Forum Fest 2014 tentative attendee

[kmw]

My annual leave for Tassie was approved Friday    and we have nearly worked out where we want to go in our fortnight so starting to come together.

[gertbysea]

Wonderful kmw.  

We should start to think about a program for Fri. Anyone have any  ideas?  Let's make a list. I'll start.

I suggest a drive through the Coal Valley taking in at least one winery, lunch and a visit to Richmond.  

We could use this company to plan an itinerary http://www.coalvalleycoaches.com.au/fleet.php.



Gert

[judydawn]

It sounds good to me Gert, we should be starting to dot our i's and cross our t's pretty soon.  Those on the list should be confirming their intentions so we know how many will be needing a seat on that bus.

[Mama Fergie]

I would be happy to go along with that suggestion for Friday. Sounds good 

[cookie1]

I still haven't done any booking but I have every intention of coming. DH's brother isn't too good at the moment , but that won't make any difference. I'm just holding out a bit.
Friday sounds lovely. I love Richmond.

[gertbysea]

Here are a couple of  tours. Or we can hire a bus and plan our own.

http://herbaceoustours.com.au/tours.php#huon

HUON AND CHANNEL FOOD TOURS

From 1 September 2013 the cost for the Huon Valley/Channel Tour is $130.00 per person. This is an 'all inclusive' cost which covers
pick up from a central point in the city, entry fees where applicable, and samples where available.
At the end of the tour you will be returned to the central pickup/drop off point Any purchase you may make at any of the stops is at your own cost as is the cost of your lunch.
CHANNEL AND HUON COMBINED TOUR   
From 1 September 2013 the cost for the Huon and Channel Tour is $130.00 per person. This is an 'all inclusive' cost which covers
pick up from a central point in the city, entry fees where applicable, and samples where available.
At the end of the tour you will be returned to the central pickup/drop off point Any purchase you may make at any of the stops is at your own cost as is the cost of your lunch.   
HUON WINE TRAIL   
The cost for the Huon Wine Trail is $110.00 per person. This is an 'all inclusive' cost which covers pick up and drop off at a central point in the city, and all
samples.

Any purchase you may make at any of the stops is at your own cost as is the cost of your lunch.   

RICHMOND WINE TRAIL

The cost for the Richmond Wine Trail is $110.00 per person. This is an 'all inclusive' cost which covers pick up and drop off at a central point in the city, and all samples.

Any purchase you may make at any of the stops is at your own cost as is the cost of your lunch.

BONORONG RICHMOND TOUR
The cost for the Bonorong Richmond Half Day Tour is $75.00 per person. This is an 'all inclusive' cost which covers pick up and drop off at a central point in the city and entry to Bonorong. Any purchase you may make at any of the stops is at your own cost as is the cost of your lunch.

BRUNY ISLAND

From 1 September 2013 the cost of the Bruny island Tour is $150.00 per person. This is an 'all inclusive' cost which covers
pick up from a central point in the city , ferry crossing, and samples where available but does not include the cost of your lunch.
At the end of the tour you will be returned to the central pickup/drop off point.   

Any purchase you may make at any of the stops is at your own cost.

HOBART

From 1 September 2013 the cost of both the Hobart Tours is $130.00 per person. This is an 'all inclusive' cost which covers pick up and drop off at central point in the city , entry fees where applicable, and samples where available but does not include the cost of your lunch.

Any purchase you may make at any of the stops is at your own cost.

HOBART HIDDEN PANTRIES TOUR
From 1 September 2013 the cost of the Hidden Pantries tour is $65.00 per person and includes pick up and drop off at Hobart Travel and Information Centre, collection of recipes, Valhalla Ice Cream and Italian Donut and coffee.
Any purchase you may make at any of the stops is at your own cost.


OATLANDS HISTORICAL TOUR
From 1 September 2013 the cost of the Oatlands tour is $130.00 per person and includes pick up and drop off at Hobart Travel and Information Centre, morning tea and guided tour of the Mill.
Any purchase you may make at any of the stops is at your own cost as is your lunch.

