map of tasmania road trip

Tasmania road trip (complete 10 day itinerary + tips & map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 21, 2024

Are you planning a  Tasmania road trip?  In this article, you will find all the information you need to make the most of your time on this beautiful island.

We have recently returned from a 12-day road trip around Tasmania and in this post, I detail our Tasmania road trip itinerary as well as information about the top things to do and see and great places to stay.

Tasmania is often described as “an island of contrasts” and after our visit, I could not agree more. We experienced beautiful beaches, fantastic views of bays and mountains, amazing wildlife, great walks and incredible food and wine. The smallest state in Australia certainly packs a punch!

Tasmania has been named as one of the top destinations worldwide to visit by numerous travel magazines. About time I say!

10 reasons to visit Tasmania

How to travel to tasmania, how to travel around tasmania, tasmania road trip map, what to see in hobart and surrounding areas, things to know when visiting hobart, where to stay in hobart, richmond (day 3), tasman peninsula (days 3/4), things to do in freycinet national park, where to stay in freycinet national park, where to stay at the bay of fires, launceston (days 7/8), launceston to cradle mountain (day 8), things to do and see at cradle mountain, where to stay in cradle mountain, hobart (days 11/12), driving in tasmania, when is the best time of year to visit tasmania, tasmania national park pass, useful resources, read more about tasmania.

• National parks
• Stunning scenery
• Amazing wildlife – devils, wombats, echidnas!
• Wonderful food and wine
• An interesting history
• Hikes to suit everyone whatever their ability
• Beautiful beaches
• Quaint towns with great names – Melton Mowbray, Richmond, Sheffield and Derby!
• Art! MONA (more on that later)
• Stay in some of the most outstanding accommodation available anywhere in the world

We flew from Brisbane to Tasmania with Virgin Australia .  There are many flights a day from all the major cities in Australia to both Hobart and Launceston.

Flying from Melbourne to Hobart takes around an hour. The flight from Brisbane takes just over 2 hours.

If you want to take your own car/motorhome over to Tasmania there is the option of catching the Spirit of Tasmania ship. This departs from Melbourne and arrives in Devonport approximately 9-11 hours later.

For recent up-to-date costs check out the Spirit of Tasmania website.

Tasmania was made for road tripping!

Whether you decide to hire a car and stay in hotels along the way (as we did) or hire a camper van/motorhome and camp your way around the state you will have an amazing time.

We booked our car with Hertz and were able to pick it up at the airport on arrival. WE found collecting and dropping the car at the airport was a smooth, easy process.

There are lots of things to see and do in Tasmania and unless you have a month or more it is impossible to see everything.

I would suggest identifying the areas you would most like to visit and plan your Tasmania itinerary around that. That is exactly how I planned the trip and generally it worked out well.

Although Tasmania is small don’t rush it – take time to enjoy the different places as you travel around. We spent 3 nights in both Freycinet National Park and Cradle Mountain National Park which gave us some time to truly relax.

A 10 day Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

Hobart (Days 1/2/3/ and 11/12)

We flew from Brisbane and arrived at Hobart International Airport in the early afternoon. After picking up our hire car at the airport we drove the 18 kms into the city of Hobart where we had booked a 2-night stay.

Hobart is the capital of Tasmania and Australia’s most southern city. With an estimated population of 220000 Hobart is making itself known on the international stage for 2 things – art and food.

We spent an afternoon on day 1 exploring the city itself. On day 2 we drove out of the city down to Dover and Southport for the day before returning to Hobart in the late afternoon.

To be honest we weren’t bowled over by Hobart and next time I would probably give it a skip and drive straight to the Tasman Peninsula. However, if you haven’t yet been I would recommend spending a day/evening there to go to the markets and explore the waterfront area.

Salamanca Markets

The Salamanca Markets are only on a Saturday so if you really want to go you need to book your trip accordingly. Apparently, they are excellent with about 300 stalls open for business from 8:30 am onwards.

Unfortunately, we missed them as we were in Hobart earlier in the week though we did enjoy a stroll around the waterfront area where the markets are held.

There are numerous restaurants and cafes as well as galleries and shops to explore in the area.

Good to know – arrive earlier rather than later as I hear they start to pack up around 1 pm.

Check out the Salamanca Market website for further details .

Mount Wellington

You can’t miss the 1271 metre high Mount Wellington as you drive into Hobart. We did have a great view from our hotel of the mountain but sadly didn’t get a chance to drive up to take photographs of Hobart as cloud covered it on the days we were in the city.

If you are luckier when you visit head up to Mt Wellington via Pinnacle Road for views of the city and harbour.

Check out the Mt Wellington website for further details.

MONA the Museum of Old and New Art

We made time at the end of our trip to visit MONA . I hated it. BUT I would still recommend visiting! It is meant to shock and there is clearly a load of irony in the way the collection has been put together by the somewhat eccentric millionaire owner.

From the moment you arrive and actually try to figure out how to get into the damn building (hint – cross the tennis court) to the intentional lack of labels and information on any of the art MONA gives you an experience like no other art gallery does. Confronting in capital letters.

So go. But don’t blame me if you think bleurghhhh what the hell was that!!

Bruny Island

We were able to spot Bruny Island during our day 2 trip south of Hobart. The island is becoming a very popular destination for day trips from Hobart though you can stay on the island too.

Take a  bushwalk in the South Bruny National Park or take an eco-cruise to explore its coastline. Look out for seals, penguins, and wallabies and other wildlife.

Bruny Island also has some excellent local produce too including wine, cheese, truffles, berries and fresh oysters.

If a trip to the island is something you would enjoy there are plenty of recommended tour options available including:

• Bruny Island: Full-Day Food and Wine Tour from Hobart
• Bruny Island Wilderness Cruise
• Bruny Island Wilderness Coast Eco-Tour from Hobart

If you have time you could add a night or two staying on the island into your Tasmania itinerary.

• Although quite small Hobart does have a one-way system on many of the roads in the centre of town.
• Hobart is a great city to explore on foot.
• The main shopping area in the centre of Hobart is the Elizabeth Street Mall.
• There are lots of great cafes/bars and restaurants in the waterfront area of the town so head down there for a coffee or a bite to eat!
• Beware visiting when the cruise ships are in port. It is a favourite destination of the floating hotels and you could find it a little busier than anticipated if a million passengers disembark at once.

We found the hotels in Hobart relatively expensive.

Whatever your budget I would recommend finding something closer to the city centre within walking distance of the waterfront or actually on the waterfront itself.

There are AirBnb’s available in Hobart if you prefer.

We stayed at the RACV/RACT Hobart Apartment Hotel which was a 5-minute walk to the waterfront area. The room was clean, spacious, the bed was comfortable. Parking is available and is free to RACV/RACT members.

On day 3 we left Hobart to head to the Tasman Peninsula for a 2 night stay. The drive to the Peninsula only takes about an hour and a half and is 100 km from Hobart.

On the way we took a small detour to the town of Richmond which is 26 km (30 mins) from Hobart. The most famous landmark in Richmond is the bridge which was built in 1823. We parked on the main street and took a stroll down to the river and bridge.

There are lots of beautiful heritage buildings to admire in the town. With arts and craft centres, galleries and a choice of tea houses as well as a convict-era gaol (the oldest in Australia) Richmond is definitely worth a few hours to explore.

Richmond is also home to the Pooseum a place where “talking about poo is not taboo” This science museum is dedicated entirely to yes you’ve guessed it animal droppings.

Although we didn’t go the reviews on Trip Advisor for the museum are excellent so if you have an interest in finding out all about poo this is the place to visit!

After a few hours in Richmond we drove the 80 km onto the Tasman Peninsula itself.

If you are driving down towards Port Arthur you will be on the A9 Arthur Highway which passes the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo . I had read good report about the place so we stopped to explore further.

The Unzoo is built around the concept of inviting us into the natural habitat of the animal. Rather than animals being exhibited in cages as in a traditional zoo the park aims to immerse the visitors in the habitat. It is an interesting concept and in some areas they are definitely succeeding.

This is a great place to see devils and if you can time it do try to be there when they feed them! Watching a devil bite through bone like it was a piece of cheese was incredible!

Over the last 20 years over 95% of the devil population has been wiped out by a cancer that causes facial tumours and death within 6 months. At present there is no known cure and insurance populations of disease free devils have been created in an effort to prevent their extinction.

Unfortunately the only wild devil we saw in Tasmania was dead by the side of the road.

Information about visiting the Unzoo:

Location:  5990 Arthur Highway Taranna

Costs:  Adult $36 Child $20

Opening hours:  9 – 6 (summer) otherwise 9-5

After  couple of hours at the Unzoo we drove to Port Arthur itself where we had booked one night at Stewarts Bay Lodge . The Lodge is located in Port Arthur and was ideally located for our visit to the former prison colony the next day.

We spent the rest of the afternoon at the beach located about 5-minute walk from our cabin before having a lovely evening meal in the on-site restaurant.

If you are looking for accommodation in Port Arthur I would highly recommend the cabins at Stewarts Bay Lodge . They were clean, well equipped and perfectly located.

CLICK HERE for up-to-date prices and to book a stay at Stewarts Bay Lodge.

On day 4 we visited  Port Arthur Historical Site . The site is one of 11 places across Australia that make up the  UNESCO World Heritage-listed Australian Convict Sites.

We spent a few hours exploring the site and learnt so much about the history of both Port Arthur and the lives of the convicts who were sent there.

I would recommend attending the introductory talk when you first arrive and also taking the included boat trip around the bay. There are a number of tours available to book including the very popular Port Arthur Ghost Tour. I can only imagine how creepy the place is after dark!

Additional information coming in my post dedicated to visiting Port Arthur Historic Site soon.

Good to know – Check that there isn’t a cruise ship dropping a few thousand passengers off the day you plan to go!

Freycinet National Park (Wineglass Bay) (Days 4/5/6 )

After spending a few hours at Port Arthur Historic Site we drove 240 kms (just over 3 hours) to Freycinet National Park where we had booked accommodation for 3 nights.

I have to say this is one of the most spectacular places I have ever stayed anywhere in the world. We spent 3 nights at the beautiful and very luxurious Edge of the Bay resort which overlooks Coles Bay and the Hazards Mountain Range.

This is THE place to go to recharge your batteries and completely unwind. We ate breakfast every day with wallabies appearing from under the bushes to check out what we were eating (and if we would share – we didn’t!)

We had a very lazy few days and didn’t do any of the famous hikes (I know!) including the one to Wineglass Bay . If hiking is your thing head over to the information centre at the entrance to the park. There are entry fees for vehicles and individuals which you pay at the entrance to the park.

I would highly recommend a stay at the Edge of the Bay resort . Although pricy this is somewhere you will never forget. It is probably one of the best located places we have ever stayed anywhere in the world. It is very popular so book early to avoid disappointment!

Bay of Fires (Days 6/7)

On day 6 we reluctantly left Freycinet National Park and drove 88 kms to our next destination – the Bay of Fires .

The Bay of Fires is situated on the northeastern coast of Tasmania. It stretches from Binalong Bay in the south to Eddystone Point to the north. The bay was named by Captain Tobias Furneaux in 1773 when he sailed past and say the fires of Aboriginal people on the beaches.

Famous for crystal clear water, beautiful white sand and orange rocks it really is worth visiting. We booked one night in St Helens which is located at the southern end of the conservation area.

We took a drive as far as we could do through the area and stopped off for a few walks along the beaches. Watch out for echidna along the side of the roads when you are driving. We saw quite a few at the Bay of Fires.

As we were only spending one night in the area we booked in St Helens. Campsites are available in some parts of the conservation area and there are also numerous accommodation options near Binalong Bay including Airbnb.

We had the opportunity to catch up on washing too at this point of the trip as we were running out of clean clothes. We stayed at Pelican Point Sanctuary for the evening which was clean and spacious and we had access to a washing machine (laundry detergent provided) and a washing line.

On day 7 we drove from St Helens to Launceston which is approximately 160 kms (2 hours drive) There are 2 possible routes to Launceston from St Helens but as January is peak season for lavender we took the northern route and stopped off at Bridestowe Lavender Farm .

Just to take these photographs! It was really beautiful and if you are visiting Tasmania when the lavender is out I would recommend a visit (there is a small entry fee when the lavender is in bloom) There is a shop and a cafe too selling lots of lavender goodies including lavender ice cream!

We spent one evening in Launceston at a lovely B&B (Kurrajong House Bed and Breakfast) owned by a couple originally from the UK.

We found there wasn’t a great deal to do in the city and spent a few hours playing crazy golf at Grindelwald a Swiss-themed Tamar Valley Resort about 10 minutes from Launceston.

Having lived in Switzerland I was not entirely convinced of its true Swiss-ness but it did pass a few hours!

Next time I would probably skip Launceston altogether but if you do decide to spend a night there I would highly recommend the Kurrajong House Bed and Breakfast . (no children permitted)

On DAY 8 we drove from Launceston to Cradle Mountain where I had booked 3 nights at the world famous Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge.

Cradle Mountain is 140 kms from Launceston and takes about 2 hours. However DO NOT drive straight there!! This drive takes you past some of the recommended producers on the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail. At some point I am going back to do the entire trail but for this part of the trip we incorporated 2 stops.

Our first stop was at Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm Cafe . We loved it so much we also stopped there on our return drive to Hobart! If you like raspberries you will love this place! Buy some of the chocolate coated raspberries to take away! And enjoy!

Tasmania really excels in its produce. Wonderful fruit and vegetables, excellent wines and tasty cheese!

Our next stop before heading up to Cradle Mountain was at Ashgrove Cheese . There were plenty of samples to try and some very tasty cheese made its way into our provisions.

Cradle Mountain (Days 8/9/10/11)

After eating far too many raspberries and cheese products we made our way up to Cradle Mountain which was our base for the next 2 days/3 nights.

You will notice on the drive there are dead trees everywhere – in some places it looked like an alien landscape. When we asked in the park about this we were told that the damage is being caused due to climate change.

Scientists are studying the area and the effects of sustained heat/droughts which is having such a massive impact on the area. A real wake up call.

Take a tour of the park

We took a tour from our hotel of the park at dusk which was an amazing time to see the animals. Standing in a field surrounded by wombats was just amazing!

We saw pademelons, wombats, echidna, and possums out in the park. The guide was also really knowledgeable so we were able to learn a lot about the various wildlife too.

Take one of the many hikes around the park

There are lots of hikes to do in the park with the shorter walk around the Dove Lake Circuit one of the most popular. The Dove Lake Circuit is only 6 km and a fairly easy couple of hours.

Alternatively if you prefer something very short but very beautiful try the Enchanted Walk which takes about 20 minutes and starts at Cradle Mountain Lodge!

Visit the Devils @ Cradle

This is a wildlife conservation facility on Cradle Mountain dedicated primarily to the care of Tasmanian devils (though they do have quolls there too).

We paid $75 each for a joey encounter which enabled us to see some of the captive-born joeys that are being raised at the sanctuary. We found it very informative and loved meeting the animals.

My favourite was a young wombat named Pancake whose mother had been killed in a car park. Unfortunately, this is all too common as wombats have no sense of danger when it comes to cars and many people do not think to double-check before reversing.

How to get into the park

Cars are not allowed in the park during the hours of 8:30 – 4:30 pm in winter and 8:00 – 6:00 pm in summer.

If you want to go into the park catch a FREE shuttle bus which will drop you in a number of places along the way.

You need to purchase entry tickets for the park. See below for park ticket passes and information.

We booked 3 nights at the world-class Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge . From the moment we arrived at the Lodge we knew this was an incredibly special place to be.

Our room was perfect, our welcome hamper superb, the setting, the wombats wandering around the lodge, the spa, the restaurant everything just made for a wonderful experience.

If you enjoy spas I would highly recommend spending some time in “The Sanctuary” at the onsite Waldheim Alpine Spa . The private sanctuary has a sauna, steam room, large hot tub and a cool plunge pool as well as a lounge area and is available for 60/90/120 minutes for your exclusive use.

Overlooking the Pencil Pine River and surrounded by King Billy Pines this is the perfect place to relax.

We drove back to Hobart on day 11 from Cradle Mountain. The drive took approximately 4 hours so we had enough time to head to MONA before checking into our airport accommodation for the evening.

As I have already mentioned MONA I won’t go into it again but I think next time I would try to fly into Hobart and out from Launceston to avoid losing a day driving back down the island.

This would have perhaps enabled us to explore more of the west of the island particularly Strahan. Next time!

On day 12 we sadly left Tasmania and flew home (on one of the most turbulent flights ever – not sure if had something to do with the notorious roaring 40’s)

Good to know when planning your trip to Tasmania

In Tasmania, you drive on the left (as in all of Australia!) There are stickers on the windscreens of hire cars and as you drive away from the airport you will see road signs to remind visitors. You will also be given a leaflet when you pick up your hire car with important information about driving in Tasmania.

Apparently, it has been an issue for some visitors to Tasmania.

Be mindful of wild animals . I have been nowhere in the world that seems to have the number of animals wandering the roadsides! Wallabies, echidnas, possums, devils, wombats everywhere! And unfortunately, too many of them splattered. Be especially careful at dawn and dusk.

On a more positive note if you are there during the right seasons keep an eye out for fruit and veg being sold by the roadside. Pull over, help yourself (well pay first!) and then eat your body weight in cherries, raspberries, apples etc. Delicious!

If you are driving from the north back down to Hobart I would highly recommend you take the 1 motorway.

We decided to take the scenic route on the A5. Mistake. Gravel, no other humans for hours, smoke in the trees and a potential flat tyre (luckily it was something stuck on the tyre – not an animal!) made this a not altogether pleasant few hours. Forget the scenery and stick to the main route!!

Tasmania has a climate of 4 seasons . The warmest months are between December and March (summer) when temperatures range between 17 and 23 degrees celsius.

In winter temperatures can dip as low as 3 degrees with highs of only 11 degrees. If you are visiting Cradle Mountain you can expect even colder temperatures with ice and snow in the winter months.

Even in warmer months temperatures can vary greatly so it is best to be prepared for all weather conditions. We visited in January and experienced unusually hot weather with temperatures of 28 degrees on Cradle Mountain. The week before it had been 13 degrees!

One of the BEST things about Tasmania in the summer months are the lighter evenings ! In January it was daylight after 9 in the evening. A real treat for those of us from Queensland (aka the land of no daylight savings!!!)

If you are planning to visit more than one of the National Parks while in Tasmania it may be cost-effective to purchase a Tasmania National Parks Pass. There are a total of 17 parks so chances are you will!

The Holiday Pass pass covers entry into all of Tasmania’s national parks for up to two months and also provides free use of the Cradle Mt shuttle bus.

The Holiday Pass costs

• $56 per vehicle up to 8 seats; or
• $28 per person

Alternatively, you can buy a daily pass which costs

• $22 per vehicle up to 8 seats; or
• $11 per person

Click here to purchase your pass!

