Tasmania History and Heritage Tour with Jim Haynes

DAY 1 Wednesday 19 November 2025 Hobart
Tour members will be greeted at Hobart Airport at 12:30 pm. Upon arrival, we will embark on a scenic sightseeing tour of Hobart taking in the city’s highlights; there will be the opportunity to stroll through the charming historic precinct of Battery Point, one of Hobart’s oldest neighbourhoods, with its cobblestone streets, beautifully preserved 19th-century cottages, and panoramic views over the harbor. We will then check into our centrally located hotel. In the evening, the group will gather for a welcome reception with drinks, followed by a delicious dinner.

DAY 2 Thursday 20 November 2025 Hobart
This morning, we will begin our exploration with a visit to the Allport Library and Museum of Fine Arts, where we will admire an exceptional collection of art, artefacts, and historical items that offer insight into Tasmania’s rich cultural heritage. Following this, we will head to the Maritime Museum, where you can discover the fascinating history of early exploration to the stories of convict ships and sea trade. In the afternoon, we will gather for Jim’s first presentation on the history of Van Diemen’s Land, he will also share expert insights into the island’s discovery by Europeans and amazing life of Lady Jane Franklin.

DAY 3 Friday 21 November 2025 Hobart
This morning, we will journey – via the ruins of the Female Convict ‘Factory’ to the summit of Mount Wellington, where we will be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Hobart and it surrounding landscape. After soaking in the stunning vistas, we will head to the iconic Cascade Brewery for a fascinating guided tour, where we will learn about the history of Australia’s oldest brewery. Next, we will travel via Ancanthe Park to New Norfolk, home to the historic Old Bush Inn, the oldest continuously operating pub in Australia, established in 1825. Once a stopover for travellers along the route from Hobart to the island’s interior. We will enjoy a delicious, included lunch here, surrounded by the pub’s timeless atmosphere. In the late afternoon, Jim will lead a fascinating presentation on the convict history of Tasmania, shedding light on the island’s past as a penal colony.

DAY 4 Saturday 22 November 2025 Hobart
Today is market day in Hobart, and we will start the morning with a visit to the vibrant Salamanca Market, one of the most popular outdoor markets in Australia. Set against the backdrop of historic sandstone buildings, the market offers a lively atmosphere with over 300 stalls showcasing local produce, handmade crafts, unique souvenirs, fresh Tasmanian food, art, and much more. It is a perfect opportunity to experience the local culture, sample delicious treats, and perhaps pick up a few keepsakes from the artisans and vendors. The afternoon will be free making it a perfect opportunity to visit the Mona Gallery in Hobart. Jim will present an entertaining presentation on the amazing adventures of Captain Swallow, the Cyprus Brig & the last pirates hanged in Britain!

DAY 5 Sunday 23 November 2025 Hobart
Today, we will embark on a day trip to Port Arthur, one of Australia’s most significant historical sites. Between 1830 and 1877, around 12,500 convicts were transported and imprisoned here, in a stunning location on the shores of a serene bay, surrounded by the lush hills and forests of the Tasman Peninsula. Many of the original sandstone prison buildings still stand today beautifully preserved to offer a glimpse into life during the convict era. We will take a guided tour of the Port Arthur Historic Site, where you will gain a deeper understanding of what life was like in the 1800s for the convicts, soldiers, and civilians. As we explore the haunting ruins and well-preserved structures, our guide will share the gripping stories of hardship, survival, and punishment that shaped this notorious penal colony. On our return we will stop at a local winery for a wine tasting before returning to Hobart, where we will enjoy an included dinner.

DAY 6 Monday 24 November 2025 Strahan
Today, we bid farewell to Hobart as we begin our scenic journey to Strahan, located on Tasmania’s stunning west coast. En-route, we will stop at the Wall in the Wilderness, near Derwent Bridge, one of Australia’s most remarkable and ambitious contemporary art projects. Created by artist Greg Duncan, this extraordinary work aims to carve the history of Tasmania’s highlands into 100 meters of timber, much of it from the rare and iconic Huon Pine. It is a stunning series of life-sized wooden sculptures that tell the story of the region’s history, from its early settlement to its natural heritage. This is a truly unique and awe-inspiring experience that offers insight into the cultural and environmental significance of the area. We will continue our journey westward toward Strahan, where we will arrive to enjoy the charm and beauty of this picturesque coastal town, nestled on the edge of the majestic Macquarie Harbour. This evening there is an included dinner.

