FACT SHEET

BAY OF FIRES LODGE WALK, TASMANIA

At the edge of Mount William National Park in north-eastern Tasmania, the magnificent coastline known as the Bay of Fires appears as if untouched for thousands of years. This pristine stretch of azure water and rocky headlands provides dramatic landscapes, amazing diversity and plenty of wildlife. From October to May, walk the soft white sandy beaches, explore coves and kayak the Ansons River on the four-day guided Bay of Fires Lodge Walk. Rest at Forester Beach Camp for the first night, then enjoy the warm hospitality of the award-winning Bay of Fires Lodge for two nights, and indulge in fine Tasmanian local produce and locally produced Tasmanian wines.

Walk Snapshot

Accessed from: Launceston, TasmaniaOperated by: Bay of Fires Lodge WalkDuration: 4 days / 3 nightsTotal Distance: 33 kilometres (20 miles)Graded as: ModerateBest time: October – AprilGroup size: 10

CRADLE MOUNTAIN HUTS WALK, TASMANIA

Discover one of Australia’s most spectacular World Heritage Areas while trekking the world famous Overland Track in the peaceful and exquisite terrain of Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair National Park. Cradle Mountain Huts is a six-day walk. You’ll wander through ancient rainforests, past waterfalls and alpine meadows and button grass plains once covered by glaciers. At the end of each day, wind down in the comfort and privacy of the remote lodges. Guests can also choose to add a side trip to Mount Ossa, Tasmania’s highest peak.

Walk Snapshot

Accessed from: Launceston, TasmaniaOperated by: Cradle Mountain Huts WalkDuration: 6 days / 5 nightsTotal Distance: 60 kilometres (37 miles)Graded as: Moderate to HardBest time: October – April

Group size: 12

Great Walks of Australia

USEFUL LINKS

Great Walks of Australia greatwalksofaustralia.com.au

Bay of Fires Walk www.taswalkingco.com.au/bay-of-fires-lodge-walk

Cradle Mountains Hut Walk www.taswalkingco.com.au/overland-track

Freycinet Experience Walk www.freycinet.com.au

Classic Larapinta Trek In Comfort www.australianwalkingholidays.com.au/Red-Centre/Guided/Classic-Larapinta-Trek-in-Comfort

Scenic Rim Trail by Spicers www.spicersretreats.com/scenic-rim-trail/

Arkaba Walk www.arkabawalk.com

Maria Island Walk www.mariaislandwalk.com.au

Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk australianwalkingcompany.com.au/twelve-apostles-lodge-walk/

Margaret River Cape to Cape Walk www.capetocapewalk.com.au

Murray River Walk www.murrayriverwalk.com.au

Seven Peaks Walk, Lord Howe Island www.pinetrees.com.au/rates-and-packages/seven-peaks-track

Guided walking is a great way to fully immerse yourself in Australia’s natural environment.

GREAT WALKS OF AUSTRALIA

Great Walks of Australia is an exclusive collection of Australia’s best multiday walking experiences.

Together they cover some of Australia’s most iconic landscapes – untamed wilderness and beaches; ruggedly beautiful coastlines; ancient volcanic plateaus and rainforests; world heritage listed national parks; pristine islands and meandering rivers; and the truly magnificent Australian Outback.

Walks are led by expert guides with a deep understanding of the environment, giving walkers the opportunity to hear the stories behind the place you are exploring. Walk experiences offer small intimate groups, gourmet food, and accommodations with a true sense of exclusivity. Guests enjoy the comforts of a luxury holiday together with a sense of adventure in often remote, wilderness locations.

The Arkaba Walk, South Australia

FACT SHEET

FREYCINET EXPERIENCE WALK, TASMANIA

The Freycinet Experience Walk covers the entire length of the Freycinet Peninsula on Tasmania’s east coast. Walk through the pink granite Hazard Mountains and rich coastal forests to the pure white sand beaches of Wineglass Bay. The four-day walk will take you off the beaten track to remote and rarely explored corners of the Freycinet National Park. Travel in the footsteps of the Oyster Bay Tribe, walking the same ancient tracks trodden some 30,000 years ago. Welcomed each evening to the award winning Friendly Beaches Lodge; guests enjoy stunning architecture, selected works from some of Tasmania’s finest artists, the freshest ingredients carefully selected from local providores, relaxing hot baths and private rooms with comfortable beds.

Walk Snapshot

Accessed from: Hobart, Tasmania

Operated by: Freycinet Experience Pty Ltd

Duration: 4 days / 3 nights

Total Distance: up to 37 kilometres (23 miles)

Graded as: Moderate (with options)

Best time: October to April

Group size: 10

CLASSIC LARAPINTA TREK IN COMFORT, NORTHERN TERRITORY

Soak up the ethereal scenery of vast flood plains, razorback rocky outcrops and the glorious scale of this ancient land, on a guided walk along the high ridgelines of the West MacDonnell Range. The Classic Larapinta Trek in Comfort is ideal for the experienced and ambitious walker with some challenging sections making up this spectacular walk. You’ll follow in the footsteps of the land’s traditional owners, early explorers and modern adventurers. Enjoy the option of sleeping under the stars in a true bushman’s ‘swag’. Stay in exclusive wilderness camps while your hosts prepare meals from local produce in the splendid isolation of the Australian outback.

