February is well known as the best time of the year to tour Tasmania. Cycling this stunning, sometimes hilly terrain, is a wonderful way to absorb the beauty of this tucked away state. All your needs are catered for on this premium AllTrails bike tour - Delightful accommodation in B&B’s or motels, gourmet meals, full support from our highly experienced crew, bike mechanic, luggage transport and the support bus to pick you up anytime if needed.
Beginning this tour in stylish Launceston, perhaps you might arrive a few days earlier to visit Cataract Gorge or enjoy the wines of the Tamar Valley. The first day of cycling is a loop around Launceston including Perth and historic town Evandale, famous for the annual Penny Farthing racing and architecture.
Skirting the Tamar River, on day two, we branch off to Lilydale, through hilly terrain and thick eucalypt forest. We arrive in Scottsdale, with rich agricultural and forestry history. Day three is another hilly day, passing through historic Derby and Weldborough Pass, before dropping down to the coast to St Helens. With a population of about 2000, St Helens is the largest town on the north-east coast, well known as the game-fishing capital of Tasmania. Not far from here is the Bay of Fires, a coast of white sandy beaches dotted with magnificent giant granite boulders.
Day four is more fantastic scenery and food on the journey to Bicheno. The coastal road divides the forest, before climbing to St Mary’s - a small town surrounded by hills, trees and majestic lookouts with fantastic views of the coast below. Through Elephant Pass arrive into the picturesque town of Bicheno. Renowned for its laidback lifestyle, white sandy beaches, fresh seafood and outdoor activities, there is lots to love about Bicheno. The resident penguin population can also put on a good show for the admiring tourists. Not to mention the wildlife parks with a wide array of fauna, including kangaroos, Tasmanian devils and pelicans.
We are now half way through the Tassie East tour as we head for Swansea. The country side opens up leaving the fishing village for undulating grazing paddocks. This afternoon, and tomorrow on your rest day, take in the sights of this historic township. You may cycle or take a boat to Coles Bay, explore the famous Wineglass Bay noted as one of the best beaches in the world and visit Freycinet National Park. Swansea also offers self guided historic walks passing fascinating historic buildings. Spoil your senses with local produce, wine-tasting and fresh seafood.
Day seven we leave Swansea and head for Richmond. A big day, cycling over Spiky Bridge, through fishing villages, historic towns like Runnymead before Australia’s oldest bridge town, Richmond. You will have the pleasure tonight of staying in historic B&B’s, in a town that has grown since 1803 from the discovery of coal. From 1970 Richmond has developed its heritage and is a recognized tourist destination of Tasmania. Here you can take time out in the art and craft galleries.
Day eight dawns upon us and the end is near but not before some more scenic touring through Sorell. Then cross bridges linking peninsulars to the penal settlement, the departure point for our ferry from Port Arthur to Hobart. What a glorious week of cycling. The sights, tastes and sounds of the Tassie East Coast on a premium AllTrails Tour. See you there!
You will need:
* A well maintained bicycle
* A spare tube
* Light coloured, comfortable clothing
* Some spending money
* A positive attitude
* Some training!
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Standard: $2990
Deluxe: $3190
Single Supp: $3650
$200 deposit secures your place
Price Includes:
* Catamaran Port Arthur to Hobart
* Ferry to Freycinet from Coles Bay
* Quality Tassie jersey (free if you book before 9th Oct 2009)
* Seven nights accommodation in B&B's & motels of excellent standard
* Gourmet meals, high standard, full breakfast, morning tea, lunch, snacks each day and dinners (except dinner on rest day)
* Support vehicles to carry all of your luggage. Vehicles follow behind to pick up you and your bike if needed
Price Excludes:
* Accommodation Fri 19th in Launceston
* Accommodation Sat 27th or Sun 28th Feb in Hobart
* Airfares to Launceston and from Hobart
Also see tour packages in:
Australia and Oceania
Australia
Outdoor: Land Rambler
Bicycle Touring
Cultural Journey
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