Convict and Culture Trail
From Mona and historic Richmond to the Tasman National Park and Port Arthur Historic Site, this journey is rich in culture, history and natural beauty.
The Tasman Peninsula is a place of breathtaking seascapes, some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world and wild ocean views. On the way, sample wine and oysters, drop in to visit Tasmanian devils or take a walk and explore the rugged coastline.
At a glance
- Hobart to Mona (20 minutes) / 1 night Hobart
- Hobart to Tasman Peninsula via Richmond (1.5 hours) / 2 nights Tasman Peninsula
- Tasman Peninsula to Bangor Wine and Oyster Shed (45 minutes)
- Bangor to Hobart Airport (30 minutes)
The Journey:
- Nearest Major City: Hobart
- Duration / Distance: 4 days (100 km / 63 miles)
- Mode of transport: Car
Day One
Museum of Old and New Art (Mona), Hobart, Tasmania
Day 1 – Hobart
Arrive in Tasmania’s capital, Hobart and head to Brooke St Pier and board a ferry bound for Mona. Explore the world class museum and indulge in a wine tasting or tour and lunch in the Wine Bar. While away the afternoon before returning on the ferry and enjoying dinner in one of Hobart’s many restaurants.
Highlights
- Hobart offers a contrasting blend of heritage, scenery and culture, with world class activities and attractions nearby.
- Visiting Mona whilst in Hobart is a ‘must do’ experience.
- Dine out in one of Hobart’s hip restaurants.
Day Two
Tasmanian Devil Unzoo, Taranna, Tasmania
Day 2 – Hobart to Tasman Peninsula via Richmond
Depart for the Tasman Peninsula, stopping at the historic town of Richmond along the way. Richmond is a picture-perfect town in the heart of the Coal River Valley wine region that tells the story of an early Australian colonial village. Experience the views over Pirate’s Bay from the Eaglehawk Neck lookout on this journey down the Peninsula. Visit the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo to see some of Tasmania’s unique wildlife before checking in to tonight’s accommodation for the evening.
Highlights
- Visit the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo, 15 minutes from Port Arthur Historic site.
- Purchase a souvenir at one of Richmond’s boutique shops.
- Pick berries at the Coal River Farm.
- Taste wine or enjoy a coffee at one of the many vineyards in the Coal Valley.
Day Three
Tasman Island Cruise, Tasman Island, Tasmania
Day 3 – Tasman Peninsula
After breakfast take a cruise with Pennicott Wilderness Journeys to Tasman Island. Spend the afternoon exploring World Heritage listed Port Arthur Historic Site and participate in a tour and cruise to the Isle of the Dead. Port Arthur was established in the 1830s as a penal settlement. It remains a physical chronicle of a dramatic part of Australia's history.
Highlights
- Take a tour and cruise at Port Arthur Historic Site.
- View some of Tasmania’s marine life on board a Tasman Island Cruise.
- Stroll along the secluded Stewarts Bay beach.
- For an evening activity try a lantern-lit ghost tour at Port Arthur.
Day Four
Bangor Wine & Oyster Shed, Tasman Peninsula
Day 4 – Tasman Peninsula to Hobart Airport
Take time for a walk this morning to experience the area’s natural attractions including dramatic coastal rock formations and towering cliffs. For an extended option, enjoy the Crescent Bay or Cape Hauy tracks, a short drive from Port Arthur. Head to the Bangor Food and Wine Shed on route to Hobart, for some delicious fresh Tasmanian oysters and a glass of locally produced wine before arriving at the Hobart airport for a late afternoon flight.
Highlights
- Walk to Cape Hauy or from Remarkable Caves to Crescent Bay.
- Stop at the Tessellated Pavement at Eaglehawk Neck.
- Visit natural structures: Tasman Blowhole, Devils Kitchen and Tasman Arch.
- Enjoy some of Tasmania’s finest fresh oysters at Bangor Food and Wine Shed.