Parks and Wildlife Services – For information on the various parks, hikes, maps and up-to-date information on conditions.

Booking.com – For hotels around Tasmania I used booking dot com. I like the ability to have the option to choose free cancellation. They also have a wide range of properties to choose from to suit all budgets.

Enjoy your trip to Tasmania

We loved Tasmania! We have seen quite a lot of Australia since we moved here from Europe and it is easily one of the most beautiful places we have visited in the world.

Tasmania is made for road trips and we will definitely be returning to explore more of the country in the future.

Have a fantastic time!

I have lots of information on my blog about travel in Australia including more posts dedicated to Tasmania.

• Top tips to make the best of your Tasmania trip
• A guide to the wildlife of Tasmania
• Check out my comprehensive guide to Australia which includes links to all my articles

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• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Netherlands
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The Best Tasmania Itinerary (+ Tasmania Road Trip Map)

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Tasmania is an island state in Australia known for its rugged landscape, sparse population and of course Tasmanian devils. Affectionately called “Tassie” by Australians, it is rugged and wild and easy to fall for.   Outdoor enthusiasts will love the awesome hiking opportunities and city lovers will appreciate the rich foodie and art culture.

In this guide, we want to help you plan the best Tasmania itinerary with our tips for the best things to do in Tasmania and how to make the most of your Tasmania road trip.

• 1 When to Go to Tasmania
• 2.2 Port Arthur and the Tasman Peninsula
• 2.3 Freycinet National Park – Wineglass Bay
• 2.4 Bay of Fires
• 2.5 Launceston
• 2.6 Cradle Mountain National Park
• 3 Getting to Tasmania
• 4 Getting Around Tasmania (+Renting a Car in Tasmania)
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When to Go to Tasmania

Tasmania’s weather is very different from what most people think of when they think of Australia.  Tasmania experiences four seasons and parts of the island see snow in winter.  Christmas through to early February is peak time on the island as it is school holidays and temperatures are the warmest – a comfortable low 20s (C).  If you are looking to avoid the crowds, the shoulder seasons are a great time to travel (March-April and October-November).  Winter offers the best value, but will require lots of layers and winter clothing.

Weather in Tasmania can be very variable and change quickly regardless of which time of year you visit.  Pack lots of clothes to layer and be prepared for swift weather changes. We experienced 12 degree weather and lots of rain at Cradle Mountain, even in January.

Tasmania Itinerary + Map

Tasmania is Australia’s smallest state and with a maximum width and length of 300 km, it is manageable to explore many of the highlights on one visit.  You could race around and see the east coast sights in one week, but 10-14 days will give you a chance to slow down and explore a little bit deeper.  This 1 and 2 week itinerary includes the Tasmania must see highlights and the best places to visit in Tasmania.

1 Week Tasmania Itinerary: Hobart, Port Arthur, Wineglass Bay (Freycinet National Park)

2 Week Tasmania Itinerary: Hobart, Port Arthur, Wineglass Bay, Bay of Fires, Launceston, Cradle Mountain National Park

If you have more time, consider including Bruny Island, the wild west coast, the Huon Valley, the Tamar Valley, Bicheno or Penguin to your itinerary.

Hobart is the capital and largest city of Tasmania with a population of 220,000.  It’s walkable, has a relaxing vibe, a huge arts and culture scene and plenty of farm to table foodie restaurants.  It’s harbourside setting with mountains and valleys surrounding the city make it a great base to explore the outdoors.

Start your visit by wandering the city, climbing Kelly’s Steps to the Battery Point neighborhood with its quaint cottages and views.

Hobart is famous for being home to  MONA, the Museum of Old & New .  This Hobart attraction is a privately funded museum that the owner describes as a “subversive adult Disneyland” and for many, it is the highlight of their time in Hobart.   MONA is open from 10-6 in the summer, closed on Tuesdays and the entrance fee is $30/adult. It is located 11 km outside of Hobart.  You can take a ferry or arrive by road.

Mawson’s Hut Replica Museum is a recreation of the hunt that Sir Douglas Mawson’s team built for their Antarctica expedition in 1911-1914.   This is an interesting place to learn more about Antarctica, the polar explorers, and their scientific work. You only need an hour to visit the museum.  It is open daily from 9-5 in the summer and 10-4 in the winter months.  Entrance tickets are $15/adult, $5/child, $35/family.

Where to Stay Hobart

Salamanca Inn – situated right in Battery Park, this mid-range hotel is a great option.  With spacious apartments, an in-door pool, free parking and right in the centre of Hobart, this hotel consistently gets great reviews.  Click here to check the latest prices.

The Henry Jones Art Hotel – an uber cool hotel that looks more like a modern art gallery, this hotel is well situated in central Hobart and offers great service and a great atmosphere.  Click here to check the latest prices.

Camping – the  Discovery Park Hobart is convenient for accessing central Hobart, but is located alongside a busy highway.

Port Arthur and the Tasman Peninsula

Port Arthur is the best preserved convict site in Australia and was actually a penal colony for the penal colony.  It is located 1.5 hours from Hobart, so you can visit on a day trip.  However, the Tasman Peninsula in which Port Arthur sits on is worth spending a night or two.

Port Arthur is a fascinating place due to its historical significance not just from the convict era, but in more recent times as well.  In 1996, 35 people lost their lives at the tourist site of Port Arthur as a  gunman went on a shooting spree.  Australia quickly took action and amended their gun control laws prohibiting semi-automatic weapons.  Twenty years on and the government’s action has proven successful with a decline in mass shootings and firearm deaths.

Practical Information: Port Arthur is open every day of the year, 9 am to dusk.  Tickets cost $40 AUD/adult, $18/child, $102/family (up to 6 children).  There is a canteen on site serving meals, drinks and snacks.

Learning, learning, lots of learning.

While most visitors come to the Tasman Peninsula to visit Port Arthur, there are many other interesting things to see on the Peninsula.  You can camp and hike at Tasman National Park at Fortescue Bay and visit many geological wonders including the Tesselated Pavement, Tasman Arch, Devil’s Kitchen, and Eaglehawk Neck.  You can also take a boat cruise, visit a lavender farm and enjoy delicious Tasmanian cuisine.

Tasman Arch

Where to Stay Port Arthur  

Stewarts Bay Lodge – within walking distance to Port Arthur Historic Site, this is the best accommodation if you want to be really close to Port Arthur.  The lodge is cozy and homey with its own private beach and spacious cabins.  Click here to check the latest prices.

Camping – We recommend staying at Fortescue Bay in Tasman National Park. The camp sites are located right near a beautiful beach and is a jumping off point for hikers doing multi-day hikes. Facilities are basic, but the wildlife opportunities are worth it.  Note that the campground is 12 km off the highway, down a rough unsealed road.   This is a popular campground, so booking are essential.  Sites are $13-16/night.  It is 17 km from the campground to the Port Arthur Historic Site.

Freycinet National Park – Wineglass Bay

Freycinet National Park surrounds Coles Bay on the east coast of Tasmania.  The National Park is best known for Wineglass Bay, a gorgeous stretch of sandy beach and turquoise waters dotted with pink granite cliffs.  It is one of the most popular things to see in Tasmania, so be prepared to share this special spot with other visitors.

The most common walk is to the Wineglass Bay Lookout, a 2.4 km return loop that takes 1-1.5 hours.  From the lookout you can continue your hike down to Wineglass Bay, which will add 3.5 km return and another 1.5 hours.  While Freycinet National Park is synonymous with Wineglass Bay, there are many other incredible places to explore in the National Park.

Where to Stay Freycinet National Park

You have a few choices of where to base yourself when visiting Freycinet National Park.  You can stay in Coles Bay , or nearby Bicheno or Swansea .

Edge of the Bay Resort – located 4 km outside of Coles Bay, the rooms have gorgeous views and you will have wildlife on your doorstep.  Located 5 minutes from town, but peaceful and tranquil, Edge of the Bay Resort is a great choice when visiting Freycinet.  Click here to check the latest prices.

Saffire Freycinet (Luxury) – this architectural gem is gorgeous with modern luxe suites, views from every room, an award winning restaurant and top notch hospitality.  Worth the splurge!  Click here to check the latest prices.

Big 4 Iluka Camping and Cabins – great location opposite Muir’s Beach with nice water views, an IGA down the street and good access to Freycinet National Park.  Click here to check the latest prices.

Bay of Fires

Bay of Fires has gained quite a bit of attention recently as one of the most beautiful places in Australia.  The unique orange covered boulders that litter the coast shine against the white sand beaches and turquoise waters, making for a photographer’s dream.  Best of all, it is still off-the-beaten path so you can find deserted bays.  While the water may look inviting, even in summer it never gets above 65 degrees, making for a very refreshing experience.

We spent hours climbing the big boulders, finding secret passages through the rocks, and exploring the tidal pools.  The sunsets are incredible .  The best way to experience the Bay of Fires is by camping, however you can stay in nearby Binalong Bay or St. Helens too.

Where to Stay Bay of Fires

Pelican Point Sanctuary – located just north of St. Helens, this quiet place really is a sanctuary.  Located near the sea with abundant birdlife, the clean rooms and friendly staff, make this a great choice.  Click here to check the latest prices.

Airbnb – there are a number of great airbnbs near the Bay of Fires.  Burgess Cottage is a great choice.

Camping – Cosy Corner South campground is a basic free camping area with stunning views right on the water.  It is first-come-first-serve and incredibly popular.  There are a couple of drop toilets, but you need to bring in your own water and take out your waste.

Launceston is Tasmania’s second largest city and is best known for the beautiful Cataract Gorge. In the late 1800s, someone had the foresight to create this beautiful park around this breathtaking Gorge with walking trails, a large swimming pool, restaurants and even a chairlift across the water.

A 3.4 km walking track will take you around the Gorge and over the long suspension bridge.  The free and chilly public swimming pool can be a great place to cool down or you can go for a swim in the river.  You can ride the First Basin Scenic Chairlift across the river for $13/adult and $8/child, one-way.  The chairlift is open everyday from 9 am.

Other ideas for things to do in Launceston include visiting the Saturday Harvest Market, City Park Launceston, Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery and of course the Tamar Valley wineries.

Where to Stay Launceston

Peppers Silo – this modern and comfortable hotel offers good value with great views of the city and river. Some of the rooms are located inside a renovated grain silo, making this a unique place to stay.    Click here to check the latest prices.

Camping – the Big 4  Lauceston campground is very kid friendly with a playground and jumping pillow for the kids.

Cradle Mountain National Park

Cradle Mountain National Park was one of the highlights of our time in Tasmania and we wish we had allocated more than just one night here.  The terrain is really unique – Lord of the Rings-like with wild alpine moorlands, glacial lakes and moss covered rainforest.  The higher altitude makes it cool even in summer and it is known for its misty and moody weather.  The hiking opportunities are fabulous with everything from short day hikes to multi-day epic trails.

To protect this fragile environment, the National Park provides mandatory shuttle service between the Visitor Centre and the most popular sights and hikes.  A 24 hour Cradle Mountain pass costs $16.50/adult, $8.25/child, $41.25/family (2+3).  Holiday passes for up to 8 weeks are also available.

The most popular hike is the Dove Lake circuit with gorgeous views of Cradle Mountain on a clear day.  The circuit is 6 km and takes 2 hours.  There are numerous other short hikes if you have time.  You can almost guarantee that you will see a wombat in the National Park.

We only wishes we could have spent more than one night there and that it didn’t rain most of the time we were there.

Tassie is well known for its fabulous produce and food.  On our 2.5 hour drive from Launceston to Cradle Mountain we did stop to sample some local foods highlighted in the  Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail .   We enjoyed the chocolates at  Anvers Chocolates , tasted delicious cheeses at  Ashgrove Cheese , sampled some yummy craft beer at  7 Sheds Brewery and visited enjoyed a lovely meal at the Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm.

Where to Stay Cradle Mountain

Camping or Cabins –  Located right on the edge of the National Park, the Discovery Holidays Parks campground offers a wilderness experience right at your doorstep. The campground has a wonderful chalet building with a wood burning stove, a camp kitchen and travelers from all over the world to hang out with.  They also have comfortable cottages and cabins if you are looking for more comfort.  Click here to check the latest prices.

Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge –  a luxury experience in the wilderness, this lodge is picturesque and cozy with open fireplaces, postcard views and even a spa to soothe your sore muscles.  Did we mention the lodge is located right in the National Park?  Click here to check the latest prices.

Getting to Tasmania

Since Tasmania is an island, you have two choices of how to get here: you can fly or take a boat.

The main airports in Tasmania are in Hobart and Launceston which offer frequent directs flights to Melbourne and Sydney.  Flights are 1-2 hours and cost AUD $100-200/each way.

The  Spirit of Tasmania is a ferry that sails between Melbourne and Davenport in Tasmania.  We opted for the ferry since we were bringing our car and thought it would be an interesting way to get across the Bass Strait. The Bass Strait is known to be a rough passage as the warm waters of the Indian ocean meet the Pacific through this narrow and shallow strait. Read our Tips For Taking the Spirit of Tasmania here.    Spirit of Tasmania fares start at $89/person and $99/vehicle, but increase drastically during peak times.

Getting Around Tasmania (+Renting a Car in Tasmania)

The best way to explore Tasmania really is by car which gives you the most freedom.  Many of the most beautiful spots are in between popular Tasmania tourist attractions and with your own car you can stop to enjoy a deserted beach that beckons or buy some fresh cherries from the farm stand.

Most visitors will rent a car from Hobart or Launceston.  A 2WD is perfectly suitable for exploring the east coast of Tasmania.  You will have to be comfortable driving on the left, but the roads are quiet and small.  Similar to New Zealand, it does take longer to get around on the smaller roads.

Click here to check the latest prices of car rentals in Tasmania.

Tasmania with Kids

There are so many wonderful activities that both kids and parents will love in Tasmania.  Here were our top things to do in Tasmania with kids:

• climbing the boulders and finding hidden caves at the Bay of Fires
• learning about Antarctic exploration at Mawson’s Hut Museum in Hobart
• testing out the chilly waters of Cataract Gorge in Launceston
• savoring fresh fruit from roadside vendors
• spotting wombats at Cradle Mountain National Park
• learning about Australia’s convict history at Port Arthur
• seeing and learning about the geological formations on the Tasman peninsula
• shopping for treats at the Salamanca Markets
• spotting glow worms at Mole Creek
• riding the Scenic Chairlift at Cataract Gorge, Launceston
• climbing the boulders on the top of Mount Wellington

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Self-Drive Tasmania: The Best Trip Planner for an Ultimate Road Trip

• Updated on: November 29, 2023

This article may contain affiliate links.  For more information, please see our disclaimer  here.

Table of Contents

Imagine this: I’m spending over a month in the rugged wilderness of Tasmania, an Australian island that’s a world unto itself. This place, one of the last accessible frontiers of raw, untouched nature, is a magnet for anyone with a thirst for adventure. The journey itself is captivating – empty roads meander through an ever-changing canvas of landscapes, making every mile an unfolding story.

In my trusty camper van, which quickly becomes more than just a vehicle but a mobile home, I dive deep into the heart of Tasmania. This extended stay isn’t just a visit; it’s a full immersion into the island’s soul. Every day is a new chapter, each destination a fresh revelation.

Given the luxury of time that many might not have, it didn’t feel right to just churn out a standard X-day Tasmania road trip itinerary. How could I distill this rich, sprawling experience into just a handful of days? Instead, I’ve put together a Tasmania trip planner, a guide born from my extensive explorations. This isn’t about prescribing a route; it’s about offering you the tools to weave your own Tasmanian tapestry, to build a journey that echoes your personal rhythm and style. So, get ready to chart your own course through Tasmania’s wild beauty!

How to get to Tasmania

As Tasmania is an island, which is not connected to the mainland by any tunnels or bridges, the only way to get there is by boat or by plane. If you want to bring your own car, you can take the ferry, the Spirit of Tasmania . They provide a regular daily service between Melbourne and Devonport.

If you prefer to fly , you can take a flight from Sydney, Melbourne, Launceston, or Hobart. Launceston is a city in the North of Tasmania. Hobart is the capital city of Tasmania, situated in the South.

Don’t miss: Our Complete Tasmania Travel Guide

Best time to visit Tasmania

Tasmania can best be visited between December and February. The temperatures are best during this time of the year. Nature is stunning and there are plenty of  activities  that can be done. But always be prepared for a cool day and cold nights.

Car rental Tasmania

If you choose to fly to Tasmania, you can rent a car at both the airports in Hobart and Launceston. This is the easiest way to go, as there is barely any public transport in Tasmania, not even an option to bring you into town from the airport.

As the roads are pretty solid in Tasmania, you should be very fine with renting a 2WD car. This can either be a small car, a station wagon, a Camper Van or an RV.

Camping is very common in Tasmania and you will find a lot of free camps and campsites all around. But if camping is not your thing, don’t be afraid, as there are also many opportunities when it comes to B&B’s, hotels, and hostels!

Self-Driving Tasmania

In Tasmania, you drive on the left side of the road, just like in the rest of Australia. This also means that you have to stay on the left unless you are passing.

Always be aware of wildlife. They can cross the road literally any moment of the day. We had to stop a couple of times to let some wildlife cross the road, like an echidna, several wallabies, a goanna, and even a Tasmanian Devil!

If you didn’t see them in time and you hit an animal, always make sure to stop. See if the animal can be rescued or if it had any babies with it that need to be taken care of. Call the Wildlife Rescue at 1300 094 737 to report an animal that needs help.

Always wear your seatbelt and use hands-free devices. Stick to the speed limits, which is 50 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h in rural areas, and 110 km/h on the highway. Please be aware that gas stations might be further away from each other than you expect, so don’t forget to fuel up on time!

If you don’t like to travel around Tasmania by yourself, check out this amazing 6 day tour.

Know before you go

There are a couple of things you need to know before you start your road trip around Tasmania.

Tasmania National Park Pass

A National Park Pass is a pass that gives you permission to enter a national park in Tasmania. You can either purchase a single-entry ticket, that gives you access for 24 hours, or you can purchase a holiday pass, that is valid for all the national parks in Tasmania for 8 weeks.

It might save you a lot of money on your Tasmanian road trip to purchase the holiday pass, even when you don’t spend the full 8 weeks in Tasmania. Below are the costs for the different national park passes:

• Single entry (24 hours): AU$22, which is valid for 1 vehicle and up to 8 persons
• Holiday pass (8 weeks): AU$56, which is valid for 1 vehicle and up to 8 persons

If you are planning on going to more than 2 national parks, it is more affordable to purchase the holiday pass.

Tip: You can purchase your national park pass at the entrance of any national park, any visitor center or at the Spirit of Tasmania I & II if you arrive by ferry.

Southern Lights

You might not expect it, but in Tasmania, it is possible to see the Southern Lights! This is also called the Aurora Australis. It is the same natural phenomenon as the Northern Lights, but then in the Southern Hemisphere.

