History, culture and gastronomy: welcome to the wild island state

Home to only 500,000 people, Tasmania is an intimate escape where the sense of community is as rich as the wildlife. It’s one of those special places where you can swim in the ocean and climb a mountain on the same day. The major cities, Hobart and Launceston, are picture-perfect while the scenery is vast and unspoilt. The wild island is embraced by rugged coastline, offering up an abundance of fresh produce that will have you coming back for seconds. 

Expect action-packed days when you explore Tasmania. Don’t just hit the highlights but immerse yourself in the region’s history and culture. Get under the skin of Tasmanian icons like the Bay of Fires and Bruny Island with expert Journey Directors and Indigenous custodians that add a deeper layer of understanding.

Whether you want active-adventure or slow-paced leisure, you’ll find what you need on a luxury journey of Australia’s island cousin. Let the waters of the Tasman Sea soothe your soul, the dramatic scenery steal your heart, and the culinary scene tease your taste buds – you’re about to learn why Tasmania is the envy of the world. 

Tasmania’s Footsteps and Trails journey

A seven-day sojourn down Tasmania’s east coast will leave you rested and revitalised. Let someone else take the stress of planning off your hands. If you’ve ever found it hard to pick where to go and what to do, you’re in luck. Our luxury travel experts have uncovered the best experiences in the region. Combining places, faces and spaces into a one-week itinerary – the side effect of which is an ear-to-ear grin you won't be able to shift. 

This is luxury travel at its best. Boutique accommodation, exceptional dining, and exclusive cultural experiences serve up an authentic taste of the good life on Australia’s ‘Holiday Isle’. 

When you arrive at Launceston airport, you’ll be met by a private driver to start your Tasmania tour in style. Settle into your unique accommodation on the banks of the tranquil Tamar River before meeting your fellow adventurers over drinks and canapes. In the morning, your intimate small group journey will begin. 

The best way to see the island is by car – but nobody said you had to do the driving. Put your feet up and watch the cinematic scenery roll by from the air-conditioned vehicle. Today you'll enter a new world – as you explore the cultural homeland of the palawa people. Hear palawa creation stories and participate in cultural practices that have been passed down through hundreds of generations.

The red rocks set against the luminous coastline are a breathtaking feat of nature, but just wait until you take the trails in Freycinet National Park. A short walk will reveal astounding vistas. From atop the granite mountain range known as The Hazards, you can see the impressive Wineglass Bay and the secluded coves of Coles, Honeymoon and Sleepy Bays. Natural environments don’t get much better than this. 

A celebration of culture, cuisine and cruising

Once Tasmania’s natural beauty has lulled you into a state of relaxation, it’s time to reignite the mind with intriguing cultural experiences. Visit the extensive private collection of art at the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in Hobart. Begin your MONA experiences as you   wander through travelling exhibitions, ancient Egyptian funerary artefacts and modernist creations. Then sit down to an exclusive Art meets Wine experience in conjunction with the nearby Moorilla Estate winery. 

Spend your evening in the trendy city streets of Hobart before setting sail on an award-winning cruise to Bruny Island. When you depart from a port named Adventure Bay, you know you’re in for a treat, and Tasmania doesn't disappoint. Cruise around some of Australia’s highest sea cliffs in search of seals, dolphins, seabirds and even migratory whales. 

Get more than a good night’s sleep in luxury accommodation

We handpick boutique accommodation that adds to each tour. Rather than just a bed at the end of the day, each place becomes part of your Tasmanian story. 

One such place is a bespoke palawa inspired domed-hut that will elevate your wukalina walking experience to new architectural heights. Deeply significant to the palawa community, you’ll be immersed in their culture, hearing stories from elders while surrounded by nature. This is not a night’s accommodation but a perspective-bending experience. 

From the Bay of Fires idyllic paradise to absolute waterfront in Hobart. The Macq01 luxury hotel combines premium dining and creativity to help guests understand Tasmania’s rich island heritage. With an emphasis on quality and a design that feels free-spirited and sumptuous all at once, you’ll never want to leave. 

Tasmania’s Footsteps and Trails Tour Highlights
• Wakalina walk through the Bay of Fires
• Art meets Wine at MONA
• Bruny Island wildlife cruise
• Stay in Hobart’s hottest new luxury hotel
• The east coast’s spectacular scenery is a photographers dream

When to visit Tasmania
If you want to catch a glimpse of migrating whales then the best time to visit is September to November. Spring brings temperatures of around 17℃, with mountain peaks still draped in winter’s snowfall. 

December to February are the warmest summer months with temperatures of around 21℃. Time your visit with one of Tasmania’s festivals and explore further after your tour. 

March can be mild at 17℃ but also starts the unpredictable autumn season. It’s one of the most popular times to visit, due to the fiery landscapes. If you’re into photography, the yellow and orange display of the Fagus tree will not disappoint.