Take a road trip from Hobart to Launceston for a 3-day discovery of the three most popular tourist destinations in Tasmania.
— What To Bring —
DAY 1: PORT ARTHUR & TASMANIAN DEVILS
DAY 2: HOBART TO LAUNCESTON VIA WINEGLASS BAY
DAY 3: CRADLE MOUNTAIN
BIG 3 Planning Information
We recommend arriving the night before you wish to begin your Big 3 Tour.
Meals are not provided, however, there are plenty of opportunities to stop for lunch and snacks on each tour to suit your taste and budget, or you can bring your own.
Book your own accommodation of choice to suit your budget and style. We will pick up and drop off to select Hobart / Launceston central city hotels only. The nearest location to your accommodation will be allocated to you. Please ensure you can load and unload your own luggage on Day 2.
For flexible departure day options or non consecutive tour day options please contact are friendly office team.
Please note: This tour is also available departing from Launceston (finish in Hobart).
A 3-day tour focusing on the 'BIG 3' popular destinations, like a road trip from Hobart to Launceston, offers a concentrated experience of Tasmania's key highlights. It's designed to cover major scenic spots, wildlife encounters, and cultural attractions efficiently. While it provides an excellent introduction, a more extensive trip would allow for deeper exploration of specific regions.
The optimal seasons for visiting Tasmania are generally summer (December to February) and autumn (March to May). Summer offers warm weather perfect for outdoor activities and longer daylight hours. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, especially in national parks, and stable, milder temperatures. Winter (June to August) is cooler but can be good for crisp, clear days and potential snow on higher peaks, while spring (September to November) offers blooming wildflowers.
For a more comprehensive Tasmania experience beyond the 'BIG 3' tour, an ideal duration is typically 7 to 10 days. This allows ample time to explore additional national parks like Cradle Mountain, discover the East Coast's stunning beaches, delve into the Tasman Peninsula's convict history, and enjoy the diverse culinary scene without feeling rushed.
While specific 'BIG 3' attractions can vary slightly, a popular selection often includes icons like Port Arthur Historic Site for its rich history, Freycinet National Park with its stunning Wineglass Bay, and Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park for breathtaking wilderness and hiking. These offer a mix of history, scenic beauty, and unique natural landscapes.
During a multi-day Tasmania road trip covering major highlights, the primary transportation method is usually a comfortable coach or minivan with a dedicated driver-guide. This allows visitors to enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving, navigate winding roads, and benefit from expert commentary. Self-drive car rentals are also popular for independent exploration.
On a Tasmania tour covering main scenic routes, you can expect diverse wildlife encounters. This often includes spotting wallabies, pademelons, and possums, especially during dusk or dawn. Opportunities might arise to see Tasmanian devils at wildlife parks, as well as various bird species, and potentially seals or dolphins along coastal areas. Guided tours often include specific stops at prime wildlife viewing locations.
In Hobart, a Tasmania journey offers rich cultural and historical exploration. Key sites include Salamanca Place with its Georgian warehouses and vibrant market, Battery Point's historic streets, and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. The nearby Port Arthur Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed former penal colony, provides a profound historical experience just a short drive away.
At the end of a Tasmania road trip in Launceston, notable features include the stunning Cataract Gorge, offering walking trails, a chairlift, and swimming. Other activities involve exploring the city's beautiful Victorian architecture, visiting Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, or enjoying the local food and wine scene in the Tamar Valley, just a short drive away.