Planning a visit to Tasmania and craving a taste of its wild, unspoiled beauty? The Cape Hauy Hike offers an excellent way to experience some of the island’s most iconic scenery without needing to be a seasoned trekker. This day-long tour from Hobart combines a challenging yet rewarding coastal walk with relaxing stops like a local vineyard, making for a well-balanced adventure.
Our review is based on feedback from travelers who have experienced this trip, and while we haven’t done it ourselves, the descriptions make it clear why this tour is a favorite. What we love most are the spectacular views of the sea stacks—particularly the Candlestick and Totem Pole formations—and the small group atmosphere, which allows for personal connection with guides and fellow travelers.
One potential consideration is the length and physicality of the hike. It’s around 9.4 km with plenty of stairs and undulating terrain, so it’s best suited for active adventurers with a decent fitness level. This isn’t a casual stroll but rather a full-day outing that rewards your effort with some of Tasmania’s most stunning scenery.
If you love outdoor adventures combined with the chance to learn from knowledgeable guides and enjoy a local wine, this tour is perfect. It suits those who are comfortable with a moderate to active level of fitness and are eager to see Tasmania’s rugged coastline from a fresh perspective.
- Beautiful coastal scenery with sea stacks and dramatic cliffs.
- Well-organized day including transport, hike, and a wine tasting.
- Small group size enhances personal attention and conversation.
- Moderate physical challenge with plenty of stairs and undulating terrain.
- Expert guides provide engaging, educational commentary.
- Relaxing end stop at Bangor Vineyard for wine tasting and local food.
Starting Point and Transportation
The adventure kicks off at the Tasmanian Travel & Information Centre in Hobart, where small groups gather early, ensuring everyone has a chance to meet the guide and settle in. The coach ride to the Tasman Peninsula takes about 1.5 hours, giving you a scenic introduction to Tasmania’s diverse landscape. During this transit, the guide often shares insights about the area’s geology and history, setting the stage for what’s to come.
The Drive to Fortescue Bay
Once on the peninsula, you’ll stop for a quick coffee at a scenic spot before arriving at Fortescue Bay, a pristine stretch of white sand and crystal-clear water. This bay is the trailhead for the hike, and it’s immediately clear why it’s considered one of the most beautiful spots in the region. The bay itself offers a peaceful spot to stand still, soak in the ocean views, or even take a short swim after the hike (weather permitting).
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tasmania.
The Hike: A Coastal Trek with Rewards
The Cape Hauy Track is around 9.4 km round trip, which generally takes about 4 hours. The trail is well-maintained but includes plenty of stairs and undulating sections, so it demands a reasonable fitness level. The route winds through a mix of forest, woodland, and coastal heath, each offering distinct views and textures that keep the walk engaging.
What makes this hike special are the spectacular vistas it offers. As you ascend, the track opens up to reveal cliffs plunging into the ocean below and sweeping views of the Tasman Sea. At the terminus, the Cape Hauy lookout provides an unobstructed view of the Candlestick and Totem Pole sea stacks—these towering rock formations are over 100 meters high and look as if they’ve been plucked from a fantasy novel. The sense of scale and power here is awe-inspiring.
Rest Breaks and Photo Opportunities
The guide ensures everyone takes regular breaks, making sure you have time to snap photos, catch your breath, and soak in the views. Many travelers comment that the sight of the sea stacks rising from the ocean is a highlight that makes the effort worthwhile. As one reviewer put it, “the views of the sea stacks are absolutely breathtaking, more than enough motivation to keep going.”
Returning to Fortescue Bay
After reaching the lookout, the return leg retraces the same trail, offering opportunities to see the scenery from different angles. The descent is easier on the joints but still involves some steep sections and stairs. Once back at the bay, many choose to dunk their toes in the water or relax on the beach—a well-earned break after the hike.