NATIONAL PARK TOURS
From 1 September 2013 the cost of the National Parks tour varies depending on the itinerary chosen however guide would be Russell Falls $130.00 per person with Strathgordon being a flat daily rate of $400. This does not include overnight accommodation which would also have to include the driver.

PORT ARTHUR
From 1 September 2013 the cost is $130.00 per person This is Port Arthur with a difference, and cost includes entry into Port Arthur but this forms only a small part of the tour.
DERWENT VALLEY
From 1 September 2013 the cost of the Derwent Valley tour is $130.00 per person. This is an 'all inclusive' cost which covers pick up and drop off at central point in the city , entry fees to Salmon Ponds and Mt Field National Park and morning tea but does not include the cost of your lunch.

Any purchase you may make at any of the stops is at your own cost.





http://boutiquewinetourstas.com.au/richmond-wine-tour/
Join our half day tour options departing from Hobart, where you will experience fine Tasmanian wine, produce and the historic village of Richmond.
Book now
$115 per person
Important information
For all single travelers, we recommend that you contact Boutique Wine Tours (0415 387 887) direct to make your booking as minimum numbers apply to all tours. Please see terms and conditions before you make a booking. Please do NOT make a booking if you are a single traveller without contacting us first.
View a map of our route
This tour takes you to the historic Richmond village and local vineyards. Richmond has some of the oldest colonial buildings in Australia including the famous Richmond Bridge and Gaol with predates the better know Port Arthur. It contains many boutique shops and galleries. This tour commences visiting 2 premium vineyards in the Coal River Valley region, where you will sample a selection of fine Tasmanian wines. This tour also includes a light platter lunch at Wicked Cheese.
     
Your itinerary
We depart Hobart CBD at 09:30am where we commence our journey to the Coal River Valley for the 2 cellar door wine tastings selected from vineyards listed below:
Coal Valley Vineyard Award winning wines with spectacular views over Barilla Bay
Puddleduck owners, Darren & Jackie extend a warm welcome to all of the visitors that come to experience Puddleducks. In an enjoyable & relaxed atmosphere, sample the award winning wine selections.
Pooley Wines On the outskirts of Richmond, on the Butchers Hill, sits the magnificent heritage listed Georgian building, Belmont Lodge. Here, the cellar door wine tastings are offered in the rustic charms of the sandstone stables.
Wicked Cheese Award winning boutique cheese maker based near Richmond.

Richmond here you will enjoy a relaxed time to explore quaint galleries& boutiques. Visit the Richmond Tasting House and take advantage of our discount voucher.

What you need to know
Departure: The Richmond & Wine Tour departs outside the Tasmanian Visitor and Information Centre, Hobart (corner of Davey & Elizabeth Sts) at 09:30am on Monday & Friday.
Duration: half day
Cost: $115 per person including GST
Drop off: at your Hobart CBD hotel at approximately 2:30-3:00pm.
How to book: Book online here
Tour inclusions
Cellar door wine tastings at 2 vineyards in the Coal River Valley
Wine and cheese tasting at Wicked Cheese
Light lunch platter and complimentary beverage at Wicked Cheese
Historic Richmond, with opportunity to visit St John’s Catholic Church & Richmond Bridge
Time to explore shops & galleries in Richmond
Richmond Tasting House voucher exclusive to Boutique Wine Tours
Whiskey tasting optional extra at Richmond Tasting House

For full tour conditions please go to our terms and conditions page


Or plan our own


http://www.coalvalleycoaches.com.au/index.php

Gert

[cookie1]

I'm easy with almost anything. I have been to Port Arthur, but to be honest I'm not sure how I would go returning there after the massacre there. But if others want to go I will too as I will have my forum buddies to take care of me. 

[judydawn]

I like the idea of the Hobart Hidden Pantry tour and the Richmond Wine Tour.  Pt Arthur doesn't make my must do list either Cookie.

I am however, prepared to go along with the choices of anyone who has local knowledge of these spots or has visited them.  I haven't so I would rather the final decision is made by those who have been to Tassie before.

