Overview

 Highlights


  • Cycling through picturesque countryside, sleepy fishing villages and along stunning coastal stretches of the East Coast
  • Kayaking in Coles Bay beneath the imposing Hazards Range
  • A thrilling descent of Jacobs Ladder and Elephant Pass
  • Superb walks in Freycinet National Park to view Wineglass Bay
  • Wildlife spotting and the chance to see Tasmanian Devils in the wild
  • Rockclimbing in Freycinet National Park

Over 8 days we travel around Tasmania under our own steam, hiking, cycling and kayaking through some of the states most stunning National Parks. We will get to climb the states second highest peak and enjoy the thrill of a Ben Lomond descent. We cycle through small coastal towns on the East Coast, kayak the sparkling aquamarine waters of Freycinet National Park and walk to one of the world’s most beautiful beaches – Wineglass Bay. Each day we make the most of the great outdoors, and each evening is spent practising our camp craft and celebrating and relaxing over a hearty meal.

Countries:

Start and Finishing Point:

Melbourne

Grading:Moderate to Challenging   


We take an early morning flight Melbourne to Launceston. On arrival you will meet your support guide at Launceston airport. From here you will be transferred a short distance to the historic village of Evandale where you will receive a trip briefing and a detailed overview of the day ahead. The first days destination is Ben Lomond National Park which is home to the largest expanse of alpine plateau above 1200m in Australia. You will then begin the strenuous ascent from Carr Villa near the mountains base. The goal is to reach to summit of Legges Tor, Tasmania’s second highest peak standing at a respectable 1572m above sea level. If conditions are favorable you will be treated to magnificent views across the northern half of the state and may even be able to make out Cradle Mountain to the west. The track will then lead you to the ski village road where your bikes will be waiting. Once in the saddle you will get to enjoy riding over the plateau before beginning the exhilarating descent down the infamous switchback road known as Jacobs Ladder. At the base you will continue riding downhill past richly scented eucalyptus forests before reaching your campsite for the night. Overnight: camping Cycle Distance: 6-7 kms | Walking Distance: 4.2 km

Meals:  L,D

This morning will see you up nice and early preparing a camp breakfast before packing up and getting ready for the day ahead. Your group will be transferred to the town of Mathinna where you will begin the days cycling. From here you will ride down to the coal mining town of Fingal before following the picturesque valley eastwards. Then the challenge begins as you peddle up to the top of the famous Elephant Pass before beginning another thrilling descent down to the clear blue waters of the East Coast. The final destination will be at the superbly located Picaninny Point where you will set up camp for the evening. Time permitting you will be able to explore the beautiful coastline near the campsite. Overnight: camping Cycle Distance: 78 kms

Meals:  B,L,D

Our walk today follows undulating track around the pink-granite foothills of The Hazards mountain range. This trail affords tranquil views of Great Oyster Bay and meanders through coastal she-oak forests before reaching Hazards Beach, a fantastic place to take a load off, enjoy a snack and perhaps have a leisurely swim in the crystal clear waters. We trek the length of Hazards Beach then follow the track around a headland, through coastal heath and woodlands of Blue gum and Peppermint gums, rich in birdlife. In the afternoon we reach our sheltered camp at Cooks Beach and settle in with a hot drink and pre-dinner nibbles. Your guides will prepare a delicious dinner while you soak in the serenity and beauty of the National Park. Overnight: camping Walking Distance: 13km | Walking Time: 3-5 hours

Meals:  B,L,D

We have early start on this morning to ensure we make the most of the challenging day ahead. After packing up our camp we head back down Cooks Beach to the trail junction and rejoin the Peninsula track. After a short time the gradient begins to steepen as we ascend the East Freycinet Saddle. The diverse range of vegetation types as we pass through, along with abundant birdlife and plenty of signs of marsupial activity, make this a beautiful section of the track. Reaching the 620m summit of Mt Freycinet, we are rewarded with breathtaking views in all directions; a memory of this wonderful area that truly will last a lifetime. After lunch we begin the long trek along the ridge to Mt Graham, then downwards to tackle the sometimes difficult descent to the world renowned Wineglass Bay. Here we set up camp for our last night in the park and again enjoy our dinner surrounded by sublime views. Overnight: camping Walking Distance: 12km | Walking Time: 6-8 hours