Walk Snapshot

Accessed from: Alice Springs, Northern Territory

Operated by: Australian Walking Holidays

Duration: 6 days / 5 nights

Total distance: up to 72 kilometres (44 miles)

Graded as: Moderate to Hard

Best time: April to September

Group size: 16

SPICERS SCENIC RIM TRAIL, QUEENSLAND

This two day/two night lodge-based adventure explores the beauty and diversity of the Scenic Rim region, located less than two hours from Brisbane CBD. Witness a stunning collection of mountains, ridges, escarpments, forests and ancient volcanic plateaus set in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range and surrounded by World Heritage listed national parks. Spend two nights at Spicers Canopy, a luxury glamping location with ten tastefully appointed safari style tents with king size beds and fine linens. Guests can enjoy relaxation time around the outdoor fire pit or in the plunge pool at sunset.

Walk Snapshot

Accessed from: Brisbane or Cunninghams Gap, Queensland (private transfers additional, secure parking available for self-drive)

Operated by: Spicers

Duration: 2 days / 2 nights

Total Distance: 25km (15.5 miles)

Graded as: Moderate - Hard

Best time: March to November

Group size: 16

Bay of Fires Lodge Walk, Tasmania Murray River Walk, South Australia

Cradle Mountain Huts Walk, TasmaniaScenic Rim Trail, Queensland

THE ARKABA WALK, SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Traversing the ancient Flinders Ranges in outback South Australia, the guided four-day Arkaba Walk is an experience that immerses you in the story of the land. More than 600 million years of geological history echo through the rich red glow and spectacular outback scenery of Wilpena Pound and the Elder Range. Kangaroos, wallaroos and emus are regular sightings along the walk thanks to the ongoing commitment to conservation work at this property. Around the campfire you’ll hear the stories of the early pioneers who settled in this harsh but beautiful country. Spend two nights camping under endless starry skies and then enjoy the comfort of the elegantly restored historic 1850s Arkaba Homestead.

Walk Snapshot

Accessed from: Adelaide. One way flights included in walk packages.

Operated by: Wild Bush Luxury

Duration: 4 days / 3 nights

Total Distance: 45 kilometres (28 miles)

Graded as: Moderate to Hard

Best time: March - October

Group size: 10

THE MARIA ISLAND WALK, TASMANIA

There are few places on the planet that offer the tranquillity and unspoiled natural beauty of the world heritage listed Maria Island National Park, just a few kilometres off Tasmania’s east coast. It’s a delightful blend of rare wildlife, convict heritage and spectacular landscapes. On the Maria Island Walk, you’ll enjoy gentle walking along empty white-sand beaches by day and candlelit gourmet dining at night. Enjoy a barefoot stroll exploring for rare shells or swim in the crystal clear waters. For the more adventurous, a hike up Mount Maria or Bishop and Clerk provides the most spectacular views. Stay in comfortable wilderness camps for two nights then relax in the historic and elegant Bernacchi House for the final night.

Walk Snapshot

Accessed from: Hobart, Tasmania

Operated by: The Maria Island Walk

Duration: 4 days/3 nights

Total distance: 25 to 43 kilometres (15 – 26 miles)

Graded as: Easy to Moderate (with options)

Best time: October – April

Group size: 10

TWELVE APOSTLES LODGE WALK, VICTORIA

Discover Australia’s wild beauty on the Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk. The walk traverses the length of the Shipwreck Coast and Great Ocean Road, along the spectacular coastline between Apollo Bay and the iconic Twelve Apostles. Delight in the variety of landscapes from cool-climate rainforest and remote beaches to coastal cliff tops, and finally view it all from the air on a Twelve Apostles scenic helicopter flight. The trail is alive with native wildlife: fur seals, wallabies, koalas, and plants unique to this special corner of the world. Each night you’ll return to the comfort of a luxury eco villa, with hot showers, private bathrooms and foot spas, and enjoy gourmet food and regional wines.

Walk Snapshot

Accessed from: Melbourne, Victoria

Operated by: Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk

Duration: 4 days / 3 nights

Total distance: 55 kilometres (34 miles)

Graded as: Moderate

Best time: September to May

Group size: 10

The Maria Island Walk, Tasmania

Margaret River Cape to Cape Walk, Western Australia

Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk, Victoria

FACT SHEET

MARGARET RIVER CAPE TO CAPE WALK, WESTERN AUSTRALIA

This stunning four day walk in Western Australia not only takes in the spectacular coastline of the Margaret River region, but also showcases the fine food and wine on offer. Luxury accommodation at Injidup Spa Retreat overlooks the Indian Ocean and guests enjoy private plunge pools at the end of each day. Walk along white beaches and coastal cliffs, through limestone caves and towering Karri forests on the Cape to Cape Track.

