Have you been to Tasmania in The Off Season? With the turning of the Fagus the locals know that The Off Season is on its way, and it’s time to embrace the season and “go full winter”!
On this Off Season tour explore the stunning Bay of Fires and surrounding areas over three fantastic days of beach walking, rainforest exploring, tasting local specialities and sightseeing. Enjoy spectacular beaches interspersed with boulders covered in bright orange lichen, and if you dare, take the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters of Tasmania’s East Coast.
This itinerary incorporates some of the state’s most stunning coastal scenery, iconic pockets of temperate rainforest, 360 degree mountain views, and one of Tasmania’s tallest waterfalls. Along the way we tempt our tastebuds with a visit to a local winery and sample cheese that has been aging for up to two years.
We walk among some of Tasmania’s oldest rainforest and coastal vegetation, over the occasional granite headland, featuring shapely rock formations – whilst zig-zagging our way through native heath country on the lookout for local fauna.
This itinerary has something for everyone and any weather event that may occur.
We have hand picked the highlights of the North East region and developed an itinerary that our local guides can adapt to best suit the weather on any given day.
Departing from Launceston – we visit Mt William National Park, the historic Eddystone Point lighthouse, Anson’s Bay, North East Dairy country, and the sweeping Bay of Fires Conservation Area. This is an active, yet relaxing escape to a very peaceful part of the world.
**These are confirmed departure dates so you can book worry free. If a date is not listed contact our team for a status update. See Book Now below for all other scheduled dates.
Our journey begins from the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Launceston at 7.45am for an 8am departure. On the way to the north-east coast we pass through Lilydale and the Pipers River wine region, before stopping by at the beach side village of Bridport for a short break.
It’s then on to Mt William National Park, and the white sands of Cape Naturaliste – the most northern point of our three-day wander. These first few hours are spent entirely on the beach, pleasantly easing one into their own natural walking pace and rhythm. Along the way, there are often resident sea birds to observe – including Oystercatchers and Hooded Plovers. Your guides will also be able to decipher any bizarre looking ocean life that has been washed ashore with the changing tides. We may discover cuttlebones, urchins, and even shark eggs.
Pausing for an afternoon tea break, we head inland to tackle a one-hour return walk to the summit of wukalina/Mt William. At an elevation of 216 meters, this is the highest point in the surrounding area – providing walkers with a far-reaching panoramic view of the area encompassed on our first two days of walking and beyond. In clear weather, the Furneaux group of islands stand proud as lofty remnants of what remains of an ancient land bridge which once connected Tasmania with mainland Australia. We then return to the bus, before heading back to our accommodation to unpack and settle in.
*Walking times and distances may be adapted to the weather and groups needs based on guides discretion.
This evening we enjoy pre-dinner nibbles, followed by a delicious two-course meal prepared by your guides.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Our 2nd day is open to variation to account for weather and group preference. Your guides will choose the most suitable itinerary for the day once on tour. Your day will look something like:
Eddystone Point to Ansons Bay
10km, 4-5 hours walking, moderate grade
This walk is packed full of highlights. We start our day at larapuna — Eddystone Point – adorned with its beautiful grand lighthouse, built in 1889 from locally quarried granite. This natural promontory is a fascinating site of historic importance to both Aboriginal and European Tasmanians, and we will spend plenty of time exploring some of the wonderful natural and man-made attractions in the area.
Leaving the lighthouse, we break out onto an expansive dune swept beach, often teeming with birdlife. Here we may observe gulls, terns, albatross and gannets – or occasionally migratory species such as short-tailed shearwaters and ruddy turnstones.
The remainder of the day is spent enjoying seemingly endless coves – each being worthy of their own picture-perfect postcard. There are numerous shelly beaches to inspect, and lovely small bays for swimming if you want to brave the cold. This area also boasts some of the more interesting rock formations of the trip, awaiting decipherment from a creative types’ imagination.
After passing across another dune swept beach, we finish our day at Ansons Bay – wading a narrowing in the la-goon to reach our designated afternoon tea spot, and meet back up with the bus.
Humbug Point Loop 10km, 4 hours walking, easy to moderate grade
10km, 4 hours walking, easy to moderate grade Humbug Point is an interesting mix of changing landscapes within the Bay of Fires Conservation & Recreation Area – this walk is a hidden gem, a locals secret. Consisting of historic Xanthorrhoea grass trees, sclerophyll forest and an array of wildlife, you will encounter ocean views from a higher vantage point and walk through a dynamic coastal environment set on higher ground above the beach.
Beginning at Moulting Bay, we walk a small stretch of beach around the point towards the Georges Bay inlet, here you will have views of St Helens Oyster farm, Lease 65 and across the bay towards the township of St Helens and St Helens Point Conservation Area.
As we traverse a little higher, we encounter a woodland environment, home to many bird species and providing glimpses of the ocean and coastline through the tall trees. Somewhere along the trail, we will select a suitable lunch spot, taking the opportunity to listen to sounds of nature.
St Columba Falls, Weldborough Rainforest walk, Halls Falls, Pynegana Dairy, Giant Tree walk 9km, 4 hours walking, easy to moderate grade
A series of short walks make up today’s exploration. After an hours drive through some of the East Coast’s less frequented roads, we begin our first walk through a pocket of Tasmania’s temperate rainforest—dominated by the endemic Nothofagus, sassafras, leatherwoods and giant sized tree ferns, we have time to stop and take in this unique and ancient wonderland.