I was lucky when we did the Adelaide fest that the girls who live here all put forward their thoughts and we went from there. It made the job so much easier for me to then do the tour bookings.

Gert is obviously trying to get this fest off the ground so please everyone, throw your support behind her. Gert, I'm happy to do whatever you decide if that's the way we have to go. 

[Mama Fergie]

As I haven't been to Tassie I am happy to go with the flow. I do think it is a good idea to have a pre determined plan for Friday so we don't waste valuable time trying to make a decision when we get there.
Gert a great big thank you for all your research.  You have come up with some fantastic ideas. All the tours sound great so its just a matter of us all making a decision.

[gertbysea]

Port Arthur would be a huge day from Hobart and a difficult journey in many ways. I think it is something you have to choose to do so I say that is out.

I am sure any of the companies could put together a  tour just for us with our input and a bus just for us rather than joining a set tour which is often not to your palate money wise and taste wise. I think part of the tour should be a lunch at a suitable winery so we can communicate.

Then something of mutual interest which may be Richmond where there is shopping and places of interest.

Maybe before lunch a foodie place of some sort.

Of course there will be Salamanca Markets on Sat.

Look at this winery perhaps for lunch. It is not only beautiful but is interesting. It has room for a group such as ours and is quality


http://www.frogmorecreek.com.au

Frogmore Creek's Cellar Door and Restaurant sits proudly in the Coal River Valley as one of the most noted destinations to visit in the area. Our reputation is already assumed by locals and quickly speaks to first time visitors as a place to recommend and want to return to. Our premium wines speak for themselves, the service offered at cellar door is personable, knowledgeable and above all, welcoming.

 

The main theme for our Cellar Door shop remains local produce and table inspired items which offer quality and a sense of purpose for people who enjoy sharing wine, food and conversation. This also relates directly with our ethos at Frogmore Creek.

 

The opportunity to find something a little unusual for gifting or the complementary pieces that will enhance our wines for serving.

 

We have the uniqueness of the Flawed History gallery space above us to showcase the story of Tasmanian wine. A permanent art installation on the floor mapping out the history of Tasmanian wines by local artist Tom Samek with prose by local wine writer Graeme Phillips. This area being earmarked for further enhancement to provide visitors with a memorable educating experience. Presently this area is successfully used for group wine tastings. Interested individuals are welcome to explore also.

 

 Cellar Door Opening Times:

 7 days a week 10am - 5pm.

 Christmas Day and Good Friday - Closed

Tasting Fee: $5.00 per person redeemable upon purchase, (this applies to individual tasters, bookings are not required)

Large groups and tour buses

Large groups (greater than 8 persons) and tour buses are welcome however your booking is essential. Group charges are $10 per person and non redeemable.

Tastings are complimentary for guests joining us for lunch.


For all group enquiries please contact:


 There are no doubt lots of others and local knowledge would be appreciated.

The food and wines of Tassie are unique and interesting so with only a small window we want to enjoy the best there is on offer.

If, of course,  some want to do one thing and others want to do another we can certainly accommodate that.

We could easily spend the whole day at MONA  taking the ferry. There is a wine tour, brewery tour included in the POSH ticket and 2 restaurants to choose from. The food in the brewery and the upper restaurant is great. The cafe not so much.

Then of course you could spend the  whole day in the casino playing Blackjack.

Gert

[gertbysea]

Another which takes in MONA as well.


“3 Wineries+Lunch+Cheese Factory+Behind the scenes Winery Tour”

$145 per person

Experience the delights this Island paradise had to offer on a full day indulgence of pleasure on our Hobart Food and Wine  Tour we call the Southern Gourmet Safari !!

All meals, Food and Wine Tastings, Behind the Scene Tour and transfers are included our Hobart Food and Wine Tour.

The Southern Hobart Wine Region is renowned for it’s cool climate wines and historical settings. A short drive from Hobart’s CBD is an array of stunning winery experiences, great oysters, cheese, freshly baked bread and all things charcuterie that will delight your appetite for Tasmania.

