Frequently asked questions

Following are a few frequently asked questions about our Bay of Fires walks that you may find useful.

  • How often do trips depart?
    Our regular trips depart from 1 October through to 1 May.  We will be offering a limited number of winter Long Weekend departures in July, August and September.  Please note the spa will not be in operation during our winter departures.
  • Walk accommodation
    Signature Walk: Whilst walking with us you will experience some truly spectacular accommodation.  The first night will be spent nestled behind the dunes at Forester Beach Camp for the second and third night you will enjoy uncomplicated luxury at the award-winning Bay of Fires Lodge. 

    Long Weekend Walk: Enjoy two nights of uncomplicated luxury at the award-winning Bay of Fires Lodge. 

  • How many guests will be on my trip?
    Each trip requires a minimum of five guests and has a maximum of ten guests (trips leaving after July 1st 2024, will require a minimum of six guests and a maximum of twelve). All accommodation is twin share.

    If you book on as a single walker or in an odd-numbered group and the trip fills to capacity, you will share a room with another walker of the same gender. 
  • How fit do I need to be?
    Signature Walk: As long as you regularly exercise, or are capable of walking between 9 - 14 km for the first two days along beaches and rocky headlands, you will enjoy your walking holiday. There is plenty of time each day to sit and rest as well as explore  If you have any concerns about fitness please call and speak to one of our staff members.

    Long Weekend Walk: As long as you regularly exercise, or are capable of walking between 4-6 km for the first day along beaches and rocky headlands, you will enjoy your walking holiday. There is plenty of time each day to sit and rest as well as explore  If you have any concerns about fitness please call and speak to one of our staff members.
  • How much weight do we carry?
    Signature Walk: Before the trip, the guides will carry out a thorough check to ensure you have the suitable gear. Usually, packs weigh between 8.5 - 9.5 kg but ultimately your pack and contents can weigh as little as 7.5kg.

    Please note: This weight is based on the recommended water capacity for this walk. If you choose to carry more water, your pack weight will most likely weigh upwards of 9.5 kgs.

    Long Weekend Walk:  When walking you will only carry a lightweight day pack. Your overnight luggage will be transferred to the Lodge and be waiting for you when you walk into the lodge. 

  • What do we carry?
    Signature Walk: Each person carries their lunch, personal clothing, toiletries, wet weather gear, plus any extras such as a camera. Sleeping gear is provided at your accommodation.

    Long Weekend Walk: You only carry a lightweight day pack that contains what you need for the day (i.e. camera, rain jacket, lunch, personal medication and water).
    In the duffle bag which goes directly to the Lodge, you will need to pack everything you don't have in your day pack which is on the gear list.  Please note your duffle bag must not exceed 5kgs as this will be carried by our staff on foot up to the Lodge.

  • What style of shoes should we have?
    Please refer to the guide below for recommended footwear for this walk.

    DOWNLOAD FOOTWEAR GUIDE 

    If you have any questions about footwear, please contact our team on (03) 6392 2211 or bookings@taswalkingco.com.au
  • Do we need travel insurance?
    We strongly recommend travel insurance. Consideration needs to be given to our cancellation policy, injury, evacuation, delayed flights, illness, etc. We do not refund for such occurrences, therefore travel insurance is your only safeguard.
  • How many guides are there?
    Every trip has two experienced guides. This allows plenty of opportunities to rest, take photos and walk at your own pace.
  • How about food?

    All meals are provided, including scrumptious three-course dinners with fresh Tasmanian produce prepared by your gourmet cooks/guides.  Evening meals are served with a selection of Tasmanian wine. We are happy to cater for special dietary requirements, we just need to know in advance.

    *Please note in the best interests of our guests and staff we promote the responsible service of alcohol.

  • What time does the trip commence and conclude?

    Bay of Fires Signature Walk 

    At the start of your walk: we ask that you be at our walker base at Red Feather Inn (42 Main Street, Hadspen) no later than 5:00pm, so you can check in before your walk briefing at 5:30pm.

    The conclusion of your walk: your walk will conclude at our walkers' base at Red Feather Inn at 5:45pm with airport drop-offs at 6:15 pm and Launceston drop-offs at 6:30 pm.

     

    Bay of Fires Long Weekend 

    At the start of your walk: we ask that you be at our walkers' base at Red Feather Inn 7am for your briefing. This allows time for introductions and a gear check before departing for Mount William National Park.

    For those staying in Launceston CBD, we offer a complimentary shuttle service from Chalmers Church (5A Frederick St, Launceston). You will need to be ready in front of the church entrance at 6:30am

    For those staying at Quamby Homestead, our shuttle will pick you up in front of reception. Please be ready at 6:30am.

    If you require the shuttle from either of these locations please ensure you let our reservation team know so we can ensure the shuttle is provided. You can email bookings@taswalkingco.com.au.

    The conclusion of your walk: your walk will conclude at our walkers' base at Red Feather Inn at 5:45pm with airport drop-offs at 6:15pm and Launceston drop-offs at 6.30pm.

  • What accommodation options do we have post-walk?
    Discover discounts for walkers here: https://www.taswalkingco.com.au/walker-benefits/

    Quamby Homestead

    Set on the grounds of Quamby Estate, Quamby Homestead is the perfect post-night accommodation for groups seeking a little luxury. The homestead features ten restored rooms with antique furniture. Rooms are appointed with king, queen or twin bedding, marble bathrooms and heated floors. 
     
    Exclusive to Tasmanian Walking Company guests, Quamby Homestead is available mid-week (Monday to Thursday) for group bookings of a minimum of 5 deluxe rooms. Whole house bookings of 10 rooms will be required Friday to Sunday, giving groups private use of the Homestead. 
     
    To learn more about this exclusive offer and make a booking, please call Quamby Homestead on +613 6392 2135.
     
     
    Staying in Launceston?

    For hotel options in Launceston, please visit our Walker Benefits page for a range of special rates available to our guests. 

  • Are there age restrictions?
    The minimum age for guests walking with us is 12 years old.  There are no upper age restrictions, however, for guests walking with us who are 69 or above, we do require a GP to sign off on a letter we provide.

Need help deciding? Talk to an expert

We're here to help 9am – 5pm Monday to Saturday, otherwise, email us anytime and we'll be in touch.