From here we continue along the Weldborough Pass to the Giant Tree walk where we wind our way along a hand built track to the giant ash — Eucalyptus regnans. With a girth of 19.4 meters and a height of around 60 meters, this is one of Tasmania’s tallest living giants. With hollows that started to form at 150 years old, this tree houses an array of rare and special birds, mam-mals and invertebrates.
Further along the pass, we enter some of Tasmania’s most fertile dairy country. After a coffee and cheese stop to sample some local produce, we continue onto Tasmania’s second tallest waterfall. St Columba Falls at 90 meters tall is an easy walk through rainforest and over crystal clear streams, you can hear the water pounding down the falls before you even exit the van.
If time permits, we have the opportunity to visit the famous Pub in the Paddock, Halls Falls and the Shop in the Bush—all local hidden gems.
This evening’s dinner will consist of nibbles, followed by an excellent two-meal prepared by your guides.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
On our final morning, we pack up and depart our accommodation. After a short drive through Gladstone to Little Blue Lake, we embark on our last walk up the southern side of Mt Cameron to the granite outcrops of Cube Rock. A monolith perched atop Windy Ridge, Cube Rock dates back 380 million years.
Legend has it that Thylacines were commonly seen along this track, but today you may sight a Bennets wallaby amongst the curious granite formations. With a rich Indigenous heritage, and expansive 360 degree views, you can imagine the significance of this special place.
After lunch and an easy amble back to the bus, we de-part for Launceston with some final stops along the way. Pass through Derby, the mountain bike mecca, Scottsdale, the home of the Tasmanian Pink Eye potato, and through the Lilydale wine region where we will have the opportunity to stop off and do a tasting of some of Tasmania’s finest before we say goodbye.
*Walking times and distances may be adapted to the weather and groups needs based on guides discretion.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Icena Farm House
For the two nights’ away we stay within a short drive of Mt William National Park in self-contained farm-house style accommodation.
Each of the Shearer’s Quarters has its own ensuite, with access to the communal kitchen and recreational area.
All towels, blankets and sheets are provided.
We aim to be back in Launceston approximately 5.30pm so if flying out after the tour please do not book flights before 7pm
When making your accommodation arrangements, please note Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston offer Park Trek guests a discounted rate. Simply quote ‘Park Trek’ upon booking to receive this offer.
If you have any questions on this tour, get in touch here and we’ll come back to you shortly!
Have you been to Tasmania in The Off Season? With the turning of the Fagus the locals know that The Off Season is on its way, and it’s time to embrace the season and “go full winter”!
On this Off Season tour explore the stunning Bay of Fires and surrounding areas over three fantastic days of beach walking, rainforest exploring, tasting local specialities and sightseeing. Enjoy spectacular beaches interspersed with boulders covered in bright orange lichen, and if you dare, take the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters of Tasmania’s East Coast.
This itinerary incorporates some of the state’s most stunning coastal scenery, iconic pockets of temperate rainforest, 360 degree mountain views, and one of Tasmania’s tallest waterfalls. Along the way we tempt our tastebuds with a visit to a local winery and sample cheese that has been aging for up to two years.
We walk among some of Tasmania’s oldest rainforest and coastal vegetation, over the occasional granite headland, featuring shapely rock formations – whilst zig-zagging our way through native heath country on the lookout for local fauna.
This itinerary has something for everyone and any weather event that may occur.
We have hand picked the highlights of the North East region and developed an itinerary that our local guides can adapt to best suit the weather on any given day.
Departing from Launceston – we visit Mt William National Park, the historic Eddystone Point lighthouse, Anson’s Bay, North East Dairy country, and the sweeping Bay of Fires Conservation Area. This is an active, yet relaxing escape to a very peaceful part of the world.
We have a 4-day itinerary that might pique your interest, check it out by clicking here.
No bush walking experience required. Flat even surface with no steps or steep sections. Suitable for wheelchair users who have someone to assist them. Walks no greater than 5km.
No bush walking experience required. The track is a hardened or compacted surface and may have a gentle hill section or sections and occasional steps. Walks no greater than 10km.
Suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Some bush walking experience recommended. Tracks may have short steep hill sections a rough surface and many steps. Walks up to 20km.
Bush walking experience recommended. Tracks may be long, rough and very steep. Directional signage may be limited.
Very experienced bush walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20km.
Our journey begins from the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Launceston at 7.45am for an 8am departure. On the way to the north-east coast we pass through Lilydale and the Pipers River wine region, before stopping by at the beach side village of Bridport for a short break.
It’s then on to Mt William National Park, and the white sands of Cape Naturaliste – the most northern point of our three-day wander. These first few hours are spent entirely on the beach, pleasantly easing one into their own natural walking pace and rhythm. Along the way, there are often resident sea birds to observe – including Oystercatchers and Hooded Plovers. Your guides will also be able to decipher any bizarre looking ocean life that has been washed ashore with the changing tides. We may discover cuttlebones, urchins, and even shark eggs.
Pausing for an afternoon tea break, we head inland to tackle a one-hour return walk to the summit of wukalina/Mt William. At an elevation of 216 meters, this is the highest point in the surrounding area – providing walkers with a far-reaching panoramic view of the area encompassed on our first two days of walking and beyond. In clear weather, the Furneaux group of islands stand proud as lofty remnants of what remains of an ancient land bridge which once connected Tasmania with mainland Australia. We then return to the bus, before heading back to our accommodation to unpack and settle in.
