Australia, New Zealand & the South Pacific - Putting Together Tassie Itinerary

Hi All, looks like I will be in Australia from 5/29 through 6/6.

My plan right now is to fly into SYD and spend 5/29 there (thrid trip -- love the city). I would then fly to Tassie on 5/30. The plan would be to spend 5/30 - 6/4 in Tassie, flying to MEL as late as possible in the day on 6/4, giving me a total of five nights and five full days with two partial days.

I am in the beginning stages of putting together an itinerary.

I think it makes sense to fly into Hobart and out of Laucenson (sp?) as the latter is more in the center and would allow me to see some of the interior sights. I would like to spend a day in Hobart and a day at Port Arthur, but I may limit Hobart to the day I arrive and go to Port Arthur on 5/31. That would leave me 6/1, 6/2, 6/3 and most of 6/4 to explore elsewhere. I really want to see natural scenery and do some hiking (nothing too extreme -- day or partial day hikes). Where would you reccomend I go?

Also, this trip would be for the equivilent of late October/early November in the northern hemisphere. Will I be too late (or early) for fall foilage? What type of weather should I expect?

Thanks!

Hi All, looks like I will be in Australia from 5/29 through 6/6.

My plan right now is to fly into SYD and spend 5/29 there (thrid trip -- love the city). I would then fly to Tassie on 5/30. The plan would be to spend 5/30 - 6/4 in Tassie, flying to MEL as late as possible in the day on 6/4, giving me a total of five nights and five full days with two partial days.

I am in the beginning stages of putting together an itinerary.

I think it makes sense to fly into Hobart and out of Laucenson (sp?) as the latter is more in the center and would allow me to see some of the interior sights. I would like to spend a day in Hobart and a day at Port Arthur, but I may limit Hobart to the day I arrive and go to Port Arthur on 5/31. That would leave me 6/1, 6/2, 6/3 and most of 6/4 to explore elsewhere. I really want to see natural scenery and do some hiking (nothing too extreme -- day or partial day hikes). Where would you reccomend I go?

Also, this trip would be for the equivilent of late October/early November in the northern hemisphere. Will I be too late (or early) for fall foilage? What type of weather should I expect?

Thanks!

I am very jealous having just returned from my fourth trip to TAS - it is the most amazing place in the world and I have noted below some of the places we have been and our thoughts

I would suggest spending some time in Hobart and try and be there on a Saturday as there is the Salamanca open air market which is a great experience. For restaurants go to North Hobart - there is a restaurant row which has some great and reasonably priced places to eat and it's a five minute drive from the city. Also visit Mount Wellington with superb views of the city and the environs - but it is very cold and windy up there even in the summer

We stayed at the Salamanca Inn which is basically self service apartments - good price and fantastic location. The staff there are also very friendly.

The Tasman peninsula and Port Arthur are beautiful and you could spend a great day out exploring this area. Richmond is also a short drive from Hobart and worth a visit.

East coast - Bicheno or St Helens are both great bases - you must try the local crayfish - there's a couple of good fishmongers in St Helens. Bicheno is the home of a Fairy Penguin colony - there are guided tours but just head down to the blowhole after dark with a torch and follow the smell of fish!

Visit the Elephant Pass Pancake House and eat yourself silly - not far from Bicheno. Also the Douglas Aplsey NP has some great hikes

The Freycinet Peninsula is amazing but starting to get too popular. The walk to the view over Wine Glass Bay is good and the views will take your breath away. Continue from the viewpoint and do the coastal walk back to the car park - you wont see anyone else.

Freycinet Winery has some amazing wines - not cheap but yummy

Never been that excited by Launceston - tend to fly in pick up a 4WD car and drive off - btw a 4WD is invaluable as there of lots of unpaved roads.

If you like wildlife and want to go somewhere completely different then go to Marawah on the NW coast. If you're interested I'll PM you details of the best place to stay and details of how you can see Tasmanian Devils in the wild - awesome. Also take a boat down the Arthur River and see platypi swimming past!

The West Coast link road is unpaved and fairly boring as it's usually cold and wet. Zeehan is an old mining town but is not wildly exciting. Strahan is a beautiful town with some fantastic beaches and hikes in the area. Queenstown - not sure why anyone would bother.

And finally Cradle Mountain - a very special place with it's own micro climate - you can see snow, gales, rain and sun in a few hours. If you visit at dusk or dawn you will see creatures that you have never heard of and they are everywhere. There are two hotels just outside the NP - make sure you pick the Lodge as the Chateau (I think its called) is awful - we booked the wrong one :(

There are some great overland walks in the Cradle Mountain NP but the weather can be very unpredictable so you need the right clothing

Weather - even in Summer it can be cold at night and I would think at the time you are going you could see quite a variation in temperatures but I have been told that May can actually have more settled weather than the summer

This is only a summary - happy to answer any questions but don't tell anyone else what a fantastic place TAS is :)

And finally Cradle Mountain - a very special place with it's own micro climate - you can see snow, gales, rain and sun in a few hours. If you visit at dusk or dawn you will see creatures that you have never heard of and they are everywhere. There are two hotels just outside the NP - make sure you pick the Lodge as the Chateau (I think its called) is awful - we booked the wrong one :(

We were at Cradle Mountain about 6 weeks ago, and absolutely loved it. I highly recommend the Voyages Cradle Mountain Lodge. They have some great overland walks - just be alert for snakes ;)

The wallabies and possums will come right up to you....we had one sneak into our cabin and spent a long time trying to get it out.

- cradle mtn, cradle mtn, cradle mtn. #1. the animals, hiking, incredible scenery, remoteness. it is fantastic.
- hobart. #2
- freycinet peninsula. #3

if you want to spend a day in hobart (very cool city) and a day at port arthur/tasman peninsula, that will only leave you two days, which really wouldn't be enough time to reach and enjoy cradle.

the amount of time you have there is much less than you think. if you fly into hobart, it will take an entire very long drive day to reach cradle mtn. on the other hand it is only about 3 hrs (depending on stops) to reach cradle from launceston. hobart is much closer to freycinet (a few hours depending on stops).

i'd consider flying into launceston, and getting immediately to cradle for a minimum of 2 nites (otherwise i'd say it is hardly worth going). from there to hobart directly or via freycinet. cradle to freycinet will take most of the day driving. you could overnight freycinet or bicheno (skip the fraudulent penguin tour!), then go to hobart the next day. or skip freycinet, and do the highway from cradle to hobart (still probably 4-5 hours plus stops).

the tas driving times are much greater than you think due to the winding narrow roads, changeable weather, and the numerous places you will want to pull off.

lonely planet has a new tas guide.

