Melbourne & Essence of Tasmania
Self Drive Tour
A curious island at the edge of the world, Tasmania has a rich and varied landscape with World Heritage listed national parks displaying flora over 2000 years old, wildlife unique to the island, pristine lakes reflecting clear blue skies and verdant vegetation and gushing waterfalls. Add stunning beaches, amazing farm to table produce, and a rich and somewhat questionable history and you’ve an ideal land to explore.
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Your Itinerary
Day 1 : UK - Singapore
Take your outbound flight and arrive in Singapore.
Day 2-3 : Singapore
The dynamic city state of Singapore is a great place to break your journey to Australia or New Zealand with its colourful blend of culture, cuisine, arts and architecture. Stroll along Orchard Road and indulge in Singapore's
favourite pastime - shopping. With friendly and welcoming people and state-of-the-art infrastructure, a stay here will be a welcome break from a long flight.
Day 4-5 : Singapore - Melbourne
Leave Singapore behind and head to Melbourne.
Day 6 : Melbourne
Enjoy an Afternoon Lakes and Arcades tour. Join this indulgent afternoon walk through Melbourne's beautiful back streets and get orientated in the life of the city that locals love. Discover local designers and speciality retailers that often are only found in the city. Some of the quirkiest cafes, independent designers, street art, architecture and historical tales are found in these walkways. There is something for everyone. See over 30 stores on this casual stroll and return to those you like best in the afternoon. At the conclusion of your tour, make your own way to your accommodation.
Day 7 : Melbourne
Enjoy a full day Great Ocean Road tour with lunch. this Your tour provides you with the opportunity to experience this majestic coastal drive in style, with time to relax and fully appreciate the wonders of this world famous route. Stay on the lookout for some very special animals including whales, dolphins, echidnas and bandicoots. Stop at Apollo Bay, a tranquil seaside town set amongst the soft rolling hills for lunch. Enjoy a walk in the forest of the Otway Ranges. A truly unique day out, capped off by a visit to the ancient rock formations of the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. Return to Melbourne, where you will be transferred to your Melbourne accommodation.
Day 8 : Melbourne - Hobart
On arrival in Hobart make your own way to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day.
Day 9 : Strahan (195 miles)
Following breakfast collect your car and begin your journey. Enjoy the pristine wilderness on the shores of Lake St Clair before continuing to Strahan.
Day 10 : Strahan Gordon River Cruise
Cruise up the mighty Gordon River, with its ancient Huon pines and magnificent mirrored reflections. Step ashore at Heritage Landing to walk in the rainforest to see trees 2000 years old. See Hells Gate and Tasmania’s salmon farms; enjoy lunch while cruising to Sarah Island, then walk amongst the ruins of this notorious convict island.
Day 11 : Smithton (165 miles)
Take in the serenity of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park where breathtaking landscapes are covered with alpine flora; marvel at the views from the shores of Dove Lake. Then travel via Stanley, set in the shadow of The Nut, on your way to Smithton.
Day 12 : Launceston (150 miles)
Tasmania’s North West combines stunning scenery with great produce. You’ve a chance to experience it today if you follow The Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail, designed to help you discover the best artisanal producers this special region has to offer, as you make your way to Launceston.
Day 13 : Launceston
One of Australia’s oldest cities, Launceston has elegant colonial and Victorian architecture and century-old parks. A short walk from the city centre, Cataract Gorge is a slice of wilderness right in the heart of town.
Day 14 : Coles Bay (125 miles)
A popular holiday town on the east coast and is a gateway to the breathtakingly beautiful Freycinet National Park. Take a swim in the clear ocean, go fishing or enjoy a long walk at one of the local beaches, including Richardson’s, Muirs and the incredible Friendly Beaches.
Day 15 : Morning Wineglass Bay Cruise
Today on your cruise, discover a coast dotted with sparkling white sand beaches, including Cooks and Bryans beaches, only accessible by water or a full day bushwalk. Explore the inner passage of remote Schouten
Island, home to little penguins and short tailed shearwaters, before heading into the Tasman Sea towards Wineglass Bay.
Day 16 : Hobart
A short drive to Hobart to enjoy one of Australia’s oldest cities, be sure to visit the waterfront and Salamanca Place. Return your car at the airport and take your onward flight.
Day 17-18 : Hobart (145 miles) -UK
Your Essence of Tasmania Tour concludes upon return of your rental car.