Heartlands Road Trip in Tasmania
6
Days
Tasmania, Australia
curated by
Luke Tscharke
Tasmania, Australia
Set off on a captivating self-guided journey through the heart of Tasmania, created with the insights of Luke Tscharke, a celebrated landscape photographer. This adventure invites you to immerse yourself in Tasmania's rich natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Your journey includes an exploration of the Kooparoona Niara Cultural Trail, where you'll experience the Yarning/Healing Circle, a spiritual site representing the Aboriginal Nations of Tasmania. As you delve into the tulampanga/Alum Cliffs region, a meeting place of three Aboriginal nations rich in heritage and culture, your accommodation will be equally unique, reflecting the diverse beauty of the landscape. Stay at the intimate Falls River Eco Luxury, nestled by a wilderness waterfall; the Thousand Lakes Wilderness Lodge, a premium alpine escape transformed from an Antarctic Training Facility; and Stillwater Seven, a luxurious retreat set in a historic flour mill in Launceston.
This journey is brought to you in collaboration with Tourism Tasmania and is fully customisable, allowing you to tailor the road trip to your preferences.
Tasmania, a land of untamed natural beauty, offers landscapes that leave lasting impressions. This road trip, designed by award-winning landscape photographer Luke Tscharke, is your gateway to experiencing Tasmania’s most breathtaking locations.
As a local, Luke has an intimate knowledge of the island, leading you to hidden gems often overlooked. His well-crafted itinerary includes stops at lesser-known locations that offer stunning photographic opportunities, giving you a unique chance to see Tasmania through the lens of a landscape photographer.
Luke's road trip is designed to be flexible and adaptable, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Equipped with Luke's insights, you're set to discover the island's diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to lush forests, in a way that resonates with your personal interests. Embark on a journey that's not just a trip, but a photographer's exploration of Tasmania's natural wonders.
Start Your Heartland Journey
Welcome to lutruwita (Launceston), the starting point of your Tasmanian adventure.
As soon as you land and grab your hire car, the Heartlands await. First stop: the stunning Meander Valley. Here, your eco-luxury chalet is more than a stay – it's a retreat in the wild. Picture this: you, unwinding in an outdoor spa, waterfall views at your doorstep. The perfect unwind.
Feeling adventurous? Dive into the wilderness with Meander Wilderness Experiences. It's excitement at every turn.
And for a dose of local wildlife, head to Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary. Meet Tasmania’s unique animals up close. It’s an encounter you won’t forget.
Overnight at Falls River Eco Luxury.
Aboriginal Heritage and Local Flavours
Start day two in the Meander Valley with a hearty continental breakfast. It's the perfect energy boost for today's cultural journey.
Dive into Tasmania's Aboriginal history with Kooparoona Niara Tours. More than a history lesson, it's an immersive cultural exploration. Visit sites of deep significance and connect with ancient stories and traditions.
Tasmania's food scene awaits too. Fresh farm produce, artisanal treats – it’s a foodie’s paradise. Taste the island's best, embracing the flavours of Tasmania.
Today is about blending culture with cuisine. It's a unique opportunity to understand and appreciate Tasmania's Aboriginal heritage and the richness of its natural bounty.
Overnight at Falls River Eco Luxury.
Journey to the Peaks and Wilderness
Today, your road trip continues with a scenic drive from Meander Valley to the Central Highlands.
En route, make sure to pause at Quamby Bluff. This towering peak is not just a landmark; it's a testament to Tasmania’s raw beauty. Perfect for those snapshot moments.
The day only gets better. Next, you'll check into a wilderness lodge for two nights. Picture this: you, in the heart of serene wilderness, where comfort meets nature. It's luxury in the wild.
As night falls, let the lodge's tranquil surroundings envelop you. This is more than a stay; it’s an experience, a true retreat into nature’s arms.
Overnight at Thousand Lakes Wilderness Lodge.
