Tasmania trip package: Hobart and the beautiful south

Itinerary in brief:

• 2 nights Little Swanport (for Maria Island)            
• 2 nights Hobart
• 2 nights Bruny Island
• 2 nights Port Arthur

Day 1: Arrive Hobart 

Arrive in Hobart and collect your rental car.

Your drive today takes you north-east through Richmond and the Coal Valley wine region, taking in the excellent views out towards Maria Island. You’ll spend two nights at a farm property close to the pier, so you’ll be well located for the ferry across to Maria Island.

Day 2: Maria Island    

Today you can explore some of Maria Island. The cruise across is likely to include sightings of seals, albatross and dolphins – and possibly even whales! Once you’ve arrived the wildlife will continue to delight, as this island is home to an array of endemic and endangered animals. Take a walk around the remains of an old convict site and wander through the forest spotting kangaroos, wombats, devils and a variety of birdlife.

Days 3 & 4: Hobart    

Head back to Hobart today for 2 nights in the city. Why not stop on route at a wildlife sanctuary for an up-close encounter with some of the endemic species in Tasmania?

You’ll be staying at the waterfront where you’re spoilt for choice in terms of restaurants and shops. If you’re in town on a Saturday then the Salamanca markets are must – they specialise in local produce, arts and crafts.

Day 5: Hobart to Bruny Island     

After a lazy morning, you can depart for the next stage of your trip; Bruny Island. Head towards Kettering where you’ll take a short ferry across to Bruny Island, which is made up of North and South which are connected by a narrow piece of land.

Day 6: Bruny Island

Today you’ll take an eco-cruise along the highest cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere. You’ll go into the vast caves where you can marvel at the rock formations lining the coast. Spot seal colonies, eagles, albatross and dolphins. The island is also home to Adventure Bay where you can view grazing white wallabies in the wild – the only place in Australia.

Days 7 & 8: Port Arthur

Drive to the Tasman Peninsula today, where you will stop at the historic Port Arthur for a two-night stay. The site is renowned as one of Tasmania’s most feared penal settlements. Take a harbour cruise and an evening ghost tour, or if you prefer something a little more laid back head just outside of the town for a stay close to White Beach, a beautiful sandy spot with home cooked food and great hospitality.

Day 9: Depart Hobart

Head back to Hobart and return your rental car to the airport before continuing on the next leg of your travels.