Hike Tasmania's Tarkine Wilderness

Welcome to Launceston! Check-in at the hotel any time after 2pm. If you arrive early, the hotel can store your bags while you visit some of Launceston’s local sights such as Cataract Gorge and the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery. This evening, meet your leader and tour group in the lobby of the hotel at 6pm for a Welcome Meeting followed by dinner at the hotel restaurant. (D)

Today you’ll begin exploring the country’s oldest temperate rainforest, home to unique species that have evolved over hundreds of millions of years and are a living connection to the Gondwana supercontinent. It’s an early start for the drive to Mole Creek and an easy walk to a lookout above the Mersey River valley, with a spectacular view of tulampanga (Alum Cliffs). After morning tea, drive along scenic, winding roads lined with Tasmanian forest to the old silver-mining and hydro town of Tullah. It’s a challenging but rewarding climb through tall forest and buttongrass meadows to Lake Herbert, perched 600m above Lake MacIntosh, with views of Mt Farrell. From here, it’s only a five minute drive to your accommodation. You may like to take a stroll around the lake before tonight’s included dinner at the hotel restaurant. (B/L/D)

After a hearty breakfast, drive to the remote mining town of Corinna along sealed and unsealed roads, with a barge river-crossing at the end of the trip. Today you’ll hike to Montezuma Falls, one of the highest falls in Tasmania, and enjoy great views back to the falls and out to the Tarkine’s wild western rainforests. In the evening, tuck into a delicious meal at your hotel's restaurant surrounded by pristine takayna/Tarkine temperate rainforest. (B/L/D)

Tighten those boots and get set for adventure, because today is a full day of hiking on easy to challenging terrain, packed with everything this region has to offer. Think stately rivers, old myrtle forest, buttongrass moorlands and more. The path varies from boardwalk to uneven wooden steps, and winding, steep dirt trails, so bring your sense of adventure and determination. Today’s walks will depend on the group’s interests and fitness level, with options ranging from a walk along the Savage River from Corinna to the more challenging return walk to Mt Donaldson summit. After a day spent exploring the region’s trails, join your group for dinner at Tannin Restaurant. (B/L/D)

Start your day with an early morning boat cruise along the Pieman River to the river mouth. After being dropped off at Hardwicke Point, hike through coastal heathland to the sea at Pieman Heads, then continue along the wild and rocky coastline to Rupert Point, where there are sweeping views to Sandy Cape and back along the just-traversed coastline. After walking back to Hardwicke Point, board the boat once more for a leisurely cruise back to Corinna. Occasionally high seas and strong westerlies prevent landing at Hardwicke Point. However, don't worry, as there is a fabulous alternative walk south through coastal heathland to Conical Rocks if the boat can’t run. (B/L/D)

It’s time to say goodbye to the beautiful takayna/Tarkine region but there is still time for another walk or two. The first is near the old mining town of Waratah with a short and mostly gentle walk to Philosopher Falls through temperate rainforest, with the option to walk down to the falls. After morning tea and a short stop in Waratah, continue to another lovely waterfall or local attraction (there are so many to choose from in this region!) for a final short walk before returning to Launceston via the scenic coast road, with the option to stop and sample local produce along the way. On your arrival in Launceston at around 5pm, your walking trip will come to an end. (B/L)