Thanks guys. I appreciate the tips.

Here's what I'm thinking.

5/30 -- fly from MEL to DPO, pick-up car and drive to Cradle Mtn.

5/31 -- Cradle Mountain

6/1 -- Drive from Cradle Mountain to Freycinet Peninsula, see F.P. National Park, spend night around F.P.

6/2 -- Drive from Freycinet Peninsula to Port Arthur, see P.A., drive to Hobart

6/3 -- Day in Hobart (a Saturday, so able to go to fair)

6/4 -- Fly from HBA to SYD

Too ambitious?

I know it's not a lot of time in each place, but I tend to be fine with a look around for a few hours -- that's been my experience in other places I've been.

How much time should it take to drive from Cradle Mountain to Freycinet? I figure that will be the longest drive. What about Freycinet to Port Arthur? P.A. to Hoabrt is around 2 hours, right?

cradle to freycinet via shortest route (st. mary) is about 4-5 hours. but if you just keep driving, you won't have experienced tassie, only your rental car. it is a place that has to be explored up close, perhaps more than any other place i can think of (and i've been traveling the world for 35 years). unfortunately this may only really make sense after the trip (and it is even difficult to explain more than i have).

freycinet to port arthur is 5-6 hours. but the above caveat is even more true here. if you don't stop many times to see beaches, lighthouses, eat, and do some walking about (at the least), what will you have seen?

my suggestion would be to take port arthur and tas peninsula out of itinerary. it is a long drive there, after which you'll need 2-4 hours to see it (before even exploring the peninsula). without port arthur, you'll have enough time to really enjoy what you are seeing, and then know what you want to see on the next trip.

tassie is truly a hidden gem and the best australia has to offer. it is the size of ireland, with roads that are much narrower and more winding. you cannot experience tassie from your rental car. and it isn't advisable to drive after dark (unless you want to wreck the car and kill the noctural animals).

cradle to freycinet via shortest route (st. mary) is about 4-5 hours. but if you just keep driving, you won't have experienced tassie, only your rental car. it is a place that has to be explored up close, perhaps more than any other place i can think of (and i've been traveling the world for 35 years). unfortunately this may only really make sense after the trip (and it is even difficult to explain more than i have).

freycinet to port arthur is 5-6 hours. but the above caveat is even more true here. if you don't stop many times to see beaches, lighthouses, eat, and do some walking about (at the least), what will you have seen?

my suggestion would be to take port arthur and tas peninsula out of itinerary. it is a long drive there, after which you'll need 2-4 hours to see it (before even exploring the peninsula). without port arthur, you'll have enough time to really enjoy what you are seeing, and then know what you want to see on the next trip.

tassie is truly a hidden gem and the best australia has to offer. it is the size of ireland, with roads that are much narrower and more winding. you cannot experience tassie from your rental car. and it isn't advisable to drive after dark (unless you want to wreck the car and kill the noctural animals).

Thanks. So you'd skip Port Arthur beofre skippng freycinet?

Also, any reccomendations for hotels or B&Bs in Hobart? Criteria is nice, clean and not too expensive (under 200 AUD would be ideal).

Just keep in mind the days will be very short and cold around that time.

good point on the short and cool days.

port arthur/tas peninsula vs. freycinet is up to you.

port arthur is interesting and beautiful, but i'd say is in some ways more of interest to australians than to non-australians. perhaps something like pearl harbor in that way.

i haven't gotten to tas peninsula, but really want to. therefore, i'll leave comment thereon to others.

freycinet is very beautiful, and we loved the beaches and towns all around there, especially just north, around bicheno. and while it might sound trite, we really enjoyed the elephant pass pancake house, and kate's berry farm for tea/scones etc. in that area too. both were extraordinary.

My vote would be for Freycinet rather than Tas Peninsula every time - just planning our trip for 2007 and working out our itinerary. Trouble is every time we go back we spend more and more time in TAS

One thing to be aware of is that driving in Tasmania can be dangerous, even during the day. The TAS government has started to release detailed statistics for road deaths and accidents and in the week we were there, there were two fatal accidents involving tourists - both within hours of collecting their hire cars. Driving on the left in a RH drive car can be unsettling if you are not used to it and I have seen tourists pulling out of car parks and automatically starting to drive on the right :eek:

Not trying to put anyone off but the roads in TAS outside of the main towns can be basic, sometimes unpaved and not much in the way of barriers. I would always hire a 4WD - it's not much more expensive than a saloon car.

My vote would be for Freycinet rather than Tas Peninsula every time - just planning our trip for 2007 and working out our itinerary. Trouble is every time we go back we spend more and more time in TAS

One thing to be aware of is that driving in Tasmania can be dangerous, even during the day. The TAS government has started to release detailed statistics for road deaths and accidents and in the week we were there, there were two fatal accidents involving tourists - both within hours of collecting their hire cars. Driving on the left in a RH drive car can be unsettling if you are not used to it and I have seen tourists pulling out of car parks and automatically starting to drive on the right :eek:

Not trying to put anyone off but the roads in TAS outside of the main towns can be basic, sometimes unpaved and not much in the way of barriers. I would always hire a 4WD - it's not much more expensive than a saloon car.

Thanks. I've already rented a 4WD, so I should be good. As for driving on the left, I've rented cars in Australia and South Africa, so I'm not entirely inexperienced. I do plan on being careful, of course.

Not trying to put anyone off but the roads in TAS outside of the main towns can be basic, sometimes unpaved and not much in the way of barriers. I would always hire a 4WD - it's not much more expensive than a saloon car.

driving there for us was no worse than driving here (kauai). tourists (us there/you here) always do strange things like looking at all the amazing sights while driving, and turning off or around in the least likely, unsafe places.

yes there are road obstacles. i hit a rock that i couldn't see around a blind one lane road turn in cradle. fixed the tire myself in hobart for a fraction of what the rental company would have charged.

on car insurance. our u.s. coverage doesn't extent to foreign car rentals (only domestic). not sure about visa/amex car coverage. when you rent in aus, you must agree to pay about A$3300 in case of any accident, or $A1750 if you do anything without another car (like a rock, or animal). otherwise you get their coverage, which was A$24/day (and i believe that still had a deductible of A$250).

overall tassie is very easy driving, including hobart, and launceston. the roads are excellently maintained (way better than here). people mostly drive respectfully and reasonably.

now i found melbourne to be quite a bit more difficult. the right hand turn from the left curb really threw me.

