DAY 1: ARRIVE LAUNCESTON

Today, you will arrive at Launceston Airport. Pick up your rental car. Launceston is Tasmania's second largest city and has the largest collection of historic 19th Century buildings. Blended together with fine food and wine and serving as a gateway to many adventure activities, it makes for an exciting city. Overnight: Launceston, The Old Bakery Inn (standard) or Peppers Seaport (first class)

DAY 2: LAUNCESTON-CRADLE MOUNTAIN

Check out of your hotel this morning and depart for Cradle Mountain National Park-just 21/2 hours west of Launceston. Follow Highway 1, perhaps stopping along the way at a cheese factory or for lunch in charming Deloraine. Continue west through Mole Creek, home to breathtaking caves. Cradle Mountain Lodge is a unique wilderness retreat on the edge of the World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park. Mirror Lakes, rugged mountain peaks and the stunning beauty of this region are truly inspiring. Overnight: Voyages Cradle Mountain Lodge, Pencil Pine Cabin (standard) or Spa Cabin (first class) for 2 nights

DAY 3: CRADLE MOUNTAIN ACTIVITIES

Activities at Cradle Mountain Lodge vary with the seasons. Try 4WD tours or mountain biking. For flyfishing enthusiasts, nearby lakes and streams are home to brown and rainbow trout. There are magnificent walks, canoeing, and if you're in need of pampering, indulge in a therapeutic massage. Not to be missed- native animal feeding. (All activities, own expense.) (B)

DAY 4: CRADLE MOUNTAIN LODGE-STRAHAN

Depart Cradle Mountain this morning en route to Strahan on the West Coast of Tasmania. Spend the afternoon strolling along The Esplanade, with its wide variety of cafes, pubs and bistros. Overnight: Strahan, The Strahan Village, Hilltop Garden View (standard) or Village Garden Terrace (first class) (B)

DAY 5: GORDON RIVER CRUISE

A must-do on your journey through Tasmania! Your cruise begins with a tranquil glide down the Gordon River as you watch the rainforest pass by. Disembark at Heritage Landing and enjoy an elevated rainforest walk. Pass by Sarah Island before venturing out to the wild Hell's Gates. After your cruise, depart for your 4-hour scenic drive through Queenstown and Bronte Park. Then on to Hobart, the capital of Tasmania. Return your rental car at Hobart Airport and connect with your onward flight (airfare not included). We recommend adding a night in Hobart (not included)

Departs: Daily