From Launceston: Full-Day Wineglass Bay Explorer Active Tour

Exploring Tasmania’s Natural and Cultural Gems: The Full-Day Wineglass Bay Explorer Active Tour

If you’re considering a trip to Tasmania’s east coast, this Full-Day Wineglass Bay Explorer Active Tour from Launceston offers a compelling mix of stunning scenery, history, and local flavors. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-rounded experience that balances adventure with comfort.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authentic outdoor exploration—from walking scenic trails in Freycinet National Park to learning about convict history in Campbell Town. Plus, ending the day with a visit to Devils Corner Winery for some wine and local food is a real highlight.

One consideration is that it’s an active outdoor experience that involves some uphill walking and hiking, so it’s best suited for travelers who are reasonably fit. It’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or very young children. This tour is perfect for those craving a full day of natural beauty, local history, and a taste of Tasmania’s renowned wine scene.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Active outdoor experience with scenic walks, including a 45-minute climb to Wineglass Bay Lookout
• Small group size maximizes personal attention and flexibility
• Includes local history with a stop at Campbell Town and the Convict Brick Trail
• Tasty wine and food options at Devils Corner Winery, with seafood, pizza, or gelato
• Great value for a comprehensive day trip at $123 per person
• Perfect for adventure seekers with reasonable fitness and a sense of curiosity

An In-Depth Look at What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Early Morning Pickup

The tour kicks off at the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Launceston at 7:20 am. The early start means you’ll get a full day of exploring, and the tour is designed to maximize your time on the east coast. Pickups from certain accommodations are possible if arranged beforehand, which adds a layer of convenience.

The Journey to Freycinet National Park

As you head east from Launceston, your guide will stop briefly in Campbell Town, a charming Georgian township. Here, you can stretch your legs, grab supplies, and explore some convict relics—an interesting glimpse into the area’s past. The reviews praise this stop as a worthwhile introduction, with one traveler noting, “Plenty of stops for eating breaks before the official lunch period,” making the journey comfortable and relaxed.

The real magic begins when you arrive at Freycinet National Park. The first view of The Hazards—a rugged mountain range—sets the tone for what’s to come. Your guide’s insights help you appreciate the natural beauty and geological features even before you hit the trails.

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Walking Trails and Scenic Highlights

One of the tour’s key features is the combination of scenic walks, designed to reveal Freycinet’s highlights from multiple vantage points. The Cape Tourville Lighthouse walk is a short, 20-minute circuit offering 360-degree views—perfect for a quick but spectacular photo opportunity. Make sure your camera is charged because these vistas of rugged coastlines, ocean, and distant islands are truly memorable.

Next, you’ll hike to the Wineglass Bay lookout, a 45-minute uphill trek that many reviews describe as both invigorating and rewarding. The ascent involves around 400 steps and some steep sections, but the panoramic view of white sand, turquoise water, and lush green treetops is widely considered one of the most beautiful in the Southern Hemisphere. Several reviews emphasize that the walk is “not as bad as it sounds,” and “most of it is flat walking,” which is reassuring for most reasonably fit travelers.

For those eager for more, an optional extension to Wineglass Bay beach allows swimming, dolphin watching, or simply soaking up the sun. The walk down to the beach is longer and more strenuous but offers a chance to experience the beach’s pristine beauty up close.

Honeymoon Bay, Sleepy Bay, and the Lighthouse

Your guide will also lead you to Honeymoon Bay and Sleepy Bay, two smaller, equally stunning spots worth exploring. The calm waters and scenic surroundings make these stops perfect for relaxing, taking photos, or enjoying a picnic.

The Cape Tourville Lighthouse itself is a highlight, offering a vantage point that’s both scenic and educational. It’s an easy 20-minute walk that provides a full 360-degree view of the coast, making it a favorite among visitors.

Lunch Break and Local Flavors

Depending on timing, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase a bakery-style lunch en route, often enjoyed at Honeymoon Bay. This flexibility lets you tailor your experience—whether you prefer a sandwich, wrap, or a snack—and makes the day feel less rushed. Many reviews mention the value of breaks to refuel.

