Launceston to Hobart Cycle, TAS
Australia
Explore Australia’s incredible island state on this seven day cycling adventure from Launceston to Hobart.
Trip duration:
7 days
Challenge duration:
7 days
Challenge grade:
3-4/5
Departure months:
January to March, September to November
Accommodation:
3-4 Star Hotels, twin-share
Cycling Tasmania
From cities to glacial mountains, this adventure is a true showcase of Tasmania's most charming features.
See the famed Tasmanian wilderness up close as you cycle through grassy moorlands, around picturesque lakes and temperate forests. The dramatic sight of the peaks of Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair, and the looming silhouette of Mt Wellington in the distance provide an unforgettable scenic backdrop.
With a few grueling ascents along the way, this journey is a challenging one but offers spectacular scenic views of Tasmania’s greatest natural landmarks. Keep an eye out for local wildlife; the landscape homes a dense population of vulnerable and endangered species. Along the way, stop into historic towns to discover the local sights, and at the end of each day, share a delicious meal with your fellow teammates and rest in cosy accommodation.
Why you'll love this adventure
- Discover spectacular lesser-known trails in Tasmania
- Cycle past wineries, historic towns, across bridges and to breathtaking lookouts
- Observe the dramatic sight of Cradle Mountain
- Raise vital funds for your chosen cause and make friends with like-minded people when you travel for good
Trip notes
Day 1: Arrive in Launceston
Please note: This itinerary is designed for intermediate to advanced cyclists. The routes consist of coastal rides, mountain climbs, gravel segments; avoiding major roads where possible. Cyclists can choose to ride as little or as much as they like and there will be a support vehicle to help those who don’t want to ride, or need to rest.
Today you arrive into Tasmania, also known as the Apple Isle for its major apple production. Make your own way to our hotel in Launceston, the city known for its colonial and Victorian architecture. Ensure you arrive in the morning, to allow sufficient time for us to all get settled ahead of setting up our bikes. Once you have settled in, your guide will help you to assemble your bike before we set off on a short afternoon ride to see a few of the local sights. Tonight, we enjoy our first team dinner together.
Cycling Distance: 40km, Grade 2.5/5
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: West Tamar Valley & Beaconsfield
After a good night’s rest, it’s time to set off on our cycling adventure! Today we explore one of the most popular wine-growing regions of Australia, the West Tamar, just north of Launceston. We’ll cycle past countless wineries and Batman Bridge, the first cable-stayed bridge built in Australia. After riding through the Tamar Valley, and stopping for a coffee break, we arrive at the historic mining town of Beaconsfield. From Beaconsfield, we face a small climb as we follow the quieter roads to Davenport, where we will stay overnight.
Cycling Distance: Easy Option- 55km, Grade 3/5. Difficult Option- 120km, Grade 4/5
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3: Cradle Mountain & Dove Lake
Our cycle today takes us to Cradle Mountain, one of the most popular sites in Tasmania. Today’s ride is shorter than yesterday, but with more climbs. Once we’ve arrived, we’ll have some time this afternoon to walk around Dove Lake and observe the dramatic sight of Cradle Mountain itself. Keep an eye out for wombats; they’re often found in this area! Tonight we’ll stay close to the mountain in warm and cosy accommodation.
Cycling Distance: Easy Option- 30km, Grade 2.5/5. Difficult Option- 80km, Grade 3.5/5
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4: Cradle Mountain to Queenstown
We depart from our cosy accommodation near Cradle Mountain this morning, enjoying a delicious breakfast to fuel us for the day ahead. Today’s route takes us through some of the most remote parts of Tasmania. As we leave the Cradle Mountain area, we ride along the edge of the Belvoir Conservation Range, a unique habitat that homes a dense population of vulnerable and endangered marsupials. From the highest point of the reserve, we turn south and follow the Murchison highway, enjoying a long downhill run before we cross the Murchison River. Our climb soon begins. It is challenging but we are rewarded with breathtaking views of the peaks between Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair. We end our ride in the picturesque country town of Queenstown, on the edge of the West Coast Range.
Cycling Distance: Easy Option- 55km, Grade 3/5. Difficult Option- 110km, Grade 4/5
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5: 99 Bends & Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
Our ride today will be both scenic and challenging. Today is all about the wilderness of Tasmania and the engineering masterpiece that has been developed to take us through it. As we depart Queenstown, we ride on the ‘99 Bends’. This shapely road takes us gradually uphill and to Gormanstone, a historical gold mining town. Our journey then crosses the northern edge of the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, part of the World Heritage Wilderness Area. We’ll make several stops at the lookouts along the route to observe its outstanding features, including the distinctive Frenchmans Cap. Tonight we stay in Tarraleah.
