Mt Wellington, Mt Field & Bonorong: Small Group Day Trip

Summary

Walk ancient forests see Tasmanian devils taste scallop pies in Richmond

You’ll ride up windy Kunanyi for wild views over Hobart, walk beneath ancient trees at Mt Field National Park, meet Tasmanian devils at Bonorong Sanctuary, and end your day tasting scallop pies in historic Richmond village. It’s a mix of raw nature and small-town warmth that stays with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The morning started off with me realizing I’d left my rain jacket at the hotel — classic. Our guide, Nick, just grinned and handed me a spare from the back of the van. He said weather on Kunanyi (Mt Wellington) does what it wants anyway. And he was right. Up there, the wind whipped so hard it almost stole my hat, but the view over Hobart and the river felt like standing at the edge of something old and wild. I kept thinking about how locals call it Kunanyi, not just Mt Wellington — Nick explained that’s from the Palawa Kani language. I liked that he cared enough to say it right.

Driving along the Derwent River toward Mt Field, everything turned green and damp-smelling — like moss and wet bark. There was this moment walking to Russell Falls where sunlight hit the ferns and made them look almost electric. We stopped for a bit just to listen to water hitting rocks (and honestly to catch our breath). A couple from Sydney joked about leeches, but all we saw were wallabies darting through undergrowth. It’s funny how quiet a forest can get when you stop talking.

I didn’t expect Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary to hit me in the feels, but seeing those Tasmanian devils up close — they’re scrappy little things — kind of did. The staff are super passionate; you can tell by how they talk about each animal’s rescue story. Feeding kangaroos was messier than I thought (my hands smelled like hay for hours), but whatever, worth it.

Richmond was our last stop — tiny stone bridge, old bakery smell drifting out into the street. Nick insisted we try scallop pies (“it’s a thing here!”), so we did. Hot curry sauce inside, flaky pastry outside; I nearly burned my tongue because I couldn’t wait. We wandered past antique shops and people waved from porches like they knew us already. That warmth sticks with you longer than any photo.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mt. Wellington, Mt. Field, Wildlife, Richmond

• Summit Mt. Wellington by drive
• Drive along Derwent River to Mt. Field
• Explore Mt. Field National Park
• Visit Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
• Stroll historic streets of Richmond

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Hobart to Mt Wellington & Mt Field?

The tour covers all locations in one day with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

Is entry to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary included?

Yes, admission to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is included in your booking.

Are meals or snacks provided on this tour?

No meals are included but you’ll have time in Richmond village to try local food like scallop pies.

Is this day trip suitable for families with children?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are welcome and infant seats are available.

Does this tour include hotel pickup in Hobart?

Yes, selected hotel pickup and drop-off in Hobart are part of your booking.

What wildlife can I see at Bonorong Sanctuary?

You’ll see Tasmanian devils, kangaroos, wallabies and other native animals cared for by local staff.

How much walking is involved at Mt Field National Park?

The walks are easy to moderate; Russell Falls is accessible via a gentle path suitable for most fitness levels.

What’s included

Your day includes selected hotel pickup and drop-off in Hobart, air-conditioned transport with a small group vibe, entry fees for both Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and Russell Falls at Mt Field National Park—all guided by someone who knows their Tassie history (and where to find good pie).