Hi All,

My BA First trip is nearly upon me now ... :D

I will be spending 2 days in Hobart on a Sun and Mon - just wanted to know what is the best way to spend them ? I don't plan to hire a car, and will stay in the Henry Jones Art Hotel ..

My initial thoughts are:-

Sunday
morning (arrival) - Brunch somewhere (small cafe or best brunch ?)
afternoon - suggestions ? Wine tasting would be nice ... And dinner where ?

Monday
morning - Open to suggestions
afternoon - ditto
evening - Already occupied ...

Looking forward to your thoughts ^

Thanks. I've already rented a 4WD, so I should be good. As for driving on the left, I've rented cars in Australia and South Africa, so I'm not entirely inexperienced. I do plan on being careful, of course.

If you are driving at night watch especially for wildlife. I went to Tas last spring and we got a very close look at a wombat one evening.

I think Freycinet is great. There are some public camping areas right on the beach if you're into that, or there is a very comfortable lodge just up the way.

Hi All,

My BA First trip is nearly upon me now ... :D

I will be spending 2 days in Hobart on a Sun and Mon - just wanted to know what is the best way to spend them ? I don't plan to hire a car, and will stay in the Henry Jones Art Hotel ..

My initial thoughts are:-

Sunday
morning (arrival) - Brunch somewhere (small cafe or best brunch ?)
afternoon - suggestions ? Wine tasting would be nice ... And dinner where ?

Monday
morning - Open to suggestions
afternoon - ditto
evening - Already occupied ...

Looking forward to your thoughts ^

Have a look at the Peppermint Cruise - great way to see around HBA if you don't have a car - Peppermint Cruise (http://www.peppermintbay.com.au/index.cgi?pageID=get_there)

There are some great restaurants and bars in the Salamance area just across the harbour from where you are staying

North Hobart has a great restaurant row with a huge selection of world wide and local cuisine - probably a 10 minute taxi - you must try the local crayfish while you are there

Thanks BAGoldBoy !!

Will let you know how I get on ! ;)

John P

Have a great time - I am going back next January - already booked the flights :) - I think I might be addicted

If you want any more detail then just PM me as we have loads of notes and brochures of places we have been on the last five visits

Thanks BAGB,

Will do ...

On my way just now, so pretty excited ... :D

John P

port arthur/tas peninsula vs. freycinet is up to you.

...and while it might sound trite, we really enjoyed the elephant pass pancake house, and kate's berry farm for tea/scones etc. in that area too. both were extraordinary.

I just returned from Tassie and used this forum for advice (thank you very much, btw!). I would say after making the journey to the Elephant Pass Pancake Barn that it's not worth it (they are more like crepes), plus if you are only going to Freycinet it's way out of the way (about a 45mins to an hour past the turn to Freycinet from Hobart). If you are really dying to have them there is a second location in Launceston. Kate's Berry Farm on the other hand is on the way to Freycinet (just watch for the signs on the road, it's easy to find). The scones and jam there are the best I've had. Of course I had just finished the hike up to the wineglass bay lookout in the rain and anything would have been good. Definately stop at Kate's, it's well worth it.

In Hobart, the drive up to Mount Wellington is very nice. If it's cool in the city bring a jacket for when you get to the top. There was snow on the side of the road at the top and it was cold. For food in Hobart try Fish Frenzy, it's on the Elizabeth Street Pier. Very good fish and chips.

Tasmania is fantastic and I will definately go back. Everyone should make it part of their trip, if there is time. I'd go to Tasmania over Brisbane.

Scott

Tassie is addicting... spent about 10 days there in March 2005. Arrived into LST and left from HBA, driving counterclockwise around the island (well, what we could cover—did not go to the coastal northwest or to Freycinet). We spent time in the Tamar Valley, Cradle Mountain, Strahan and the Gordon River, Lake St. Clair, and about three days in and around Hobart (including the Tasman Peninsula). I'm glad we did not try to cover more ground and were able to really get a flavor of and enjoy the place...

As others noted, the driving from one place to the other is best if not continuous... there are many things to stop for and see first hand, that just rushing thru does not do the place much justice.

From experience (my job involves driving around Tassie) - take the time you think you need to drive it and add half again.

Hobart to somewhere like Strahan in June takes me about 5-5.5 hours with breaks, and its only actually around 350km's.

Hobart to Lonnie in winter is a 3 hour drive in the mornings due to fog and visability. It generally takes me about 2 hours in good conditions.

Lonnie to Hobart via the east coast takes about 4-4.5 hours without stops.

I drive a small Holden Barina... I have friends who can do Hobart - Strahan in 3.5 hours but that is in a Ute with a very large disregard for the speed limit.

... I have friends who can do Hobart - Strahan in 3.5 hours but that is in a Ute with a very large disregard for the speed limit.I came close to being on the receiving end of their disregard a couple of times ;)

Hi! I'm going to Tasmania from June 19 - Aug. 1st, and was referred to these boards from another board....Anyways, I just wanted to let y'all know that I'm here and will be carefully collecting your good advice!

Laurie

I came close to being on the receiving end of their disregard a couple of times ;)

I sincerely apologise!!! My only excuse is Richard is young and dare I say it - a replanted american!

Hi! I'm going to Tasmania from June 19 - Aug. 1st, and was referred to these boards from another board....Anyways, I just wanted to let y'all know that I'm here and will be carefully collecting your good advice!

Laurie

Welcome to FT Rdbfoxes

I have been to TAS five times now and would be happy to share my experiences. Guess the obvious thing is that it's going to be pretty chilly at that time of the year - around 10-12C in Hobart. Let me know how I can help

Hi! I'm going to Tasmania from June 19 - Aug. 1st, and was referred to these boards from another board....Anyways, I just wanted to let y'all know that I'm here and will be carefully collecting your good advice!

Laurie

Hiya, I live down here in Tassie, so if you want the locals perspective give me a shout.
Zelda

Hi! I'm going to Tasmania from June 19 - Aug. 1st, and was referred to these boards from another board....Anyways, I just wanted to let y'all know that I'm here and will be carefully collecting your good advice!

Laurie

Do a search on Tas in this forum for lots of good ideas. Welcome.