Meals:  B,L,D

Your guides will encourage you to be up nice and early to witness an East Coast sunrise from Wineglass Bay. Sighting the first rays of the morning sun on the Hazards Range is spectacular as the rose quartz granite is enhanced by the colours of the dawn. Today's walk out is relatively short so we are in no rush as we pack up camp and stroll along the pristine white sands of the bay and up to the Wineglass Bay lookout. From here we descend the north-west face of the Hazards before reaching the track to Mt Amos which we aim to climb in a few days time. Returning to the carpark we make our way to Friendly Beaches where we set up camp for the next two nights and have time to relax and explore the beautiful coastline. Overnight: Camp Walking Distance: 7km | Walking Time: 5-6 hours

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning will be an additional treat as you won’t have to pack up the camp. After breakfast you will be transferred to Coles Bay. Here you will meet your kayak instructors who will deliver a safety briefing and detailed information on the day ahead. Then you will begin paddling across the stunning waters surrounding Freycinet National Park. You will be amazed at the absolutely stunning views of the Hazards Range as you paddle around Fleurieu Point and into Promise Bay. Arriving at Hazards Beach you will secure your kayak before starting the relatively flat walk across the Isthmus Track before coming out onto the world famous Wineglass Bay. A lunch stop will be provided and then you will retrace your path back to the kayaks and paddle back to Coles Bay. From here you will transfer back to Friendly Beaches for the evening. Overnight: camping Kayaking Distance: approx 19kms | Walking Distance: 6-10 kms

Meals:  B,L,D

Today will see you taking on yet another exciting challenge. You will rendezvous with our climbing instructor who will teach you basic skills and help you attempt climbs that are suitable to your level of competency. This session will be within Freycinet National Park and conducted by a qualified professional. After lunch you will ditch the rope for packs and climb the highest peak in the park; Mt Amos. From its pink granite peak you will be able to savor the true beauty of this remarkable area. Overnight: camping Climbing time: up to 5 hours | Walking time: 3 hours

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning we wake and enjoy our last cooked breakfast on the program. After breakfast we break camp and load up the trailer before hitting the road back to Launnie and our connecting flight to Melbourne. The journey should take us around 3 hours, en-route we plan to stop in Camberwell and stretch our legs. On arrival in Launceston we will have around 2 hours to visit the gorge or explore town. We will take the route from Freycinet along Lake Leake Road to Campbell Town and then straight to Launceston. We then transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Meals:  B,L


Learning outcomes for students

A World Expeditions Schools adventure is a unique learning experience. Our journeys are designed to encourage thriving and positive youth development along with leaving the communities and environments where we travel in a better condition than when we arrived.
The programs are designed to enhance the following life skills that will help you grow as an individual:
• the confidence to lead a group and make decisions
• the value of working together as a cohesive team to achieve a common objective
• the ability to face mental and physical challenges
• the ability to adapt to new environments outside of their 'comfort zone'
• to appreciate and care for the natural environment. The environments we trek through are beautiful and often pristine, invariably the students will gain a deeper appreciation and understanding about how their individual actions impact on the environment
• build strong friendships and bonds with their peers and also the local peoples
• basic outdoor skills obtained on trek such as personal hygiene, pitching a tent, helping to prepare meals
Importantly our adventures help increase general well-being and build resilience in young men and women to help them deal with adverse situations in life.
CARBON NEUTRAL
World Expeditions Schools absorbs the cost of credits mitigating 100% of the unavoidable carbon emissions. This is our commitment to being part of the solution to climate crises.


