Australia: Sydney's Shores to Tasmania's Trails

Welcome to the Land Down Under!

Touch down in Sydney, where your Australian adventure begins. After checking into our hotel, take some time to unwind, stretch your legs, and soak in the vibrant energy of this world-class city. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the chance to explore nearby sights, wander through bustling streets, or simply relax and settle in.

Take the morning to sleep in and shake off any lingering jet lag. Our first group meeting will be at 1 PM in the hotel lobby before we head to Barangaroo Park to get to know one another, and learn more about the adventure ahead. Come ready to explore, as we’ll set off right after on Sydney’s best stroll—the iconic Harbour Foreshore Walk. With breathtaking views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, we’ll follow the waterfront path past historic wharves, vibrant precincts, and cultural landmarks before arriving at the Royal Botanic Gardens. Here, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the harbour, the Opera House, and Sydney’s dazzling skyline, all framed by lush gardens and native flora.

After returning to the hotel with time to freshen up, we’ll come together for our first group dinner—setting the tone for the journey ahead, indulging in the city’s renowned culinary scene, and soaking in the magical nighttime ambiance of Sydney

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Grace Hotel, Sydney
Daily Activities: Walking 3-4 hours, 3-4 miles

This morning we leave the cityscape behind and take the drive west, until we reach the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park. Upon arrival we will be given a full traditional Welcome to Country Ceremony. Our private ceremony will be performed by Dharug and Gundungurra Traditional Owners, as they welcome us in visiting their Country. These ceremonies vary from speeches of welcome to traditional dance and smoking ceremonies. Once we have been provided with permission by our hosting group and been offered the safe passage and protection of our spiritual journey, we will set about exploring this sacred land.

After an early lunch, we set off on the historic Grand Canyon walking track, established in 1907. This lush rainforest trail winds through sandstone chasms, moss-covered walls, and towering Coachwood and Sassafras trees. We’ll explore some of the area's most diverse and spectacular ecosystems, concluding at Evans Lookout, where views over the Grose Valley Wilderness will leave us in awe.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Carrington Hotel, Katoomba
Drive Time: 2.5 hours
Daily Activities: Hiking 3.7 mile loop, 948 ft elevation +/-

Today, we venture deeper into the breathtaking landscapes of the Blue Mountains along The Grand Cliff Top Walk. As the most visited national park in New South Wales, with approximately 8 million visitors annually, the Blue Mountains National Park is home to some of Australia's oldest and most beloved bushwalks.

Escaping the crowds, we’ll begin at the iconic Three Sisters before following the lesser-traveled trails toward Wentworth Falls. Along the way, we’ll be treated to sweeping views of the Jamison Valley, culminating at the top of the stunning Wentworth Falls. While much of our hike follows Jamison Creek and the ridges high above the valley, we’ll also pass through lush, forested pockets—offering the perfect opportunity to cool off in the creeks if the day is warm.

Your guides will provide a delicious and nutritious lunch along the trail, keeping us fueled as we take in some of the most secluded and scenic spots. We’ll finish at Empress Falls, a popular canyoning destination for adventure seekers, before returning to town for a free evening in Katoomba.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: The Carrington Hotel, Katoomba
Daily Activities: Hiking 8–10 miles, 1,528 feet elevation +/-

We’ll start the day early, making our way to Sydney Airport. If time allows, we may take a quick drive to the Three Sisters lookout to witness the first morning light over the Jamison Valley—an unforgettable final glimpse of this hazy-blue wonderland.

Our flight to kanamaluka / Launceston is a short 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, we’ll settle into our riverside hotel before heading out for a late afternoon stroll through Cataract Gorge—a stunning three-mile stretch of forested river reserve wrapped around a dramatic gorge. The South Esk River has shaped this landscape for tens of millions of years, and the area holds deep cultural significance for the Palawa, the Tasmanian Aboriginal people, making it a fitting introduction to the island’s ancient landscape.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Leisure Inn Penny Royal, Launceston
Daily Activities: Hiking 2 miles, 613 feet elevation +/-

We leave Launceston behind early this morning, heading west to explore the breathtaking Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Nestled in the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Cradle Mountain is a place of exceptional natural beauty—no trip to Tasmania is complete without witnessing this magnificent peak. From moss-covered ancient rainforests and deep river gorges to snow-capped summits, wild alpine moorlands, and glacial lakes, the park’s diverse landscapes are nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Upon arrival, we’ll take a short transfer through Ronny Creek—the official starting point of the Overland Track. Keep an eye out for roaming wombats along the way! Once we reach the shores of Dove Lake, we’ll have the choice between two iconic hikes: a short but steep ascent to Marion’s Lookout, offering breathtaking views of Dove Lake and Cradle Mountain, or the scenic Dove Lake Circuit, a gentler route that loops around this serene alpine lake. Whichever path we choose, we’ll be rewarded with stunning scenery and an opportunity to immerse ourselves in Tasmania’s wild beauty.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Leisure Inn Penny Royal, Launceston
Daily Activities: Hiking 3.75 miles, 565 feet +/- or 4.4 miles, 1,315 feet +/-

We begin our day by departing Launceston and heading toward Tasmania’s stunning east coast. This picturesque route takes us through rolling farmland and charming historic towns before revealing the breathtaking coastline—where white sandy beaches and glistening blue waters await.

