Touring Tasmania from Launceston to Hobart with a stop at the iconic Wineglass Bay offers travelers a chance to see some of the island’s most breathtaking sights in one day. This active tour, rated 4.5 out of 5, suits those who enjoy combining light physical activity with scenic sightseeing, local food, and wine. It’s a full-day adventure that promises plenty of memorable moments, from panoramic vistas to relaxing wine tastings.
What we love about this experience? First, the guided walks through Freycinet National Park reveal some of Tasmania’s most photographed landscapes, including the famous Wineglass Bay lookout. Second, the stops at Devils Corner Winery add a delicious touch of local flavor, with options to sample regional wines and fresh seafood.
A potential consideration is that the walking involved, especially up to the lookout, is moderate uphill and might be challenging for those with knee issues or limited mobility. That said, the tour offers options to tailor the experience to different fitness levels, making it flexible for most active travelers. This tour appeals most to those wanting a dynamic, scenic day that blends outdoor activity with cultural and culinary treats.
Key Points
- Stunning Views: The tour delivers panoramic vistas from the Wineglass Bay lookout and Cape Tourville Lighthouse.
- Guided Walks: Expert guides enhance the experience with insights, making the landscape come alive.
- Flexible Options: Walk as much or as little as you like, with alternative sightseeing stops.
- Local Flavors: Enjoy wine tastings, seafood, and wood-fired pizza at a renowned Tasmanian winery.
- Comfortable Transport: Travel is in a climate-controlled van, making the long day comfortable.
- Balanced Pace: The itinerary is well-paced, with ample time for activities and relaxation.
A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience
This tour begins bright and early in Launceston, with a meeting point at the Hotel Grand Chancellor. From there, you’ll travel through North Tasmania’s charming Georgian townships like Evandale and Campbell Town. The latter offers a brief, relaxed stop where you can purchase lunch and explore a bit — a smart move to fuel up for the day ahead.
Driving in a climate-controlled van ensures comfort as you traverse the scenic east coast, with the journey itself already a feast for the eyes. We appreciated the mention of luggage capacity, which allows one small suitcase per person, perfect for travelers on a Tasmania road trip.
When you arrive at Freycinet National Park, the landscape immediately impresses. The towering Hazards mountains set the scene for a day packed with natural beauty. The first stop is the Cape Tourville Lighthouse walk — a quick, 30-minute stroll that offers 360-degree views along the rugged coastline. This viewpoint is ideal for snapping photos or just soaking in the sweeping scenery.
Next, the highlight: the walk to the Wineglass Bay Lookout. It’s an uphill trek about 45 minutes long, but the effort pays off with a view that’s often called one of the most stunning in Australia. As one reviewer put it, “The climb to see Wineglass Bay is challenging for those not fit but its still manageable. The view is lovely.” For the more adventurous, there’s an option to extend the walk down to Wineglass Beach, where you can relax, take a swim, or enjoy a picnic in the white sands.
Not everyone chooses the full walk. The guide offers alternatives like visiting Honeymoon Bay and Sleepy Bay, which are equally scenic and less strenuous. One traveler mentioned, “Walk to Wineglass Bay was amazing, although I was a little puffed at the top, it was well worth the walk, the views on the way were beautiful.” The flexibility allows each traveler to enjoy the landscape at their own pace.
After soaking in the park’s stunning scenery, the tour moves on to a local winery, Devil’s Corner, perched overlooking the water. Here, you can indulge in wine tastings and purchase a glass or bottle to enjoy on-site. The winery’s setting is often praised, with one reviewer describing it as “stunning” and noting the “magnificent view.” If seafood is your thing, you’ll have the chance to buy fresh oysters and other local delicacies, making this stop a real highlight.
The journey concludes with a drop-off in Hobart around 6 pm. The trip’s “value for money” is frequently highlighted, especially considering the inclusion of national park fees, guided walks, and the wine tasting stops. It’s a long day, but the range of activities and scenery justifies the price of about $154 per person.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Launceston.
The Practicalities and What They Mean for You
Transportation: Traveling in a small, climate-controlled van, this tour keeps group sizes manageable (max 20 travelers), ensuring a more intimate experience. This also means plenty of space for comfort, especially after hours of sightseeing.
Timing: Starting at 7:30 am and returning around 6 pm, the schedule is packed but well-paced, with enough time in each location to truly enjoy the scenery and activities. The stop at Campbell Town for lunch offers a chance to stretch and prepare for the hikes.
Physical Demands: The moderate physical fitness requirement is important. The walk to Wineglass Bay lookout is manageable for most, but not suitable for anyone with mobility issues. The tour provides options for less strenuous sightseeing, which is helpful.
Cost-Value: For $154, you’re getting a full day of guided sightseeing, scenic walks, national park entrance fees, and a wine tasting — a solid deal considering the experience and scenery. Food isn’t included, but the stops offer a variety of tempting local options.
Reviews: The overwhelmingly positive feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides, who make the landscape come alive, and the stunning views that make every step worthwhile. Some reviews mention challenging walks, but also note that the views and experience are worth the effort.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor walking and scenic sightseeing. If you’re interested in Tasmanian landscapes, local food & wine, and don’t mind a bit of uphill hiking, you’ll find this day very rewarding. It’s suitable for families with older children (minimum age 8), and those who appreciate small group sizes for a more personal experience.
It’s less suited for travelers with limited mobility or those seeking a purely relaxed, bus-only trip. Also, if you’re after extensive wine tasting, keep in mind that this is a short tasting experience, not a full wine tour.
Final Thoughts
This Launceston to Hobart tour via Wineglass Bay offers a wonderful blend of Tasmania’s natural beauty, outdoor activity, and local flavor. The guided walks, especially to the lookout, are genuinely memorable, and the visit to Devils Corner Winery adds a relaxed, indulgent touch. The overall value for the price, coupled with the friendly guides and stunning scenery, makes this an excellent choice for anyone wanting to see Tasmania’s highlights in one active day.
If you’re after a well-organized, scenic adventure that balances physical activity with cultural delights, this tour is likely to hit the mark. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy getting out into nature but also appreciate the comfort of guided details and local specialties.
Launceston to Hobart via Wineglass Bay – Active Tour
FAQ
Is transportation provided for the entire trip?
Yes, you’ll travel in a climate-controlled van from Launceston to Hobart, with stops at key sightseeing spots along the way.
How long is the walk up to Wineglass Bay Lookout?
The walk is about 45 minutes uphill, so it requires moderate fitness but is manageable for most people with a reasonable level of physical activity.
Can I choose not to walk to Wineglass Bay?
Absolutely. The tour offers options to see other highlights like Honeymoon Bay, Sleepy Bay, or Cape Tourville Lighthouse instead of the full walk.
Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but a stop at Campbell Town allows you to purchase lunch. The winery stop also offers food options like oysters and pizza.
How much time is spent at the winery?
About 30 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy a wine tasting and take in the views before heading back to Hobart.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but the minimum age is 8 years old, and children should be comfortable with some walking and outdoor activities.
In the end, this tour combines Tasmania’s best outdoor scenery with engaging guides and local flavors, making it a memorable way to connect with the island’s natural charm. Whether you’re a keen walker, a lover of good wine, or simply eager to see stunning coastlines, this active day trip is well worth considering.