You will visit at least 3 great local wineries. Enjoy Tasmanian delicacies to whet your appetite for a visit to Moorilla / MONA !! Arguably the first winery in Tasmania and now positively the jewel in the crown of Tasmania’s tourism.

Enjoy a behind the scenes winery tour at Moorilla Estate to reveal some secrets of the process topped off with a tasting at the cellar door.

Experience a fun, day tour in Air Conditioned Comfort on a 12 seater bus, always picking you up from your Hobart CBD accommodation at 11am and returning you prior to 5:30pm on our Hobart Wine and Food Tour.



   
Itinerary



Picking you up from the CBD at 11am a short drive bring us to the Coal River Valley.

First Flight of Tasting


11:30am Arrive at "Coal Valley Vineyard"

With arguably one of the best views in the Southern Wine Region, enjoy a tasting of Award Winning Wines matched with some of Tasmania's finest Oysters, Pate's, freshly baked Baguette's, Olive Oil and other specialty foods.

Relax and chat about the day ahead while basking in the sunshine, learning about the finer points of Tasmania's wine industry and Wine Tasting know how. A good foundation of food and information for whats to come.


Sparkling Chardonnay

Riesling

Sauvignon Blanc

Chardonnay

Pinot Noir

Cabernet Sauvignon

Late Harvest Riesling


Coal Valley are closed Wednesday's, in this case we will go to;


"Pooley Wines"


In an amazing, historic setting try some of the regions most diverse tasting ranges. They have crafted their range carefully to suit all palates. "Sweet Tooths to Serious". Pooley have forged a reputation over the years for their Riesling's, Pinot Grigio and Pinot Noir's in the local Restaurant and Wine Show Circles.


With a focus on Family, Pooley are into their 3rd Generation of Management. Daughter Anna and Son Matthew have taken the reigns as Wine Maker and Viticulturalist driving the brand seriously into the spotlight as Tasmanian wines take center stage around the world
   
Second Flight of Tastings



12:45pm Arrive at "Littlewood Strawberry Farm"

Take a walk through a real strawberry patch and pick a punnet of fresh, spray free Strawberries to eat for dessert!!

Availability for this part of the tour depends on the weather and supply (that's farming!!)
   
Third Flight of Tastings


1:00pm Arrive at "Wicked Cheese Factory"


Wicked Cheese has emerged in a few short years, to gain recognition as one of the most impressive, high quality, hand made cheese ranges in Australia. Here you can view the process through the on site factory window, taste a selection of the cheeses they produce, and purchase some signature Tasmanian delights. There will be an Esky / Cooler on the bus that you can put any of your purchased items in that require chilling.

After Wicked Cheese on the way to the next stop we will drive through Historic Richmond for a quick pic of the bridge

   
 Fourth Flight of Tastings


2:15pm Arrive at "Stefano Lubiana Wines"                   

 

A 5th generation winemaker, Steve Lubiana and his wife Monique moved to Tasmania over 20 years ago after scouring Australia for years in search of the best place to grow Pinot Noir. Now certified Organic and Biodynamic, Lubiana Wines have created a reputation for first class wines with exceptional concentration, flavour and longevity. "I believe this to be one of the best ranges of wine the state has to offer"

NV Brut Sparkling

2 Rieslings

Sauvignon Blanc

Pinot Gris

2 Chardonnay's

2 Pinot Noirs

Merlot


Lubiana Wines are closed on Tuesday and Wednesday's. In this case we will go to;

Domain A

Swiss precision at it's best!! Peter and Ruth Althaus moved to Tasmania with the vision of creating exceptional wines in arguably the best location in the "New World" in terms of wines. in a matter of years they have become renowned for producing one of Australia's most sought after Cabernet's and a Sauvignon Blanc with a Cult Following!! Certainly well worth the visit to experience the pinnacle of Tasmanian wine (closed weekends).