Off-Road E-Bike Adventure
Rise and shine in the Central Highlands with a hearty breakfast at your lodge. Breathe in the crisp, alpine air – it’s a fresh start to an exhilarating day.
Today’s adventure? Exploring Tasmania’s western lakes on off-road e-bikes, affectionately known as "Fat Bikes." These are no ordinary bikes – they're built for the wild.
Imagine pedaling through untouched wilderness, flanked by ancient forests and tranquil lakes. It’s you, the open trail, and endless natural beauty. This is the thrill of Tasmania – wild, free, and utterly exhilarating.
Overnight at Thousand Lakes Wilderness Lodge.
Colonial History and Launceston Luxury
It’s time to leave the Central Highlands and head towards Launceston, marking the final chapter of your Tassie journey.
Your scenic drive today is a step back into colonial Tasmania. First stop: the quaint town of Tunbridge. It's a living snapshot of the past, where the charm of old-world Tasmania still breathes.
Next, venture through Campbelltown with its array of preserved colonial buildings – a visual treat for history enthusiasts.
Lunch is served in the historic town of Ross. Here, indulge in local Tasmanian cuisine that's as rich in flavour as the town is in history.
And the icing on the cake? Your stay in Launceston is at a beautifully restored 1830s flour mill. This unique accommodation blends luxury with historical elegance, promising a memorable end to your road trip.
Overnight at Stillwater Seven.
Farewell to Tassie's Heartlands
Today marks the end of your Tasmanian odyssey. As you prepare to leave, the memories of this incredible journey linger.
Drive back to Launceston Airport, but as you do, take a moment. Reflect on the stunning landscapes you’ve explored, the unique experiences you’ve embraced, and the unforgettable moments you’ve captured.
And if Tasmania’s charm has captured your heart and you're not ready to leave just yet, don’t worry. We can arrange an extended stay for you. Say the word, and your adventure in Tasmania can continue.
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"My absolute favourite place to photograph is Tasmania. I visited many times to explore and be immersed in the World Heritage listed wilderness. In fact, I love Tasmania so much I decided to relocate there."
“Thanking the stars I found Airguides and Jono's trip. We were totally taken care of! Paul answered all our questions and took care of the details so all we had to do was get there. Jono Allen is an amazing, talented photographer who created a special group experience. The WHALES were mind blowing. What a gift to be in Tonga staring into the eye of a baby whale! This trip was a lifelong dream come true. I highly recommend it so much we’ve already signed up again for next year!"
"The Airguides trip to Tonga to swim with humpback whales was the experience of a lifetime. I have traveled all over the world, and nothing compares to being in the wild, rustic, deep blue waters of the South Pacific while interacting with whales and their calves. A wonderful and caring team made our adventures stress free. Absolutely amazing, so much so, that I am doing it again this year! Thanks a million Paul, Jono, Al, Alistair, Christian and Polly!"
"Thank you for your help in putting together our trip to the Northern Territory. Everyone agreed that it was the best family holiday we'd ever had and - even better - everyone nominated something different as 'the best thing'."
"The trip with Airguides was magic. Paul was our kind and patient guide, Mark Fitz was our talented and positive photographer/storyteller. It was a perfect mix of activity and relaxation and I’m already planning my next Airguides trip."
"I recently visited Lady Musgrave Island with Airguides. They have a unique and meaningful approach to travel and travelling with and learning from a world-class photographer, who was on the trip, was incredible."
"I cannot say enough amazing things about Airguides and the amazing honeymoon they planned for us. We began our trip planning by being overwhelmed with travel blogs, not knowing what was actually the best plan for us."
“Just had an amazing trip to Heron Island organised by the Airguides team. Perfect balance of activity and relaxation, they made it so easy. Can't wait until I can do another trip!“
“ We recently organised our trip to Heron Island with Bibi and Paul as a last minute getaway. Seamlessly dealt with and an added bonus of having a world-class photographer/ free-diver as our story teller. The trip has only whet our appetite for more positive and relaxing experiences with the Airguides team- Awesome “
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