Hi! I'm going to Tasmania from June 19 - Aug. 1st, and was referred to these boards from another board...Welcome to FT ^

Don't be shy about asking questions—particularly if you searches don't turn up the exact info you want, or you need to make choices between competing attractions (always the hardest thing for me :( )

We were considering going to Tasmania at the end of August. We were in Sydney at the same time last year and found the weather to be fine, but I suspect it will be colder further south. Do you think we should wait until a better time of year and go up north this time??? ( I have been to Tasmania before, but not for about ten years). Thanks for the advice.

We were considering going to Tasmania at the end of August. Do you think we should wait until a better time of year and go up north this time??? ( I have been to Tasmania before, but not for about ten years). Thanks for the advice.

Tassie in August will be cold, damp and windy. The days will be fairly short thus limiting what you can get done in a day. We are heading towards a really cold damp winter if April is anything to go by (one of the coldest/wettest/windiest on record according to the weather people). Snow is predicated for Thursday on the mountain. Last August it snowed in Hobart - which even though its apparently a 1 in 15 or so year event shows how cold it can get.

I'd head north to Cairns etc - its not stinger season so you should be able to swim in the ocean and it will definately be alot warmer!

Tassie in August will be cold, damp and windy. The days will be fairly short thus limiting what you can get done in a day. We are heading towards a really cold damp winter if April is anything to go by (one of the coldest/wettest/windiest on record according to the weather people). Snow is predicated for Thursday on the mountain. Last August it snowed in Hobart - which even though its apparently a 1 in 15 or so year event shows how cold it can get.

I'd head north to Cairns etc - its not stinger season so you should be able to swim in the ocean and it will definately be alot warmer!


Thanks for the advice. I have just finished planning a Cairns - Cape Tribulation itinerary. We will try Tassie at a little warmer time of year. I don't mind cold (especially at the end of a warm southern California summer), but snow, etc. I could do without. :)

Thanks for the advice. I have just finished planning a Cairns - Cape Tribulation itinerary. We will try Tassie at a little warmer time of year. I don't mind cold (especially at the end of a warm southern California summer), but snow, etc. I could do without. :)

My favourite time of year down here is Sept/October. Its still fairly crisp but you are starting to get longer days with blue skies. The bulbs are coming out, people are starting to emerge from hibernation, you can start to get to places like cradle mountain without battling snow etc, and Strahan will be in double as opposed to single figures.

Decided to bump an old thread rather than start a new one, since the title would have been the same....

Putting the finishing touches on a 5-day/4-night TAS itinerary for January as part of a 21-night overall trip. Comments appreciated:

Monday: Arrive 0730 from JetStar MEL-HBA, take public transport into the city, dump luggage, sightsee HBA proper. Hopefully pick up an afternoon walking tour. Staying at Maquarie Manor.

Tuesday: Pick up the rental car at earliest possible time (I think it's 0830), drive to Port Arthur, then slowly make way after that to Swansea with a stop in Orford or Tribunna for dinner. Staying at the Comfort Swansea Cottages for two nights unless a room frees up at the Best Western in Bicheno.

Wednesday: Day trip to Coles Bay/Freycinet (the main sightseeing thing for me). Do as much light hiking and photography as possible.

Thursday: Drive to Bicheno, then either St. Mary's or Campbell Town, get to Launceston very late. Stay at the Commodore Regent.

Friday: Drop off rental car first thing to keep it a 3-day rental, sightsee Launceston on foot for the morning, collect my bags in the afternoon. Then it is laundry time (2/3 mark of trip, taking 8 days worth of clothes and doing laundry twice), then get out to the airport for my 2140 Virgin Blue flight back to Melbourne.

Decided to bump an old thread rather than start a new one, since the title would have been the same....

Putting the finishing touches on a 5-day/4-night TAS itinerary for January as part of a 21-night overall trip. Comments appreciated:

Monday: Arrive 0730 from JetStar MEL-HBA, take public transport into the city, dump luggage, sightsee HBA proper. Hopefully pick up an afternoon walking tour. Staying at Maquarie Manor.

Tuesday: Pick up the rental car at earliest possible time (I think it's 0830), drive to Port Arthur, then slowly make way after that to Swansea with a stop in Orford or Tribunna for dinner. Staying at the Comfort Swansea Cottages for two nights unless a room frees up at the Best Western in Bicheno.

Wednesday: Day trip to Coles Bay/Freycinet (the main sightseeing thing for me). Do as much light hiking and photography as possible.

Thursday: Drive to Bicheno, then either St. Mary's or Campbell Town, get to Launceston very late. Stay at the Commodore Regent.

Friday: Drop off rental car first thing to keep it a 3-day rental, sightsee Launceston on foot for the morning, collect my bags in the afternoon. Then it is laundry time (2/3 mark of trip, taking 8 days worth of clothes and doing laundry twice), then get out to the airport for my 2140 Virgin Blue flight back to Melbourne.

Thats ALOT to try and do.....Bicheno to Launceston is a long drive, via either of those places.
Hobart does not have direct public transport from Airport to City. There is an airport bus, but it is operated by a private company.
What sort of budget are you looking at? Mainly as most of the hotels you have chosen are not necessarily that "nice". They are serviceable and clean, but other than that......I havent ever stayed on the east coast at hotels, but would tend towards B&B's rather than motels.

The airport is a fair way from Launceston central (if that is where you are dropping the car off).
When abouts in Jan are you heading down?
Tuesday is near impossible driving wise. Not due to length, but Hobart to Port Arthur is about 90 minutes on winding roads, and then its at least another 2 hours from there to Swansea on windy roads. Port Arthur itself is a good solid day if you want do to both Port Puer (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED) and Isle of the Dead along with the walking tour of the historical site. Also depending on day/time of year (holidays or not) depends if you can find stuff open for dinner at Orford/Triabunna etc. I know there are good places at Swansea however.

There is nothing intrinsicly WRONG with your itn - it just has alot of driving for very little return.
Launceston is nice - but I am not sure if you could spend a whole day exploring it. You would be better off keeping the car for the 4th day and driving either to Catartact Gorge or the Tamar Valley wine route (before it becomes pollution central with the pulp mill).

Thanks, TIMP. I'm going to be there January 14th through the 18th. I thought that both Port Arthur and Bichemo might be a bit of a stretch. I might have to bite the bullet and rent the car for all five days after all. While my airplane tickets are set (and the dates would have been set anyway due to other trip constraints), the itinerary is pretty open.