Cycling Distance: Easy Option- 40km, Grade 3/5. Difficult Option- 130km, Grade 4.5/5
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Tarraleah to Hobart
Today we follow the River Derwent from in the central highlands to Tasmania’s capital city, Hobart. This means we’ll be spending most of today riding downhill! As we near Hobart, the wilderness will make way for rural properties and along the way, we’ll stop at the historical town of Hamilton. Once a frontier town for the early settlement and known for its illegal liquor trade, Hamilton is a little quieter these days. It has retained the feeling of a village in the 1800s, with many of the town’s shops dating back to convict times. This afternoon we’ll arrive in Hobart, and tonight we celebrate the final evening of our adventure together with a farewell dinner.
Cycling Distance: Easy Option- 40km, Grade 2/5. Difficult Option- 100km, Grade 4/5
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7: Mt Wellington, Cascade Brewery & Depart Hobart
One of the most distinguishing features of Hobart is the looming silhouette of Mt Wellington. For our final ride, we’ll be ascending to the summit. This is one of our more difficult rides; not for its distance, but its vertical ascent up to 1,271m. At the summit, there is an observatory which provides stunning views across Hobart, the Derwent estuaries and 100km of the World Heritage Area to the west. Our return journey down the mountain is abbreviated with a stop at the Cascade Brewery, the oldest operator brewery in Australia. It is here that we will celebrate all that we have accomplished in the last week, before returning to Hobart for the end of our adventure. If you are flying home today, please book your flight for no earlier than 3:00pm.
Cycling Distance: Easy Option- 30km, Grade 2/5. Difficult Option- 60km, Grade 4/5
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 1: Arrive in Launceston
Please note: This itinerary is designed for intermediate to advanced cyclists. The routes consist of coastal rides, mountain climbs, gravel segments; avoiding major roads where possible. Cyclists can choose to ride as little or as much as they like and there will be a support vehicle to help those who don’t want to ride, or need to rest.
Today you arrive into Tasmania, also known as the Apple Isle for its major apple production. Make your own way to our hotel in Launceston, the city known for its colonial and Victorian architecture. Ensure you arrive in the morning, to allow sufficient time for us to all get settled ahead of setting up our bikes. Once you have settled in, your guide will help you to assemble your bike before we set off on a short afternoon ride to see a few of the local sights. Tonight, we enjoy our first team dinner together.
Cycling Distance: 40km, Grade 2.5/5
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: West Tamar Valley & Beaconsfield
After a good night’s rest, it’s time to set off on our cycling adventure! Today we explore one of the most popular wine-growing regions of Australia, the West Tamar, just north of Launceston. We’ll cycle past countless wineries and Batman Bridge, the first cable-stayed bridge built in Australia. After riding through the Tamar Valley, and stopping for a coffee break, we arrive at the historic mining town of Beaconsfield. From Beaconsfield, we face a small climb as we follow the quieter roads to Davenport, where we will stay overnight.
Cycling Distance: Easy Option- 55km, Grade 3/5. Difficult Option- 120km, Grade 4/5
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3: Cradle Mountain & Dove Lake
Our cycle today takes us to Cradle Mountain, one of the most popular sites in Tasmania. Today’s ride is shorter than yesterday, but with more climbs. Once we’ve arrived, we’ll have some time this afternoon to walk around Dove Lake and observe the dramatic sight of Cradle Mountain itself. Keep an eye out for wombats; they’re often found in this area! Tonight we’ll stay close to the mountain in warm and cosy accommodation.
Cycling Distance: Easy Option- 30km, Grade 2.5/5. Difficult Option- 80km, Grade 3.5/5
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4: Cradle Mountain to Queenstown
We depart from our cosy accommodation near Cradle Mountain this morning, enjoying a delicious breakfast to fuel us for the day ahead. Today’s route takes us through some of the most remote parts of Tasmania. As we leave the Cradle Mountain area, we ride along the edge of the Belvoir Conservation Range, a unique habitat that homes a dense population of vulnerable and endangered marsupials. From the highest point of the reserve, we turn south and follow the Murchison highway, enjoying a long downhill run before we cross the Murchison River. Our climb soon begins. It is challenging but we are rewarded with breathtaking views of the peaks between Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair. We end our ride in the picturesque country town of Queenstown, on the edge of the West Coast Range.