*Walking times and distances may be adapted to the weather and groups needs based on guides discretion.
This evening we enjoy pre-dinner nibbles, followed by a delicious two-course meal prepared by your guides.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Our 2nd day is open to variation to account for weather and group preference. Your guides will choose the most suitable itinerary for the day once on tour. Your day will look something like:
Eddystone Point to Ansons Bay
10km, 4-5 hours walking, moderate grade
This walk is packed full of highlights. We start our day at larapuna — Eddystone Point – adorned with its beautiful grand lighthouse, built in 1889 from locally quarried granite. This natural promontory is a fascinating site of historic importance to both Aboriginal and European Tasmanians, and we will spend plenty of time exploring some of the wonderful natural and man-made attractions in the area.
Leaving the lighthouse, we break out onto an expansive dune swept beach, often teeming with birdlife. Here we may observe gulls, terns, albatross and gannets – or occasionally migratory species such as short-tailed shearwaters and ruddy turnstones.
The remainder of the day is spent enjoying seemingly endless coves – each being worthy of their own picture-perfect postcard. There are numerous shelly beaches to inspect, and lovely small bays for swimming if you want to brave the cold. This area also boasts some of the more interesting rock formations of the trip, awaiting decipherment from a creative types’ imagination.
After passing across another dune swept beach, we finish our day at Ansons Bay – wading a narrowing in the la-goon to reach our designated afternoon tea spot, and meet back up with the bus.
Humbug Point Loop 10km, 4 hours walking, easy to moderate grade
10km, 4 hours walking, easy to moderate grade Humbug Point is an interesting mix of changing landscapes within the Bay of Fires Conservation & Recreation Area – this walk is a hidden gem, a locals secret. Consisting of historic Xanthorrhoea grass trees, sclerophyll forest and an array of wildlife, you will encounter ocean views from a higher vantage point and walk through a dynamic coastal environment set on higher ground above the beach.
Beginning at Moulting Bay, we walk a small stretch of beach around the point towards the Georges Bay inlet, here you will have views of St Helens Oyster farm, Lease 65 and across the bay towards the township of St Helens and St Helens Point Conservation Area.
As we traverse a little higher, we encounter a woodland environment, home to many bird species and providing glimpses of the ocean and coastline through the tall trees. Somewhere along the trail, we will select a suitable lunch spot, taking the opportunity to listen to sounds of nature.
St Columba Falls, Weldborough Rainforest walk, Halls Falls, Pynegana Dairy, Giant Tree walk 9km, 4 hours walking, easy to moderate grade
A series of short walks make up today’s exploration. After an hours drive through some of the East Coast’s less frequented roads, we begin our first walk through a pocket of Tasmania’s temperate rainforest—dominated by the endemic Nothofagus, sassafras, leatherwoods and giant sized tree ferns, we have time to stop and take in this unique and ancient wonderland.
From here we continue along the Weldborough Pass to the Giant Tree walk where we wind our way along a hand built track to the giant ash — Eucalyptus regnans. With a girth of 19.4 meters and a height of around 60 meters, this is one of Tasmania’s tallest living giants. With hollows that started to form at 150 years old, this tree houses an array of rare and special birds, mam-mals and invertebrates.
Further along the pass, we enter some of Tasmania’s most fertile dairy country. After a coffee and cheese stop to sample some local produce, we continue onto Tasmania’s second tallest waterfall. St Columba Falls at 90 meters tall is an easy walk through rainforest and over crystal clear streams, you can hear the water pounding down the falls before you even exit the van.
If time permits, we have the opportunity to visit the famous Pub in the Paddock, Halls Falls and the Shop in the Bush—all local hidden gems.
This evening’s dinner will consist of nibbles, followed by an excellent two-meal prepared by your guides.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
On our final morning, we pack up and depart our ac-accommodation. After a short drive through Gladstone to Little Blue Lake, we embark on our last walk up the southern side of Mt Cameron to the granite outcrops of Cube Rock. A monolith perched atop Windy Ridge, Cube Rock dates back 380 million years.
Legend has it that Thylacines were commonly seen along this track, but today you may sight a Bennets wallaby amongst the curious granite formations. With a rich Indigenous heritage, and expansive 360 degree views, you can imagine the significance of this special place.
After lunch and an easy amble back to the bus, we de-part for Launceston with some final stops along the way. Pass through Derby, the mountain bike mecca, Scottsdale, the home of the Tasmanian Pink Eye potato, and through the Lilydale wine region where we will have the opportunity to stop off and do a tasting of some of Tasmania’s finest before we say goodbye.
*Walking times and distances may be adapted to the weather and groups needs based on guides discretion.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Icena Farm House
For the two nights’ away we stay within a short drive of Mt William National Park in self-contained farm-house style accommodation.
Each of the Shearer’s Quarters has its own ensuite, with access to the communal kitchen and recreational area.
All towels, blankets and sheets are provided.
We aim to be back in Launceston approximately 5.30pm so if flying out after the tour please do not book flights before 7pm
When making your accommodation arrangements, please note Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston offer Park Trek guests a discounted rate. Simply quote ‘Park Trek’ upon booking to receive this offer.
If you are joining a Park Trek tour there are a few things to note.
Note: Full details of what to bring can be found in the downloadable trip notes.
You are only required to carry a day backpack with you on the walking trails. This should contain your lunch/snacks, plenty of water (bottled or in a water bladder), sunscreen/sunhat, light waterproof jacket, and a hat/beanie is a good idea if the weather is likely to be changeable.
