9 Day History and Cottage Stay Self Drive Tour

9 days - Self-Drive Tour Package
Day 1 - Arrive in Hobart and head to Richmond

Pick up your rental car at Hobart Airport and drive to the historic village of Richmond, just 20 minutes away. In Richmond, visit the Richmond Gaol, Australia’s oldest intact gaol from 1825, to delve into Tasmania’s convict past. Also, take a moment to admire the Richmond Bridge, Australia’s oldest stone arch bridge, built by convicts in 1823.

Accommodation: Mulberry Cottage Unique B&B or similar

Day 2 - Richmond to Port Arthur

Start your day by visiting St John’s Catholic Church, the oldest Catholic church in Australia, built in 1836. Then, drive approximately 1.5 hours from Richmond to Port Arthur. Explore the extensive ruins of this World Heritage-listed site, including highlights such as the Separate Prison, Commandant’s House, and Dockyard. Finish your day with a guided walking tour of Isle of the Dead Cemetery, where you’ll hear poignant stories of convicts, soldiers, and families associated with the historic site.

Accommodation: The Fox and Hounds Historic Hotel

Experience: Port Arthur Historic Site Entry and Isle of the Dead Cemetery Tour

Day 3: Port Arthur to Launceston

Travel from Port Arthur to Launceston, a journey of about three hours. Along the way, explore the charming midland towns of Ross, Campbell Town, and Longford, each rich in Tasmania’s early history. Once in Launceston, visit the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery to immerse yourself in local history and art, followed by a scenic walk through Cataract Gorge Reserve, renowned for its Victorian gardens and historic Kings Bridge.

Accommodation: Kurrajong House or similar

Experience: Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery

Day 4 - Launceston to Stanley

Begin your journey by driving from Launceston to Stanley, which takes approximately 3 hours. Upon arrival, visit the Highfield Historic Site to explore the 1830s estate of the Van Diemen’s Land Company and gain insights into early colonial life. Then, take the chairlift or hike up The Nut, a volcanic plug offering breathtaking views of the coastline.

Accommodation: Stanley Hotel & Apartments or similar

Day 5 - Stanley to Strahan

Depart Stanley and make your way to Strahan, a picturesque drive of approximately 4 hours. Along the way, enjoy the stunning Tasmanian countryside. Upon arrival in Strahan, take some time to explore this charming town, known for its historic harbour and nearby wilderness. Visit local attractions such as the Strahan Waterfront or take a leisurely walk along the town’s picturesque streets.

Accommodation: Franklin Manor or similar

Day 6 - Gordon River Cruise

Embark on a Gordon River Cruise to visit Heritage Landing and Sarah Island, exploring a former penal settlement. In the evening, enjoy the play “The Ship That Never Was” in Strahan, which provides fascinating insights into the area’s history and the remarkable escape from Sarah Island.

Accommodation: Franklin Manor or similar

Experience: Gordon River Cruise – Upper Deck Window

Optional Experience: The Ship That Never Was

Day 7 - Strahan to Hobart

Experience the West Coast Wilderness Railway, which takes you through rugged landscapes while highlighting the region’s mining history. Afterward, drive back to Hobart, making sure to stop at the Wall in the Wilderness for a unique history lesson carved in Huon pine. Once in Hobart, visit the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, and explore Salamanca Place, where historic sandstone warehouses now house galleries, shops, and cafes.

Accommodation: Grand Old Duke or similar

Experience: West Coast Wilderness Railway – Teepookana and the King – Wilderness Carriage

Day 8 - Hobart and surrounds

Explore Battery Point’s historic district with its 19th-century cottages and cobblestone streets. Visit the Narryna Heritage Museum to discover Hobart’s colonial past, and enjoy a historic tour at Cascade Brewery, Australia’s oldest brewery, along with a visit to the Cascade Female Factory.

Accommodation: Grand Old Duke or similar

Experience: Cascade Brewery Historic Tour (Tour inside the Brewery is not included), Cascade Female Factory Site Entry

Day 9 - Depart from Hobart

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Hobart’s waterfront, visiting Constitution Dock and Brooke Street Pier before returning your rental car and departing.