The famous wildflowers bloom in Spring, wildlife abounds and guests can swim in secluded places along the way. Dining highlights include private chef evening at Injidup, a winery dinner and the final degustation lunch at Wills Domain Restaurant and Cellar Door.

Transfers from Perth included in walk packages.

Walk Snapshot

Accessed from: Perth, WA or self-drive to Margaret River

Operated by: Walk into Luxury

Duration: 4 days / 3 nights

Total Distance: 41 km (26 miles)

Graded as: Moderate

Best time: March – June; September - November

Group size: 12

MURRAY RIVER WALK, SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Explore Australia’s greatest river, the Murray River, within the internationally recognised Riverland Ramsar Wetland in South Australia. Guided walking over four days, combined with peaceful cruising, immerses you in the landscape and reveals the pioneering history.

Encounter diverse wildlife and waterbirds along the river, creeks and old oxbow lagoons that meander through ancient red gum forests dwarfed by spectacular red ochre coloured cliffs. Spend three nights relaxing and dining on a modern houseboat that cruises to your daily walking destination, complete with hot shower and top deck spa overlooking the river. The fantastic food and wine of the region is a key part of this walk experience.

Walk Snapshot

Accessed from: Renmark SA (via Adelaide SA or Mildura, VIC)

Operated by: Luxury River Trails

Duration: 4 days / 3 nights

Total Distance: 40 km (25 miles) plus 70km boat cruising

Graded as: Easy

Best time: May to September

Group size: 10

SEVEN PEAKS WALK, LORD HOWE ISLAND NSW

This is a lodge-based walking week at Pinetrees Lodge offering the opportunity to explore this UNESCO World Heritage listed island paradise on foot with an expert guide. Walkers will discover untouched beaches, coral platforms, sea cliffs and freshwater creeks, rainforests and misty mountains with unique ecosystems. With incredible marine and birdlife, the island has been noted as having wildlife to ‘rival the Galapagos’.

The walk is graded as moderate to hard, with a variety of walk options available, depending on island weather, group ability and energy levels. There is something for everyone to enjoy on this island adventure with some of the best views in the world.

Each night guests return to their luxury boutique accommodation at Pinetrees, enjoy sunset drinks at the boatshed, and dine on a chef-prepared four course dinner. The property was voted as TripAdvisor’s #1 hotel in Australia for 2017 and 2018.

Walk Snapshot

Accessed from: Sydney by plane

Operated by: Pinetrees

Duration: 6 nights/5 days

Total distance: up to 45km (27 miles)

Graded as: moderate – challenging (with optional walks available)

Best time: April/May, September/October

Group size: 12

Murray River Walk, South AustraliaScenic Rim Trail, Queensland Seven Peaks Walk, Lord Howe Island, NSW

FACT SHEET

• These walks focus on unique and sometimes iconic locations around Australia

• All the walks are independently owned and privately operated

• 12 walks are on offer and many guests end up doing multiple great walks

• The walks are seasonal and operate at various times throughout the year – April and October are the months with the most walks in operation

• Walks are either journey style (moving between lodges each night) or lodge-based (staying at one venue and returning there each night, either on foot or by private transfer)

• The walks range in duration from two days through to six days

• Walks are graded from easy through moderate to hard – there is a walk for everyone!

THREE CAPES LODGE WALK, TASMANIA

Walkers explore Tasmania’s southern tip, the dramatic Tasman Peninsula and stay at exclusive, luxurious and sustainable eco-lodges, the only private accommodation within the Tasman National Park. From Stewarts Bay (with transfers from Hobart) this walk starts with a boat ride offering incredible views of the Tasman Peninsula that showcase over 37,000 years of history. Each evening, walkers settle into architecturally-designed lodges and enjoy comfort in the wilderness.

These purpose-built advanced off -grid lodges are discreetly positioned off the trail, with their design responding to the contours of the land. Hot showers, generous lounge areas and plush pillows on comfortable beds await hikers at the end of each day, along with a showcase of Tasmania’s finest regional food and wine.

Walk snapshot:

Accessed from: Hobart

Operated by: Tasmanian Walking Company

Duration: 3 nights/4 days

Total distance: 48km (28 miles)

Graded as: Moderate

Best time: Year round

Group size: 14

HOT TIPS FOR SELLING A GREAT WALK

FACT SHEET

• Guides accompany guests on all walks – they make the difference to the experience through the information and stories they share about the details of each destination

• The unique accommodation ranges from ecolodges to safari style tents, glamping and houseboats, through to boutique guesthouses and villas

• High quality regional food and wine is showcased on the walks

• On walks where luggage is not transported, there is secure storage available for travellers’ items

• Some walks loan guests the use of backpacks, rain jackets and walking poles

• The Great Walks of Australia collection experiences are about comfortable luxury in a supported environment.

Three Capes Lodge Walk, Tasmania - Freycinet Experience Walk, Tasmania

Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk, VictoriaFreycinet Experience Walk, Tasmania