Actually, Tasmania is one of the best places in the world to see these incredible light shows. So, if you travel around, don’t forget to check the aurora forecast and set an alarm clock if the chances are high!

You can see the Southern Lights pretty much everywhere in Tasmania. Just make sure your view to the South isn’t blocked by large mountains or trees. It also helps a lot when you are away from the city so that you don’t have light pollution.

Tip : Join the Facebook group Aurora Australis Tasmania to get to know if and where there is a chance to capture the Southern Lights.

Bioluminescence

Another phenomenon to be seen in Tasmania is the bioluminescence, also called sea sparkle. When it gets dark the water lightens up in a bright blue color. The glow is caused by specific algae or plant plankton, flashing when they are disturbed by waves or currents.

This sea sparkle is especially known to be seen around Hobart. So, if you are around, check out if there is a chance to see it!

TIP : Become a member of the Facebook group bioluminescence Tasmania to get to know if and where there is a chance to see this blue fluorescence.

Self-Drive Tasmania Road Trip Planner

That was some basic information about Tasmania. You know where to rent a car and what you always have to look out for. So, now it’s time to finally dive into the beautiful sights, amazing things to do, and incredible National Parks to explore in Tasmania!

I start this road trip around Tasmania in Hobart, but you can literally start anywhere. If you fly to Launceston, scroll down to that point and start planning your Tasmania itinerary from there. Same story if you arrive by ferry in Devonport!

Interactive map of Tasmania

Below you’ll find an interactive map of Tasmania, where you can see all the stops, places of interest, things to do and places to sleep which I discuss in this post. Simply click on the map to integrate it into your Google Maps and navigate to the next stop on your route!

Hobart is the capital city of Tasmania, but when you have been to Melbourne or Sydney, you will be amazed by the small size. It really is a cute and compact town where you are able to find anything you need. You can see it all in a day, but you can easily spend here 3 days as well.

Driving isn’t the most comfortable in the city center, as there are a lot of really small and narrow roads. Do you have a Camper Van? Don’t even bother trying to park in the city! Park just outside the center and walk in 10-15 minutes into town.

Tours we recommend:

Mount wellington.

Mount Wellington is one of the iconic sights in Hobart. You can drive all the way to the top of the mountain via a winding steep road. It is worth all your time and effort, as the views on a clear day are incredible! Especially during sunrise or sunset.

Once at the top, you can walk onto a viewing platform to have a view over the city and the ocean. There is also an inside viewing platform if you feel cold. Don’t forget, you can climb up a mountain and the temperature can easily be a couple of degrees colder than in the city! When we visited Mount Welling the temperature change was 12 degrees!

Also, don’t forget about the wind. Without any shelter, you will be fully exposed to it. Bring a windproof jacket, gloves, and a hat if you want to prepare yourself!

Salamanca Market

The Salamanca Market is a street market, held every Saturday from 8.30 am until 3.00 pm at Salamanca place. This is in the middle of the city center of Hobart. It is a very vibrant market with lots of handicrafts, arts, jewelry, organic produce, and delicious local foods and breweries.

With over 300 stands, you can easily spend there the whole morning. Wander around, take in the relaxed vibes and search for a beautiful souvenir.

MONA – the Museum of Old and New Art

This Museum of Old and New Art is a must-visit when in Hobart. You can get here by car or by ferry. It is a very interactive art museum, where old and modern art is combined.

So, what can you expect to see here? Although it is a very modern and interactive museum, there is also art hanging on the walls. But instead of figuring out what it is all about, you get a device where you can listen to the founder of the museum and sometimes the artist himself. They explain the story behind the art, which makes it way easier to understand.

There is also a lot of interactive art, where you can actually participate in to let it work. For example the pulse bulb, that shows your pulse when you hold on to a metal bar. And there is also a device that lets the wind do the work. Yes, you do understand it right, the wind makes the art here!

You can easily spend half a day at MONA. And if the weather is good you can enjoy lunch or a drink in the garden of the restaurant and watch the boats come by over the river.

Rektango Live Music

Every Friday night from 6.00 pm to 7.30 pm there is a free live music event at Salamanca place. Right behind the Peacock theater people gather to enjoy the music with some drinks.

So, if you are around on a Friday night, definitely go here to get a real local Tasmanian experience!

Places to stay in Hobart

There are several backpacker hostels situated in the middle of the city center. A private room in a hostel is available from US$45 to US$50 a night.

If you want a bit more luxury the Tasmania Inn offers great value for their price. You can book a room from US$65 a night. It is still very close to the city center and they have a restaurant where you can enjoy a dinner buffet for US$21 per person.

The Lea Bush Camp is a very good campsite which is only a 15-minute drive out of Hobart. They only charge AU$10 per person for an unpowered site and AU$12.50 for a powered site. The amenities are spotless and the camp kitchen is a big plus. Outside the bush fire season, you are also allowed to make a campfire at one of the designated spots.

The Tasman Peninsula & Port Arthur

Its time to actually start your self-drive Tasmania road trip! And it starts with a 70-minute drive from Hobart to the rugged Tasman Peninsula. Access to this Peninsula is via the ‘Eaglehawk Neck’, which is an isthmus of only 30 meters wide. Back in the old days, this place was guarded by dogs to prevent the convicts from escaping.

Most of the peninsula is a national park and it offers spectacular coastlines, blowholes, caves and two world heritage listed convict sites. There are also lots of walking tracks!

Depending on how much time you have I would suggest taking at least 1 day to explore the highlights of this part of Tasmania. If you do have an extra day, put on your hiking boots and take one of the incredible hikes!

Tour recommendation for Tasman Peninsula:

Enjoy a day in a sea kayak surrounded with a wide variety of wildlife. Tasman Peninsula Full-Day Sea Kayak Excursion

Port Arthur Historic Site

Port Arthur historic site is a world heritage listed site and is the best-preserved convict settlement in Australia. Explore the old buildings and take in the history that still feels alive when you wander around.

One of the best things to do here is taking the  ghost tour ! Hear spooky stories and enjoy the atmospheric grounds and buildings while you learn something about history!

Coal mines historic site

Another world heritage listed site is the coal mines. A place where convicts were doing forced labor. Old buildings are still standing and you can have a look around and take pictures during a guided tour while you learn all about this place. You can also walk the Convicts Coal Mine Circuit which leads you around the place in two hours.

Tasmanian Devil UNZOO

In contrary to a regular zoo, the animals are free in their habitat and the visitors can watch them from certain ‘cages’ in this habitat. This creates spectacular up-close sights and a lot more interaction with the animals.

If you go to the Tasmanian Devil UNZOO, make sure to see the Tasmanian Devil feeding and the bird show! Both real impressive! For tickets check out their website , or click on the day tour below to combine Port Arthur with the UNZOO.

From Hobart: Port Arthur and Tasmanian Devil Unzoo Day Tour

Walking tracks

There are a lot of walking tracks available on the Tasman Peninsula. One of the most famous hikes is the Tasman Coastal Hike which takes 3-5 days to complete. Luckily you can also do parts of this trail in half a day or a full day. Click here for more information.

Places to stay Port Arthur

There are a couple of places to stay in the area of Port Arthur, as well as hotels as campsites, but they are all pretty pricey. If you just drive off the peninsula, passed the Eaglehawk Neck, there is the Lufra Hotel and apartments . Situated at the beachfront they are offering fully self-contained rooms for only US$80 a night.

Great Eastern Drive

The Great Eastern Drive is a 176 km long road between Orford and St. Helens on Tasmania’s East Coast. The road leads you right through the East Coast wine region. There are lots of beaches to explore, hikes to do, and wines to taste!

Maria Island

Maria Island is a natural wildlife sanctuary with historic ruins, beautiful bays, and incredible cliffs. It is a no-car island where you can only get to from the passenger ferry from Triabunna. It takes about 30 minutes with the ferry. You can find the ferry times here on the timetable.

There are several hikes to do on the island that will let you explore several highlights, like the painted cliffs, which are limestone rock formations, and the convict sites at Darlington.

During your visit, you will probably spot a lot of wildlife, like echidnas and wallabies. With a bit of luck, you might also spot a Tasmanian Devil!

Hiking and biking are the main activities to do on this beautiful island. Bikes are for rent from Darlington. Renting a bike will allow you to see quite a lot of the island in just one day! If you like to explore it on foot or want to spend the night there for a higher chance to see the wildlife, you can stay here an extra day.

Accommodation on Maria Island is very basic. It is either a room with 6 to 14 bunk beds or a campsite. There is also no possibility of purchasing any food or drinks, so you need to bring everything yourself! If you aren’t a big fan of this basic accommodation, but still like to see Maria Island, you can go there and back to the mainland within a day.

See below the tours we really like on Maria Island:

Top Tour: Maria Island: Day Trip with Walk, Wombats, and Picnic Lunch

Back on the mainland, you’ll drive 50km from Triabunna to Swansea. On your way, you’ll pass some small towns like Little Swanport and Rocky Hills.

From Swansea, it takes you another 50km to reach Bicheno. On this route, you’ll find some of the best vineyards of the East Coast of Tasmania. For example, check out Milton Vineyard, Gala Estate, Spring Vale Wines, Devil’s Corner, or Freycinet Vineyard to taste some of Tasmania’s best wines!

Coles Bay & Freycinet National Park

Freycinet National Park is one of the most famous national parks in Tasmania. It is beautiful and there are plenty of options when it comes to activities.

From the road junction before Bicheno, it is about 30 km one way to reach the car park of Freycinet National park. From here you can start pretty much all the hikes and explore the Freycinet Park.

Friendly beaches

Before you arrive at Coles Bay you’ll find Friendly Beaches. A lot of people skip them and drive straight into the national park, but I think they are worth a stop to stroll around.

There are tons of viewpoints to see this beautiful part of the coastline, it almost blinds your eyes! There are also many beach access points to get onto the beach and walk around or lay down on the soft white sand.

Coles Bay is a small town and the main entry point to the Freycinet National Park. You can get accommodation here if you like to spend a couple of days in the park, which I would definitely recommend. If you are camping you can book ahead for a campsite in the park itself, which is pretty affordable for an accommodation!

Don’t forget to return to Coles Bay after an intense day with lots of walking to get a super delicious ice cream from the Ice Creamery. Just because you really deserved it!

Our favourite tour:

This tour really impressed us Freycinet National Park: Guided Walking Tour

Wineglass Bay

This is probably the spot every traveler wants to see when they go to Freycinet National Park and for a good reason! The view on Wineglass bay is absolutely stunning with the clear blue waters divided by a small strip of white sand and high mountains with green trees. The contrast just really crushes it here!

You’ll get the best view on Wineglass Bay from the top of Mount Amos. This is a fairly difficult hike where you need to climb over the rocks to get there. Really…climbing with both hands and feet is necessary to get there.

I understand that is not a suitable hike for everyone. Luckily there is also the Wineglass Bay Lookout Trail, which is a 1.5 km one-way moderate trail. From the Wineglass Bay Lookout, you can get to the beach in another 1.5 km. This trail is quite steep with a series of stairs. But it is worth all the effort because the beach is absolutely stunning!

Honeymoon Bay

The Honeymoon bay is actually part of the Oyster bay and is a picturesque stop. The white-sanded beach with the yellow boulders and the green trees make the view almost unbelievable. Definitely worth a stop for a picture or even a swim if the weather allows it!

Continue the Great Eastern Drive

Fulfilled after soaking up some beautiful views, doing some awesome hikes, and lovely swims, you can continue your Tasmania road trip going North on the Great Eastern Drive.

Bicheno is one of the bigger cities along the East Coast and is famous for all the wildlife that can be seen here. It is near the East Coast Natureworld , which is a Wildlife Sanctuary. At night you can take a penguin tour in Bicheno to see little penguins, which are the smallest penguins in the world. SPOILER ALERT: Scroll down to Burnie for an even better penguin viewing opportunity!

A famous sight in Bicheno is the blowhole. Watch the waves crashing on the cliffs and spray up high in the air!

Tip: In Bicheo, you have a lot of choices when it comes to accommodation. Simply check booking.com for a hotel or hostel, or check the Wikicamps app for a free campsite.

The 50 kilometers between Bicheno and Scamander is called the Surf Coast. The white-sand beaches, the crystal clear blue waters and the reliable swells make it the place to be for surfers! But even if you don’t surf, you will enjoy the beauty of these beaches.

The last 20 kilometers of the Great Eastern Drive takes you to St. Helens. This is the hub for fishing boats and a good location to try fishing yourself during a fishing trip. Don’t forget to taste the fish & chips. It doesn’t get fresher than that!

Bay of Fires

The next stop on your self-drive Tasmania trip is the Bay of Fires. This is a conservation reserve famous for its crystal clear water, white sandy beaches, and granite boulders covered with orange mosses.

Unlike the name suggests, it isn’t just one bay where you can see these spectacular views. It is actually a 40 km long coastal strip between Binalong Bay and Eddystone Point.

When the sun sets it becomes even more magical. The orange sky colors the same as the orange mosses on the boulders and together with the white sand and the blue ocean it is perfect photo for a postcard!

There are lots of free camps along the coast, which make it very easy to access the beach during sunset or sunrise. If you prefer to stay at a hostel or hotel, St. Helens is your best chance to get accommodation for a reasonable price.

Tour Recommendation:

If you don’t have that much time but you really want a nice impression of the Island, check out the tour below:

North East Tasmania

After the Bay of Fires, you’ll start to drive to the West. The North-Eastern part you cross isn’t much to explore, yet there are quite a few stops worth it between Eddystone Point and Launceston!

Little Blue Lake

From Eddystone Point it is only a 40 km road trip to Little Blue Lake. Like the name suggests, it is a small lake with incredibly blue water. When I saw it, for a moment I thought I was in Canada.

The blue lake, deep down at the foot of the mountains, surrounded by incredible green trees, is absolutely stunning to see. Take some time to wander around and take some pictures before you continue your way. It is not very well known among tourists, so you might have the place to yourself!

Another 30 kilometers takes you to Derby, a small town famous for it’s Blue Derby mountain bike trails. So, if you have a day left and feel like getting out of the car and be active, this is your chance!

You can rent a mountain bike in the park and cycle uphill before you cross downhill on the 125 km available tracks.

Bridestowe Lavender Estate

Next stop on your self-drive Tasmania road trip: The Bridestowe Lavender Estate. This Lavender Farm, where they grow French Lavender, is open year-round. It is believed that it is the largest commercial plantation of Lavandula Angustifolia in the world!

The lavender flowers are during the high season. Normally the flowering season runs from somewhere in December until the end of January. This is also the only time a year that you have to pay an entrance fee of AU$10 per person

Tip: Before you pay your entrance fee, check out the status of the flowers on their website . It would be a shame to pay and not see what you expected.

From the Lavender farm, you drive 50 kilometers South West to reach Launceston. A pretty vibrant city with lots of shopping and dining possibilities.

If you fly in on Launceston airport, this is where your self-drive Tasmania road trip starts.

Cataract Gorge

The Cataract Gorge is Launceston’s own wilderness which you can reach in a 15-minute walk from the city center. It is crazy how close this is! The zig-zag trail takes you from the car park, over the Kings bridge towards the First Basin. Here, you’ll find a small cafe and a beautiful swimming pool. No wonder the locals call this Launceston’s beach!

If you have a couple of days extra to spend around Tasmania and have the budget, you can take a flight from Launceston to King Island or Flinders Island. Both these islands are only accessible by plane.

More North you’ll find the Cliff grounds, which is a garden with exotic plants and trees. At the Cataract Gorge, you also find a footbridge and even a chairlift to cross the river! The entrance fee to the park is absolutely free, but for the chairlift, they charge you a couple of dollars.

Explore the Gorge during this boat trip: Launceston: 2.5-Hour Morning or Afternoon Discovery Cruise

Fly to King Island or Flinders Island

Tamar Valley

Only a 25 km drive from Launceston you’ll find the Tasmanians Tamar Valley. This area is known as an excellent wine region. With over 30 vineyards this is the place to be when it comes to wine tasting and culinary foods.

Places to stay

In Launceston, you can book a backpacker accommodation for US$45 a night and a hotel room from US$60 a night.

A nice campsite just off the road towards Devonport is Quamby Corner. They offer unpowered sites for AU$10 per person per night and AU$14 for a powered site. The amenities are very clean and you can use the laundry machine free of charge!

Launceston – Devonport is a 100 km drive. Devonport is the main city where the ferry arrives. So, if you want to bring your own car, this is where your self-drive road trip around Tasmania will start.

It is a pretty big city for Tasmania and you can find a lot of shops, cafes, restaurants, and pubs to enjoy dinner or a drink.

In Devonport, there are several accommodations available between US$70 and US$100 per room per night. Most of them offer a private bathroom and some include breakfast.

Tour recommendation

Spot the wildlife of Tasmania during this 2 hour night walking tour. Check this tour, Cradle Mountain Wildlife Spotting after Dark.

Cradle Mountain

Your Tasmania road trip continues with a drive of almost 90 km which will get you from Devonport to Cradle Mountain National Park. This is the most famous National Park in Tasmania with the iconic Cradle Mountain.

There is a huge car park at the entrance where you can take a free shuttle bus to get deeper into the park. The shuttle service stops at several points in the park, so you can choose a spot to get off. This probably depends on your plan for the day and what you want to explore in the Cradle Mountain National Park.

Tours you have to check:

Click here to explore this amazing area and enjoy one of our favourite tours.

Dove lake is a lake at the foot of Cradle Mountain. You can follow the pretty easy trail that takes you all the way around the lake in 2 to 3 hours. The total length of the trail is 6 km and takes you along the iconic boatshed, which is really picturesque with sunset.

Cradle Mountain Summit

The trail to the summit of Cradle Mountain is a 12.8 km round trip with a climb of 600m. The trail leads you first to Marion’s Lookout, which gives you a breathtaking view over Dove Lake on the one side and on the other side, the Crater Lake.

Then the trail will take you to the Kitchen Hut, which is nothing more than a shelter hut for emergencies. You can drop your bag here before you start the last climb to the peak. But don’t forget to bring some water and drinks with you because this is the hardest part of the trail and you are going to need it!

The last part to the top is really rough and it takes both hands and feet to get there. It is no longer a trail, but a climb on the rocks. Therefore it is forbidden to go to the summit with rainy or snowy circumstances. The rocks get really slippery and it simply is too dangerous.

When you reached the top you take the same route back to the Kitchen hut and continue your way to Dove Lake to walk along the lake back to the bus station to take the shuttle from there to the main car park.

Overland track

Another hiking track, that starts in Cradle Mountain National Park is the overland track. This is a hike of 65 kilometers which takes about 5 to 6 days to complete. It is Australia’s premier alpine walk and an adventure is guaranteed!