A soft bag is ideal for the trip. Soft bags are more forgiving in terms of packing/unpacking and storage. They are also more manageable for the guides to lift and move around.
Although not compulsory, comfortable hiking boots are strongly encouraged on the hikes. Often the ground underfoot is rocky and uneven, and hiking boots make the walking a little easier. If you are going to purchase new boots specifically for the hike, we suggest you wear them in well before the walk begins.
Usually at the bottom of the trip notes you receive when you complete your tour booking, you will notice a list of suggested items to pack for the trip. Of course these will differ from trip to trip, but are generally a great indication of what you will need, to make the trip comfortable.
With prior notification (usually on booking) we can cater for most dietary requirements, ie: lactose intolerance, coeliac, vegetarian, gluten free to name a few. Even if its a simple request such as: “I prefer soy milk” we can cater for this.
If you have a favorite brand of food you particularly like, or a food item with a particular flavor for example, by all means bring it along with you. There are some restrictions bringing in fresh food in some locations, ie you can not take honey onto Kangaroo Island. If you are unsure just check with us and we can advise you of any restrictions that may apply to the destination of your tour.
Park Trek only offers non-alcoholic beverages while on tour. We do however welcome guests to bring wine/beer along with them. If you are bringing bottled wine please pack this well in your main bag to avoid breakages. We often stop en-route on the first day at a bottle shop where you can purchase alcohol for the tour.
Unless listed in the itinerary, such as a restaurant meal or coffee, all expenses are included in the tour price. There are no hidden extra costs, such as National Park fees or transfer charges.
On the first day of the tour we collect guests from a central pickup point. This point is listed in the trip notes you receive upon booking your tour. For example: if you are going on the Daylesford Goldfields Track walk, the central pickup point is the National Gallery of Victoria on St Kilda Road, Melbourne.
If you would like to organise a private group tour, we can easily organise this for you, whether it be a large or small number of people.
All of the walking destinations on our scheduled departure calendar can be organised for private groups or charters. We can also tailor make a package to a destination of your choosing. Just get in touch to ask us how.
Here is a brief overview of what we can offer:
All you need to do is contact us with your request for more information about a particular trip and we can work out the costs for you.
Feel free to give us a call in the office during business hours (03) 5639 2615, or send us an email with an outline of what you’re after and we can get in touch to discuss the details.
Park Trek has achieved “Green Travel Leader” status with Ecotourism Australia. We have obtained this status through maintaining our eco-certification for over a decade.
Our Advanced Eco Tourism certification assures travellers that our products are underpinned by a commitment to sustainable practices, and high quality nature-based tourism experiences.
The advanced Eco Tourism Certification Program is a world first, and was developed to address the need to identify ecotourism operators genuinely committed to sustainable practices.
It recognises operators, like Park Trek, who are Australia’s leading and most innovative ecotourism providers who are committed to:
Most walkers are familiar with, and as an organisation we subscribe to the seven principles of ‘Leave No Trace’. These principles provide a simple framework to minimise impact for anyone visiting the outdoors. They are:
The destinations we visit are often in remote or rural communities. As visitors we depend on locals to provide us with accommodation and other services. To support the local economy we prefer to use local service providers e.g.:
Many of our tours take place in sensitive protected areas, National Parks and World heritage-listed locations. Only licensed Tour Operators, like Park Trek, with a proven record of operating according to best practice environmental standards are allowed to operate in such areas.
Each state has its own stringent conditions that tour operators must abide by. Park Trek is proud to be licensed to operate tours in National Parks and protected areas all over Australia.
Our guides undertake specialised training focused on Aboriginal culture and heritage and are certified to lead tours in iconic World Heritage sites such as Kakadu.
The food we serve is healthy, hearty and home style. Our menus are designed to showcase the fabulous regional produce.
Fresh local cheese, yoghurt, fruit, vegetables, fish and meats are used on tour, supporting local farmers and minimising food miles.
We do not offer five-star dining, however our guides take pride in ensuring that all meals are delicious and plentiful, prepared with top quality fresh seasonal ingredients.
Breakfast – Typically a continental spread of cereals, stewed fruit, yoghurt, toast and spreads. Coffee and tea are always available at your base accommodation.
Snacks and nibbles – Guests can prepare their own trail mix each morning from the self-serve trail mix selection. There will be fresh fruit for the trail, and biscuits or fruit cake for tea breaks.
Lunch – Can vary from day to day, and typically includes meat, salad, bread and wraps. Some days might include something different like a roast chicken or a quiche.
Pre-dinner antipasto – Provided each evening, typically including a tasty selection of antipasto delights, dips, cheese and crackers before dinner.
Dinner – A casual two-course meal prepared by your guides. The menu changes to take advantage of seasonal produce, and typically includes a classic roast lamb, hearty pasta, or sustainable fish or chicken. Dessert includes things like maple baked apples, pears in red wine or seasonal fruit.
Dietary requirements – We can cater to most guest’s specific dietary requirements if advised beforehand, and can prepare meals to meet individual needs.
Alcohol – While our tours do not include include alcoholic beverages, guests may bring beer, wine and other drinks along with them. If you are bringing bottled wine, please ensure it is well packed in your main bag to avoid breakages. There may also be an opportunity to buy local products while on tour.
Park Trek’s walking holidays are relaxed and friendly, accommodating guests of all ages. Our small group tours attract like-minded people generally aged upwards of 40-45 years.