Re hotels, I typically do not do B&Bs... too many allergy issues with molds and downs. The typical unassuming businessman's hotel is fine for one-night stays. I'm not thrilled about any of my choices, but I booked stuff to have it as we are closing in on two months out. I'd like to keep the rooms under A$800 total for the four nights - right now I'm at about A$770 as I'm getting killed (A$234) in Swansea. And the casinos in both Hobart and Launceston looked interesting for lodging options, and since it's a weeknight I figure they've got to have cheap rooms!

Other than the side of the road deal, driving does not faze me that much. In the US, I average 80-100 miles/day on these kind of non-superhighway exploring trips. Google has the trip at 509 km if I skip Bichemo/St. Mary's. Ideally, that would be spread out at 100-150km increments. Likewise, a new hotel each night is no big deal, although I wish I got stay credits!

The full day at Port Arthur is a little unexpected. Is Hobart worth an entire day by comparison? Or is it more efficient for me to spend the morning and early afternoon there, and then drive to Port Arthur or somewhere along A9 that (Monday) before sunset? That would get me ahead of any sightseeing bus crowds on Tuesday AM.

Likewise, it sounds like I could stop short of Launceston on Thursday night.

Thanks again for your suggestions!

Thanks, TIMP. I'm going to be there January 14th through the 18th. I thought that both Port Arthur and Bichemo might be a bit of a stretch. I might have to bite the bullet and rent the car for all five days after all. While my airplane tickets are set (and the dates would have been set anyway due to other trip constraints), the itinerary is pretty open.
Thats good to know (that its pretty open).
Re hotels, I typically do not do B&Bs... too many allergy issues with molds and downs. The typical unassuming businessman's hotel is fine for one-night stays. I'm not thrilled about any of my choices, but I booked stuff to have it as we are closing in on two months out. I'd like to keep the rooms under A$800 total for the four nights - right now I'm at about A$770 as I'm getting killed (A$234) in Swansea. And the casinos in both Hobart and Launceston looked interesting for lodging options, and since it's a weeknight I figure they've got to have cheap rooms!

Casino in HBA is nothing to rave about and is actually a fair way out of town. Launceston however while being out of town is a lovely place to stay (Its where I stayed when work use to send me up there). If you want to do washing, book one of the Villas as they are totally self contained with washing machine, dryer etc. Terraces resturant is also VERY nice.


Other than the side of the road deal, driving does not faze me that much. In the US, I average 80-100 miles/day on these kind of non-superhighway exploring trips. Google has the trip at 509 km if I skip Bichemo/St. Mary's. Ideally, that would be spread out at 100-150km increments. Likewise, a new hotel each night is no big deal, although I wish I got stay credits!
Its not the driving that will get you, its the roads! While the A9 etc is supposedly a highway, its actually just a 2 lane road which is slightly wider than normal and VERY bendy at that.

The full day at Port Arthur is a little unexpected. Is Hobart worth an entire day by comparison? Or is it more efficient for me to spend the morning and early afternoon there, and then drive to Port Arthur or somewhere along A9 that (Monday) before sunset? That would get me ahead of any sightseeing bus crowds on Tuesday AM.

You dont NEED a full day at Port Arthur, however to fully appreciate it I feel you need at least 3/4 of a day. I went down there last year with my godmother, we arrived around 10ish and didnt leave till about 4. The walking tour of the site with the guides takes about an hour. The boat trip to the isle of the dead (incl in cost) takes another hour. If you add Port Peur onto that thats another hour (same boat services both areas).

Add onto that about 30-40 mintues to go through the interpretation centre, and then another hour or so to revisit the stuff you didnt go into during the walking tour. It adds up. Hobart is worth an entire day in my opinion as it gives you an idea of what life was like for the "well off" before you get to Port Arthur. I'd suggest trying to get into town in time to do Louisas walk which starts at the Cascade Brewery. You can book at the visitors info centre. It provides a very interesting counterpoint to Port Arthur in the treatment of convicts etc.
I'd personally leave for Port Arthur by 8am to get there just as it opens and try to get the first walking tour. If the weather is good its an amazing place, if its cold/wet it can be quite creepy.

Likewise, it sounds like I could stop short of Launceston on Thursday night.

Thanks again for your suggestions!

Stopping short of Launceston is a good idea - mainly as you will be tired from all that driving (even if you are used to it!).

If I was you, I would go
HBA-Port Arthur (overnight if possible) - Swansea(overnight) - Coles Bay/Freycient (overnight) - Launceston

Hope this helps!

Thank you, TIMP! I'm going to ponder all this while away on work this week, but I suspect I may have a couple of more questions for you upon my return! :)

Thank you, TIMP! I'm going to ponder all this while away on work this week, but I suspect I may have a couple of more questions for you upon my return! :)
Welcome...
May I suggest the Pure Tasmania website (its tied to the Federal group, BUT its a good way to start thinking...)
I'm totally in love with the West Coast - but thats just me.

As you've already been advised, driving in Tassie isn't something you can compare to your non-superhighway drives here. Plus, if you can't stop all the time, pull over and have a brief look, you will miss quintessential Tassie, period.

I suggest skipping Port Arthur. It is more cultural than aesthetic, and it isn't your culture, simply put. While it is interesting, you would need to be on a 2-3 week Tassie itin to make that worthwhile imho.

Hobart is a must see, and in your case, I'd say one day max.

Coles bay - okay, but it is really the entire east coast of Tassie that is spectacular, and so I would not suggest focus on Freycinet. The whole coast is worthy and gorgeous.

Cradle mountain is in many ways at the top of the what's most incredible about Tassie list.

There are many other amazing places in Tassie, but that won't conceivably fit in your itinerary, so I'll omit mention.

As for Launnie, it is fine for groceries, or whatever, and otherwise, while there's nothing bad about it, just skip it and the gorge.

Just driving through the small towns throughout the state and stopping and looking around is what Tassie is all about.

Have a car for the entire time.

PS. You're talking about doing something like seeing all of California in 5 days. It just isnt' going to happen. Starting there, have a great time.

Having visited TAS every year since 2000 for a week or so I have driven most of the isalnd but still haven't seen everything! I have to agree with the other posters - driving in TAS is a very different experience and you do have to allow much more time than it looks like from the map.

Port Arthur is OK and it is a lovely drive from Hobart but it is a whole day and there are better ways of spending your time. The East coast is nice and the BW at Bicheno is a good place to stay and it's close to where you can go and see the fairy penguins at night which is cool. Also there are some lovely place just north - St Helens is a nice small town and there is a van there that sells great crayfish. Also Falmouth, which is a tiny place, has a fantastic beach. Just near there is Elephant Pass - if you like pancakes then you must try the Elephant pancakes ;)

Wine Glass Bay is absolutely beautiful but unfortunately it is getting much busier. There is also a great vineyard at Freycient - not cheap but fabulous wine.

Hobart is a great little city although on my first visit I thought I had gone back in time but it is slowly catching up with the rest of the world. Casino is nothing special and is probably a 20-30 minute walk from town. Don't know if you will be in Hobart on Saturday but there is a wonderful market in Salamanca Place.

I have to agree with TIMP that the West coast is awesome but my favourite place is the NW corner of TAS which is still largely unknown and unspoilt. You could do it in a day trip from Launceston but only just.

Cradle Mountain is unique both in terms of the views, the wildlife and the weather which can be lets say changeable!

Overall TAS is probably the best place in the world but you do have to take your time and enjoy it

Thanks everybody. The recomendation for the BW Bichemo is helpful, as I think a room has opened up at a much lower rate than what I had in Swansea.

What do people think is a realistic crusing/poking around speed? 15 km/hr?

Thanks everybody. The recomendation for the BW Bichemo is helpful, as I think a room has opened up at a much lower rate than what I had in Swansea.

What do people think is a realistic crusing/poking around speed? 15 km/hr?

ROFLOL! That slow and the cops will DEFINATELY pull you over. Speed limit is 90-100km/hour on the major roads, though if you are sensible you wont go over about 75/80. Most interesting things have some sort of sign post before hand. I agree with BA Boy - Falmouth is gorgeous, there used to be a lovely Inn there, on a herb farm, but I think it was caught in the fires last year and burnt....
Hope this helps!

ROFLOL! That slow and the cops will DEFINATELY pull you over. Speed limit is 90-100km/hour on the major roads, though if you are sensible you wont go over about 75/80. Most interesting things have some sort of sign post before hand. I agree with BA Boy - Falmouth is gorgeous, there used to be a lovely Inn there, on a herb farm, but I think it was caught in the fires last year and burnt....
Hope this helps!
lol... I meant the total time.. driving, pulling over, wandering around a town, etc...

Also, I was thinking in mph, but wrote it as km/hr... so it'd be more like 25 km/hr, which is probably low. e.g. if there's a 100 km stretch on say the road from Hobart to Port Arthur, it would be prudent to plan 3 hours to account for stopping along the way as things strike my fancy, as well as dealing with the two-lane travel.

lol... I meant the total time.. driving, pulling over, wandering around a town, etc...

Also, I was thinking in mph, but wrote it as km/hr... so it'd be more like 25 km/hr, which is probably low. e.g. if there's a 100 km stretch on say the road from Hobart to Port Arthur, it would be prudent to plan 3 hours to account for stopping along the way as things strike my fancy, as well as dealing with the two-lane travel.

There isnt actually that MUCH between Hobart and Prt Arthur except maybe the tesselated pavement (or that might be further along, I can never remember). 3 hours seem a little long, I'd say 2, but I have actually never stopped on the road..problem of being a vague local I guess. During Summer there are also plays which happen at the historic site, outline pieces of the history, they are professionally put on, and by all accounts and purposes really interesting and well done.

Tassie is a great place to visit. Lots of interesting little diversions everywhere. Spent two weeks there last Dec/Jan. If they have bushfires again it might effect your plans. Wineglass Bay was closed for us. Port Arthur is a very significant site, don't rush it. It is chilling visiting the memorial following Australia's worst shooting.

Take your time, soak up the atmosphere, visit Richmond, pick some berries fresh off the tree/vine.
A great place all over, chill out, you can't go wrong.

The Tesselated Pavement is about half way to Port Arthur and is worth a stop. I would second Richmond - it's a great little town just avoid the tourist shops.

Never seen many traffic cops outside of the Hobart area ;)

The Tesselated Pavement is about half way to Port Arthur and is worth a stop.

Thank you! My geography is terrible...due to work I navigate based on schools, doctors surgeries and pathology centres!

Thank you! My geography is terrible...due to work I navigate based on schools, doctors surgeries and pathology centres!

You must have a very strange job!

Have a look at the Peppermint Cruise - great way to see around HBA if you don't have a car - Peppermint Cruise (http://www.peppermintbay.com.au/index.cgi?pageID=get_there)


When I was in hobart, I stayed at the HJAH, and went on this cruise to Peppermint Bay - All I can say to BAGoldBoy is thanks for the recommendation and ^^^^^^^^^^^^^ :D

It was one of the nicest experiences I have had in many years of travelling ... A leisurely cruise interrupted (in a nice way :p) by a beautiful lunch, and bottle of wine ;) in the beautiful sunshine.

Just perfect !

You are very welcome - can't wait to be back in Hobart in February - we have hired a property that is the only house on a 3 mile beach :)

You must have a very strange job!
I was the field officer for this (www.iodine.com.au) until June this year. I realised I had done too much driving when
1. the tax office AND my accountant both questioned my mileage
2. I could rat run in both major cites and all 4 major towns
3. I knew every single dead spot on every major highway
4. I knew exactly when my phone would lose coverage going to the west coast.

You are very welcome - can't wait to be back in Hobart in February - we have hired a property that is the only house on a 3 mile beach :)

Which beach????

I was the field officer for this (www.iodine.com.au) until June this year. I realised I had done too much driving when
1. the tax office AND my accountant both questioned my mileage
2. I could rat run in both major cites and all 4 major towns
3. I knew every single dead spot on every major highway
4. I knew exactly when my phone would lose coverage going to the west coast.

Remind me never to shake your hand if we meet at a do!

Which beach????

It's near Opossum Bay at the end of a track as far as I can tell from the directions - about 10 minutes from Lauderdale

It's near Opossum Bay at the end of a track as far as I can tell from the directions - about 10 minutes from Lauderdale
That means you are gonna drive straight past my old rental... you do know the back way from the Airport onto South Arm Road dont you?

Remind me never to shake your hand if we meet at a do!