This hiking trail, that is loved by hikers from all over the world, starts at the iconic Cradle Mountain and leads you all the way through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area towards Lake st. Clair. This is Australia’s deepest lake and the views from up the mountain are more than stunning.

Without any facilities on the way, you have to carry everything. Which means a place to sleep, food, and water. There are some opportunities to fill up water on the way, but always check where from the information center before you start.

Must Read: 11 essentials you need on every backpacking trip

And there are so many more things to do in Cradle Mountain National Park.

Cradle Mountain National Park can be explored in 1 or 2 days. The Cradle Mountain Highlanders is a good place to stay for a pretty reasonable price, taking the location into consideration. You will find it costs US$140 per night for a fully equipped cabin.

Another stunning accommodation at the edge of Cradle Mountains national park is the Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge . They offer a luxury spa, wooden cabins with views and a breakfast buffet is also included. You can book a chalet from US$280 a night.

There are also a lot of free camps in the area!

Mole Creek Caves

If you like to explore caves, you should definitely visit the Mole Creek Caves. There are multiple tours a day that lead you around the underground lakes in the Marakoopa Cave. In this cave, you also have the possibility to see glow worms! The King Solomons Cave is characterized by the lavish colors and formations.

The caves have the same climate all year round. It is around 9 degrees, so be prepared and get dressed well before you enter!

Walls of Jerusalem

Walls of Jerusalem is another national park, which is less visited because it is not accessible by car. This alpine wonderland is only to be explored by the true adventurers among us. You need to be able to handle a multiple-day hike, to get up to the walls and take in the beautiful views from there.

There are no facilities, so you have to bring your own camping gear and food for the time you stay. Luckily there is a possibility to fuel up on drinking water! Come prepared, as the weather is very unpredictable!

Burnie is a small town on the North shore of Tasmania. It has a few accommodations, a small shopping center, and some convenient stores. In my opinion, this place should really be a stop on your Tasmanian road trip if you want to see the little penguins.

Watching Little Penguins

The main reason we went to Burnie was to see the Little Penguins. In Burnie, they have an observation center and in the evenings they provide guided tours that are 100% free of charge.

The guides are very knowledgable and answer all the questions you have. They also tell you more about the cycle penguins go through each year, from nesting to pairing to breeding and to letting go of their young.

The most amazing thing about viewing penguins here is that you can get so close without disturbing them. There is a fence built along the beach to keep the penguins safe in their environment and not roam everywhere in town.

There are some nests right next to the fence and you can easily photograph the babies without having a crazy expensive zoom lens on your camera! Make sure to not use your flash! Once it gets dark, the penguins return from the sea to feed their babies, which is a spectacle to watch.

When it comes to accommodation in Burnie, my best recommendation is: Burnie Ocean View Motel and Caravan Park . They offer fully self-contained studios with a sea view. You don’t even need to get out and you can participate in a tour to view the penguins coming from the sea. You can literally see it from your balcony!

Besides the incredible beach view, they have a heated indoor swimming pool, barbeque facilities, and free Wifi. All that for only US$100 per night.

Stanley & the Nut

From Burnie, it is around 75 km to get to Stanley. A small town at the foot of The Nut. This is an extinct volcano, which you can access by foot. A short, but steep climb will get you to the top (you can also take the chairlift for a fee). Walk the short circuit on the top and enjoy the many beautiful views over Stanley. You will see the ocean and over to the other far corners of Tasmania.

Tarkine National Park

After a 50 km drive from Stanley, you’ll arrive in the Tarkine National Park which is in the North West of Tasmania. The Tarkine Forest Reserve is an area where you can find rainforest, sand dunes, and coastal heathlands.

Just driving through the park gives you beautiful views. Don’t forget to stop at ‘the edge of the world’. If you cross the ocean to the West from here, you won’t see any landmass until you reach Argentina. It is the longest uninterrupted distance in any ocean on Earth!

Besides driving through the park, which is already incredible, there are a lot of activities to do. Especially water activities like kayaking or a riverboat cruise. From here you can explore the waterways which are surrounded by blackwood forests.

Tarkine National Park offers lots of camping opportunities. There are also lots of free camps along the coast and campsites with some more facilities in the heart of the park.

If you prefer a hotel there’s only one possibility, which is the Tarkinegrove . It is very close to Roger River in the heart of the Tarkine National Park. Rooms can be booked from US$150 a night and offer a fully self-contained cabin with patio.

Leaving the Tarkine National Park you’ll head towards Strahan. This will probably be your longest drive as it takes 230 kilometers of windy mountain roads to get there. Don’t underestimate this distance, as it can easily take up to 3.5 to 4 hours to drive!

Strahan is iconic for the West Coast Wilderness Railway. Join the train ride and step back in history to the 1950’s. It is an unforgettable railway journey along 35km of wild rainforest tracks between Queenstown and Strahan.

From Strahan, it is only a short drive to Queenstown, situated in a valley on the western slopes of Mount Owen on the West Coast Range. It is a cute little town that makes you feel like being back in the time of the cowboys!

There are a couple of pubs where you can dine a pub meal and it is also a good place to stay overnight. For only US$56 a night you can sleep in the Empire Hotel , which includes breakfast.

Tour recommendation Strahan:

Ready for a nice morning cruise? Check out this tour: Strahan: World Heritage Cruise on Gordon River with Lunch.

Frenchman’s Cap

Driving out of Queenstown will lead you along the Horsetail falls. This is a seasonal waterfall that can best be seen after some rainfall. A parking spot next to the highway gives you the opportunity to get out of the car and walk on the boardwalk for a closer view.

After 55 km from Queenstown, you’ll reach the parking area at the Lyell Highway inside the Wild Rivers National Park. You can’t miss it, as many signs will inform you where to park. This is where the trail to Frenchman’s Cap starts.

This is another place that can only be explored on foot. A tremendous 4-day hike takes you afoot to one of the most scenic mountain peaks of Tasmania , the Frenchman’s Cap.

Also with this hike, you have to carry everything yourself. You won’t find any facilities or shops along the route, so be prepared and take enough food, water, and a tent. Don’t forget to bring proper clothes as the weather can change rapidly.

If you are not sure what to bring, check out our blog post about the 11 essentials you need to bring on every overnight backpacking trip . Bring these and you know for sure you will be well prepared!

Mount Field National Park

Another 170 km further you arrive in Mount Field National Park. This park was the first National Park of Tasmania and is well catered for tourists. A visitor center, souvenir shop, and a cafe provide you everything you need.

Russel falls

The Russel falls is the most popular attraction of this park and with a good reason. The beautiful waterfall thunders down over several plateaus and is surrounded by true green exotic trees and plants.

Falls circuit

The Russel falls is actually the first of many waterfalls you come across when you walk the waterfall circuit. A 4.5 km hike leads you along the Horseshoe falls, the tall trees area and the Lady Baron Falls.

The trail contains a lot of steps and goes through the middle of the rainforest, where you can see some amazing plants and trees. Also, keep your eyes open to spot wildlife!

Tour recommendation:

Enjoy a day trip full of wildlife and stunning nature, check out this tour: Mt Wellington, Mt Field, Bonorong & Richmond Day Trip.

Gordon Dam – Tasmania Wilderness Reserve

Drive another 100 km further into the Tasmania Wilderness Reserve and you get to the Gordon Dam. This dam, also called the Gordon River Dam, is 198m long and 140m high.

At full capacity, the dam holds back so much water that Lake Gordon becomes the largest lake in Australia! It is also one of the world’s highest commercial abseils, so if you are in for an adventure, you can get it here!

Bruny Island

Drive 100 km back towards the junction with the highway and from there it is another 100 km to the ferry terminal for Bruny Island. This will be the last stop on your self-drive Tasmania road trip! Last, but not least I can say!

Tour recommendations for Bruny Island:

Bruny Island has so much to offer, we made a list of our favourite tours to make your trip the best.

Ferry to Bruny Island

It takes about 20 minutes to cross over to Bruny Island. The ferry departs regularly 1 or 2 times an hour, depending on the season. It is smart to bring your car along, as the island is quite big, and exploring on foot will take you a lot more time.

The ferry fee is AU$38 for a return ticket, which you mainly pay for the car, since pedestrians and any other passengers are free of charge.

Once on Bruny Island, the first highlight you will pass is the Neck. This is a small isthmus connecting the Northern part and the Southern part of Bruny Island. Walk up the stairs to the viewing platform to get a 360 degrees view!

At the beach of the Neck, there is also a Little Penguin viewing platform. Get there just before the sun sets and wait for the penguins to arrive at the beach. You can see the Little Penguins from September till January.

November and December are the best times of the year, as it is the breeding season. This time of the year you can watch the penguins feed their young!

White Bennet’s Wallabies

The South Bruny National Park is the only place in the world where you can see the White Bennet’s Wallabies. A genetically modified Bennet’s Wallaby that is missing the pigment color to their fur. Some are albino’s which results in a white wallaby with red eyes and a cute bright pink nose.

Your biggest chance to see these animals is at the Southside of Adventure Bay, which is their main habitat. People have often spotted them at the campgrounds. But another good place to look for them is at the start of the Fluted Cape Walk. Which is a nice hike to do anyway!

Whale Watching

From June till October, you can also watch whales from Adventure Bay! This is the main season that the whales are migrating between Antarctica and the more Northern tropical waters.

Cape Bruny Lighthouse

Drive to the Southernmost point of Bruny Island and you find the Cape Bruny Lighthouse. The drive takes about 45 minutes from the Neck and takes you on some windy and very scenic roads.

The walk from the car park to the Lighthouse is easy and short. Take some time to walk around and to take in all the stunning views. Also, keep your eyes open for Echidnas, as they love to wander around on this place!

Although Bruny island can be explored within a day, you might want to spend the night here. Especially if you’d like to view the Little Penguins at the Neck.

Camping is easy on Bruny Island, with lots of free camps and paid camping spots. If you like to stay in a hotel , you can book a stay from US$100 a night.

Back to Hobart

To make your self-drive Tasmania road trip complete, you take the ferry back to the mainland and drive in 35 minutes into Hobart city Centre. Here you can stay another night or two before flying back to the mainland of Australia.

If you started your Tasmania road trip in Launceston or Devonport, your next stop will be the Tasman Peninsula & Port Arthur.

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We love to hear from you!

Thank you so much for reading this self-drive trip planner for a stunning Tasmania road trip. I hope it helps you with planning a trip to Tasmania and on deciding what you want to see and do!

Don’t forget to check out our Tasmania Travel Guide which gives you some basic, but very handy information before you travel to Tasmania. Exploring more of Australia? Check out our Australia page to find out what to see and do in the rest of this amazing country. Also, download the Australia preparation guide below to make it super easy to plan your trip around Australia and Tasmania!

Are you ready to discover more about Australia?  Check out our Australia page to read all our Australia articles.

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10 thoughts on “Self-Drive Tasmania: The Best Trip Planner for an Ultimate Road Trip”

So many great places to visit in Tasmania! Bridestowe Lavender Estate, the beaches, and Russel falls look simply stunning! I hope to them up close!

Wow there’s so many incredible places to see in Tasmania! I want to visit soo much more of Australia and Tasmania just shot up to the top of my list!

Tasmania´s natural landscapes look stunning! I´d love to see the Aurora Australis and visit The Russel falls! Thanks for the useful tips!

SUch a detailed post and great tips!

Thanks for the great guide! What a picturesque drive!

Hannah | https://getlost.blog/

Tasmania looks gorgeous-and you had me sold at whale watching! I’m so close to Australia, but I haven’t been out there yet.

I spent 6 months in Australia and never found the time to explore Tasmania, but it looks so incredible with no shortage of things to do. Hopefully I can get there soon.

Who would have thought there are so many beautiful and wonderful places. Thanks for the great pictures.

Really like your Always around the world. On Tasmania Very useful. Is it possible to get a hard copy of this ? Regards Graham

Hi Graham, I’m happy you like it! We really loved Tasmania! Unfortunately, we do not provide hard copies of our posts. But you could print it at home 🙂 Have a nice and safe trip!

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• The Ultimate Tasmania Road Trip: 6-12 Days

by Emily Cass | Nov 6, 2023 | Australia & NZ , Most Popular | 14 comments

Sometimes it’s the destinations closest to your home that can take you by surprise. We’ve travelled long and far to some pretty incredible places around this world but we’d never taken the time to explore our own home country of Australia, let alone Tasmania.

Tasmania, with a population of only 519,000 is becoming an increasingly sought after holiday destination and after spending 10 days in this state we are starting to understand why.

The landscapes are forever changing, there’s an extensive culinary scene with locally sourced produce, world-class wineries, picturesque beaches (that are never crowded), epic mountain ranges, hikes galore, cute coastal towns, rural farm villages, amazing wildlife and a very laid back Aussie vibe.

Exploring is the key in Tasmania and it’s definitely a place you will keep coming back too!

Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary: Interactive Map

Below is the ultimate Tasmania road trip map, that would ideally be done in 10-11 days but could be done in 6 if you skip certain places.

If you have less time, we suggest choosing either north+east (Launceston) or south+east (Hobart).

Take a Guided Tour in Tasmania

Before we dive in to our self guided tour, you may want to consider an organised tour or activity. Check out these top tours from GetMyGuide.

Car Rental in Tasmania

The first thing you’ll realise when you get to Tasmania is, you’ll need a car! We rented our car directly from Hobart Airport with Bargain Car Rentals and they were far cheaper than their competitors. The service was quick, pain-free and the car was fine. For a 10-day economy car rental, we paid $560 AUD plus $150 in gas over 10 days. Aside from a regular vehicle, many people choose to travel around Tasmania in full-blown houses on wheels, caravans, campervans, motorbikes or 4WD’s. Anything goes as long as it gets you from A to B!

The BEST Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

Below is our itinerary over the course of 10 days. Tasmania may be small but there’s so much to see. How long would we recommend? It depends what you’re coming for, but generally speaking, nothing less than 6 days if you want to see the main sights but even then you may find yourself rushing.

DAY 1: HOBART

You’ve arrived into Hobart, the capital of Tasmania or maybe you’ve come into Devonport via ferry (if that is the case, do this itinerary in reverse). Either way, if you’ve been to Sydney or Melbourne before you’ll be shocked to see the difference of this small Tasmanian capital. Hobart, whilst small, still has a lot to offer, especially in the restaurant department! There’s a very dynamic food scene combined with rich history, parks, shopping and preserved towns.

To start the day off right, grab a freshly baked croissant and coffee from Daci & Daci Bakery . You’ll be coming back for seconds, we assure you. Next, make your way to the famous MONA (Museum of Old & New Art), a unique interactive museum that is sure to leave an impression with some downright crazy exhibitions including an entire wall of 100+ uniquely shaped vaginas. Allow at least 2 hours. Not for the vaginas, but for the whole museum. Entry $28 AUD. Get there as it opens (10 am) as it gets very crowded.

When you’ve finished marvelling at the artworks at the MONA, carry on to  Bonorong Wildlife Park where you can get up close with wombats, Tasmanian devils and our furry friend, the koalas. Entry is $29 AUD and includes a tour (check the times). Here are some very interesting facts about these creatures. Word of warning, don’t try and pat them, they are very aggressive with their teeth.

When you’re done, spend the afternoon sampling beers at Cascade Brewery , Australia’s oldest operating brewery. Or sample whiskey at  Lark Distillery, one of Hobart’s famous whiskey bars.  Salamanca Place has a large range of restaurants to choose from for dinner for those sweet tooth lovers, Honey Badger Dessert Cafe will do the trick (or make you sick).

Set your alarm for 4:30 am… we promise it’ll be worth it.

Overnight: Hobart

Booking.com

• Budget: Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse
• Midrange:  Zero Davey Boutique Apartment Hotel
• Luxury:  MACq1 Hotel

Top Tours in Hobart

If organized tours are your thing, here are some recommendations from GetMyGuide:

DAY 2: HOBART

Rise and SHINE, it’s time for sunrise over Mount Wellington.

Mount Wellington is a short 30-35 minute drive from the CBD and it offers breathing taking panoramic views of Hobart and surrounding areas. We chose to visit at sunrise and would highly recommend doing the same. The constant changing of light and colours is simply beautiful. It is at least 10 degrees colder up there, so dress appropriately! If it gets too cold there’s a pinnacle observation shelter to get warm.

It’s free to visit and you can drive directly to the top so there’s no hiking involved. If you’re prone to motion sickness, take something prior and please watch out for the animals on the way up! There are plenty of walks to do around the base of Mt Wellington if hiking is your thing. See here for options.

Once you’ve got back to the city, grab yourself some breakfast a t Machine Laundry Cafe or the famous Jackman & McRoss and slowly stroll towards the preserved town of Battery Point , a quaint suburb with cottages, cute roundabouts and historical landmarks. Go shopping on Liverpool street , roam around Elizabeth Street Pier  and if you love ciders, visit  Willie Smiths Apple Shed in Huon Valley (30 minutes from the city) for lunch and a refreshing cider! End the day with dinner at  Frank’s , an Argentinian restaurant with great steaks and even better vegetable side dishes.

TOP TIPS: (for foodies!)

• SALAMANCA MARKETS: The Salamanca Markets are Australia’s largest open-air market and are one of Tasmania’s main attractions! Please note they only take place on Saturday mornings from 8:30 – 3:30 and host 100’s of fresh food, clothing, music and an unforgettable atmosphere (so we’ve been told!). Unfortunately, we were in Hobart on a Monday & Tuesday (not recommended!) and missed this experience. If you can, plan to be in Hobart over a weekend to enjoy what all these markets have to offer. Devastated we missed out on all the free samples.
• STREET EATS @ FRANKO: Every Friday from 4:30pm – 9:30pm between November and April, Franklin Square boats a hyperactive street food night market featuring funky stalls, music, food, beer, wine & ciders. Picnic rugs are provided.

Day 3: PORT ARTHUR & THE TASMAN PENNINSULA

Say farewell to Hobart and a big hello to the Tasman Penninsula.

Head straight towards Eagle Hawk Neck , a narrow isthmus that connects the Tasman Peninsula with the Forestier Peninsula. Walk down to the Tesselated Pavements and soak in the beautiful scenery of the Tasman Arch.

Continue your drive along the coast towards the historical site of Port Arthur  for a look into the fascinating convict past. Tickets are $39 which includes a guided tour and a boat ride. You also have the option to do a self-guided tour with audio for an extra charge. If you’re into spooky tours, stick around for the nighttime ghost tour.

Our next stop was rather different! Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in a town where everything starts with doo? Well, you can, here in Tasmania. There’s such a thing and it’s called, “ Doo Town “. How doolightful! Grab a snack at the doo-lishus food truck before checking out the nearby blowhole.

Along the peninsula you can also get up close and personal with the Tasmanian Devils at The Unzoo , sample Tasmanian chocolate at the chocolate factory and if you have more time consider walking The Cape Hauy walk . Avoid eating at Port Arthur and instead, stop into Bangor Wine and Oyster Shed (even if you don’t like oysters) for a wine tasting and lunch. The rosé was just delightful!