Vineyard and Relaxation at Devils Corner Winery

After a morning of active exploration, the afternoon relaxes at Devils Corner Winery. Perched atop a hill overlooking Freycinet, this winery has become a beloved spot for visitors. You can enjoy a glass of wine—Tasmania is famous for its cool-climate varieties—along with a seafood platter, woodfired pizza, artisan gelato, or coffee. The setting, paired with the stunning views, makes for a perfect wind-down after a busy day.

Multiple reviews highlight the quality of the wines and the helpfulness of the staff, with one noting, “Devils Corner is the ideal place to kick back with a glass of wine and enjoy the scenery.”

The Practicalities and Value

This tour costs $123 per person, which, considering it includes all national park entrance fees, guided walks, and a dedicated guide, offers quite good value. The small group size—limited to 20 people—ensures a more personal experience and freedom to explore at your own pace.

Transport is by comfortable vehicle with a knowledgeable guide, making the journey between sights smooth and informative. It’s a day-long commitment, from 7:20 am to around 6:00 pm, but the itinerary is packed with experiences that justify the time invested.

Meals and drinks are not included, but there are ample opportunities to purchase snacks, lunch, and drinks along the way, giving you flexibility to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

What to Bring

• Comfortable, sturdy shoes for walking and hiking
• Weather-appropriate clothing (Tasmania’s weather can be changeable)
• A daypack for water, snacks, and camera
• Sun protection and insect repellent, especially if weather is warm or windy

Considerations

While most reviewers find the walks manageable, keep in mind the 45-minute uphill hike and stair climb to the Wineglass Bay lookout. If mobility is a concern, you might want to consider other options, but for most active travelers, the views are worth the effort.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who love outdoor activities, scenic walks, and exploring natural landscapes in a small group setting. It’s especially well-suited for those with moderate fitness levels who appreciate a bit of adventure without extreme difficulty. History buffs will enjoy the stop in Campbell Town, and wine lovers will appreciate the winery visit.

It’s less suitable for young children under 8 years or anyone with mobility issues due to the walking involved. Also, if you prefer a more leisurely day with fewer physical activities, this might feel a bit brisk.

The Sum Up

The Full-Day Wineglass Bay Explorer Active Tour offers a well-rounded taste of Tasmania’s natural beauty, history, and local produce. It combines scenic hikes, cultural insights, and wine tasting in a way that feels balanced and authentic. The small group size means you’ll have room to enjoy the scenery and ask questions, making it a personalized adventure.

For those who enjoy a bit of physical activity paired with stunning landscapes and meaningful stops, this tour delivers excellent value. It’s perfect for active travelers eager to see Tasmania’s best coastal sights without the hassle of driving or planning every detail themselves.

If you’re looking for a full day of exploration with a knowledgeable guide, breathtaking views, and tasty local flavors, this trip is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but only for children aged 8 and above, as it involves some walking and hiking activities.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers national park entrance fees, guided tours, and a small group experience. Meals and drinks are not included.

Can I buy lunch during the tour?
Yes, there are opportunities to purchase a bakery-style lunch en route, which you can enjoy at scenic spots like Honeymoon Bay.

How active is the tour?
It involves walking, including a 45-minute uphill hike with about 400 steps, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a daypack, water, snacks, sun protection, and insect repellent.

Is the tour customizable?
While the itinerary is fixed, the guide may offer options like extending walks or spending more time at specific stops.

What if the weather is bad?
Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly; most activities are outdoors and weather-dependent. The guide will adapt plans if necessary.

How long does the tour last?
It runs from approximately 7:20 am to 6:00 pm, including travel time and sightseeing.

Are there any special dietary options?
Not specified, but you can bring your own food or purchase options along the way.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, to secure your spot, especially during busy seasons. The tour can be canceled with a full refund if canceled at least 2 days prior.

This tour offers a wonderful balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight—an excellent way to experience Tasmania’s east coast without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby