Where do the tours start?
Your first day is generally spent arriving and familiarising yourself with the city and also performing bike checks and fit outs. A briefing is held on day one, but no supported cycling is provided. You are of course, welcome to go for a ride yourself if you wish and we can suggest some scenic routes you may like to try. East Coast tours start in Launceston on day one and and West Coast tours start in Hobart. The 13 day Entire Tassie trip starts in either Hobart or Launceston depending on the departure date.

How do we get to Launceston to start our tour?
You can make your own arrangements to Launceston on day one and check in to the hotel at your leisure after 2pm. If you arrive earlier, the hotel will store your bags until your room is ready. An airport shuttle greets every flight into Launceston and they do not require pre-booking. The price of the airport shuttle is around $10 per person, and depending on the driver they may charge a few more dollars for your bike if you are bringing your own. You may prefer to catch a taxi into Launceston, the cost is around $35. If you are bringing your own bike, ensure you get a wagon or van taxi to fit your gear. If your flight arrives day one between 2 - 5pm, let us know and we'll provide a complimentary airport pick up. For those wishing to travel from Hobart to Launceston, we can offer transfers for $40 per person, of you and your bike. This can be paid to the driver, please let us know where you would like to get picked up from. Pick ups commence at 11.00am from Hobart. This transfer will go via Launceston airport if any pick ups are arranged and should arrive at the hotel in Launceston between 2-3pm.

How do we get to Hobart to start our tour?
You can make your own arrangements to Hobart on day one and check in to the hotel at your leisure after 2pm. If you arrive earlier, the hotel will store your bags until your room is ready. An airport shuttle greets every flight into Hobart and they do not require pre-booking. The price of the airport shuttle is around $12 per person, and depending on the driver they will most likely charge a few more dollars for your bike if you are bringing your own. You may prefer to catch a taxi into Launceston, the cost is around $40. If you are bringing your own bike, ensure you get a wagon or van taxi to fit your gear. If your flight arrives day one between 2 - 5pm, let us know and we'll provide a complimentary airport pick up.

How do I get to Tasmania?
Tasmania has become so popular a destination that as of 1 December 2007, we will have FOUR airlines servicing Tasmania, and all fly into the capital city of Hobart, and also Launceston - both of departure cities. Ensure you plan your flights to arrive into Tasmania to arrive at least by 5pm on day 1 of the tour. Flights from Melbourne are around AUD$70-$150 one way and take around 1 hour. Flights from Sydney cost around $80-$200 one way and take 1 hour and 30 minutes. Flights from Adelaide and Brisbane cost around AUD$100-$200 and take around 2 hours direct. Depending on the flight, you may have a stop over in Melbourne or Sydney, it's worth checking your flight details. All airlines frequently have cheap deals, check the following websites for the best price and flight availability: www.qantas.com; www.jetstar.com; www.virginblue.com; www.tigerairways.com or compare them at www.webjet.com.au.

What happens on the final day of our tour?
You will finish in either Hobart or Launceston and the final day is spend packing up and relaxing! We offer airport drop-offs until around 12pm on the final day. On the evening before the tour finishes it's customary for a group debrief over some drinks and usually dinner if you are interested. We do not recommend arranging an outward flight from Hobart the morning the tour finishes, as it is preferable to have a day in Hobart or Launceston on your final day to relax and discuss the highlights of the tour with your fellow travellers.

What's the terrain like?
Upon booking you'll receive trip notes with more detail in them. We have provided the route profile in them to show you what you to expect. The east coast is generally considered flatter than the west because it follows the coast a lot of the way. There are some bigger hills towards the end of the tour but nothing too hard, or more than 5km in length. The West Coast is more of a challenge for those that like climbing. The terrain is completely different from the east coast, as we pass through rugged mountains regions and rainforested areas for much of the trip. There really aren't too many flat sections on the west coast, but remember, what goes up, must come down, and the downhills are well worth the effort!! The road surface on the entire trip is sealed bitumen. We follow highways, main roads and backroads, taking the most scenic or interesting route possible. Tasmania has a small population which means we don't have an extensive road network. This is great for those that worry about getting lost, because it's almost impossible to do so. Most days the road you ride on is the same road all day.

What sort of bike should I bring?
If you do a lot of riding, you would be best to bring your bike with you. A 7 day tour isn't the ideal time to ride an unknown bike, however, if you are interested in hiring from us, we provide very comfortable hybrid touring bikes. The best bike for this type of a tour is a touring bike with slick tyres, or a road bike with a good gearing range. As long as your comfortable on the bike for around 3-4 hours per day you'll be fine. It's not a race, so the lightest, carbon fibre bike isn't necessary, you're here to enjoy the scenery and take it all in, in your own good time. A bike that you're comfortable on is the best thing. Tandems do well in Tassie also, however you'll need to bring your own, our trailer is designed to accommodate for tandems also.

Tell me more about group travel?
In any tour group there will be differences in fitness and experience. The tour is not a race and there is no requirement to cycle at the pace of other riders. It is important to not feel pressured to undertake an activity that you are not comfortable with. Ride safely within your own comfort zone and enjoy yourself. The one requirement we have is that you follow the instructions of your guide and read the trip notes to get a feel for the daily itinerary. There are few ways of getting lost, but it can and may happen if you don't listen to the instructions or head off on your own without following instructions.

Each day will take you through various landscapes and regions. Every day will also be different in how we get from one place to the next. Sometimes we will be using vehicle transport to skip difficult or less interesting parts of the route. Other days we will be riding for a couple of hours to get to the next place before a break then a walk or another cycle in the afternoon after lunch. At the end of each day or during dinner (own arrangements) each evening your guide will go over the following day's activities. Travelling by bicycle in a different place can present unexpected challenges and may necessitate alterations to the route or timing. Keeping an open mind and these challenges may become the highlight of your trip.

As you travel with Island Cycle Tours in Tasmania, you will be exposed to the pleasures and also maybe some the frustrations of travelling in a group, though from our experience the tours have excellent group dynamics. Your fellow travellers will likely come from a variety of backgrounds and may be a variety of ages. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group; patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience.

How fit do I have to be, really?
It's fairly obvious that the fitter you are, the more enjoyable cycle tours can be. So, if you have the chance and can spend some time getting into better shape before the trip you'll really feel the benefit from it. Spinning classes in a gym are great for this, although nothing beats actually getting out there on a bike and doing some riding as preparation. You may feel that you are already in good enough shape for this tour, in that case, you'll be the envy of the group and if you're really fit, you'll fly through it and maybe even take up the local knowledge of the guide for some extra miles each day.

What's included in the price?
6 (or 12) nights accommodation in 3.5 - 4 star rated accommodation houses in each town; breakfasts and lunches; professional guide; support van and custom built luggage and bike trailer; National Parks Fees; comprehensive trip notes and maps; lots of great local knowledge!

What's NOT included in the price?
We don't included evening meals so you have the chance to do your own thing at night. We also don't include the bike or gear as we feel most people are more comfortable on their own bikes.

Can I hire a bike when I get there?
Yes, you can hire a hybrid touring bike from us. Our tours utilise Trek FX7100 hybrid touring bikes with front suspension, 21 speeds, Deore Components, a water bottle cage and comfortable geometry. They not designed to go fast, they are for you to enjoy the ride comfortably yet light enough to carry up and down the hills without too many dramas. Your tour guide will be able to undertake any necessary repairs throughout the tour, and we always carry spare parts. Our bikes are fitted with flat pedals (toe clips available at no additional cost) suitable for running shoes or similar. We are happy to change our pedals over to your preferred type, and it is essential that you bring your own pedals and shoes with you.

How do I travel with my bike to Tasmania?
Most people fly into Hobart or Launceston from Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide or Brisbane. We recommend you package your bike for airline travel in a strong sturdy box with bubble wrap or a professional bike box to travel on aircraft. Your bike is part of your baggage allowance and every airline treats this differently. For those with weight restrictions, you'll need to pack carefully, put heavy items in your hand luggage, wear any bulky/heavy items when you check in, and remember not to carry any sharp implements such as bike tools in your carry-on luggage. Island Cycle Tours cannot be liable for any excess baggage charges as a result of exceeding your baggage allowance or confiscated items. If your bike has disc brakes, hydraulics, rear suspension, oil units or special pumps for adjusting the suspension pressure, please make sure that you bring the necessary spares and parts with you.
Please note that while every effort is made to maintain all the bikes in good condition during each trip, we must transport the bikes over some sections, and cannot guarantee that some small damage will not occur as a result of daily loading and unloading of bikes into and out of the trailer.

Do I have to wear a helmet in Tasmania?
Yes, it is law to wear a helmet whilst riding a bicycle in Tasmania. We do provide adjustable comfortable helmets for our tour guests that hire bikes, although if you prefer to bring your own helmet, feel free. Should you wish to use a brand new helmet, please let us know, and we will organise a new one for you at a pretty good price (around $40) and you can keep it, or sell it back to us at half the price.