We spent the night in the small coastal town of Swansea.  There are short walks to do around the headland or you could eat fish and chips on the beach from  Oyster Bay Seafood. Not a must do, but a decent place to break up the drive.

Note: If you wish to visit Maria Island, (more info below) spend the night in Triabunna, not Swansea. 

Overnight: Swansea 

• Budget: Swansea Backpacker Lodge 
• Midrange: Swansea Beach Chalets
• Luxury: Piermont Retreat

Top Tours in Port Arthur

Day 4: the great eastern drive.

By now you will have begun the Great Eastern Drive ! 176km’s of vineyards, coastal towns, bays, beaches and never-ending beauty.

Just 10 minutes from Swansea is Kates Berry Farm . Sample a variety of jams, including “adults only jams” and enjoy a berry-filled breakfast before hitting up some wineries along the east coast trail.

This part of your journey will allow you to sample some of the world’s most renowned wines. The wineries are all relatively close together and all offer a different experience. Gala Estate , holds tastings in a 100-year-old home, still with its original stove and lounge room making for a very personal experience.  Devil’s Corner is one of the more popular and modern wineries along this route, especially for lunch. Spring Vale had a cute picnic area. The tastings at all these wineries were free.

Aim to spend the night in Bicheno. Bicheno is the closest coastal town to the famous Coles Bay and Freycinet National Park and is a great base for you to explore the region tomorrow! Allow enough time to walk around the town and if you’re there in time, have lunch at The Farm Shed , visit the beach and then head for a relaxed dinner at The Gulch which boasts fresh fish and chips on the wharf, accompanied by 1000’s of seagulls.

Overnight: Bicheno

DAY 5: COLES BAY & FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK

Have breakfast at Blue Edge Bakery in Bicheno (great pastries, coffee and sandwiches) and travel 30 minutes towards Coles Bay . It’s a good idea to pack sandwiches or snacks as there aren’t too many places to grab food inside the National Park without the high price inflation. The bakery has you sorted!

The primary reason tourists visit Freycinet National Park is to hike to the famous  Wineglass Bay lookout. It took roughly 30 minutes to get to the top and Jacob did it in no shoes, which caught the attention of a lot of other tourists who had bulky boots and walking poles…

There is a “do it yourself ” parking pass which allows you to buy a ticket and leave the receipt on your car. Rangers do come and inspect so don’t get yourself a fine by trying to avoid the system. The parking pass is $24 AUD. If you wish to walk down to wineglass bay, it is a 1.5-hour walk but remember, once you go down, you have to come back up! There are also Wineglass boat tours for a different experience.

You could spend hours in this National Park, especially if the weather is on your side. Be sure to stop by Honeymoon Bay  for a swim and it won’t take long before you feel like you’ve just entered a movie scene. On your way out, don’t miss the Friendly Beaches in Coles Bay. Before you ask, yep, that’s their real name and they’re definitely pretty friendly! Stunning.

Overnight: Bicheno or Freycinet National Park. If budget isn’t a concern, be sure to treat yourselves to a night ( or two)  at Freycinet Lodge ! 

Top Tours in Freycinet National Park

Day 6: bay of fires.

The Bay of Fires  stretches from Binalong Bay  in the south to Eddystone Point in the north and is an impressive combination of untouched wilderness with perfect strands of beaches. There are many white sandy beaches and inlets to explore. This area is famous for its orange-hued granite rocks which are actually produced by a lichen. There’s a fun fact for the day! It was really impressive to see, especially from above on our drone!

Do note that The Bay Of Fires refers to a whole area, not just a singular bay . The closest town is St Helens and there are a handful of restaurants to choose from. In Tasmania standards, it’s one of the “larger” of the towns. (Not including Hobart or Launceston). Binalong Bay Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Tasmania and where we spent our Australia Day although unfortunately, the weather wasn’t on our side.

The drive from Bay of Fires directly to Launceston isn’t too long (2 hours 45min) but after a day on the beach relaxing we chose to break it up by spending a night in the very quiet town of Pioneer. This is a very quiet country town with no restaurants or cafes so it’s best to stop in St Helens prior and get yourself some dinner for the evening. Our accommodation, Pioneer Lodge (one of the only two) was a large farmhouse with an old-school kitchen, but it was a unique place to spend the night. They have cooking facilities and breakfast included. Just don’t expect luxury!

Note: If you’re pressed for time, you can drive directly from The Bay Of Fires to Launceston (2 hours and 50 minutes). 

Overnight: Pioneer 

DAY 7: LAUNCESTON via DERBY

After breakfast head for the small town of Derby which is close by. Derby is famous for its Blue Derby Mountain Bike trails with more than 100km of trails to chose from.

You can rent the bikes from Vertigo MTB in the centre of town and spend as little or as long on the mountain as you wish for $59 AUD. I, unfortunately, had a big fall within the first 15 minutes and opted out for the rest of the morning but Jacob enjoyed over 40km’s worth, accident-free.

If mountain biking isn’t your thing (I don’t blame you), you can choose a more appropriate activity like wine tasting at Piper Brooks or Jansz Winery , take a walk along the beach at Bridport or d uring the summer season (January being the best) make a worthy pit stop at Bridestowe Lavender Estate  and marvel at the never-ending rows of bright purple lavender fields. Don’t forget to try the lavender flavoured ice cream! Launceston can be reached within 45 minutes from here.

Photo Credit: Georgie Sharp.

Overnight: Launceston 

• Budget: Pod Inn
• Midrange: Two up on York
• Luxury: Peppers Silo

Top Tours in Launceston

Day 8: tamar valley.

There’s always more room for wine and the Tamar Valley is one of the most popular of the wine routes in Tasmania. You can jump on a tour from Launceston or head out on your own and stop in as many or as little as you like. Our top picks were Velo , Wines for Joanie , Moore Hill Estate , and a family-owned vineyard,  Iron Pot Bay Vineyard . Is there such a thing as too much cheese and wine in a day? I don’t think so.

If the weather calls for it, take a drive to Batman’s Bridge and Low Head Lighthouse for a relaxing afternoon.

Top Tip: On the 4th Sunday of every month between November and April, Moore Hill Estate holds “Sparkling Seafood Sundays” which includes fresh seafood dishes along side delicious wines. You don’t need to purchase tickets, just make a reservation and show up hungry and thirsty!

Overnight: Launceston

DAY 9: LAUNCESTON

Today we spent the day exploring the city of Launceston ! A vibrant hub for food, wine and culture. Make a reservation for breakfast at   Stillwater Cafe , a restored 1830s flour mill on the Tamar River.  The green and red bowls were both delicious!

Just outside Stillwater Cafe, you’ll find the beginning of the Cataract Gorge . A beautiful gorge super close to the city centre. The gorge is the perfect place for a long walk or run, a place to relax or in the warmer months, a swim in either the gorge or it’s very own pool. For those more prone to hiking, head out on the Zig Zag Track.

The rest of the day could be spent shopping in the CBD , taking a tour of the James Boag Brewery , relaxing in City Park , visiting the Automotive Museum, taking in the art at The Queen Victoria Museum and MOST importantly, making room for all the food from one of the many high-quality restaurants including dessert at Charlie’s Dessert Bar . Drool. Here are some top recommendations for restaurants. 

It would take up half the post if we listed every single winery in Tasmania but there are two more worth mentioning a short drive from the city so if you have the time, check them out! Joseph Cromey Wines  (shown below) and Leaning Church Vineyard were two standouts for us. Have a beautiful sit-down lunch at the award-winning restaurant in Joseph Cromey or devour a kick-ass cheese plate alongside your favourite glass of wine. Mmm wine and cheese.

Overnight: Launceston (or Mole Creek to break up the drive tomorrow)

DAY 10: CRADLE MOUNTAIN & MOLE CREEK

Prepare yourself for a whole day out! This was one of our biggest days.

Drive from Launceston towards Cradle Mountain but first, take the edge off with breakfast at The Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm (40 minutes from Launceston). They have a huge selection of delicious meals with fresh raspberries galore! Jump back on the road and carry on to the Mole Creek Caves .

There are 2 caves to see, The Marakoopa Caves which is home to the largest concentration of glow worms in the country and The King Solomon Caves which are the dry caves. You can’t access the caves without being on a tour. Marakoopa tours leave on the hour starting at 10:00 am and King Solomon at 10:30 am. Entry ( + tour) is $19 AUD. It’s 9 degrees in the caves so bring a jacket.

The drive to Cradle Mountain is a further 1.5 hours (or just under). Cradle Mountain is one of Tasmania’s famous attractions. Shuttle buses leave from the visitor centre and drop hikers to designated spots throughout the park. There is a range of walks to do from easy to challenging with the most popular hike being around Dove Lake . This can be completed in 2-3 hours and is easy to moderate.

From October-May, keen hikers can tackle “The Overland Track”. A 6-day hike  covering 82km. You have to carry everything with you (food, water, tents, clothes). The weather can change rapidly in Cradle Mountain and it is not recommended for anyone without a high level of fitness and/or experience.

Before you reach Launceston, we’d suggest stopping into Ashgrove Cheese Factory to sample 6 -7 different kinds of cheese and then onwards to Van Diemen’s Land Creamery and end the day with 2 scoops (or more) of ice cream! It’s a 40-minute drive back to Launceston from here.

Top Tours at Cradle Mountain

Accommodation in cradle mountain.

If you have the time, break up your trip with a night or two at Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge  or Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village. The views from the surrounding Tasmanian wilderness aren’t to be missed! 

But WAIT there’s more…

There’s never enough time for everything but had we have had more time, these are some other notable places worth visiting.

1. Bruny Island (South-East Coast) : 

Take a day trip via ferry (with your car) from Hobart or better yet, stay overnight at one of the many accommodation choices.  Explore the island by foot, bicycle or car. Bruny Island offers beautiful scenery, crystal clear waters and small beaches as well as a chance to enjoy Tasmania’s finest cheeses at the Bruny Island Cheese Company . Ferries leave from Kettering, 40 minutes south of Hobart and you can find the schedule here . Note: Some car companies don’t allow you to take the car here so be sure to check the fine print on your rental. 

2. Maria Island (East Coast) : 

A 30-minute ferry from Triabunna will bring you to Maria Island. An island with convict heritage, rare wildlife, great walks and stunning scenery. There are no vehicles allowed on this island making it a very special place to enjoy without any of the chaos. There is some accommodation available  but don’t expect 5 stars. You can find the schedule and fares for the ferry here . Note: You will need to bring your own food and water. There are no shops on this island and it is recommended to pre-buy your ferry tickets. 

3. Strahan (West Coast) :

A small town on the west coast of Hobart tucked between Macquarie Harbour and the rainforest. During the winter it can be a very sleepy fishing village but in the summer months, it comes alive with hoards of tourists. Be sure to take a sunset stroll down Ocean Beach, Tasmania’s longest beach (30km!), a cruise down The Gordon River and enjoy the Tasmanian wilderness (an entirely different scene than the east coast).

Insider Tips for your Tasmanian Road Trip

• If you’re looking for a phone carrier, opt for Telstra. We struggled to get service on Vodaphone through the towns and mountains.
• Please watch out for the wildlife . There is a staggering 1/2 a million animals killed every year on the roads in Tasmania. You literally couldn’t go 1km without seeing a dead animal. It was really awful. Slow down, pay attention to the signs and if you hit an animal, call Bonorong Rescue Centre, Tasmania’s only 24-hour wildlife rescue service.
• It’s a real Aussie thing to eat a meat pie, but you’re in Tasmania so be sure to indulge in a Tasmanian Scallop Pie. They’re sold everywhere. 
• Don’t be alarmed if you don’t see a single person for hours at a time on the roads. Tasmania is SO quiet!
• Try to aim for the weekend in Hobart, there’s a lot more going on and a lot of restaurants closed Monday/Tuesdays.
• Visit Mt Wellington at sunrise.

• Get yourself a National Park Pass for $60 if you plan to visit 2 national parks. This allows entry into all of the parks.
• Those pesky parking ticket attenders scout the streets religiously for people overstaying their parking . Don’t presume it won’t happen to you.
• Launceston’s premier event is Festivale , a 3-day event held in February each year. This festival offers you a chance to sample Tasmania’s best produce incl beer, wine, ciders, food, arts and entertainment.
• Petrol stations can be few and far between on the longer roads so if you’re in doubt and you see one, fill ‘er up!
• Some, but not all wineries do free tastings. Ask prior if they will cost. If they do, it’s usually only $5 which is refundable with a bottle of wine purchase.

STRAYA’ MATE

Who knew kangaroos could lift cars?!

Have you done a road trip to Tasmania before? Anything you’d like to add? We’d love to hear from you!

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14 Comments

Thanks for the great blog. My wife and I set off on the Spirit of TAS on the 20th March for 2 weeks in our Troop carrier. We look forward to checking out what the island state has to offer. Looks like you two had fun!

You’re welcome Zac, enjoy your time there. And yup, lots of fun!

Love your itinerary. Looking forward to our December trip. Will keep your itinerary in hand.

Glad to hear Helen! Enjoy 🙂

question ; How do we return to Hobart at the end of the road trip, do we drive back the same route and if so is the time on the road included in the ultimate itinerary?

You can either go the same way you came or a different way which is more direct through the centre which will take around 2 hours or so.

Great article guys and love the photo gallery. We took a similar itinerary but included the loop from Hobart around to Cradle Mountain. Added a lot more driving but some beautiful stops along the way such as Russell Falls and Lake St Clair.

Such a nice trip isn’t it! I wish we had longer!

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Tasmania Explorer

14 Day Tasmania Itinerary✅: Ultimate Tasmanian Road Trip

Heading to Tasmania and looking for a Tasmania road trip itinerary? Perfect! We have created exactly that – a 14 day Tasmania itinerary especially made for your next trip.

Tasmania is Australia’s southernmost state and a fantastic place to visit. Around 40% of the state is designated national park land, offering visitors stunning natural beauty with a vast array of nature treks, mountains and beaches to explore.

In addition to natural beauty, Tasmania has interesting historical sites from early colonial days, as well as laid back towns and cities and a thriving cafe and culinary culture. You can’t plan a trip to Tasmania without planning to sample its world renowned wine and produce.

It is also one of the easiest states to explore by car, making driving tours Tasmania the best way to explore this state. Our 14 day suggested itinerary for Tasmania is the perfect amount of time to get a taste of all this state has to offer.

Below, you will find the best road trip Tasmania offers! We use our experience exploring the state to give you the perfect plan with all the details you need for a Tasmania 2 week itinerary. We walk you through exactly what to do each day of your Tasmanian road trip, give you suggestions on where to stay, tell you approximate driving times and show you your Tasmania itinerary 14 days on a map.

You can simply stop following our self drive Tasmania 14 days itinerary if your trip finishes in less time by removing stops that don’t appeal to you as much. If you have a few days longer, I recommend you spend more time at the stops that most appeal to you, as this Tasmania driving itinerary does not have much downtime. If you like lots of downtime on your trips then I recommend removing a place or two from the 2 week Tasmania itinerary.

If you are searching for ideas for a 3 week Tasmania itinerary, you will also find recommended ways to extend your best Tasmania road trip below.

Finally, if you have any questions, let us know in the comments below – we are happy to help you in this ultimate Tasmania trip planner.

Going for a shorter period? You can find our best 10 day itinerary here , 7 day itinerary here and 4-5 day itinerary here .

Click here to download your free Tasmania Road Trip Planner checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip! Wan t help with your itinerary? Find our full Tasmanian Road Trip Planner here.

Perfect Tasmanian Road Trip Itinerary 2022

Remember, this is a full 14 day itinerary Tasmania. If you have fewer days, simply pick the days that most appeal – there are more tips for less and more days below.

Plans for the best road trips Tasmania are written to take advantage of every moment. This plan is fast moving and you will see a lot. Again, you can choose to remove some days to take it easier if you wish.

You can read more specifically about driving in Tasmania and how it differs to elsewhere here.

• Days 1-2 in Hobart
• Day 3 driving to Strahan stopping at the Lake St Clair part of the Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park
• Day 4 exploring the west coast from Strahan
• Days 5-6 driving to Cradle Mountain and exploring the Dove Lake area at Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park
• Days 6-7 heading to Stanley and exploring
• Days 8-10 driving on to Launceston and Low Head and exploring the Tamar Valley
• Days 10-11 heading to the east coast and exploring the Bay of Fires region
• Day 12 hiking to famous Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park
• Day 13 exploring Tasmania’s convict heritage at Port Arthur Historic Site
• Day 14 finishing up in Hobart

The highlights of this road trip around Tasmania are:

• Walk the historic areas of Richmond and Battery Point
• Be amazed (and shocked) at the world renowned museum of MONA
• Sample some of the delicious seafood and produce the state is famed for
• See the West Coast’s ancient, cool temperate rainforest on either a train ride or boat cruise
• Take a chairlift to the Nut at Stanley and see the sites around town
• Explore the glacial lake and see the imposing mountains at Cradle Mountain
• Explore the Tamar Valley region to sample top produce at wineries, see local wildlife, museums and more
• Spend a day exploring the stunning Bay Of Fires
• Sample excellent seafood at Freycinet and climb the gentle track to see the wonders of Wineglass Bay
• Witness Tasmania’s convict past at both Richmond Gaol and Port Arthur Historic Site
• See the geological wonders of Eaglehawk Neck like the Blowhole and Tessellated Pavement

…and much much more!

This one of our best Tasmania road trips is detailed as starting and finishing in Hobart, but you can start and finish from any point.

If you are starting at the ferry and looking for a Tasmania itinerary 14 days from Devonport, I recommend you start on Day 6 and drive straight to Stanley when disembarking. Once you hit day 14, start over on day one finishing up at Cradle Mountain.

If you are looking for a Tasmania family holiday itinerary, this also works great for families but with younger kids, I definitely recommend slowing it down.

If you are catching the Spirit of Tasmania to Tasmania, read our full guide here.

Tasmania Road Trip Map: 14 Day Tasmania Itinerary

The following map shows you the route this road trip Tasmania takes around the state.

If you wish to go for more or less time, this map will also give you a good indication of what places you might be able to add or remove.

Day 1: Arriving in Hobart

Today, you arrive in Hobart. The start of your 2 weeks in Tasmania is all about enjoying Tasmania’s capital city.

This plan assumes you arrive first thing in the day, if you arrive later, consider dropping Richmond.

• Arrive in Hobart. I recommend you pick up your car hire at the airport so you are all set to go
• Head straight to Richmond. This small historic town is not far from the airport (approx driving time 20 minutes)
• Explore Richmond Gaol and Old Hobart Town Model Village
• Head to your hotel and check-in
• Explore the waterfront and Salamanca Place area in Hobart and Battery Point. You can do this on foot.
• Eat dinner in this area. We recommend Drunken Admirals for some fabulous seafood

Where To Stay In Hobart

• BEST – MACq 01 Hotel ( Click here for more details )
• MIDRANGE – Somerset On The Pier ( Click here for more details )
• BUDGET – Central Hotel Hobart  ( Click here for more details )

Read our full guide to Hobart accommodation here.