Post-Hike Relaxation at Bangor Vineyard
The tour continues with a scenic drive to Bangor Vineyard, famous for its local wines and beautiful views over Boomer Bay. Here, you can enjoy a wine tasting or simply relax with a glass on the deck. Many travelers appreciate this stop as a perfect way to unwind and savor Tasmania’s culinary offerings after the physical activity. One reviewer commented on the guide’s warmth and knowledge, saying, “Our guide Heather was very understanding, patient, and knowledgeable, making the entire day truly special.”
Return to Hobart
The trip wraps up with a one-hour drive back to Hobart, arriving in the late afternoon. Tired but satisfied, travelers leave with memories of one of Tasmania’s most memorable coastal walks, along with new insights into the landscape and local culture.
Expertise and Personal Touch
The guides, like Heather, are praised for their knowledgeability and engaging storytelling. This isn’t just a walk; it’s an educational journey with a personal touch. The small group format (limited to 10 participants) enhances the experience, fostering conversations and allowing guides to tailor their commentary.
Spectacular Scenery
From the towering sea stacks to the sweeping ocean views, the scenery here is genuinely stunning. It’s a landscape that sticks with you long after you’ve returned home. Whether it’s the dramatic cliffs or the chance to see native flora and fauna, this hike offers plenty of visual rewards.
Balance of Activity and Relaxation
The tour strikes a good compromise between challenging physical activity and relaxing breaks. After the exertion, the wine tasting at Bangor Vineyard provides a chance to decompress and reflect on the day’s highlights.
Practicality and Comfort
The tour is well-organized, with transportation included, and features a realistic duration—about 10 hours total. The guide’s insights, the small group size, and the inclusion of stops like the vineyard boost overall value and enjoyment.
This experience suits active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and are comfortable with several hours of walking, including stairs and uneven terrain. It’s great for those who love scenic landscapes and wild coastline, as well as anyone interested in learning more about Tasmania’s natural features from a knowledgeable guide.
However, it’s not ideal for children under 8, people with mobility impairments, or those with low fitness levels. If you’re looking for a leisurely walk or have mobility issues, this may not be the best choice.
The Hobart: Cape Hauy Hike offers a terrific mix of adventure, education, and relaxation. It’s a day that’s bound to leave you awestruck by Tasmania’s impressive coastline and its towering sea stacks. The small group setting and expert guides make it a more personal and engaging experience than many larger tours.
You’ll love the way the landscape opens up to reveal sweeping views, and the opportunity to learn about the area’s geology and natural history adds depth to your journey. The inclusion of a local vineyard stop makes this outing feel complete—a little taste of Tasmania’s renowned wine scene to go with your outdoor adventure.
For those craving an active, scenic, and authentic Tasmanian experience, this is a highly worthwhile day out. Just remember to bring your comfortable shoes, sun protection, and camera—and prepare for a day of breathtaking views and memorable stories.
- How long is the hike?
The round-trip hike is approximately 9.4 km, which usually takes about 4 hours. It includes some stairs and undulating terrain, so be prepared for a physical challenge.
- What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. The guide recommends these items for safety and enjoyment.
- Is this suitable for children?
This tour is generally not suitable for children under 8 years due to the length and physical demands of the hike.
- What is the group size?
The tour is designed for small groups limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.
- Can I swim at Fortescue Bay after the hike?
Yes, many travelers choose to dip their toes or take a quick swim in the bay’s clear water, if weather permits.
- What’s the best way to end the day?
A visit to Bangor Vineyard for a wine tasting or a relax on the deck is a favorite way to unwind after the hike.
- What is the duration of the tour?
The whole experience lasts around 10 hours, including transportation, the hike, and the vineyard stop, with return to Hobart in the late afternoon.
This tour combines the thrill of a coastal hike with the pleasure of local wine, making it an excellent choice for active travelers eager to see Tasmania’s wild side while indulging in its culinary delights. It’s a day that balances effort and relaxation, scenery and storytelling—perfect for those wanting an authentic taste of Tasmania’s rugged coast.
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