into Tasmania's natural and historical treasures.
Today we coach over to Queenstown and take a heritage steam train journey through remote rainforest to the incredible King River Gorge, turning at Rinadeena before returning to Queenstown.
Journey through the historic mining town of Queenstown, once cut off from the world except for the existence of this unique railway. Alight at Lynchford Station, formerly a small town brimming with gold fever, now lost to history. Pan for gold or browse the Pioneer’s Room to learn more of our history before boarding the train for your next destination.
Enjoy the feeling of complete immersion in the rainforest as the train begins the steep ascent towards Rinadeena Saddle. Experience three kilometres of the unique rack and pinion railway, an historically significant innovation that remains central to the railway’s cultural importance today.
At Rinadeena, enjoy a bite to eat and a photography opportunity with your heritage steam locomotive, before stepping back onboard for your return to Queenstown..
Today, we depart Strahan and journey deep into Tasmania’s rugged interior, bound for the alpine beauty of Cradle Mountain. Travel through dense rainforest and past wild rivers as the landscape transforms from coastal wilderness to mountainous terrain.
Our first stop is the quaint township of Tullah, where you’ll visit the Wee Georgie Wood Railway, a heritage steam railway that offers a charming glimpse into Tasmania’s mining and transport history. Afterward, enjoy a relaxing lunch with serene lake views at Tullah Lakeside Lodge, a peaceful spot nestled beneath the mountains.
Continuing on, we arrive at Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park, one of Tasmania’s most iconic natural attractions. Take a scenic walk around Dove Lake, where the dramatic backdrop of Cradle Mountain reflects in the still waters and wombats are often seen grazing nearby. Then, visit Devils @ Cradle, a wildlife sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of the endangered Tasmanian devil—here you'll get a close-up encounter and learn about ongoing efforts to protect this unique species.
The day concludes with check-in at the Cradle Mountain Hotel, your alpine retreat for the night. Relax and unwind surrounded by towering eucalypts and the crisp highland air, ready for more adventures tomorrow.
Your journey begins in Cradle Mountain's pristine wilderness before winding through Tasmania's northwest countryside. The two-hour drive to Stanley traverses lush farmland, small townships, and rolling hills with occasional glimpses of Bass Strait.
Stanley appears dramatically positioned beneath The Nut - an ancient volcanic plug rising 150 meters from the surrounding landscape. The Nut Chairlift offers exhilarating views of the town, harbor, and coastline. At the summit, walking tracks circle the flat-topped plateau with spectacular panoramic vistas.
After enjoying Stanley's historic charm and fresh seafood, the coastal return route to Devonport provides different scenery - seaside towns and agricultural districts bathed in afternoon light. As you approach Devonport, you'll see the Mersey River meeting the sea, completing your perfect cross-section of northwestern Tasmania's diverse landscapes.
The evening is provided free at your leisure.
Our tour begins in Devonport, heading first to the striking red and white Mersey Bluff Lighthouse with its magnificent Bass Strait views and nearby Aboriginal rock carvings.
Next, explore the Tasmanian Arboretum at Eugenana, a 66-hectare botanical garden with diverse tree collections, peaceful lakes, and possible platypus sightings along its winding paths and a unique New Zealand twist.
After a scenic drive through th countryside we reach Latrobe to admire the famous giant platypus statue celebrating the "Platypus Capital of the World." Enjoy lunch at your leisure at one of the charming cafés along the heritage-listed main street.
The afternoon takes you to the Don River Railway, where you'll board a vintage train for a nostalgic journey along the picturesque Don River. Afterward, explore the workshop and museum housing an impressive collection of restored locomotives that showcase Tasmania's railway heritage.
This perfect day trip circles back to Devonport by late afternoon, having showcased the region's coastal beauty, natural wonders, charming towns, and fascinating history.
Your journey begins in coastal Devonport, heading south through Tasmania's fertile countryside toward Sheffield. Known as the "Town of Murals," Sheffield's streetscapes come alive with over 140 vibrant artworks depicting local history and landscapes painted on buildings throughout town.
The highlight in Sheffield is boarding a heritage steam train for a nostalgic journey through picturesque countryside. Feel the gentle rhythm of the locomotive as you travel along restored tracks, steam billowing overhead while passing through scenery that has changed little since the golden age of rail travel.
After your rail adventure, you'll continue to one of the renowned Tamar Valley wineries for lunch. Here, amid rolling vineyards with views of the surrounding countryside, you'll sample cool-climate wines that Tasmania has become famous for, perfectly paired with a lunch showcasing local produce and artisanal foods.
The afternoon journey takes you across the historic Batman Bridge, an impressive cable-stayed structure spanning the Tamar River. Named after John Batman, one of Tasmania's early European settlers, the bridge offers stunning views of the broad estuary where the North and South Esk Rivers meet. Your approach to Launceston reveals Tasmania's second-largest city nestled at the junction of three rivers.
The journey concludes in this charming historic city with its well-preserved colonial and Victorian architecture, having traversed some of northern Tasmania's most diverse landscapes—from coastal plains to rural countryside, vineyard-covered hills to river valleys—all in a single captivating day..