Cycling Distance: Easy Option- 55km, Grade 3/5. Difficult Option- 110km, Grade 4/5
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5: 99 Bends & Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
Our ride today will be both scenic and challenging. Today is all about the wilderness of Tasmania and the engineering masterpiece that has been developed to take us through it. As we depart Queenstown, we ride on the ‘99 Bends’. This shapely road takes us gradually uphill and to Gormanstone, a historical gold mining town. Our journey then crosses the northern edge of the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, part of the World Heritage Wilderness Area. We’ll make several stops at the lookouts along the route to observe its outstanding features, including the distinctive Frenchmans Cap. Tonight we stay in Tarraleah.
Cycling Distance: Easy Option- 40km, Grade 3/5. Difficult Option- 130km, Grade 4.5/5
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Tarraleah to Hobart
Today we follow the River Derwent from in the central highlands to Tasmania’s capital city, Hobart. This means we’ll be spending most of today riding downhill! As we near Hobart, the wilderness will make way for rural properties and along the way, we’ll stop at the historical town of Hamilton. Once a frontier town for the early settlement and known for its illegal liquor trade, Hamilton is a little quieter these days. It has retained the feeling of a village in the 1800s, with many of the town’s shops dating back to convict times. This afternoon we’ll arrive in Hobart, and tonight we celebrate the final evening of our adventure together with a farewell dinner.
Cycling Distance: Easy Option- 40km, Grade 2/5. Difficult Option- 100km, Grade 4/5
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7: Mt Wellington, Cascade Brewery & Depart Hobart
One of the most distinguishing features of Hobart is the looming silhouette of Mt Wellington. For our final ride, we’ll be ascending to the summit. This is one of our more difficult rides; not for its distance, but its vertical ascent up to 1,271m. At the summit, there is an observatory which provides stunning views across Hobart, the Derwent estuaries and 100km of the World Heritage Area to the west. Our return journey down the mountain is abbreviated with a stop at the Cascade Brewery, the oldest operator brewery in Australia. It is here that we will celebrate all that we have accomplished in the last week, before returning to Hobart for the end of our adventure. If you are flying home today, please book your flight for no earlier than 3:00pm.
Cycling Distance: Easy Option- 30km, Grade 2/5. Difficult Option- 60km, Grade 4/5
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Frequently asked questions
Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au
About the adventure
How challenging is this adventure?
Your adventure is ranked a moderate 3/5, with the option to take on more cycling, bringing the difficulty to 4/5 . While no cycling experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The Tasmania cycle is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. It is essential that you prepare for this challenge and feel comfortable riding a bike for extended periods of time.
Who will I be travelling with?
Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.
The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team. Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.
Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?
Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.
What is the general age range of participants?
The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84 take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.
Fitness and training
How do I train for this adventure?
We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.
It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your cycle. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day cycle. You should aim to cycle in hilly terrain for 4-5 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.
Accommodation
Will I be sharing accommodation?
Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.
I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?
If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.
What to expect
I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?
We are able to accommodate guests’ specific dietary requirements and can always prepare a meal to meet individual needs.
Will I have mobile phone reception?
You may not be able to use your phone at all times - but don't worry, it's all part of the experience! It is possible that during our trek you will have limited access and usually Telstra is best. Otherwise, enjoying switching off and getting back to nature.
Will I have access to electricity?
Yes, you will have access to power points at your accommodation.
What do I need to pack?
You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.
What weather can I expect?
Weather in autumn and springtime tends to average around 20-22°C in Launceston and Hobart. During the night, mornings and evenings, Temperatures can get as low as 1-10°C, so be sure to bring layers. Please check local forecasts in the weeks leading up to your adventure for up-to-date weather information.
What happens if there is a medical emergency?
Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.
How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?
See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.
Costs and payments
What’s included in the travel cost?
Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost includes:
- Transfers as per itinerary
- Transport for your bike with professional bike carriers
- Accommodation in 3-4 star hotels based on twin share
- Meals as per itinerary
- Water & snacks during cycling
- Professional cycling guides
- Support vehicle & mechanical assistance
- National Park fees
- Winery lunch tour
What’s not included in the travel cost?
Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost does not include:
- Airfares
- Airport transfers
- Bicycle hire, helmets and other accessories
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
Are the travel costs subject to change?
We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size or factors out of our control. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.
Why do I need to pay a registration fee?
