Tasmania Tarkine and Cradle Mountain Explorer

Today you head from Launceston, one of Australia’s oldest cities, to the seaside town of Stanley, with plenty of scenic stops along the way. Visit Narawantapu National Park, whose coastal plains are home to stunning scenery and abundant wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies and a variety of bird species. Learn about the rich Aboriginal heritage of this area, where artefacts can still be found along the walking trails. Together, we’ll enjoy a platter lunch at either a local vineyard or cidery that are part of Tasmania’s Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail. You may opt to sample their local brews – perhaps a pinot noir or pear cider. After a brief stop in the picturesque town of Penguin, visit the historic Table Cape Lighthouse, perched atop the rocky cliff’s edge. In Stanley, climb the famous landmark The Nut, an ancient volcanic plug that juts out into the Bass Strait and offers outstanding views from the top. Later, wander down to the working wharf where some of the freshest seafood in Tasmania comes in each day. At night, there is an optional dinner at Hursey Seafood, another part of the Tasting Trail.

The Tarkine is home to the largest temperate rainforest in Australia and the second largest in the world. It is rich with geological wonders, Aboriginal history and unique creatures and habitats not found anywhere else on earth. Explore sites like the hidden Trowutta Arch and the Lake Chisolm sinkhole, both examples of fascinating geological change. Other highlights along the Tarkine Coast include Marrawah, famous for its big wave surfing, Mount Cameron West, one of the most important Aboriginal art sites in Tasmania, and the desolate Edge of the World, marking the longest stretch of ocean on the planet – from here, there’s no land until Argentina. You’ll enjoy numerous short walks to explore the sites, with a picnic lunch along the way.

Today you travel from Stanley to Corinna via Rocky Cape National Park, home to windswept heathlands, sea caves, rock pools and twisted rocks that have formed over millions of years. Discover the cultural and spiritual connection to this area among the Aboriginal community. Continue on to the stunning Boat Harbour Beach before stopping for lunch at either the spectacular Hellyer Gorge or in the historic town of Waratah. Take a short walk (approximately 1.5 hours roundtrip) to see the pretty Philosopher Falls. In the remote, rural town of Corinna, settle into your accommodation in restored miners’ cottages and put away your phone – there’s no service out here anyway.

Get active today with opportunities for kayaking and hiking around the Corinna area, exploring the Pieman River and Tarkine rainforest. After lunch in Corinna, begin your return towards Launceston, with plenty of stops along the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail. Enjoy a whisky tasting tour at Hellyers Road Distillery, or sample local beers at Buttons Brewing. If you have a sweet tooth, Anvers Chocolate may be calling you to taste its famous truffles!

Head back to Launceston, passing the craggy peaks of Cradle Mountain. Take a walk around the lovely Dove Lake in Cradle Valley or hike up to Marion’s Lookout for breathtaking views across the area. Keep your eyes peeled for wombats at Ronny Creek. Along the way to Launceston, there will be more optional stops for tastings and shopping, including for locally produced cider, cheese and ice cream.