Your relaxed day in Launceston begins with a morning visit to Cataract Gorge, a remarkable natural wonder just minutes from the city center. Here, you'll experience the world's longest single-span chairlift gliding peacefully above the ancient gorge. The sweeping views showcase dramatic cliff faces, the South Esk River below, and beautifully maintained Victorian gardens complete with roaming peacocks.
Following this natural spectacle, you'll take a scenic drive to historic Woolmers Estate near Longford. This remarkably preserved colonial property offers a glimpse into 19th-century Tasmanian life through its original homestead, outbuildings, and magnificent rose garden. You'll enjoy lunch at the estate's charming café featuring seasonal Tasmanian produce in a serene country setting.
Returning to Launceston in the afternoon, you'll board the heritage Launceston Tramway for a nostalgic journey through the city streets. These meticulously restored trams offer a unique perspective on Launceston's architectural heritage as knowledgeable conductors share stories of the city's colorful past.
Your day concludes at the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG), Australia's largest regional museum. Spread across two sites, it houses impressive collections of colonial art, natural history exhibits, and displays celebrating Tasmania's indigenous and colonial history. The museum provides a perfect cultural end to your day before a leisurely dinner at one of Launceston's renowned restaurants.
We return to our accommodation for you to see the evening out at your leisure.
Your coach journey from Launceston to Freycinet National Park showcases Tasmania's remarkable east coast diversity. Departing Launceston's historic streets, you'll travel through the picturesque Fingal Valley with its patchwork farmland and eucalyptus forests before winding through the lush Weldborough Pass.
Emerging toward Tasmania's East Coast, the landscape transforms as the road begins offering glimpses of the Tasman Sea's brilliant blue waters. The coastal route reveals a stunning sequence of pristine beaches with powdery white sand and turquoise bays.
As you approach Freycinet Peninsula, the iconic Hazards mountains come into view – their distinctive pink-hued granite peaks forming a dramatic backdrop to the national park. These ancient formations, colored by pink feldspar crystals, create one of Tasmania's most photographed landscapes.
The journey perfectly captures Tasmania's remarkable diversity – from historic towns to ancient forests, rolling farmland to vineyards, and ultimately to one of Australia's most spectacular coastal landscapes where mountains meet the sea in perfect harmony.
Dinner is on us tonight in our luxurious accommodation, the Freycinet Lodge.
Our day begins at Freycinet Lodge with a cruise along the peninsula's dramatic coastline. Gliding through crystal-clear waters, you'll witness the soaring pink granite cliffs of The Hazards from a perspective few experience, with the highlight being Wineglass Bay - its perfect crescent of white sand framed by forested headlands. Included onbaord is lunch in the Vista Lounge.
After returning to shore, the coach journey to Hobart travels south along Tasmania's spectacular east coast. The road offers continuous Tasman Sea views as you pass coastal towns and pristine beaches. The landscape gradually transforms from coastal heathlands to the rolling farmlands of the Midlands. We make a stop at Richmond for time to look at the historic Richmond sandstone bridge.
As you approach Hobart, imposing Mount Wellington (kunanyi) comes into view standing sentinel over the city. Your descent reveals a picturesque harbor where historic sandstone warehouses meet modern waterfront developments - a perfect conclusion to a journey showcasing Tasmania's remarkable diversity from coastal wilderness to charming capital.
Today is all about soaking up the culture, charm, and creativity of Hobart at your own pace. Start your morning with free time to explore the city, whether you choose to stroll along the historic waterfront, enjoy a coffee at a local café, or browse boutique shops and galleries tucked into the sandstone streets.
Then, immerse yourself in Tasmania’s most vibrant open-air market—the famous Salamanca Markets. Held every Saturday in the heart of Salamanca Place, this bustling market features over 300 stalls offering everything from handcrafted goods and local produce to unique art, jewellery, and gourmet treats. It’s the perfect place to pick up a keepsake or sample some of Tasmania’s finest local fare.
In the afternoon, take a scenic ferry ride or coach transfer to the world-renowned MONA (Museum of Old and New Art). Known for its provocative exhibitions and striking architecture, MONA is Australia’s largest private museum and a must-visit for art lovers and the curious alike. Explore its bold and unconventional collections before returning to the city with a head full of new ideas and experiences.
We regather in the hotel this evening for our Farewell Dinner.
This morning we are transferred from our hotel to Hobart's International Airport for our onwards travel.
Reccommend flight details are below:
Air NZ/Qantas Flights
These flights can be booked together and through-checked. This also means your bags will be automatically transferred between flights.
Old Woolstore Hotel - or similar
2 Nights
Strahan Village - or similar
3 Nights
Cradle Mountain Hotel
1 Night
Novotel Devonport Waterfront
2 Nights
Peppers Silo Hotel
2 Nights
Freycinet Lodge
1 Night
Old Woolstore Hotel
2 Nights
Please note: Accommodation may change or be different to that which was advertised. You will be accommodated in an equivalent or better accommodation should the advertised option not be available or not able to accommodate our group in one place.
Reserve your seat now and make unforgettable memories.
📞 020 GVR Book | 020 487 2665