:D I suspect after a couple of months the soap would eventually wear down my immunity layer! Mind you explaining 400 odd unused sample containers which are stuffed in the cupboard under my laundry tub is always fun, as are the 6 eskies and 5 boxes worth of paper bags, Sponge bob zip locs and various other "stuff" which still havent made it out of the back of my 15 year old Barina...must do that this weekend as I have to pick mum up from the airport next week.

That means you are gonna drive straight past my old rental... you do know the back way from the Airport onto South Arm Road dont you?

Yes, we found it by accident I believe - now go and clean out your car before you have to pick your Mum up! Don't forget all the pie wrappers under the seats and the bottles you throw over your shoulder when they're empty :p

Yes, we found it by accident I believe - now go and clean out your car before you have to pick your Mum up! Don't forget all the pie wrappers under the seats and the bottles you throw over your shoulder when they're empty :p
In my case its actually mail I dont want to deal with, fencing equipment from club and leftover boxes of misc crap (paper bags etc) from my job. Oh and a few stray library books for good measure.

ETA this is probably the most on topic thread drift I have seen! ;)

After reading some of the comments here it seems like I'm trying to bite off too much and should probably change my itinerary.
Any comments on the itineraries below?

Current itinerary:
Dec. 21 fly info Launceston in the morning, drive to the northwest coast (Stanley), spend the night in Devonport
Dec. 22 drive to Cradle Mt. Drive to Strahan in the evening
Dec. 23 Spend most of the day around Strahan and then drive down to Hobart
Dec. 24 Visit Port Arthur, drive up to Swansea
Dec. 25 Visit Coles Bay and then drive up to Launceston, leaving at 18.00

New itinerary (tentative):
Dec. 21 fly info Launceston in the morning, drive to the northwest coast (Stanley), spend the night in Devonport
Dec. 22 drive to Cradle Mt. Drive to Strahan in the evening
Dec. 23 Spend the day in Strahan, including the west coast wilderness railroad
Dec. 24 Drive up to Cradle Mt. Spend the night in Burnie (in case I didn't get to see Stanley the first day) or Deloraine
Dec. 25 Drive from Burnie/Deloraine to Launceston. Leave at 18.00

Although I am interested in history, I realize that I won't be able to take in all the sights at Hobart and Port Arthur if I go there, so instead I thought I'd concentrate on nature and views (hence the inclusion of Stanley, Cradle Mt. and the Strahan are in the itinerary). I'm a pretty strong walker and can do several day-long hikes in a week.

After reading some of the comments here it seems like I'm trying to bite off too much and should probably change my itinerary.
Any comments on the itineraries below?

Current itinerary:
Dec. 21 fly info Launceston in the morning, drive to the northwest coast (Stanley), spend the night in Devonport
Dec. 22 drive to Cradle Mt. Drive to Strahan in the evening
Dec. 23 Spend most of the day around Strahan and then drive down to Hobart
Dec. 24 Visit Port Arthur, drive up to Swansea
Dec. 25 Visit Coles Bay and then drive up to Launceston, leaving at 18.00

New itinerary (tentative):
Dec. 21 fly info Launceston in the morning, drive to the northwest coast (Stanley), spend the night in Devonport
Dec. 22 drive to Cradle Mt. Drive to Strahan in the evening
Dec. 23 Spend the day in Strahan, including the west coast wilderness railroad
Dec. 24 Drive up to Cradle Mt. Spend the night in Burnie (in case I didn't get to see Stanley the first day) or Deloraine
Dec. 25 Drive from Burnie/Deloraine to Launceston. Leave at 18.00

Although I am interested in history, I realize that I won't be able to take in all the sights at Hobart and Port Arthur if I go there, so instead I thought I'd concentrate on nature and views (hence the inclusion of Stanley, Cradle Mt. and the Strahan are in the itinerary). I'm a pretty strong walker and can do several day-long hikes in a week.

If I was you I'd do this...
Day 1:- Arrive Launceston drive straight to Cradle Mountain (Stanley is interesting but can be easily missed) I am assuming you are arriving fairly early in the day. The drive Launceston to Cradle Mountain is about 2 hours or so. I'd do some of the shorter walks around the lodge O/N this area.
Day 2:- Spend the day driving to Strahan - stopping at some of the bush walks on the way. O/N Strahan
Day 3:- Strahan (Piners and Miners - its expensive but you get good bushwalking, history AND the East coast Railroad all at once) O/N Strahan
Day 4:- Strahan (Boat trip) O/N Strahan
Day 5:- Leave VERY early and head back to Launceston - it will take you most of the day as the roads are very windy, and narrow.

I know this looks like you not doing much but driving (especially around the West coast) is windy, difficult and takes MUCH longer than you expect.
Strahan is an amazing place and if the weather is good you get amazing views. I did Piners and Miners earlier this year with my Dad. Max of 8 on the trip and its a full day (we left at 7am and got back about 5pm). Its expensive ($275/person) but that includes b/fast, guide, hire gear, morning tea, an AMAZING lunch, afternoon tea, wine, beer etc etc. You take a converted car up the west coast railway - stopping where the train can't, you then drive to the Bird river in the world heritage area and walk about 10 kms to Pillinger a deserted mining town. You have lunch and then ride the boat back to Strahan. I loved it. My dad took something like 2 memory cards worth of photos. It was an amazing experience.

If I was you I'd do this...
Day 1:- Arrive Launceston drive straight to Cradle Mountain (Stanley is interesting but can be easily missed) I am assuming you are arriving fairly early in the day. The drive Launceston to Cradle Mountain is about 2 hours or so. I'd do some of the shorter walks around the lodge O/N this area.
Day 2:- Spend the day driving to Strahan - stopping at some of the bush walks on the way. O/N Strahan
Day 3:- Strahan (Piners and Miners - its expensive but you get good bushwalking, history AND the East coast Railroad all at once) O/N Strahan
Day 4:- Strahan (Boat trip) O/N Strahan
Day 5:- Leave VERY early and head back to Launceston - it will take you most of the day as the roads are very windy, and narrow.

I know this looks like you not doing much but driving (especially around the West coast) is windy, difficult and takes MUCH longer than you expect.
Strahan is an amazing place and if the weather is good you get amazing views. I did Piners and Miners earlier this year with my Dad. Max of 8 on the trip and its a full day (we left at 7am and got back about 5pm). Its expensive ($275/person) but that includes b/fast, guide, hire gear, morning tea, an AMAZING lunch, afternoon tea, wine, beer etc etc. You take a converted car up the west coast railway - stopping where the train can't, you then drive to the Bird river in the world heritage area and walk about 10 kms to Pillinger a deserted mining town. You have lunch and then ride the boat back to Strahan. I loved it. My dad took something like 2 memory cards worth of photos. It was an amazing experience.