When you register, you will be required to pay a registration fee to secure your spot on the team. From the minute you register until you return from your adventure, the team at Inspired Adventures will provide you with everything you need - including a tailored fundraising plan, fitness advice and support with your travel preparations. You will receive access to your online adventure portal complete with your own online fundraising page and lots of resources to help you along the way. Your registration fee goes towards our cost of managing the adventure and supporting you on your journey.
How much spending money do I need?
We recommend that you allow $45 per day to cover any meals not included in the trip costs, souvenirs and gifts, drinks, and any additional activities you may wish to participate in. It is possible to travel comfortably on a smaller budget, and you can always withdraw cash, when required, while travelling.
Is it customary to tip?
Tipping is not compulsory, and you are encouraged to tip only an amount you find appropriate.
Travel insurance and visas
Do I need to have travel insurance?
Travel insurance is highly recommended for domestic adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.
About the adventure
How challenging is this adventure?
Your adventure is ranked a moderate 3/5, with the option to take on more cycling, bringing the difficulty to 4/5 . While no cycling experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The Tasmania cycle is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. It is essential that you prepare for this challenge and feel comfortable riding a bike for extended periods of time.
Who will I be travelling with?
Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.
The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team. Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.
Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?
Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.
What is the general age range of participants?
The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84 take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.
Fitness and training
How do I train for this adventure?
We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.
It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your cycle. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day cycle. You should aim to cycle in hilly terrain for 4-5 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.
Accommodation
Will I be sharing accommodation?
Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.
I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?
If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.
What to expect
I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?
We are able to accommodate guests’ specific dietary requirements and can always prepare a meal to meet individual needs.
Will I have mobile phone reception?
You may not be able to use your phone at all times - but don't worry, it's all part of the experience! It is possible that during our trek you will have limited access and usually Telstra is best. Otherwise, enjoying switching off and getting back to nature.
Will I have access to electricity?
Yes, you will have access to power points at your accommodation.
What do I need to pack?
You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.
What weather can I expect?
Weather in autumn and springtime tends to average around 20-22°C in Launceston and Hobart. During the night, mornings and evenings, Temperatures can get as low as 1-10°C, so be sure to bring layers. Please check local forecasts in the weeks leading up to your adventure for up-to-date weather information.
What happens if there is a medical emergency?
Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.
How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?
See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.
Costs and payments
What’s included in the travel cost?
Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost includes:
- Transfers as per itinerary
- Transport for your bike with professional bike carriers
- Accommodation in 3-4 star hotels based on twin share
- Meals as per itinerary
- Water & snacks during cycling
- Professional cycling guides
- Support vehicle & mechanical assistance
- National Park fees
- Winery lunch tour
What’s not included in the travel cost?
Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost does not include:
- Airfares
- Airport transfers
- Bicycle hire, helmets and other accessories
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
Are the travel costs subject to change?
We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size or factors out of our control. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.
Why do I need to pay a registration fee?
When you register, you will be required to pay a registration fee to secure your spot on the team. From the minute you register until you return from your adventure, the team at Inspired Adventures will provide you with everything you need - including a tailored fundraising plan, fitness advice and support with your travel preparations. You will receive access to your online adventure portal complete with your own online fundraising page and lots of resources to help you along the way. Your registration fee goes towards our cost of managing the adventure and supporting you on your journey.
How much spending money do I need?
We recommend that you allow $45 per day to cover any meals not included in the trip costs, souvenirs and gifts, drinks, and any additional activities you may wish to participate in. It is possible to travel comfortably on a smaller budget, and you can always withdraw cash, when required, while travelling.
Is it customary to tip?
Tipping is not compulsory, and you are encouraged to tip only an amount you find appropriate.
Travel insurance and visas
Do I need to have travel insurance?
Travel insurance is highly recommended for domestic adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.
All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.
Responsible Travel
Caring for our adventurers, the communities we visit and the wellbeing of the planet is the heart of everything we do. This adventure is no exception.
Meaningful connections: Hear from Aranda Elders who will tell us about the history of the area.
Environment: We offset the emissions from this trip through carbon credit programs in partnership with Carbon Neutral.
Treading lightly: Trekking is a great, low-impact way to explore.
Small group travel: Our teams consist of a maximum of 25 people. Better for you, and better for the planet.
Responsible business: We’re a certified B-Corp, committed to using business as a force for good
Do you want to take your supporters on an adventure-of-a-lifetime?
Enquire today about an itinerary for your organisation.
Thank you!
Want to stay inspired?
Subscribe to our monthly dose of inspiring adventure stories, travel tips and useful musings about the road ahead.
We’re a certified B Corp, committed to using business as a force for good.