Before reaching the iconic Freycinet Peninsula, we’ll stop at one of the east coast’s finest wineries for a delightful lunch, paired with a tasting of local wines. With our appetites satisfied, we’ll continue south, entering Freycinet National Park and stretching our legs with a scenic stroll along Friendly Beaches—a perfect way to walk off our midday feast while soaking in the coastal beauty.

After arriving at our accommodations for the next few nights, there will be plenty of time to settle in and unwind. Meanwhile, our guides will prepare a delicious dinner under the dimming evening skies, setting the tone for the adventures ahead.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet, Coles Bay
Drive Time: 3 hours
Daily Activities: Beach walk, 3–6 miles

Today, we set out on an unforgettable full-day hike through the Hazards Mountain Range, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of the world-famous Wineglass Bay.

From the trailhead, we’ll climb a well-graded track to the Wineglass Bay Lookout. If the skies are clear, we’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over the Freycinet Peninsula. From there, we’ll descend approximately 1,000 steps to reach Wineglass Bay—often ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches. After taking time to enjoy the crystal-clear waters and pristine white sands, we’ll continue our journey through lush eucalyptus forest, emerging onto the golden shores of Hazards Beach on the opposite side of the isthmus.

A stroll along Hazards Beach leads us back into dry sclerophyll forest, where we’ll begin our climb up the pink granite sea cliffs, offering stunning views over Great Oyster Bay. Before returning to our accommodations for a well-earned evening of relaxation, we can enjoy a refreshing dip at Honeymoon Bay.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet, Coles Bay
Daily Activities: Hiking 7 miles, 1,089 feet elevation +/-

This morning, we trade our hiking boots for kayaks and meet our professional instructors on the beach for what may be one of the most scenic paddling tours in the world! As we glide beneath the towering Hazards Range and across the sparkling waters of Great Oyster Bay, we’ll keep an eye out for White-bellied Sea Eagles and the occasional friendly seal. Along the way, our kayaking guides will share fascinating stories about the National Park’s rich history.

After working up an appetite on the water, we’ll head to Devil’s Corner Cellar Door for a private guided tasting. We’ll sip locally crafted wine and indulge in fresh seafood and wood-fired pizza while basking in the sun and soaking in the stunning views of Great Oyster Bay.

From there, we’ll continue further down the coast to Triabunna, where we’ll settle in for the night in preparation for our early morning ferry.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Spring Bay Mill
Drive Time: 2 hours
Daily Activities: Kayaking

This morning, we take a short ferry ride to Maria Island National Park, often called Tasmania’s "Noah’s Ark" for its abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes. One of the best places in Australia to observe wombats, Tasmanian devils, Cape Barren geese, kangaroos, and wallabies, the island is a true haven for nature lovers. Its rich history spans from Aboriginal habitation to a convict penal station, farming settlements, and its current status as a protected National Park. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Maria Island is also home to Darlington’s well-preserved settlement, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Our hike will take us through breathtaking scenery, revealing dramatic landforms and unique geological formations such as the Painted Cliffs and Fossil Cliffs. Along the way, expect close encounters with the island’s abundant wildlife—so keep your camera ready!

In the late afternoon, we’ll take the ferry back to the mainland and return to our accommodations in Triabunna, with time to freshen up before dinner.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Spring Bay Mill
Daily Activities: Hiking 5–6 miles, 511 feet elevation +/- or 7.5 miles, 2,180 feet +/-

Today, we journey south to the Tasman Peninsula, our home for the next few days as we explore Tasmania’s rugged southern coastline.

Our first stop is a guided tour of the UNESCO-listed Port Arthur Historic Site. Spanning 100 acres and featuring over 30 historic buildings and ruins, this is Australia’s most well-preserved and evocative convict site, offering a fascinating glimpse into its colonial past.

In the afternoon, we’ll arrive at the serene shores of Ladies Bay and check into our cozy cabins, nestled deep within the National Park. Surrounded by a pristine white-sand beach, crystal-clear ocean waters, and lush woodlands, it’s the perfect place to unwind.