   
 Fifth Flight of Tastings



3:00pm Arrive at Moorilla Estate / MONA

Arguably the first commercial vineyard and winery in Tasmania and now home to the finest Art gallery in Australia. Our visit to Moorilla Estate includes a behind the scenes winery tour with a glass of Sparkling, Tank and Barrel tasting (at the right time of year), exposing the mysteries of the wine industry we have discussed throughout the day. After the behind the scenes tour we try even more wine at the cellar door. They also brew some of the states finest beers which you may be able to try and buy.

Extra Brut Sparkling

Riesling

Pinot Gris

2 Sauvignon Blanc's

2 Chardonnay's

2 Pinot Noir's

Cabernet Sauvignon

Botrytis Riesling


An option in Summer months is also to do a scenic 15 minute Helicopter Flight over Hobart from Moorilla for $99 per person.
This must be organised prior to the day in order for the flight to be arranged. Minimum of 2 people required.

We Depart depart Moorilla and return you to the CBD by 5:30pm.

[gertbysea]

We could just do this.

HOP ON HOP OFF TOURS IN HOBART
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 Home > Hop on Hop Off Tours in Hobart
Hop On Hop Off Tour
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90 minute tour + commentary3 days unlimited use20+ essential Hobart stopsGreat value for money!
See all the best of Tasmania's capital at your own pace with this Hobart Hop on Hop Off tour and pass that includes a 90 minute tour and 3 day bus ticket! Join your friends and fellow travellers aboard an iconic double decker bus as you're taken on a trip with informative commentary detailing all of Hobart's highlights - such as the city CBD, Old Hobart Gaol, the Botanical Gardens, Cascade Brewery and more - then take the rest of the three days to visit any stop on the loop at your leisure.
With plenty of historic and culture must-do's on the route, this is the ideal way to ensure you don't miss any of the major spots in Hobart and surrounds, with the flexible itinerary meaning you can spend as much (or as little) at the attractions that appeal most to you. Get outdoors on the spacious top deck of the bus and admire the sights in the sunshine, or sit back and relax in the air-conditioned comfort of the lower cabin, the choice is yours! For one of the best value ways to explore Hobart, book your hop on hop off bus tour online today.
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Included
Double Decker Hop On - Hop Off Tour or stay on-board for a 90 minute guided loop tour or do both! (valid for 3 days)
Times
Operates daily departing at 10:00am and returning 4:30pm.

Departs from Tasmanian Travel Centre.

September 01 through to April 30

Sunday - Friday

10.00am
11.30am
1.30pm
3.00pm
Saturday

11.30am
1.30pm
3.00pm
May 01 through to August 31

Sunday - Friday

10.00am
11.30am
1.30pm
Saturday

11.30am
1.30pm
Stops
Tasmanian Travel Centre
Sullivan's Cove
Salamanca Place
Princess Park
Battery Point
St Georges Church
St Georges Terrace
Wrest Point Casino
Sandy Bay Shopping Village
Cascade Brewery
Female Factory
South Hobart Village
Village Cinema
Hobart CBD
Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery
Maritime Museum
Old Hobart Gaol
Aquatic Centre
Botanical Gardens
Victoria Docks
Additional Information
Ticket is valid for 3 consecutive days.
Booking Information
Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the experience.
For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher

[cookie1]

I will skip the playing of blackjack at the casino.    there is so much to choose from.

[Mama Fergie]

Me too Cookie 

[kmw]

I think a tour out of Hobart including a winery plus Richmond/wicked cheese would be nice to cover wine lovers & non wine lovers and see something outside of Hobart.

Frogmore is a lovely winery & their sparking very nice 😄, I didn't get to try the restaurant out as they were closed.  They have the largest list out all I visited.  Stefano lubiana wines were just moving into a new cellar door & looking to do food when we were there last year. Nice view from their cellar door.  Pooley winery is a small winery just outside of Richmond. Moorilla is a stunning location & had a restaurant & cafe. We didn't go to the museum as not quiet our thing.  I bought wine from all these places.

Grandvewe cheese was my favourite cheese place, we stopped & had coffee here but it's the opposite direction, like most places in tassie has a great view.

When I get on the computer tomorrow I'll have a look at the tours Gert has posted - thanks Gert