Guests range from people travelling on their own, to couples, friends and groups. When you travel with Park Trek, all your tour needs are looked after. We provide:
1 – BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Please read these booking terms and conditions carefully as they form part of an agreement between Park Trek Outdoor Experiences Pty Ltd (ABN 96 654 445 815) (“Park Trek”, “Park Trek Walking Holidays”, “us” or the “Company”) and the guest(s) referred to in the booking form (“you” or “guest”).
2 – HOW TO BOOK
You may check availability through our website or by calling or emailing our reservations team to enquire about the specific trip you are interested in. We will respond and advise of availability, or you may book directly thorough our website. Reservations are subject to availability at the time of booking.
Once we have assured you of availability, we will require a $300 non-refundable deposit per person ($500 per person for our Kimberley, Bibbulmun or Northern Territory trips) to confirm the booking. You can do this via credit card, debit card or direct deposit. We also require you to complete a booking form and send it through either at the time of making the booking and paying your deposit, or soon after to ensure we have all details required of you including emergency contact details, medical and dietary requirements, etc.
By making a booking, you agree and accept our terms and conditions, including the terms and conditions set out in this document. If you are booking on behalf of another person, we rely on your authority to act on behalf of any other guest(s) on the booking and that authority will bind all such guest(s) to these terms and conditions.
All guests travelling who are aged 18 or over must complete their own booking form. For guests aged less than 18, the booking form must be completed by a parent or legal guardian.
You are always welcome to call us prior to your departure with any questions.
3 – PAYMENT TERMS
All pricing is in Australian dollars and inclusive of any applicable GST.
DEPOSIT: As above, bookings are not confirmed until your booking has been received and a deposit ($300 per person, or $500 per person for Kimberley, Bibbulmun or Northern Territory trips) has been paid at the time the tentative booking is made.
FINAL PAYMENT: The balance of the trip price is payable to the Company at least 60 days prior to departure. For reservations made 60 days or less from the departure date, full payment is due at the time of booking. If for any reason your final payment fails to reach Park Trek’s bank account or card/payments service provider by the due date, Park Trek reserves the right to treat the booking as cancelled and thus apply the relevant cancellation fee set out below.
Once you have paid the required deposit for your booking, any subsequent discounts or price reductions advertised by the Company or any third party will not be applied retrospectively.
Payment may be made by credit card, Australian debit card or via payments service providers authorised for use by Park Trek. We do not accept payment by any other method, including cheque or foreign debit cards.
4 – PRICING (INCLUSIONS AND EXCLUSIONS)
Our trip prices are subject to variable and seasonal pricing, which is standard practice in the travel industry. This means trip prices may vary at any time depending on demand, market conditions and availability. It is possible different guests on the same trip may have paid different prices. If you like the price you see, your best option is to book it at that time. If you cancel to take advantage of a cheaper price, full cancellation conditions and penalties apply (see clause 6 Cancellation by a Guest).
The most up to date trip pricing is available through our reservations team, and generally on our website, however it is subject to minimum numbers. Where minimum numbers are not met by the balance payment due date, a small group surcharge may be offered to ensure the trip’s operation (see clause 9 Minimum Numbers). The prices quoted cover (and only cover) the following:
Any other cost is to be borne by you. No price reduction is available for guests who either elect to bring their own food or drink or choose not to avail themselves of the food or drink provided.
Without limitation, the following items are excluded from the pricing:
While Park Trek will endeavour to honour its pricing, sometimes increases are outside our control. Park Trek reserve the right to amend trip prices at any time. Amendments may be necessary for many reasons including, but not limited to, increases in Award wages or related wages on-costs, increases in the charges from ground operators, exchange rate fluctuations, increased fuel costs, increased airfares, other increased transportation charges, or the need to engage alternative air or ground operators. Any increase in trip prices must be paid prior to the departure date.
You may bring your own alcohol (within reason); however you are responsible for carrying and disposing of its contents (i.e. “Leave No Trace”). Final approval for any alcohol brought with you will be at the absolute discretion of our guides on the day of departure.
Your guides have absolute authority concerning the consumption of alcohol (including BYO alcohol) by any guest and may prohibit continued consumption of alcohol if guest(s) appear (in the opinion of the guides) drunk or become violent, quarrelsome, disorderly or behave indecently.
5 – SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
Our standard advertised prices are twin share and are based on two people sharing a room. Single rooms may be available upon payment of an additional single supplement fee. Solo guests are of course welcome on guided trips, and if you wish to share a room, we will try to find a roommate of the same gender. Allocations will be made in the order bookings are received. If there is no one for you to share with, or if you prefer a single room, you must pay the single supplement fee.
6 – CANCELLATION BY A GUEST
If you wish to cancel your booking, you must notify the Company in writing as soon as possible. The date of cancellation is the date the Company receives written notice of the cancellation. Once the Company receives your notice, cancellations and refunds will take effect subject to the following:
For independent guests – if the cancellation is made:
For bookings via third parties (e.g. online or third party agents) – you should refer to your booking agent first to ensure you understand their cancellation policy.
Cancellation by the guest will also take effect if:
No refund is available once a trip has commenced and, for the avoidance of doubt, if you:
Please also note that any refunds are processed once a month, around the middle of each calendar month. Refunds are inclusive of GST but are exclusive of any card surcharge and payment processing fees paid by you where these fees are not reimbursed to the Company by the relevant card, payments service or other service provider.
The Company reserves the right to not provide a refund if you arrive on the day of departure for any trip with inappropriate footwear or attire and are unable to join the trip (please refer to clause 13 Footwear and Attire).
COVID-19 disruptions
The COVID-19 pandemic is a Force Majeure Event. If we must cancel a trip due to a Force Majeure Event, you can choose from the following options based on the payments you have already made:
If Park Trek is unable to run the trip due to COVID travel restrictions (i.e. domestic border closures or quarantine periods between states) or if guests can’t travel due to COVID travel restrictions, please refer to the above listed options. Guests can choose the option that best suits them.
Please note that the above COVID-19 impact booking conditions apply to Park Trek tours only, please consult your airline and other travel suppliers about their transfer fees and charges.
We do not refund for any travel restriction associated with COVID-19, and fear of travelling is not a valid COVID related issue, and our normal conditions apply. We may allow you to substitute your tour place with another guest arranged by you. For these and other reasons we strongly recommend that all guests obtain suitable travel insurance prior to their trip.
7 – BOOKING AMENDMENT BY A GUEST
If you wish to change your booking, you must notify the Company in writing as soon as possible. Once the Company receives your notice, the change will take effect subject to the following:
We will do our best to change your booking to your preferred date, but it may not always be possible.
We understand sometimes circumstances may prevent you from joining your trip. For this reason, we strongly recommend that all guests obtain suitable travel insurance prior to their trip.
8 – CANCELLATION BY THE COMPANY
Our business is subject to the forces of nature, and all the uncertainty and unpredictability associated with it. This is the very nature of outdoor adventure. Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the service and experience offered in our brochure, website, or trip notes, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. Under no circumstances will we knowingly put at risk the safety, health or wellbeing of our guests or guides.
If we must change arrangements, we will endeavour to provide substitute arrangements of a similar standard. However, Park Trek is not liable for any itinerary interruptions due to a Force Majeure Event.
In the case of a Force Majeure Event, we may need to cancel a trip on short notice. In some cases, this can occur after the trip has commenced. Your understanding and flexibility in this regard will be appreciated.
If we need to cancel a trip for any reason before it has commenced, we will provide you with the following options:
Where your trip is cancelled by the Company, we will not be liable for any costs associated with travel to and from the designated trip departure pick up point.
For these and other reasons we strongly recommend that all guests obtain suitable travel insurance prior to their trip.
9 – MINIMUM NUMBERS
Guided group trips require minimum numbers to operate, and this varies from trip to trip. We may elect, at our discretion, to operate trips with small numbers. If numbers are particularly low, we may also elect to operate the trip with just one guide. We also reserve the right to nominate a small group surcharge where a trip has not reached minimum numbers or to cancel the trip. In the case of a trip cancellation owing to small numbers you will be given the option of:
You will not be entitled to claim any additional amounts or seek any compensation for any injury, loss, expenses or damage or for any loss of time or inconvenience which may result from such cancellation including but not limited to visa, passport and vaccination charges, gear purchases or non-refundable flights and taxes.
10 – TRAVEL INSURANCE
Park Trek strongly recommends that guests take out suitable travel insurance before or at the time of making any deposit or other final payments. When selecting a travel insurance product, please ensure it covers against, at a minimum, any loss associated with personal accidents or injury, medical expenses, emergency repatriation and personal liability, cancellation for any reason including illness, bereavement, delayed flights, lost luggage and personal effects and events of Force Majeure.
11 – INDEMNITY AND WAIVER OF LIABLITY
All guests must sign and return an electronic or paper indemnity form prior to arrival or on the morning prior to departure of the trip. This form indemnifies the Company, its officers, directors, employees, servants, agents or consultants or any of them from and against all costs, claims, actions, demands and liability whatsoever and howsoever arising from or in any way connected with the trip (including any transportation to or from the area in which the trip occurs) including such costs, claims, actions, demands or statutory duty or otherwise on the part of the Company, or any of its officers, directors, employees, servants, agents or consultants, and including any liability in respect of or related to your death, personal injury or loss of or damage to any property owned or possessed by you, but excluding any liability in respect of which the Motor Accidents Insurance Board (as applicable) is bound to indemnify the Company, its officers, directors, employees, servants, agents or consultants pursuant to the Motor Accidents (Liabilities and Compensation) Act 1973 of Tasmania (or any equivalent legislation applicable in any other state or territory). By signing the indemnity form, you will also give the Company various acknowledgements including confirmation that you have been informed of the most appropriate form of footwear for the trip you are undertaking, and that travel insurance has been recommended to you by Park Trek. Please note on some tours we engage third party providers to undertake certain activities, in which case those third-party providers may also require our guests to sign a further indemnity prior to undertaking the relevant activity.
12 – EVACUATIONS
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, we may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the trip. Where an evacuation is deemed necessary by the Company, the full cost of evacuation will be borne by the guest, including but not limited to helicopter costs, any associated staff wages and ground transportation costs. As Australian legislation may in some circumstances prohibit domestic travel insurance providing any financial reimbursement for ambulance or air ambulance services, we strongly recommend guests:
13 – FOOTWEAR AND ATTIRE
On all trips guests are required (at a minimum) to wear supportive walking shoes or hiking boots with firm treaded soles. New boots should be worn in prior to the commencement of the trip. Waterproof or water-resistant boots are recommended. It is otherwise your responsibility to bring suitable clothing for your trip and our suggested packing lists will help in this regard. These recommendations are made in the interests of your safety and giving you the best chance to have the most enjoyable experience possible. Arriving on the day of departure for any trip with inappropriate footwear or attire may result in forfeiting your trip without refund. If you are unsure whether your footwear and attire is suitable for your intended trip, please contact our reservations team for further advice.