What sort of weather should I expect?
Tasmania has a pleasant temperate climate with low humidity which makes for ideal walk and cycle conditions. During summer expect temperatures of around 18-28 degrees C with Spring and Autumn temperatures of 12 - 22 degrees C. It is generally cooler at night and in the mornings and warms up significantly during the day. All we can is layer, layer, layer. Check your gear list and remember to have lots of layers to put on and take off throughout the day. It can rain at any time of the year in Tasmania, a light rain jacket is always recommended to be safe.

What gear should I bring with me?
When packing bear in mind Tasmania is a little cooler than mainland Australia, and as such may require slightly warmer clothing. Tasmania is not overly-conservative by nature and quite tolerant of most dress habits, plus it's not usually warm enough to dress too offensively. As a general guideline, casual clothes are the most appropriate for evenings; the only time smarter dress may be needed is during dinners in restaurants. Wearing shorts and tank-tops or t-shirts during the day is perfectly fine, and dressing in lycra cycling shorts is common amongst the many cycle tourists in Tasmania. If you prefer not to be seen in lycra, wear loose fitting shorts over the top. It can get colder in the evenings, so a warm jacket or sweater is useful during the evening. Likewise a lightweight waterproof jacket is essential and a sun hat and glasses for during the day.

We use our own private transport on our tours, and as such you may pack your gear in a backpack, overnight bag with shoulder strap or suitcase. Please limit your gear to one large bag of up to 20kg and one small day pack of around 7kg.

Can I do laundry at night?
Yes, each accommodation place has a communal laundry, and some places have washing machines within the room. You may need to purchase powder or change coins at reception.

What will our guide be like?
All Island Cycle tours trips are accompanied by one of our wonderful tour leaders. The aim of the guide is to co-ordinate the tour effectively to ensure you have the best trip possible. They will prepare meals and dine with the group, they may even deliver luggage to your rooms if you're good to them, and check you in and out of your accommodation. They will have a fantastic understanding of the local area, be able to provide advice on the best things to see and do and introduce you to some of the locals. They will most likely be a cyclist, and will understand/empathise with you over aches, pains, frustrations and successes!

How can I be contacted whilst on tour?
If you need to be contacted while travelling, mobile (cellular) phone reception is reasonable throughout Tasmania, provided you're with Telstra which has the best network by far, and is almost complete if you have a NextG phone. Internet cafes are wide spread throughout Tasmania also. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are away we recommend that they contact Island Cycle Tours office on Tel: +61 3 6228 4255 or by email on info@islandcycletours.com. We recommend that family and friends don't try to contact you through phoning hotels en route, we will pass on the message for you to return their call at the earliest convenience.

Is it safe to travel in Tasmania?
Tasmania is generally considered a safe destination to travel, although whilst crime is not a major issue it is still preferable for you to take certain precautions. Keep your passport and airline tickets safe inside your luggage, and leave expensive jewellery at home. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage but neck wallets or money belts will draw attention to the fact that you are a visitor, so it's best to just use your normal wallet or purse.

What about optional activities?
During your trip you will be given the opportunity to participate in optional activities. Island Cycle Tours encourages you to do so of your own accord but will not accept responsibility for the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Your guide may assist you in the booking of these activities, although, unless they are booked well in advance, we cannot guarantee that what you want to do will be available if you leave it to the last minute to try to join. A list of optional activities will be included in the trip notes you receive when you book.

What sort of food is provided?
Emphasis is placed on featuring Tasmanian fresh produce in each meal. Start each day with a continental breakfast either at the hotel, or at scenic location provided by your guide. Typically we include cereals, muesli, fresh fruit, yoghurt, fresh juices, toast and spreads such as local jam, bakery items, tea and coffee. Lunch will be a either a picnic pack provided that morning that you'll carry with you, or regroup at a scenic location or from a cosy café enroute. Dinners are at your own arrangements to give those that require privacy a chance to have free time, or band together and your guide will show you the hidden secrets of each town where the best local food is served.

Water is always provided to fill up your drink bottles and will be located in the support van and at rest stops. We provide juices for breakfasts, and cordial and gatorade powder at lunch times.

Can I bring my own food on the tour?
Of course you can, and we'll be happy to look after it for you and refrigerate where necessary. Just let us know in advance what you'll be bringing. Just be aware we have strict quantantine rules and any fresh fruit will be confiscated at the airport. You can buy all fresh food necessary in both Hobart and Launceston.

Do you recommend travel insurance?
Yes, all tour operators recommend travel insurance to their guests, although it's not compulsory. . When selecting a travel insurance policy we recommend that you are adequately covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation and personal liability. We also strongly recommend that the policy also covers cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Please ensure that you bring a copy of your travel insurance policy with you. Australian travellers are all covered by Medicare, or your own private health insurance.

Do I need a visa to travel to Tasmania?
Tasmania is a state of Australia and as such a visa is required for entry to Australia for international travellers. You will not need a separate visa to travel between mainland Australia and Tasmania, just suitable identification. For an address in Tasmania, put Island Cycle Tours, GPO Box 417, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001. Our contact telephone number is: +61 3 6228 4255. For information on the location of your nearest embassy or consulate we recommend the following website: http://dir.yahoo.com/Government/Embassies_and_Consulates/.

I have health issues, but I still want to cycle, can I?
Yes, that's genrally fine, and as far as permission to travel goes, there are no specific health requirements for entry into Australia or Tasmania for that matter. You will be required to complete the medical section on the booking form to inform us of any pre-existing medical conditions before taking part in the tour. Should you require any medications, please note them, and ensure you have adequate supplies with you. Our guides will have a first aid kit, but are prohibited for legal reasons from administering any type of drug including headache tablets/antibiotics etc.

I'm still a bit nervous about whether I will cope, what else can you tell me?
We know you'll have a great trip. Don't be nervous about not being fit enough or not having done anything like this before, it's all part of the fun, and we know you'll be just fine. You can always take comfort in the knowledge that the support is with you the whole trip, you can increase or decrease the length of cycling each day to suit your needs. Your tour leader will discuss the finer details with you each day and suggest options. Most importantly, have a fabulous time, be open to pushing your limits and at the end you'll enjoy a rewarding and supremely satisfying trip.

What sort of accommodation is included?
Accommodation is based on twin or double share designed for two people travelling together. Solo travellers will need to pay a small supplement to have their own room each night. We stay at some of Tasmania's favourite lodges, relaxing motels and boutique b&b's Each room has it's own bathroom, television and tea and coffee making facilities. Some places we use are self-contained, others have a restaurant on site or services very close by.

What are the group sizes?
To ensure you meet a good range of people on these trips, we operate with a minimum of 6 people, and a maximum of 16. For trips of more than 11 riders, there will be 2 guides travelling with the group.

How fit do I have to be?
These trips are designed with a moderately fit, active person in mind. There is no requirement to participate in each riding session, likewise there will be opportunities to push your boundaries and ride further if you wish. The support van will be around the group throughout the day, and will check upon you at designated places. You are more than welcome to join the guide in the van if you feel they are looking lonely (or want to rest your weary legs...).

How can I provide feedback after the tour?
All thoughts and suggestions are welcomed by all our guests, you can share these informally with your guide, or send us an email when you get the chance and tell us what you thought. We'd also love to see any photos you took along the way, you might even find yourself popping up on our website, or even in one of our brochures! (But we'll check with you first). We are happy to assist in reconnecting our guests with other and passing on images when you part ways with each other and continue travelling.

How do I book a place?
A deposit of $500 per person is required upon reserving your place, which you can do online here or a booking form can be faxed, emailed or posted to your address at your request. Please send correspondence to GPO Box 417, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001. As there is a limited number of spaces and with respect to accommodation houses, the balance of the trip is due 6 weeks prior to departure. For bookings within 6 weeks, we cannot guarantee you a place on the tour regardless of whether it is full due to limited rooms at each accommodation place.

Are there fees involved if I have to cancel?
Once you've made a booking and paid your deposit, prior to 6 weeks of departure date, a fee of $100 will be charged. For cancellations within 6 weeks of departure date we reserver the right to enforce a 100% cancellation fee. Due to the nature of these tours and weather conditions, Island Cycle Tours reserves the right to alter arrangements as required. We will contact you with any changes that are necessary that impact on the tour. We take great pride in showcasing the very best Tasmania has to offer, in the most rewarding way - in the clean open air on excellent quality roads with light traffic.

More questions?
Is there something we haven't answered here? Please email us to ask more questions.

Return to 7 day East Coast cycle tour.
Return to 7 day West Coast cycle tour.
Return to 13 day Entire Tassie cycle tour.

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