I recommend you book through Bargain Car Rentals . This Tasmanian car rental company has some great deals and availability. Even better is if you use the code: TASEXPLORE you save 5%

Simply click here.

Then when you enter the dates and location, enter: TASEXPLORE for the “Discount Code”.

They are located in both Hobart and Launceston.

You can also find other car hire options here .

Just a 25 minute drive from Hobart is Richmond. This small town is popular with both tourists and locals with museums, galleries, cafes and gorgeous architecture, making this a lovely place to begin your driving tour of Tasmania.

Aside from just being a pretty town, Richmond showcases a lot of early colonial style architecture. Particularly impressive are some of the churches you’ll find dotted around town. Richmond is small and very easy to explore on foot, even with young kids, and you can easily spend a few hours here.

You’ll find Australia’s oldest stone span bridge, plenty of places to sample delicious food, parkland to relax and unwind, souvenir stores and interesting museums like the Pooseum, an interactive museum, best for kids, which showcases everything there is to know about poo!

Two of the must see sites in Richmond to add to your itinerary for Tasmania are mentioned below.

Richmond Gaol

One of the most interesting sites in Richmond is the Richmond Gaol. As a penal colony, Australia’s gaols were very important in its early history, and Richmond Gaol is Australia’s oldest gaol that still stands.

The gaol is relatively compact making it easy to explore, and there are information boards and sound effects to add context and atmosphere to the experience of visiting.

You can see the main building of the gaol including the cooks house with the original oven, women’s quarters, the flogging yard and chain gang holding rooms. You can also see a collection of historical relics.

One of the creepiest parts of the museum is the solitary confinement cells where you can get a sense of what this experience would have been like. The cells of the gaol remain exactly as they were in the past and you can lock yourself into one.

Address: 37 Bathurst St, Richmond TAS 7025

Click here to read our full review.

Old Hobart Town Model Village

Another interesting thing to see in Richmond is the Old Hobart Town Model Village. This village is like looking back in time and is the result of years of effort to recreate what Hobart was like in the 1820s.

The model village is quite large, with plenty of information boards, street names and detailed descriptions of what life in Hobart was like at this time. A few buildings in the model still stand today, and these and their history are given special attention.

The people in the town are interesting too, like convicts attempting an escape, a woman killing a snake, a boy falling from a tree and lots and lots of drunk people. This makes it enjoyable for kids as well who can get a list of things they need to try to find.

Address: 21a Bridge St, Richmond TAS 7025

Battery Point

Heading back to Hobart from Richmond, I suggest you park at Salamanca Place and explore Battery Point. This is a beautiful inner city suburb of Hobart, and it is a great place to spend an afternoon exploring it’s heritage trail and getting lost in it’s pretty and historic streets. It’s where we live and it’s gorgeous.

From Salamanca Place, you can climb the historic Kelly’s Steps which connects you to Battery Point via Kelly Street. These sandstone steps, built in 1840, are the perfect place to begin your walk. Must see spots include Arthurs Circus, Princes Park, Hampden Road and several of the numerous streets dotted with colonial style homes.

Hampden Road is the commercial heart of Battery Point, and here you’ll find restaurants, trendy cafes, shops and the Narryna Heritage Museum.

Salamanca Place and Hobart’s Waterfront

When you’re done exploring Battery Point, head back to Salamanca Place (simply called Salamanca by locals) and take a look at the imposing sandstone buildings complete with shops, restaurants and plenty of bars and pubs.

Salamanca has some of the best bars and pubs you’ll find in Hobart. These are all stretched along Salamanca place, and you’re quite literally spoilt for choice. This is the perfect opportunity to relax and take in everything you’ve seen.

The shops in Salamanca sell some of the goods Tasmania is known for like wine, fudge, wool and art, and every Saturday Salamanca hosts a vibrant market. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, this is definitely worth seeing.

When you’re finished with your drink, explore the nearby Parliament House Gardens, and then make your way to the waterfront.

Walking along the waterfront, some places to see include Brooke Street Pier, the converted warehouses near the MACq01 and some of the numerous fish and chip restaurants and boats (offering both dine in and takeaway).

When it comes to dinner, both Salamanca and Hobart’s waterfront have fantastic options to suit all budgets. For fine dining experiences I recommend one of the restaurants in Salamanca. For a budget friendly (and local approved meal), nothing beats fish and chips.

Day 2: Enjoying Hobart

Day 2 of this road trip in Tasmania is all about seeing more of Hobart.

• Start the day by heading up Mt Wellington for the best views of Hobart (driving time of about an hour return from the centre of Hobart)
• Eat lunch back at Salamanca Place. Machine Laundry Cafe is a good spot
• Head out to MONA (Museum of Old and New Art). Ideally, take the ferry from the waterfront return for great views and a great experience along the way

Read our full guide to Hobart here.

Mt Wellington

Mt Wellington, also known as Kunanyi or just “the mountain” by locals, is the imposing mountain which can be seen from all around Hobart. It is a must see destination on scenic drives Tasmania.

Driving to the top of Mt Wellington is very easy. Heading through the suburb of South Hobart, you’ll pass the historic Cascade Brewery and can make your way up the mountain from here.

While driving is easy, the roads can be quite narrow and there are usually plenty of other cars making the journey. Just go slow. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the top, and there are plenty of lookouts and stops along the way to take in the view. The Springs is a particularly nice spot to stop, take a walk and grab a hot drink (and use the toilet).

Continue making your way up to the top of the mountain. Once you reach the pinnacle you’ll find plenty of parking to stop and explore. There is a good observation shelter which includes a sign with landmarks to help grasp the layout of Hobart, as well as a brief history of the site.

There are also open air lookouts dotted around to get different views of the city, as well as rocks to climb and the tall telecommunications tower which can be seen from a distance.

There are also plenty of walks you can take from here. Note that it can be snowing during the winter months (and sometimes during summer as well!), and at times the pinnacle may be closed due to poor weather. It can also get very cold and windy, and warm clothes are essential.

It’s a great place to spend a short amount of time exploring (or longer if the nature trails interest you) to take in the views and the fresh, cool air.

Address: Wellington Park TAS 7054

If there’s one museum you’ll want to see while in Hobart, it’s MONA. This is a particularly impressive and world renowned museum, not only because of the impressiveness of the site, but also because of the weird and wonderful exhibitions.

MONA is located by a winery and the building is mostly below ground, etched into the sandstone. There really is something for everyone to enjoy here and you’ll notice interesting things at every turn.

The museum is like a labyrinth of exhibitions which are always changing, complete with tunnels, mazes, artwork, chambers, a library, bar and vending machines with beer. There are also restaurants and cafes for when you need a break.

An example of the strangeness of some of the exhibitions include the Poop Machine which kids certainly enjoy. There seems to be a large focus on the repulsiveness of the human body.

More sober exhibitions include an Egyptian sarcophagus and other ancient artifacts, as well as interesting artwork, short films and much more. Exploring the different floors is interesting in itself.

I love that they give you The O – this is a device which gives explanations on different art pieces. It’s like having your own guide and means you can learn more about the things which interest you.

Most of the museum is included in the ticket price, but there are certain exhibitions and shows which require an additional purchase. It is possible to buy tickets online. It’s definitely a must see.

Address: 655 Main Rd, Berriedale TAS 7011

Day 3: Lake St Clair And Strahan

Driving Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

It’s time to head out of Hobart on this option of the best road trips in Tasmania to explore the west coast.

• After breakfast, get in the car and drive to the Lake St Clair Visitor Centre (approx driving time 2 hours 20 minutes)
• Eat some lunch at the Lake St Clair Visitor Centre and then take a hike. There are a variety of options here depending on whether you would like an easy 30 minute option like to Watersmeet or something longer
• Drive on to Strahan (approx driving time about 2 hours)
• Head to the local museum, West Coast Reflections, on arrival if time
• Eat dinner at the Bushman’s Bar and Cafe. We recommend booking ahead for dinner in Strahan and note there can be a shortage of places to eat especially on a Sunday

Where To Stay In Strahan

• BEST – Aloft Boutique Accommodation ( Click here for more details )
• MIDRANGE – Big4 Strahan Holiday Retreat ( Click here for more details )
• BUDGET – Motel Strahan ( Click here for more details )

Click here for more Strahan accommodation options.

Lake St Clair

One of the top rated Tasmania scenic drives is a visit to Lake St Clair. This is a must see spot on our suggested itinerary Tasmania.

Lake St Clair is located in Lake St Clair National Park, which is also home to Cradle Mountain. On this visit, you will see the southern end of Lake St Clair and take one of three walks to get a taste of the stunning beauty of Lake St Clair (we will visit Cradle Mountain on day 5).

From Cynthia Bay, there are three walks you can take ranging from about 30 minutes to 2 hours. It’s easy to start one walk and then extend it if you’re ready for more. The Watersmeet Walk is just a short 30 minute circuit and easy with kids and you can easily extend it to reach Platypus Bay and lamairremener tabelti.

You will need a national park pass before you visit this national park, and you can buy a pass that gives you entry to all national parks for the duration of your trip. Get yours here.

West Coast Reflections

Upon entering Strahan on your Tasmania driving tour, it’s worth paying a visit to the West Coast Reflections museum located at the West Coast Visitor Information Centre.

This small museum offers a little background on the lives of the people on the West Coast, including Indigenous Australians and convicts, and the importance of the mining and forestry industry and the activism it gave rise to.

There’s also information on the local rainforests and caves, and if you have more time, you can see the play ‘The Ship That Never Was’ here – the longest running Tasmania play about 10 convicts hijacking the last ship built at Macquarie Harbour (a true story!).

Museum entry is cheap – only $2 for adults and $1 for children. If you have time, add it to your Tasmania holiday itinerary.

Address: The Esplanade, TAS, 7468

Day 4: Strahan

Today, you have your biggest decision of this 14 day Tasmania self drive itinerary – pick one of the first two options below (you don’t have time for both).

• Take the amazing West Coast Wilderness Railway starting in Strahan and either returning to Strahan or finishing in Queenstown
• Take a stunning Gordon River cruise

Read our full guide to Strahan here.

West Coast Wilderness Railway

Originally built to carry materials mined in Queenstown to the port of Strahan, the West Coast Wilderness Railway is not only an engineering marvel but simply the best way to see the rugged and mountainous beauty of the west coast.

From Strahan, you’ll board an old steam train which departs from Regatta Point Station and travels through the rich rainforest.

You can choose to take either a full day or half day tour, and pick from two different tiers of carriages – heritage, which is comfortable and offers drinks and snacks available for purchase, and Wilderness, which is a fully catered service including drinks and offers use of an open balcony. Note that it’s recommended to dress warm as it can get quite cold.

The train makes multiple stops along the journey depending on which tour you choose to take, and there are activities at each station included in your ticket price where you do things like sample honey, mine for gold and go on short guided walks.

The full day tour stops at Queenstown where there is a cafe and a museum, and you can choose to do extra activities like river rafting if this interests you.

The Wilderness Railway is one of the most unique and interesting ways to appreciate the beauty, history and ruggedness of the west coast.

Address: 62 Esplanade, Strahan TAS 7468

Gordon River Cruise

The Gordon River is famous for its stunning beauty and runs through lush cold climate rainforest. The best way to see it is with a Gordon River Cruise.

There are two main cruise lines – World Heritage Cruises and Gordon River Cruises. We took the Gordon River Cruises cruise. This luxury river cruise departs Strahan and takes you on a 6 hour journey down the Gordon River aboard the Spirit of the Wild – a boat which uses technology which makes the cruise relatively quiet so that you can truly experience the peace and tranquility of Gordon River.

Our cruise started from Strahan and sailed past the historic Macquarie Harbour to Hell’s Gate (the entrance to Gordon River from the Southern Ocean). Sailing silently down the Gordon River, the cruise stops at Heritage Landing where you can take a walk through the rainforest and see Sarah Island which was a penal colony with some interesting monuments.

Along the way we were given plenty of information on the history of the area, the difficulty of navigating the harbour and the life of early settlers and convicts.

The Main Deck has two options – centre and window, and both include a lunch of Tasmanian produce. You can also choose to sit in the Premium Upper Deck, which also includes morning and afternoon tea, a viewing deck and an open bar.

The sites along the cruise are simply phenomenal and need to be experienced to be appreciated. Famous too, when conditions are right, is the reflection on the river due to the darker colour of the water. It’s an ideal way to spend a day.

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

Address: 24 Esplanade, Strahan TAS 7468

Day 5: Cradle Mountain

Driving Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Today, it’s time to explore the Cradle Mountain part of Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park on your Tasmania route.

• After breakfast, grab supplies for a picnic and drive to the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre
• From here, take a shuttle bus to Dove Lake
• Explore this region, picking a hike that suits your taste and ability
• Check in to your accommodation
• Go on an after dark feeding tour at Devils@Cradle

Where To Stay At Cradle Mountain

• BEST – Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge ( Click here for more details )
• MIDRANGE – Cradle Mountain Highlanders ( Click here for more details )
• BUDGET – Discovery Parks – Cradle Mountain (Dorm Rooms Available) ( Click here for more details )

Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain is one of the most popular tourist destinations in central Tasmania, and your drive around Tasmania itinerary should definitely include a stop here.

Driving into the Cradle Mountain Visitors Centre, you’ll already get a sense of the isolation of this spot and the vastness of the landscape. The Visitor Centre itself is a hive of activity where you can visit the cafe for a coffee, purchase souvenirs from the gift shop and then take the shuttle bus to Dove Lake or one of the stops on the way.

There are plenty of walks you can do from here. If you have the time, I recommend the Dove Lake walk where you’ll get excellent views of Cradle Mountain and the surrounding area around Dove Lake, as well view the local flora. It’s 6 kilometres long and takes about 2.5 hours at an easy pace. The track is mostly flat and very well surfaced.

If taking a long walk isn’t your thing, you can visit Dove Lake to get some amazing photos, and then go on a shorter walk closer to the visitors centre. Some good shorter walks include the Enchanted Walk (20 minutes) and the Pencil Pine Falls and Rainforest Walk (just 10 minutes return).

I recommend taking a look at the walks before you visit so you can plan one for your Tasmania trip itinerary that suits you. You can find all the walks here.

Devils@Cradle

Devils@Cradle is a wildlife sanctuary at Cradle Mountain that helps in the conservation of the threatened Tasmanian devil. You can visit the sanctuary both day and night and get up close to the Tasmanian devil, as well as the Spotted-tailed and Eastern quoll. Knowledgeable guides will give you interesting information about the lives of these animals.

The night feeding tour is really the showcase event. As Tasmanian devils are mostly nocturnal by nature, they are most active at night, and seeing a group feeding experience is a unique and fascinating experience for both kids and adults.

The night tours take about 1 hour and 15 minutes and operates between 5:30pm and 8:30pm daily.

Address: 3950 Cradle Mountain Rd, Cradle Mountain TAS 7306

Day 6: Wynyard, Boat Harbour And Stanley

Driving Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

In this part of the Tasmania road trip planner, you’ll explore some of the beautiful North West coast of Tasmania.

• After breakfast, jump in the car and head for Fossil Bluff and Table Cape near Wynyard. Switch this with Tasmazia if you have kids (approx driving time about 1 hour 20 minutes)
• If it’s October, also visit Table Cape Tulip Farm
• Next, head to the stunning Boat Harbour beach, especially if it’s summer (approx driving time about 15 minutes)
• Drive on to Stanley and check into your accommodation
• Have dinner at the Stanley Hotel Bistro

If you are planning family driving holidays Tasmania, consider heading to Tasmazia instead of the Wynyard attractions in the morning.

Where To Stay In Stanley

• BEST – Horizon Deluxe Apartments ( Click here for more details )
• MIDRANGE – Stanley Village Waterfront Accommodation ( Click here for more details )
• BUDGET – Stanley Cabin and Tourist Park ( Click here for more details )

Click here for more Stanley accommodation options.

Fossil Bluff

Heading north from Cradle Mountain on your driving around Tasmania itinerary, the next place to visit is Fossil Bluff.

Fossil Bluff is a stunning beach with a backdrop of cliffs. These sandstone cliffs have fossils from millions of years ago. It’s great to explore alone or with kids, and to see the fossils in the rocks and shells. There’s also a short uphill walk where you can take in the view. However, it might be a little challenging for some.

The beach itself is small and suitable for swimming in the warmer months, and there are some picnic facilities nearby, making it a great place to stop and have a picnic lunch.

Address: 26/28 Freestone Cres, Wynyard TAS 7325

Read our full guide to Wynyard here.

A short drive from Fossil Bluff is Table Cape, the next stop on your Tasmania driving holiday itinerary. Table Cape is a stunning site positioned on top of a dormant volcano.

From the car park at the top, there is a lockout area where on clear days you can see to over 175 kilometres away. From the car park, a short walking track leads you to the lighthouse in the distance.

Following the track which lines the cliff face, it’s quite common to see wildlife along the way. At the end of the short walk, you’ll reach the impressive Table Cape Lighthouse. Here you can read about its interesting history, see the beautiful view and the tulip farm in the distance, and see remnants of long demolished buildings.

Address: 363 Table Cape Rd, Wynyard, Tasmania 7325

Read our full guide to Table Cape here.

Table Cape Tulip Farm

If you’re visiting Tasmania between September and October, you might be lucky enough to see the Table Cape Tulip Farm come to life. This is one of the most unique things to add to your itinerary planner Tasmania in Wynyard.

The Tulip Farm is positioned very close to the lighthouse and is open year round, but it is an absolute delight to see in spring. This is when the Tulips bloom and the annual Tulip Festival is held, a carnival-like atmosphere where people from all around the state come to see the tulips.

They are simply amazing to see with an array of colours which seemingly go on forever. The farm also has a cafe and art gallery too.

Click here for all the Wynyard accommodation options.

Boat Harbour

Tasmania has some beautiful beaches, and if you’re visiting in the warmer periods of late spring and summer, Boat Harbour is definitely one to add to the list.

This is a gorgeous white sand beach and, in fact, regularly rated among Australia’s top 10. It’s generally a quiet beach making it a great way to spend some time relaxing with rock pools and the frequent sighting of dolphins and seals in the distance adding to its charm.

Even if you’re not visiting during summer, it’s worth seeing the beauty of this beach and taking a quick look at the surrounding Boat Harbour area.

Read our full guide to Boat Harbour here.

If you want to add something different to your Tasmania travel route which kids will praticularly enjoy, a visit to Tasmazia is perfect.