14 – HEALTH AND FITNESS REQUIREMENTS
Your safety is our first priority. It is your responsibility to carefully read the Park Trek trip notes and supporting information on our website and ensure you have adequate fitness for the proposed trip. You must be fit enough to walk several days in a row, and several hours per day. The routes our walks take could include rough and uneven tracks, sand, wading through rivers or creeks. challenging ascents and descents, heavy rain, strong winds, and high or low temperatures. Some training and preparation work is generally required prior to departure. The more physically prepared you are the more you will enjoy your trip. We are of course happy to discuss your suitability for our trips over the phone.
15 – PRE-TRIP INFORMATION, MEDICAL FORMS AND DOCTORS’ CERTIFICATES
To ensure maximum safety, comfort and enjoyment on your trip, guests must return to the Park Trek reservations team not later than 30 days prior to your trip’s scheduled departure date all required guest details and information. Guests with a pre-existing medical condition, including allergies, are required to disclose it (and any relevant medical action plans e.g. for asthma, anaphylaxis, epilepsy or diabetes) on their booking form and may be required to supply a doctor’s certificate or complete a confidential medical questionnaire. If you have any doubts or concerns or are 69 years of age or older, we recommend that you consult your General Practitioner (GP) before your trip to obtain a medical certificate confirming that you are in good physical condition and that there are no known ailments or pre-existing medical conditions likely to prevent you from completing your trip. Collecting this information assists us to ensure an enjoyable and trouble-free trip for all parties. A failure to provide the required information may result in a non-refundable cancellation of your trip. The Company reserves the right in its absolute discretion to refuse a guest from participating in a trip on medical or fitness grounds, or to require a medical clearance form signed by a GP to allow a guest to participate in a trip.
16 – DIETARY REQUIREMENTS AND ALLERGIES
Dietary requirements stating whether it is a food allergy, or a lifestyle, ethical or similar choice, must be clearly noted for all guests on the booking form. All allergies (food and non-food) must be listed on the booking form, stating the severity or grade (where known) of the allergy and whether you carry any medication or devices (e.g. EpiPens) for the allergy. You will be responsible for bringing sufficient medications and devices to treat your allergies if required. We will endeavour to cater to your needs and provide you with a good range of dietary options, but we do operate in remote locations which can be provisioned infrequently and can have limited options to meet specific dietary or allergy requirements. If your dietary requirements and allergies are not disclosed at least 30 days prior to the date of your departure we may be unable to cater to your needs. Should you need to cancel your trip because you have not disclosed dietary requirements or allergies in a timely manner, standard cancellation fees will apply (refer to clause 6 Cancellation by a Guest).
17 – GUIDE AND GUEST RESPONSIBILITIES
All our trips are group trips and guests need to be conscious of how their actions may impact others. Our guides are experienced and mature people who take their responsibilities seriously. They are responsible for all aspects of the trip including group safety, enjoyment and satisfactory operation of the trip. They have authority to do whatever is necessary to achieve these objectives, including not allowing you to participate in specific walks or other activities for the overall safety and/or interests of the group. You agree to abide with the guides’ decisions and directions.
It is your responsibility to behave sensibly on the trip and to not take risks. You should stay on marked trails or roads and take particular care to ensure you only use mobiles, cameras and other items when it is safe to do so. You acknowledge that you have the appropriate skills necessary to follow directions and you are responsible for your own conduct during the trip and agree to indemnify Park Trek against any consequent liabilities you may incur.
No guest should present for a tour if they are unwell, or have symptoms that may impact their ability to complete the walk safely having regard to their own interests and those of fellow guests and guides.
If upon pick up at our meeting location on day one you are displaying any symptoms of illness, our guides may make a determination as to whether you are fit and healthy, and appropriately equipped, to attend the tour.
Guides may choose to evacuate a guest off the tour if they have concerns about health or the ability of that guest to complete the walk safely having regard to their own interests and those of fellow guests and guides.
In the event of the need to evacuate a guest from a tour, our team will reasonably assist in organising this (after having regard among other things to the interests of fellow trekkers and guides), however you will be responsible for any additional costs associated with the evacuation.
Park Trek continues to follow government recommendations relating to COVID-19. It is however the duty of travellers to check requirements that must be fulfilled pre-travel or transiting.
18 – ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY AND CULTURAL RESPECT
Park Trek takes seriously its responsibilities for the groups we guide and the environmental and cultural landscapes within which we operate. We adhere to and implement minimal environmental impact approaches to every trip and ask for you to consider the cultural requests and values of certain areas. If you should experience Australian Indigenous art sites or cultural sites as part of your trip, we ask you to treat such sites with respect and to not reproduce or publish any media of these sites except with the express permission of the traditional owners themselves. You will generally be briefed about such responsibility’s pre-departure, however prior knowledge and awareness is helpful.
19 – EXCLUSION OF LIABILITY
Guests acknowledge that walking, swimming and other activities in outdoor environments are potentially dangerous activities and guests are undertaking such activities at their own risk. Guests also acknowledge and agree that they undertake such activities, voluntarily and absolutely at their own risk and with a full appreciation of the nature and extent of all risks involved in those activities. Guests acknowledge that the Company is supplying them with recreational services (i.e. services that consist of participating in a sporting activity or a similar leisure time pursuit, or any other activity that involves a significant degree of physical exertion or physical risk and that is undertaken for the purposes of recreation, enjoyment or leisure) for the purposes of applicable laws.