Inclusions

  • Professional cycling/ walking/ kayaking guides
  • 7 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 7 dinners, snacks and hot drinks
  • 7 nights camping at various locations
  • Transport by private minibus
  • Half day Sea-kayaking activity
  • National Park entry fees
  • Bicycle hire and helmet
  • Tents, sleeping bag, inner sheet & thermarest
  • Group camping equipment including all cooking and eating equipment
  • Rockclimbing equipment and instructor
  • Emergency communications and group first-aid kit
  • Flights from Melbourne to Launceston return

  • Items of a personal nature
  • Travel insurance
  • 60ltr pack is required for this journey, you can hire this from [email protected] www.wildislandadventure.com

Grading

Moderate to Challenging


Why travel with us

Why travel with us

Assisted over
14,000 Students Worldwide

Since the 1980's, we have helped students from around the globe to experience the world's most exciting destinations, allowing them to travel, give, grow.

400+ Service Learning
Programs

Together with students, we have completed over 400 Service Learning programs in developing countries. We will always continue to support causes including social justice, animal welfare, the environment and more.

Fully Customised
School Travel Programs

Want to include service learning, your school curriculum and a physical challenge, or any of the above? Contact us and we can design a program fully catered for your students and budget.

Safety and
Support - Our #1 Priority

Every school receives a detailed risk management plan that is guided by government advisories and the local partners we work with. We never compromise on the safety of your students to reduce the price of the program.

Testimonials


Videos

Mt Wellington (1271m) cycle descent, Hobart - timelapse

Want to find out more?

Our educational travel experts are ready to help you tailor an itinerary or service learning project to suit your school’s needs and budget. Contact us today to receive a free consultation.


Join Newsletter
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ADS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Adventures South"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Adventure South</div>
Adventure South NZ is unrivalled in their geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of adventures holidays in New Zealand. Choose from walking, cycling, winter or multi-activity holidays, on either the North or South Island.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/AWH.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Walking Holidays"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Walking Holidays</div>
Australian Walking Holidays specialises in small group guided walking adventures. Since 1982 we have been guiding small groups of travellers on Australia's finest walks across our tropical, coastal or red centre landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GCT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Canadian Trails"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Canadian Trails</div>
Great Canadian Trails specialises in active holidays in Canada. With both guided and supported self-guided options available, our unique itineraries draw upon some of Canada's most inspiring parks, trails and landscapes from coast to coast.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/HUM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Humac Challenge"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Huma Charity Challenge</div>
Huma enables those with adventurous spirits to challenge themselves and make a difference for a cause close to their heart. Travel, fundraise and meet life-long friends on one of Huma's meaningful and unique challenges around the world.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TAS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Tasmania Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Tasmanian Expeditions</div>
Tasmanian Expeditions is the most experienced operator of treks and adventure travel holidays in Tasmania. We own and operate the most comprehensive range of adventure holidays available across Tasmania's varied landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/UTX-new.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Utracks"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>UTracks</div>
UTracks are the active European holiday specialists. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WYA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions Schools"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions Schools</div>
World Expeditions Schools is our specialist division dedicated to organising tailor made overseas school group adventures. Specialists in Service Learning projects, choose from more destinations than any other school group provider.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/YOM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Yomads"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Yomads</div>
Yomads offers adventures for the 20s and 30s on six continents. Designed as a way to bring young and likeminded travellers together, Yomads caters to those interested in lightly structured and active trips that allow freedom to roam and explore.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ACT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Cycle Tours"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Cycle Tours</div>
Australian Cycle Tours specialises in high quality self guided and guided cycling experiences in a selection of the most beautiful regions in Australia.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WEX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions</div>
The pioneers of original, worldwide adventure travel holidays since 1975
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TJX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Trail Journeys"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Trail Journeys</div>
Self-guided cycling experts on New Zealand's Otago Rail Trail and more
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/BMAC.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Blue Mountains Adventure Company"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Blue Mountains Adventure Company</div>
The original Blue Mountains canyoning, hiking, climbing and abseiling experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GWNZ.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Walks of New Zealand"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Walks of New Zealand</div>
Explore New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness regions with the self-guided hiking experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/NAA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="North America Active"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>North America Active</div>
USA Canada hiking & cycling tour specialists, choose from self-guided or guided trips