This is a super unique experience for the whole family and a lot of thought has been put in to make the experience as fun and interesting as possible. There are eight different mazes to explore (among the largest complex in the world), a lavender farm, model villages with funny names, a shop and a cafe.

You can spend hours exploring all the site has to offer, with something different on every turn, making for a super fun day for the whole family. The cafe also specialises in pancakes to keep the kids impressed.

There are model embassies from many different countries complete with satirical humour, and there are surprisingly good jokes on every turn. This is a place to keep you entertained and laughing.

Address: 500 Staverton Rd, Promised Land TAS 7306

Read our full guide to Tasmazia here.

Day 7: Stanley

Today’s part of the Tasmania two week itinerary is enjoying what scenic Stanley has to offer.

• Have breakfast and then head to The Nut
• Take the chairlift to the top of The Nut (or walk) and go for a walk around it
• Next, head to Highfield Historic Site and explore the property
• Have lunch at a bakery in town then go on a 75-minute Stanley Seal Cruise

The showpiece of Stanley is the Nut, and it’s the main place to add to your Tasmania itinerary planner while here.

It’s impressiveness can be seen from all around Stanley and, with a captivatingly flat surface, it’s very easy to explore on foot.

There are two ways to reach the top of the Nut – either by walking or taking the chairlift. Note, the walk is difficult. It is very steep and will likely require a few stops along the way. However, it is free and rewarding.

The chairlift ride takes just 5 minutes and offers great views, but it doesn’t operate all the time and there is a fee (last time we checked it was $17 return for adults and $11 for kids).

Once you reach the top, you can take a circuit walk of the Nut, which takes about an hour. You can take in the views of Stanley and the sea. It really is a pretty site.

As the Nut is mostly flat, the walk is easy, but it can be cool and windy, so it’s advised to dress appropriately.

Address: Browns Road, Stanley, TAS 7331

Click here to read our full guide to visiting The Nut.

Highfield Historic Site

After walking around the Nut, head to Highfield Historic Site, which is only 3 kilometres away and offers a great chance to see an early restored Tasmanian farm house. The site has plenty of history to absorb as well as pretty manicured gardens.

The rooms and layout of the house are very well kept, and there’s some authentic and interesting furniture and paintings to see, as well as pretty views of Stanley and the water from the house.

The entrance price is $12, and it’s a great place to take in a bit of history about Stanley.

Address: Highfield, 143 Green Hills Rd, Stanley TAS 7331

Stanley Seal Cruises

Seals are relatively abundant around Tasmania, and one of the best ways to get a glimpse of them is with a Stanley Seal Cruise. These cruises leave twice a day – 10am and 2pm – and take about 75 minutes. They pretty much give you their guarantee that you will see an Australian Fur Seal on the cruise.

The trip is comfortable and the guides are informative, and there is usually an abundance of marine life to spot around the Nut and surrounding area. Bottle Nose Dolphins are also frequently sighted.

It’s a great way to get up close and see the seals in action. There’s also a nice cafe on the Dock, the Dockside Cafe, great for a late breakfast or lunch.

Address: 6 Wharf Rd, Stanley TAS 7331

Read our full guide to Stanley here.

Day 8: Launceston And Tamar Valley

Driving Time: 3 hours 45 minutes

In this part of the 14 day self drive Tasmania itinerary, you move on to Launceston, Tasmania’s second largest city, and the Tamar Valley region.

• Get going early so you are all set for a delicious brunch at Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm in Elizabeth Town (approx driving time about 2 hours)
• Drive to Tasmania Zoo to check out Tasmania’s wildlife  (approx driving time about 35 minutes)
• Next, head to Cataract Gorge in Launceston. Take the chairlift one way and walk around the Gorge over the suspension bridge in the other (approx driving time about 25 minutes)
• Take a tour of Boags Brewery
• Drive on to Low Head and check into your accommodation  (approx driving time about 40 minutes)

Where To Stay In Low Head

• BEST – Low Head Pilot Station ( Click here for more details )
• MIDRANGE – Low Head Tourist Park ( Click here for more details )

Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm

Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm is a must visit to taste some of the fantastic produce and food Tasmania is prized for.

Of course, the main event here is the raspberries, and while these are seasonal, you can find raspberry dishes all year round. You can also sample Tasmanian wine or have a full three course meal.

The farm is a beautiful setting where you can walk by the lake, and there is also play equipment and a treasure hunt for kids. You can also see alpacas and wallabies on the property, and there is an excellent shop filled with raspberry products and some free tastings.

This is a very popular place to stop for brunch, so I recommend you book ahead.

Address: 9 Christmas Hills Rd, Elizabeth Town TAS 7304

Click here to read our full guide to Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm.

Tasmania Zoo

With over 100 different species to see, Tasmania Zoo is a great way to spend a couple of hours exploring. Here you can see some of the animals Tasmania and Australia are famous for, as well as rare species from all over the world.

Animals include the Eastern Grey Kangaroo, the Tasmanian Devil, the African Lion and the Red Panda, just to name a few. This is also the only Australia zoo with the Black Crested Macaque.

In addition to plenty of interesting animals to see, there is a food machine where you can fill a cup and to feed some of the animals, there is a cafe, toilet facilities and a BBQ area which is great if you’d like to have a picnic lunch in the bushy surroundings.

Address: 1166 Ecclestone Rd, Riverside TAS 7250

Cataract Gorge

In the city of Launceston you’ll find Cataract Gorge, a gorgeous place to visit with walks, places to swim in the warmer months, a cafe and restaurant, peacocks and wallabies and a chair lift (the longest single span chairlift in the world!).

A ride on the chairlift is the best way to see the beauty of this area and the natural basin below, with a single chair fitting 2 passengers comfortably.

You can take a walk around the gardens and see the peacocks and wallabies, and you can also take a walk on the suspension bridge and ride The Inclinator – a free self operated people mover which takes you from the entrance to the lawn below.

This is a pretty sensational place sitting just outside of Launceston CBD, and you can spend as long as you like exploring the area.

Address: 69 Basin Road, Launceston, TAS 7250

Boag’s Brewery

Tasmania’s breweries are a significant part of its history, and the Boag’s Brewery in Launceston is worth seeing if this interests you with this particular brewery operated since 1881.

The tour gives you an introduction to the beer making process, a behind the scenes look at the factory and the chance to sample different Tasmanian beers.

The tours are known for being entertaining and fun, take about 90 minutes and run most days.

Address: 39 William St, Launceston TAS 7250

Read our full guide to Launceston here.

Day 9: Tamar Valley

Our favourite part of this two weeks in Tasmania is exploring the Tamar Valley. Today, you will hopefully feel the same.

• Start at the Low Head Maritime Museum at the Low Head Pilot Station
• Head to the Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre (approx driving time about 30 minutes)
• Pick a winery for lunch. We recommend Iron Pot Bay Vineyard (approx driving time about 15 minutes)
• Visit Seahorse World and Platypus House (or stop at some more wineries for tastings)  (approx driving time about 20 minutes)
• In the evening, take a Low Head penguin tour

Low Head Maritime Museum

The Low Head Maritime Museum is an interesting museum where you can learn about the history of sailing in the Tamar Valley and see some relics from the past.

The museum is located among pretty cottages and positioned in the convict built Pilots’ Row – a row of four cottages – and is the oldest pilot station in Australia still operating.

The museum is quite expensive with 13 different rooms focusing on things like shipwrecks, telegraphs and communications, navigation, whaling history and more. They also have a few interactive pieces like a ship’s helm and morse code telegraph key, which makes it enjoyable for kids and adults.

Address: 399 Low Head Rd, Low Head TAS 7253

Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre

Many people in Tasmania and around Australia are familiar with the Beaconsfield Mine as this is the site where in 2006 two miners became stuck for two weeks

The site is no longer an active mine, and it’s been transformed into an interesting heritage centre providing an insight into mining, Beaconsfield and the dramatic incident and rescue in 2006.

You can also walk around the original site and appreciate the interesting and complex work done here. They’ve also been quite mindful to make this attraction interesting for kids with tunnels to crawl through, levers to pull and activities like panning for gold.

Our kids were also given a list of animals to try to locate (however although we tried hard, we failed!). There’s plenty to see here and I highly recommend taking the short drive to check it out.

Address: West St, Beaconsfield TAS 7270

Seahorse World

Located in Beauty Point is Seahorse World, an awesome place where you can learn about and see a surprising array of seahorses.

A visit to Seahorse World is conducted by tour, where you are taken around the facility and introduced to the world of seahorses. We were surprised with just how small they can be. You also learn about how seahorses breed and how the male is actually the one who carries the babies!

The facility is also a breeding centre, and there are several areas in the facility where the seahorses are housed, varying on their age.

You can also see other species of marine life (like endangered fish), and are given the opportunity to touch some seahorses, crabs and starfish. Tours are run hourly and I highly recommend booking ahead. It’s definitely worth a visit!

Address: 200 Flinders St, Beauty Point TAS 7270

Click here for the latest prices or read our full review here .

Platypus House

Right next to Seahorse World in Beauty Point is Platypus House. This is the place to learn about platypus’ and echidnas and see them up close.

Platypus House is similar to Seahorse World in that you visit by guided tour, with tours running every hour at least. Again, I recommend booking ahead to get your preferred time.

Both echidnas and platypus’ come from the same group – Monotremes – and the guides give plenty of information on them. You’re introduced to the 14 year old male platypus, as well as a few females. We were then taken to a room with three echidnas, and sat in a circle while they fed (unphased by us!). This was very unique and interesting to see the animals so close up.

Tours take about 45 minutes and it’s a great place for families to visit for memorable close encounters with echidnas and platypus’, and one you won’t soon forget.

Low Head Penguin Tour

If there’s one thing you must do in Low Head, it’s a Low Head Penguin Tour. These amazing tours take place every evening after sunset, when the penguins return from sea and are an incredible way to see the fairy penguins.

Tours take place at the Low Head Coast Reserve. You can only access the reserve by tour in the evening, and I highly recommend this tour for the best up close encounter we have experienced with penguins. The guides are knowledgeable and experienced. I also recommend you dress warm and call up in advance to see when tours are run (it’ll be at sunset).

The group can be split into smaller groups, each with their own guide, who directs you to the beach and will likely point out other wildlife (like wallabies, bandicoots and possibly penguins) on the way.

The beach is where the majority of the penguins gather for the night. It’s an amazing thing to see. When we visited, the penguins were with babies, and the guide provided some fascinating information about the penguins.

The tour finishes up in the shop, where our kids were given stickers. It really is an incredible experience for all ages.

Address: 485 Low Head Rd, Low Head TAS 7253

Day 10: North East Tasmania

Driving Time: 3 hours 15 minutes

It’s time for a change of scenery with your Tasmanian road trips heading to the east coast.

• Drive to Pipers Brook Vineyard to start the day with a tasting (approx driving time about 35 minutes)
• Head to Little Blue Lake for a quick photo (approx driving time about 1 hour 5 minutes)
• Drive into Pyengana and have lunch at the famous Pub in the Paddock (approx driving time about 50 minutes)
• Drive on to St Columba Falls and take the short walk to these big falls (approx driving time about 10 minutes)
• Stop for some Pyengana cheese on your way to Binalong Bay/St Helens

Read our full guide to North East Tasmania here.

Where To Stay At Binalong Bay/St Helens

Binalong Bay is the closest point to the Bay of Fires which you will be exploring tomorrow. Another option is the town of St Helens nearby which has more options.

• BEST – Pelican Point Sanctuary ( Click here for more details )
• MIDRANGE – NRMA St Helens ( Click here for more details )
• BUDGET – BIG4 St Helens Holiday Park ( Click here for more details )

Read our full guide to St Helens accommodation here.

Little Blue Lake

For a quick photo opportunity, I recommend stopping at Little Blue Lake. This pretty blue lake (with a less pretty history) is blue regardless of the weather.

The blue colour is the result of alluvial tin mining in the past which has left the lake a perpetual blue (and rendered it unswimmable due to heavy metal contamination).

It’s worth a quick visit and photo being located on the way to your next stop.

Address: 1753 Gladstone Rd, South Mount Cameron TAS 7264

Pub In The Paddock

A well known and traditional pub to stop for lunch is the Pub In The Paddock located in Pyengana. This pub has a colourful history, being first licensed in 1880 and once had an active dance hall and picture theatre.

It’s now mostly frequented by a steady stream of tourists. However as one of the oldest pubs in Tasmania, it’s still an interesting place to have lunch.

One of the main attractions of this pub is Priscilla II, a pig that feeds on special beer which you can buy from the bar. True to its name, you can get a nice traditional pub meal here and it’s a nice, interesting place to have lunch.

Address: 250 St Columba Falls Rd, Pyengana TAS 7216

St Columba Falls

For more of Tasmania’s best natural beauty, a visit to St Columba Falls is a must. At 90 metres tall, the falls are one of Tasmania’s highest and a stunning sight to see (and hear).

The walk to the base of the falls is easy enough on a good path and takes about 7 minutes (our 4 year old was able to do it), although it can be slippery. It’s a beautiful walk through tall trees with man ferns, sassafras and myrtle rainforest trees.

The area features a 4,200 hectare mountainous catchment area, and during times of higher rainfall, the falls become huge and thunderously loud. However, at any time, they are an incredible sight.

There is a viewing platform at the base of the falls where you can appreciate their magnificence and the power of nature, and there are walks nearby (like Halls Falls walking track) if you so wish.

Address: 395 Saint Columba Falls Road, Pyengana, Tasmania, 7216

Pyengana Dairy

Tasmania is well known as a destination of great cheese, and Pyengana Dairy is the place to sample the famous Pyengana cheese.

The dairy company is a place where you can get a little insight into the cheese making process. There are two windows where you can see cheese making in action and you can see cheese maturing in their cellar.

Of course, you can also sample some of their fabulous cheeses and purchase some that you enjoy. Pyengana Dairy also has a nice cafe where you can spend some time taking in the views and relaxing over a coffee or cheese platter.

Address: St Columba Falls Rd, Pyengana TAS 7216

Read our full guide to Pyengana here.

Day 11: Bay Of Fires

Today is the easiest day in this itinerary for 2 weeks in Tasmania with a beach day!

• Explore Bay of Fires

If you are looking for a Tasmania winter itinerary, I would still keep this day. You won’t want to swim but this area is still pretty to explore and by this point of this driving itinerary Tasmania, you deserve an easier day.

Bay Of Fires

A short drive from St Helens is Bay Of Fire and this is a must see on your Tasmania road trip.

This conservation area is famed for its magnificent beaches with white sand and crystal clear water, as well as its striking orange coloured boulders. The area is complete with walks with wildlife and beautiful nature sights, and it’s an area you can easily spend a day exploring.

Binalong Bay is one of the best known spots on the Bay Of Fires. Located at the southern end of Bay Of Fires, this is a small town where many people camp, and there are also a few nice cafes to stop for lunch.

The long beach here is a great place to swim on warmer days, or to take a walk and see the many native birds on the beach. You’ll also find the orange boulders to explore that the area is famous for.

Half way between Binalong Bay and Ansons Bay is The Gardens. This stretch contains fabulous beaches, as well as a car park and boardwalk where you can stop and take a short walk to a lookout for fabulous photos.

Other spots to see include Skeleton Bay, Policemans Point and Ansons Bay. There is a wealth of beaches and scenery to explore, and the area is likely to have you constantly stopping to see something new.

Of course, if you want to swim, it’s best to visit this area in the warmer months of the year. However, even without swimming, it’s a stunning place to explore.

Address: 280 Ansons Bay Road St Helens Tasmania 7216

Day 12: Freycinet National Park

Driving Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

The next stop on your travel itinerary Tasmania is Freycinet National Park and the stunning Wineglass Bay.

• Drive to Freycinet National Park stopping at Freycinet Marine Farm on the way
• Hike to Wineglass Bay

Where To Stay In Coles Bay

Coles Bay is the town at the entry to Freycinet National Park

• BEST – Freycinet Lodge ( Click here for more details )
• MIDRANGE – BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet ( Click here for more details )
• BUDGET – Swansea Backpacker Lodge ( Click here for more details )

Freycinet Marine Farm

The first place I recommend you visit in Coles Bay is Freycinet Marine Farm. Tasmania has some fantastic seafood, and Freycinet Marine Farm is the place to sample some of it straight from the sea.

This small collection of buildings is a place where you sit down for a meal or get take away. There’s plenty of seating and most of it is undercover. I highly recommend stopping here for lunch.

There isn’t a huge range of options on the menu but everything is delicious – particularly the mussels and oysters which are farmed here. They also serve chips and other seafood, and you can wash down your meal with a nice glass of wine.

Prices aren’t overly cheap but if you love seafood, it’s worth every penny. They also offer tours where they take you to their farm and you can catch and shuck your own oysters – you can’t get fresher than that!

Address: 1784 Coles Bay Rd, Coles Bay TAS 7215

Wineglass Bay

One of the most spectacular and iconic spots in Tasmania is Wineglass Bay. The beach here is considered among the top 10 beaches in the world.

This is a very popular place to visit, and for most people it’s the main reason to visit Freycinet. You have several options here. Firstly, you can walk the uphill track to the lookout. This is a well made track and usually highly trafficked with people of all ages.

There are plenty of spots to stop along the way, and depending on your fitness level and whether or not you have kids with you, one way can take between 30 minutes to an hour.

At the top, you’re rewarded with a view from above of the gorgeous beach and coast. The lookout has plenty of room to take photos. It really is a beautiful spot.

From the lookout you can choose to hike down to the beach. However, this isn’t for everyone and most people don’t do it. It can take about 3-4 hours return and can be quite steep. However, it’s the only way to make it down to the beach.

Alternatively, you can take the Hazards Beach Circuit which starts at the car park, but this is longer and more suitable for experienced hikers. There are other walks you can do too.

The trek to the lookout is rewarding enough for most people and allows you to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of this area.

Address: Freycinet National Park, Coles Bay Rd, Coles Bay TAS 7215

Day 13: Port Arthur

Driving Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

The next stop on this driving tour Tasmania is Port Arthur to learn about Tasmania’s convict past.

• Drive to Port Arthur Historic Site and explore the site taking the included walking and boat tours
• Return to the site at night for the ghost tour

Where To Stay In Port Arthur

• BEST – Port Arthur Villas ( Click here for more details )
• MIDRANGE – NRMA Port Arthur ( Click here for more details )
• BUDGET – Fox and Hounds Inn ( Click here for more details )

Want more options? Find our full Port Arthur accommodation guide here .

Port Arthur Historic Site

The Port Arthur Historic Site is a UNESCO world heritage site and known as one of the best relics from Australia’s convict past.

Port Arthur was the most important convict gaol in Tasmania and, from the 19th century, over 12,000 convicts were sent here and not just any convict. Port Arthur was only for the worst crimes, and, over the years, it became known as one of the most brutal gaols in Australia.

Presumably, it wasn’t a nice place. However now it is an extremely popular tourist attraction and a must see destination while in Tasmania.