Guests agree to the fullest extent permitted by law to waive all of their legal rights of action against and fully release the Company and its officers, directors, employees, servants, agents or consultants from all liability arising from or connected with their death or personal injury howsoever arising out of or in relation to the participation by them in a walk or other associated activity including without limitation, liability for a negligent or tortuous act or omission, breach of duty, breach of contract or breach of statutory duty on the part of the Company, its officers, directors, employees, servants, agents or consultants. This waiver binds all guests and their legal personal representatives.
20 – LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
The Company does not exclude or limit the application of any provision of any statute (including the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth)) where to do so would:
Except to the extent set out above in clause 19 Exclusion of Liability, and to the extent permitted by law, the Company excludes all:
The Company’s liability to guests for any breach of any express or implied provision of these booking terms and conditions is limited, at the Company’s option, to:
Guests agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Company and each of its officers, directors, employees, servants, agents or consultants against any losses, costs, claims, damages, expenses, liabilities, proceedings or demands which any of them may directly or indirectly incur or suffer as a consequence of any breach by them of their obligations under these booking terms and conditions.
21 – ISSUES OR COMPLAINTS
We want to provide you with an enjoyable trip with us, however things may sometimes go wrong. We want any issues addressed as quickly as possible. If you have an issue during your trip, please advise your guide or the accommodation provider immediately. They will seek to resolve it so you can enjoy your trip. If the issue cannot be resolved, please contact the Park Trek office by phone or email.
22 – CONTACT WITH US
By ticking that you agree with the booking terms and conditions you have agreed to have contact from us. This is the most effective way for us to deliver what we do. We will send limited communications explaining what’s going on in regard to your trip and tour options generally. If you do not wish to have this contact, please let us know. Alternatively you will always have the option to unsubscribe later.
23 – JURISDICTION
This agreement and the rights and responsibilities of the parties will be construed and take effect in accordance with and be governed by the laws of Victoria.
24 – IMAGES
You consent to us using any images taken of you during the trip for advertising and promotional purposes in any medium we choose. You grant us a perpetual, royalty free, worldwide, irrevocable licence to use such images for publicity and promotional purposes. If you do not consent to have images of you used in this manner you must notify us in writing to that effect.
25 – ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
By booking with Park Trek, guests acknowledge and agree Park Trek has relied on representations by you, including in respect of your circumstances, travel insurance availability, age and medical condition and that the representations you have made are true, correct and complete in every respect.
26 – SEVERABILITY
If any term or condition in these booking terms and conditions is unenforceable or void by operation of law or as being against public policy or for any other reason, such term or condition shall be deemed to be severed from our contract with you or amended accordingly only to such extent necessary to allow all remaining terms and conditions to survive and continue as binding.
27 – PRIVATE AND PERSONAL INFORMATION
Any personal information that we collect about you will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy and may be used for any purpose associated with the operation of a trip. In making a booking you consent to your information being passed on to the relevant persons such as our agents, service providers or other suppliers to enable us to operate the trip or, if permitted by any relevant Spam laws, to send you marketing material in relation to our events and special offers.
28 – PROMOTIONAL TERMS
From time to time, we may run promotions and special offers (Promotions) subject to both these booking terms and conditions and any additional promotion-specific terms that are incorporated into these booking terms and conditions by reference. You should ensure that you read the specific terms and conditions that apply to each Promotion. We reserve the right to cancel or change any Promotion at any time in our discretion. By purchasing a trip on a promotional basis, you agree and accept the terms and conditions of that Promotion. If there are any inconsistencies between these booking terms and conditions and the Promotion’s terms and conditions, the Promotion’s terms and conditions apply to your booking. Please note videos and images on our website may vary from current tour itineraries.
29 – BOOKINGS THROUGH AGENTS AND/OR THIRD PARTIES
If you book through an agent or third party, you should speak with your relevant agent or third party to ensure you understand how (if at all) their booking terms and conditions differ from those set out here.
30 – DEFINITIONS
“Force Majeure Event” refers to an event(s) or circumstance(s) which includes, but is not limited to, acts of God, natural threats (such as bush fires, impassable snow and unsafe sea conditions), fire, earthquake, flood, windstorm or other extreme weather events, civil commotion, riot, blockade or embargo, breakdown, union dispute, epidemic, pandemic, lack or failure of courses of supply, passage of any law, order, regulation, ordinance, proclamation, demand, requisition or requirement or any other act of any government authority, outside of the reasonable control of either parties whether or not foreseeable, which renders performance practically impossible.
(These booking terms and conditions apply to all bookings made on or after Thursday 31 August 2023)
Enjoy exceptional walking around the Bogong High Plains, be inspired and amazed by the panoramic vistas you’ll see on the trail and return every evening to a cosy lodge in the alpine village of Falls Creek.
This is our most popular tour. Spend three nights at the historic Cape Otway Lightstation, where guides prepare all of your meals. Here you will see the best sunsets anywhere along the Great Ocean Road.
Explore the Bay of Fires in the off season, over three fantastic days of walking and sightseeing. Enjoy spectacular beaches, marvel at amazing rock and swim in crystal-clear waters of the Tasmanian east coast.
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Park Trek acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters, skies and culture. Park Trek pays its respects to their Elders past, present and emerging. Park Trek supports the Uluru Statement from the Heart.
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