I don't think that you could create an itinerary for such a short trip where everyone would agree ;)

Cradle Mt is awesome and has some great walks but if you really want to see the animals you will have to go walking at night with a powerful torch. Last time we did this we literally stumbled over wombats, possums, quolls and bandicoots.

Another interesting twist is to drive from Strahan to Arthur River on the west coast road - actually it's not a paved road, but it's a fairly easy drive in a 4WD. Personally I think that NW corner of TAS is the most beautiful and there are a few aborigonal sites in the area and the controversial Cape Grim wind farm. Marawah has the most beautiful beaches in the world IMO and the scrubland is teeming with wildlife including Tasmanian Devils. From Marawah it's a simple drive back to Lanceston via Stanley, Brunie or Devonport.

Of course you're still missing tons of stuff so you'll just have to visit again :D

True that - I mean in that suggestion I have left off Dismal Swamp, the Fatman across the Pieman and the things you have mentioned. I seriously wish people would realise tassie needs at LEAST a week in the South, a week or more in the NW and a week on the east coast to do it justice.

True that - I mean in that suggestion I have left off Dismal Swamp, the Fatman across the Pieman and the things you have mentioned. I seriously wish people would realise tassie needs at LEAST a week in the South, a week or more in the NW and a week on the east coast to do it justice.

I agree. My upcoming trip to NZ, Tassie, Cooks Islands and Fiji only allows four days on Tassie, but I'm sure I'll like it and come back again :)

I've changed my reservations and now I'm booked for three nights in Strahan and I've also booked the Piners & Miners tour and a cruise. Thr south and the east coast will have to wait 'til next time

I agree. My upcoming trip to NZ, Tassie, Cooks Islands and Fiji only allows four days on Tassie, but I'm sure I'll like it and come back again :)

I've changed my reservations and now I'm booked for three nights in Strahan and I've also booked the Piners & Miners tour and a cruise. Thr south and the east coast will have to wait 'til next time

You wont regret the Piners and Miners.....it really is an amazing experience.
If you follow this (http://www.tabblo.com/studio/stories/view/251446/) link (http://www.tabblo.com/studio/stories/view/250886/) you will see some photos dad took during our walk.

Hey TIMP, I'm interested in going to Tasmania in the winter next year. I saw in another post you didn't advise that people go there in winter. Some of my big passions include landscape photography and I love alpine scenery, and think it'd be beautiful with snow everywhere and would be interested in going around July, August or September. I love the cold weather, so that's no problem.. and many people say the air is so clean and crisp in tassie in the winter. Cradle Mountain is obviously a drawcard, but is it too dangerous to get there in winter? Is it possible to do some basic/moderate hikes around the area in winter? or is that impossible with the snow...Also looking at seeing some more of your most majestic scenery, where would you suggest? Maybe the West Coast around Strahan, Freycinet NP and also the Waterfalls of Mt Field National Park look the goods for my interests, but am obviously open to suggestions.
As long as I can still get out and about and do some walks/easy hikes, rug up at night, and soak in the beautiful landscapes, I'll be fine, but knowing nothing about our most southern state, I want to make sure it's safe to travel around in winter, as I've also seen that many people have said the roads are a little basic.

Hey TIMP, I'm interested in going to Tasmania in the winter next year. I saw in another post you didn't advise that people go there in winter.
Only if you dont like cold damp grey weather! ;-)

Some of my big passions include landscape photography and I love alpine scenery, and think it'd be beautiful with snow everywhere and would be interested in going around July, August or September. I love the cold weather, so that's no problem.. and many people say the air is so clean and crisp in tassie in the winter.
Best chance for snow would probably be around July/August HOWEVER we get snow all year round it sometimes feels like! The air is wonderfully crisp and clear during winter, and its foggy and damp too. If you love cold weather you will be like a pig in mud.

Cradle Mountain is obviously a drawcard, but is it too dangerous to get there in winter? Is it possible to do some basic/moderate hikes around the area in winter? or is that impossible with the snow...
Its not impossible, however I would suggest if you are driving to hire a 4WD with chains to enable you to definately get in and out if you have fixed flights! I must admit I have never really been to Cradle mountain, though everyone who has raves about it.

Also looking at seeing some more of your most majestic scenery, where would you suggest? Maybe the West Coast around Strahan, Freycinet NP and also the Waterfalls of Mt Field National Park look the goods for my interests, but am obviously open to suggestions.
I LOVE the West Coast in all seasons, but to me its really special around June/July as most of the tourists have gone, and it settles back into a sleepy tourist town. There is something truely magical about waking up to mist and fog rolling in off the harbour and hearing the boat horn and not seeing the boat. Freycinet wont get you snow (I dont THINK) but is gorgeous non the less. Mt Fields is a day trip at most. Russell Falls is about 20 minutes from the car park, and Lady Baron is about an hours walk.

As long as I can still get out and about and do some walks/easy hikes, rug up at night, and soak in the beautiful landscapes, I'll be fine, but knowing nothing about our most southern state, I want to make sure it's safe to travel around in winter, as I've also seen that many people have said the roads are a little basic.
The roads are quite basic in some areas, however with careful driving and a sensible car (4WD with chains where necessary) you should be fine. Just dont do what I did my first year here and try to drive the road from Hobart to Strahan in a Barina at about 7am on a July morning after a night of black ice. Its NOT easy.

The roads are quite basic in some areas, however with careful driving and a sensible car (4WD with chains where necessary) you should be fine. Just dont do what I did my first year here and try to drive the road from Hobart to Strahan in a Barina at about 7am on a July morning after a night of black ice. Its NOT easy.

We did this drive a couple of years ago in February. When we left Strahan it was a pleasant, warm day but it got progressively wetter and colder during the morning. By the time we go to Lake Clair the computer in the car was registering below zero :eek: and the road was very icy. My wife asked me at one point why we were slowing down and I twisted the steering wheel to demonstrate that I was no longer steering the car as we were driving on ice! We stopped at a roadside hotel which had blazing fires and people defrosting from the cold. When we got to Hobart it was a warm and sunny day.

Ah, summer in Tasmania ;)