DAY 7 Tuesday 25 November 2025 Strahan
This morning, we will embark on a cruise along the world-famous Gordon River, one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Tasmania. The river’s ancient, mirror-like waters flow from their source in the Central Highlands, winding through a breathtaking World Heritage area of temperate rainforest and rugged mountain crags. Our journey will take us through Macquarie Harbour, a vast expanse of protected waters over 110 square miles in size. As we cruise, you will gain a deeper appreciation of the harbour’s rich natural history and cultural significance. The tranquil waters eventually give way to the open Southern Ocean through Hell’s Gates, a narrow and turbulent entrance that marks the gateway between the harbour and the sea. Along the way, we will pass Tasmania’s renowned salmon farms, set against the stunning backdrop of the harbour, before visiting the historic and infamous Sarah Island. This notorious penal colony, once a place of harsh punishment, was feared by convicts in the early 19th century. Today it is a haunting site with remnants of its dark history, offering a stark contrast to the natural beauty surrounding it. This evening there will be an included dinner.

DAY 8 Wednesday 26 November 2025 Strahan
This morning, we depart from Regatta Point Station in Strahan for a unique wilderness adventure aboard the West Coast Railway heritage train. Our journey will take us alongside the stunning Macquarie Harbour, offering breathtaking views of the water and surrounding landscapes. As we continue, the train will follow the winding King River, deep into the heart of Tasmania’s ancient rainforest of towering trees and lush vegetation. Along the way, we will stop at Lower Landing, for a short walk through the rainforest. This will give us the opportunity to learn about the fascinating local flora, including some of the island’s rare endemic plant species. During our stop, you will also have the chance to taste the pure, aromatic forest honey produced from the nectar of these unique flowers—a true treat from the wilderness. Late afternoon we will see Australia’s longest-running play, “The Ship That Never Was”, which tells the dramatic and hilarious true story about the last Great Escape from Sarah Island. The play is based on a real event in 1834. A ship built at the convict settlement in Macquarie Harbour was about to sail for Port Arthur but was hijacked by ten convict shipwrights.

DAY 9 Thursday 27 November 2025 Stanley
Today, we continue our journey north to Stanley, a charming and peaceful destination that offers a true taste of Tasmania’s natural beauty. Along the way, we will make a scenic stop at Tullah Lakeside Lodge, nestled on the shores of Lake Rosebery. Surrounded by lush rainforest and towering mountains, this picturesque location provides the opportunity to stretch your legs and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of this beautiful part of Tasmania. After our stop at Tullah, we will continue our drive toward Stanley where we stay for the next two nights. This evening there is an included dinner at our hotel.

DAY 10 Friday 28 November 2025 Stanley
Today we first visit The Nut, a dramatic volcanic plug that rises sharply from the landscape. We take the chairlift up to the summit, where you will be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the town, the sparkling sea, and the rugged coastline stretching in every direction. This is a perfect opportunity to capture the stunning beauty of the region from a unique vantage point. After descending, we will visit Highfield House, a beautifully preserved Georgian mansion that offers a fascinating glimpse into Tasmania’s colonial past. As we tour this historic property, we will learn about the early settlement of the area and the influential role of the Van Diemen’s Land Company in shaping the region’s history.

DAY 11 Saturday 29 November 2025 Launceston
Today, we head to Launceston, with a scenic stop in the artistic town of Sheffield along the way. Known as the “Town of Murals,” Sheffield is renowned for its stunning outdoor murals that celebrate the region’s history, culture, and natural beauty. We will take some time to explore the vibrant street art and perhaps visit a local café before continuing our journey to Launceston. In the afternoon, we will gather for a presentation by Jim on the life and work of John Glover, one of Australia’s most celebrated early colonial artists. Known for his stunning landscape paintings that captured the natural beauty of Tasmania, Glover’s work provides a fascinating window into the island’s history and environment during the 19th century. Jim will explain Glover’s legacy, his artistic journey, and the significance of his contribution to Australian art.

DAY 12 Sunday 30 November 2025 Launceston
Today, we begin with a visit to the delightful town of Evandale, where you will have the chance to explore the vibrant Sunday Market. We then continue to Glover House, the former home of one of Tasmania’s most renowned artists, John Glover. Set in the picturesque countryside, the house offers a fascinating glimpse into Glover’s life and his iconic landscape paintings that captured the beauty of Tasmania’s wilderness. We will explore the house and gardens, which continue to inspire artists today. Next, we will visit Franklin House in Launceston, a beautifully preserved Georgian property that provides a window into Tasmania’s early colonial life. Built in the 1830s, the house features period furnishings and gardens, offering a step back in time to the region’s first European settlement. In the late afternoon, Jim will deliver his final presentation and answer questions, followed by a farewell dinner to reflect on the memorable experiences of our journey.

DAY 13 Monday 1 December 2025 Launceston
This morning we will head to Entally Estate, another magnificent Georgian property, known for its stunning mansion, historic gardens, and impressive collection of 19th-century furniture, artwork, and artefacts. This will deepen our understanding of Tasmania’s colonial history and the lives of early settlers. Afterward, we will transfer you to Launceston Airport for your onward flight. With plenty of time to catch flights departing after 3:00 pm, you will bid farewell to Tasmania, concluding your unforgettable adventure.