As dusk settles, we’ll come together for another delicious dinner prepared by our guides, before enjoying a relaxing evening at your own pace.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: NRMA Holiday Park, Port Arthur
Drive Time: 1.5 hours

This morning, we embark on an unforgettable adventure along the Tasman Peninsula with an award-winning wilderness cruise. As we navigate the wild waters of the Tasman Sea, we’ll be awed by the towering sea cliffs of Cape Pillar—the tallest vertical sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere. Along the way, we’ll witness dramatic waterfalls cascading down rock faces, exotic rock formations shaped by centuries of wind and waves, impressive archways, and hidden deep-sea caves.

The Tasman National Park is teeming with marine and birdlife, so we’ll keep our eyes peeled for a variety of seabirds, including diving gannets, soaring albatross, majestic sea eagles, cormorants, and the occasional peregrine falcon. If we’re lucky, we may even spot dolphins, fur seals, or migrating whales making their way along the coastline. As we cruise past the towering cliffs we hiked to in the previous days, we’ll gain a whole new appreciation for their immense scale when viewed from sea level—an awe-inspiring sight that truly puts the power of nature into perspective.

In the afternoon, we’ll continue our exploration of the peninsula on foot, visiting one of its iconic geological wonders: the Tasman Blowhole, the Tasman Arch, or Devil’s Kitchen. These natural formations showcase the raw beauty of the region, with waves surging through rock tunnels, dramatic coastal cliffs, and breathtaking ocean views. We’ll take our time soaking in the scenery as we hike along the rugged shoreline, making the most of our final full day on the peninsula.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: NRMA Holiday Park, Port Arthur
Daily Activities: Cruise 3 hours, Hiking 5–6 miles, 944 feet elevation +/-

Today, we journey north, making our way back to Tasmania’s vibrant capital, Hobart. But before bidding farewell to the rugged beauty of the Tasman Peninsula, we’ll take time to uncover some of the island’s lesser-known natural wonders.

Our first stop is the breathtaking Tessellated Pavement, a true marvel of nature. Shaped over millennia by coastal erosion and salt crystallization, its intricate patterns create an otherworldly landscape that feels almost too perfect to be real.

Just a short drive away, we’ll witness the raw power of the Devil’s Kitchen, a deep, wave-carved chasm where the relentless Tasman Sea crashes into the cliffs, sculpting dramatic rock formations over time. These coastal wonders offer a final glimpse into the untamed beauty of Tasmania’s wild southeast before we begin our journey inland.

After a relaxed beachside lunch, we’ll arrive in Hobart and set our sights on its most iconic natural landmark—kunanyi / Mt Wellington. Rising 4,170 feet above the city this towering peak offers a dramatic and ever-changing landscape, from dense eucalyptus forests to alpine wilderness.

The winding drive to the summit reveals sweeping views at every turn, culminating in a breathtaking 360-degree panorama over Hobart, the Derwent River, and the vast landscapes beyond. Few cities in the world boast such a stunning natural backdrop, and we’ll take time to soak it all in before heading to our final accommodation in the heart of Hobart and it's vibrant arts scene.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel Grand Chancellor, Hobart
Drive Time: 2–3 hours
Daily Activities: Walking 2–3 miles, 2-3 hours

Our final full day in Tasmania offers the perfect opportunity to experience the unique energy of Hobart, a city that blends old-world charm with cutting-edge creativity. We’ll hop aboard the MONA ferry, an experience in itself, cruising along the Derwent River to the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)—Australia’s most provocative and boundary-pushing museum.

Housed in a subterranean architectural wonder on the Berriedale Peninsula, MONA is an immersive, multi-sensory experience. Described as a "subversive adult Disneyland," the museum challenges perceptions with its eclectic mix of contemporary and ancient works, from thought-provoking installations to interactive exhibits. MONA is sure to leave a lasting impression.

The rest of the day is yours to explore Hobart’s vibrant streets at your own pace. Meander through the historic streets of Battery Point, where charming sandstone cottages and cozy cafés offer a glimpse into Tasmania’s colonial past. Or take a leisurely stroll along Hobart’s waterfront, lined with galleries, shops, and seafood eateries serving up the freshest local catch.

As the sun sets on our unforgettable Australian adventure, we’ll gather one last time for a farewell dinner, celebrating the incredible experiences we’ve shared over the past two weeks.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel Grand Chancellor, Hobart
Daily Activities: Walking exploration of MONA and Hobart

All good things must come to an end...

You may depart Hobart at any time today to continue your adventures or head home after two incredible weeks.

Included Meals: Breakfast