A ticket to Port Arthur includes full entry to the site, a 40 minute guided walking tour of the site providing some background and broad history and a 25 minute boat cruise. When you pay for your ticket, you can select your walking tour time. For this reason, I recommend booking ahead, however you can buy tickets on the day and there’s also a gift shop, restaurant and cafe.

You can then explore the prison by yourself. It is very extensive with buildings (both restored and in ruins), gardens, walks and other interesting relics from the past. The separate restored prison is also a must see and gives you a feeling of what life must of been like for these convicts. We also really enjoyed exploring the old houses.

The included cruise sails the harbour past the Isle of the Dead – a burial spot for convicts – and you can also purchase an additional tour to explore this island.

There’s also after dark tours you can do, the most well known being the Port Arthur Ghost Tour. There’s been many reported paranormal events at Port Arthur which has resulted in this very popular 90 minute tour with an entertaining guide where you’re told both funny and creepy ghost stories and asked to judge for yourself whether ghosts exist!

It really is a fabulous place to visit.

Address: Historic Site, Visitor Centre, Port Arthur TAS 7182

Read our full guide to Port Arthur here.

Day 14: Back To Hobart

Driving Time: 1 hours 45 minutes

It’s time for the final day of your Tasmania travel itinerary 🙁 Head back to Hobart ready to fly out. If you started with this itinerary at another point, head back to the top for day one.

• Drive to Doo Town and check out the funny house names (approx driving time 30 minutes)
• Discover the Blow Hole and Tessellated Pavement
• Head back to Hobart visiting Richmond if you haven’t already (see day one)

In the pretty location of Eaglehawk Neck is the quirky town of Doo Town.

Doo Town is a place where the majority of the homes are named using the word “doo”. This is a trend that started in 1935 and continues today, and it’s an entertaining place to drive around and spot all the different names.

Some are quite funny to see and it’s clever how many names they’ve created. There’s even a cafe nearby, aptly named Doo-lishus. The town is positioned adjacent to water on the Tasman peninsula – a beautiful spot to see in its own right.

Address: 301 C338, Eaglehawk Neck, TAS 7179

Read our full guide to Doo Town here.

Blow Hole And Tessellated Pavement

Eaglehawk Neck has several fascinating geological sites, and one particularly famous is the Blow Hole. From the car park, it’s just a short walk to the Blow Hole, a very interesting site to see set in a beautifully scenic location.

Once a small cave, the water has patiently eroded the rock which has resulted in the blowhole effect seen today. To see the Blow Hole in action, you need to visit during a time of high tide. However at any time it’s still an impressive site to see.

A short 10 minute drive from the Blow Hole is the Tessellated Pavement. This is one of the most photographed spots in Tasmania, and is a natural phenomenon of tiled rock due to a combination of erosion and salt crystals of the Tasman sea.

You can get right up close to the pavement but I recommend wearing appropriate clothing and footwear. Note also the tide can come in! It’s an impressive site to see and an extremely rare phenomenon which is just another example of the uniqueness of Tasmania’s wilderness.

Address: Eaglehawk Neck, TAS 7179

Tasmania Itinerary 12 Days

If you are looking for a 12 day Tasmania self drive itinerary, I recommend dropping one of the following stops:

• Tamar Valley
• Bay of Fires

Pick whichever seems the least interesting to you.

Tasmania Itinerary 21 Days

3 weeks in Tasmania? Lucky you! With some extra time, I recommend you take the above a bit slower and add an extra night to:

• Strahan – if you would like to do both the Gordon River cruise and West Coast Wilderness Railway
• Cradle Mountain – if you like hiking
• Low Head – if you like wineries
• Coles Bay – if you like beach towns
• Hobart – if you want to visit more museums and attractions

I also recommend you add a couple of days at the end of your Tasmania trip plan on Bruny Island. Read more about Bruny Island here .

If you are looking for adults-only Tasmania itinerary ideas, consider a couple of nights at Pumphouse Point on Lake St Clair. Read more about this here .

There’s also many other national parks to explore. One of the most visited from Hobart is Mt Field National Park. It’s about a one hour drive from Hobart, and from here you can do an easy 15 minute walk to see the stunning and iconic Russell Falls.

Final Words About Your Road Trip Tasmania Adventure!

With so many natural wonders, excellent food, history, museums and sites, Tasmania is a fantastic place to visit with a wealth of experiences waiting to be had.

This 14 day itinerary has focused on the top things to do in the state and, by following it, you’ll be sure to have an action packed, exciting yet still relaxing holiday.

We hope you enjoyed this best Tasmania itinerary, perfect for your Tasmanian road trip. You can find more information to plan your perfect trip to Tasmania  here , read our 4-5 day itinerary here , 7 day here , or 10 day here . For more planning guides, click here . You can also buy our full Tasmanian Road Trip Planner here.

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By Shan Hutchinson

Shan grew up in Tasmania, moved away and then came back with her family twenty years later. She loves re-discovering her home state and sharing it with you here.

Tasmania 10 Day Road Trip Itinerary for Photographers and Outdoor Lovers

37 Comments

• August 1, 2023

I often heard Tasmania being described as the love child of Australia and  New Zealand .

Tasmania is a small island just south of the main island of Australia, known for its mountainous landscape, beautiful coastal region, and a vast variety of wildlife – with the Tasmanian devils and wombats being the most prominent of all.

Due to its compactness, it is one of the best places in Australia to plan a road trip.  Nowhere else in Australia will you experience so much beauty without having to drive for hundreds of kilometers per day. 

With endless hiking and photography possibilities, it’s a place you can’t miss when visiting or living in Australia. 

Tasmania 10-day itinerary: the logistics

I spent 5 months living and traveling around Tasmania and designed this itinerary based on my personal favorite places and hikes around the island. 

How much time do you need to see Tasmania?

I always think it’s a relative question. You can spend a lifetime exploring Tasmania and still not see everything but that would also mean you would have to move there.

If you want to get a good taste of Tassie and see most of its highlights, I personally think 10 days, +/- 2 days either way is an optimal time.

Remember that the slower you travel the lesser cost per day your vacation will have as you won’t be cramming too many activities and sights in a shorter amount of time. The best time to visit is between December and March during the summer. 

How to get to Tasmania

There are two ways of getting to Tasmania. One is to cross over on an overnight ferry from Melbourne and dock in Devonport on the north tip of the island.

Traveling by ferry from Melbourne to Devonport

The Spirit of Tasmania is the only company that operates on this route and offers passenger ferry rides across the Bass Strait.  

This choice is great for someone who already owns a car and wants to save money on renting one. You can just bring your camping equipment along and off you go. If camping isn’t for you and you prefer a bit more luxury just stay in a hotel.  

Flying to Hobart

If you don’t cope with traveling on ferries very well and get seasick, the second, faster, and most popular way is to fly into Hobart – Tassie’s little capital. Companies like Virgin Australia and Jetstar are leaders when it comes down to flight connections between Australia’s Mainland and Tasmania. 

How to get around Tasmania?

Rent a compact car with discover cars.

The best way to explore the little island is by self-driving. If you brought a car with you, you’re all set to go. If you need to rent one, check out   Discover Cars .  It’s my go-to website for the best deals on compact cars. 

Rent a campervan with Motorhome Republic

My preferred way for road-tripping is by traveling in a small camper van or motorhome, as it gives you a lot of freedom when it comes down to accommodation. Essentially your home is where you park it! If you are after renting one – check out the Motorhome Republic .

You will be able to compare the rental options and will be guaranteed the lowest prices. They’ve partnered up with 10 different fleets in Hobart including companies like Britz, Maui, and Apollo, which are the most reputable camper van companies and can be all found on their website by following the link above.

Parks & Wildlife Entry Pass

Since most of the island is a protected area, you will require Parks Pass to enter national parks in Tasmania. I can tell you straight away, that purchasing separate day passes is not worth it. For example, a day passes for Cradle Mountain National Park costs AUD 28 per person/day. If there are 2 of you that’s already 56 dollars. And that’s only for one day!

A way more economical option is to purchase 8 weeks pass for AUD 89.50, which will cover up to 8 people for all national parks on the whole island.

That’s way better value for money and it will save you time too as you will only have to purchase it once. You can get one at the Parks and Wildlife office located at the gates of any of the national parks or online through  Parks & Wildlife Service  prior to your travels. 

Tasmania Road Trip Map

Below you can see the interactive map for this road trip including interesting spots, hiking trails, and photography locations. Click on the button in the top left of the map to navigate through the layers.

10-day road trip itinerary around Tasmania: day-by-day breakdown

I spent 5 months working and traveling around Tasmania during my working holiday year in Australia and though I still didn’t manage to see everything I wanted to see, I certainly have been there longer than an average visitor.

Since photography and being outdoors are my two favorite things I wanted to put together an itinerary that will encompass both great places to photograph and the best places to hike in Tasmania. 

This road trip begins and finishes in Hobart*. You can just simply fly here from mainland Australia, and pick up your rental car right at the airport without having to spend money getting a taxi or shuttle bus into town.

You will then travel counterclockwise through some of the most scenic spots on the island including Freycinet, Cradle Mountain, and Mount Field National Parks, just to name a few. 

* TIP: If you came to Tasmania on a ferry you will start in Devonport. In this case, you can start your exploration in Cradle Mountain NP and follow the loop from there. 

Day 1-2: Hobart and the surroundings

Hobart is a brilliant capital city, very old by Australian standards but still modern enough to have everything you’ll ever need. A city is still a city however and chances are you came to Tasmania to do an adventure road trip and to get some fresh air in your lungs.

After all, you did search for the Tasmania road trip, didn’t you? If you do have to spend a day here exploring though here are a few things to get you started.

Things to do in Hobart, Tasmania

Go up mount wellington and walk the rivulet track.

Mount Wellington is about a half an hour’s drive (20km) to the west of the city. At 1,269m above Hobart, which is at sea level, it’s pretty inconspicuous and it’ll probably be the first thing you notice when flying or driving into Hobart.

It’s quite common to have an inversion day when on the top of Mount Wellington. With clouds rolling just below the peak, the tour up Mount Wellington is the perfect introduction to Tasmania’s landscapes. 

You can visit Mount Wellington by booking the Explorer bus.

Salamanca Market / Farmers Market

If you’re lucky enough to be in Hobart for the weekend, every Saturday the Salamanca market turns into a busy jamboree with loads of food stalls, live music, and people trying to sell all kinds of odds and sods.

Sunday is the Farmers Market which is way less touristy than Salamanca and a great chance to pick up super fresh fruit and veggies for your journey.

Best places to stay in Hobart

Pickled Frog Hostel

If you are a solo traveler, it will be a great place to kick off your road trip and meet fellow backpackers.

Alabama Hotel

Merge of old and new. Fantastic design at an affordable price. 

Salamanca Inn

One of the top picks in Hobart. Located in the best part of the city and a short walk from all the attractions.

Day 2-3: Tasman National Park

After you’ve enjoyed Hobart’s great seafood and local delicacies start your road trip by heading east. The drive to the Tasman Peninsula should take you about an hour and a half of continuous driving.

Continuous driving however is not going to happen. You should stop at the beautiful geological attractions at Eaglehawk Neck. The Tessellated Pavement (photo above) is my favorite spot, especially for sunrise as it looks East.

Things to do in Tasman National Park

Once you’re on the peninsula there are several hikes in the area that are popular. These are my favorite two:

A beautiful hike in the southwest of the peninsula. The 14km 5-hour return walk gives you a chance to see Ship Sterns Bluff from the first lookout. 

Situated on the eastern side of the peninsula. The undulating 8km and 4-hour return track gives spectacular cliff views. If you’re a rock climbing daredevil this is also where the world-famous Totem Pole is.

Join a wildlife cruise

Cruise along the coastline which is part of the Tasman National Park. On this wildlife cruise, you will discover the home of a diverse range of wildlife including hundreds of seals, migrating whales, and abundant sea birds in their thousands.

Visit Port Arthur’s UNESCO Historic Site

Port Arthur’s historic site was basically an old prison from the mid-1800s where all the murderers and rapists from England were sent to. It’s a creepy place where a lot of people were tortured and lost their lives. If you are not easily scared consider joining the night tour around the prison.

Places to stay in Tasman National Park

Port Arthur Holiday Park

Water views, free WiFi, and fantastic reviews all without breaking your wallet

Four Seasons Holiday Cottages   

10 min drive from Port Arthur. Idyllic waterfront location with gardens and BBQ facilities. 

Luxury  

Stewarts Bay Lodge

It offers a private beach area, a waterfront restaurant, and accommodations surrounded by natural bushes.

Day 3-4: Freycinet National Park

Driving for 3 hours (200km) up the eastern coast, you’ll love the views on your right-hand side. Eventually, you’ll make a right at Swansea toward Coles Bay which is the closest place you can drive to on the Freycinet Peninsula.

The Freycinet peninsula is one of the most stunning pieces of land in all of Australia and it’s also one of the oldest national parks too. 

Things to do in Freycinet National Park

Hike to the top of mount amos (photo above).

The famous viewpoint here of Wineglass Bay can be seen best from the top of Mount Amos which is a relatively steep, 3 hours uphill, 4km return walk.

Be warned this should not be attempted in wet conditions as the rocks become very slippery. If the weather isn’t in your favor do the less extreme walk to the viewpoint overlooking the bay. For trail conditions and maps visit the visitor center located right at the park entrance. 

Photograph the Hazards

If you love to photograph seascapes this spot is for you. The hazards are a mountain range in Freycinet National Park separating Coles Bay from Wineglass Bay. Mount Amos is amongst the peaks in the range.

The best spot to snap a photo of them is at the opposite end of the bay, looking just across toward the range. Both sunset and sunrise will work. 

Take a scenic flight above Wineglass Bay and Maria Island

Admire the white sands of Wineglass Bay from the air by joining a scenic flight. Venturing from the Freycinet Peninsula, the journey will take you over the seal colony of Ile Des Phoques before progressing to Maria Island.

Once on the island, you will embark on an exploration of the national park. Plenty of native wildlife species call Maria Island their home.

Places to stay in Freycinet NP

Big4 lluka on Freycinet

Free parking and close proximity to Wineglass Beach. Free Wifi provided.

Malting Lagoon Guest House

the best value-rated property in Coles Bay. Includes breakfast and free bicycle rental.

Freycinet Lodge 

Cabins with spectacular views over Coles Bay with a restaurant serving fresh local produce. 

Day 4-5: Bay of Fires

Once you’ve enjoyed Freycinet then it’s time to keep driving up the east coast to the Bay of Fires. Don’t worry it’s not really on fire, most of the forest fires in Tasmania normally occur in the northwest.

It’s named the Bay of Fires due to the orange rocks which stand out so prominently against the white sand beaches and the crystal clear water.  

Tassie’s Bay of Fires is another of Australia’s pristine locations. Its relaxed atmosphere is perfect for unwinding, hanging out, having a BBQ, and then enjoying a cold beer with a fire on the beach whilst watching the sunset.  

Things to do in the Bay of Fires

Visit binalong bay.

Sit on your butt down and enjoy the beach at Binalong Bay located at the southern tip of the Bay of Fires. The sand here is so fine it will squick under your feet as you walk along the shore.

This is a perfect place to take a break from hiking, sip a few cocktails on the beach and enjoy the sea breeze. You’ve got some hiking coming up at your next destination, hence you should probably be well-rested. 

Photograph the rocks

If you are the type that simply can’t sit still you should drive along the Bay and search for some awesome photography spots. The rock formations and the bright orange colors make for some awesome compositions. Since you are facing east sunrise is the best time for capturing memorable shots. 

Where to stay around the Bay of Fires

Big4 St Helens Holiday Park 

great value if you are traveling with a family or group of friends.

Midrange/Luxury

Bed in the Treetops B&B

Imagine waking up amongst the treetops to the sound of chirping birds and the sea waves. It sells quickly so make sure to book quickly.

Day 5-7: Cradle Mountain National Park through Bridestowe Lavender Estate

Now that you’re all relaxed it’s time to go to the Tasmanian Highlands and get your hike on. Cradle Mountain National Park is my favorite place in Tassie and if there is one place you should stop longer than one night this is it!

I worked just at the border of this National Park for a total of 4 months and still didn’t get my fill.

If you are traveling during December/January make sure to stop at the  Bridestowe Lavender Farm  first. It’s 120 kilometers from St Helens in the Bay of Fires. The entry fee is just 10 dollars and you can admire the purple fields, which seem to have no end. Make sure to try their lavender ice cream or tea as well!

After getting your dose of the lavender smell, drive to Launceston to stock up on food before going to Cradle Mountain. You can thank me later!

There are no supermarkets in Cradle Mountain village, just a little and very overpriced convenience store, a visitor center, a gift shop, and 4 hotels, so replenishing your food in a bigger city, like Launceston, might be a good idea.  

Best hikes and places to photograph in Cradle Mountain NP

In Cradle Mountain National Park hiking and photography go hand in hand, so if you are after some awesome shots from your travels be prepared to break a sweat.

The trails in the park are very well-maintained and marked. Please note that there are a few spots where the chains have been placed and where you will have to scramble a bit. Most walks start from Dove Lake car park. 

Marion’s Lookout 

After the Dove Lake Circuit, this is the most popular hike in the park, and for a good reason. There are two ways you can get there. The first one is from the Ronny Creek parking lot via Crater Falls, this is also where the famous Overland Track starts.

The second path leads from the Dove Lake car park and takes you via Wombat Pool. If you do the hike in the late afternoon it’s pretty common to meet wombats on the trail, this is the reason it’s so popular.

There is also a third alternative route to Marion’s lookout (called the link track), though shorter in distance it is a lot steeper and best to avoid, especially during bad weather conditions. Whichever way you choose account for at least 2-3 hours roundtrip.

Cradle Mountain Summit

Although it is Tasmania’s fifth highest peak, if you are relatively fit like me, summiting Cradle Mountain isn’t too strenuous. The walk starts from the main car park at the northern end of Dove Lake. The most popular route which goes around the Wombat Pool ascends firstly to Marion’s Lookout. 

From there to the base of the mountain is flat and easy and shouldn’t take you long.  The last hour is the hard part, climbing over big, but easily manageable, boulders. You can make a lunch stop at the Kitchen Hut to recharge your batteries before the last push.

Do yourself a favor and leave your heavy bag there whilst getting up to the summit. Remember to still carry your water though. Parks Tasmania reckons that it should take around 6-8 hours to return but I’ve done it in 5 and I’m not exactly a quick walker. So I reckon if you’re fit you can get up and down in 4/5 hours from the Dove Lake car park.

Dove Lake Circuit 

If you are after something less demanding on your knees this one is for you. The circuit is a great introductory walk to the park. The trailhead leaves again from the Dove Lake car park.

Though Parks & Wildlife Tasmania recommends doing it clockwise, my advice would be to go anticlockwise. It will be a bit easier that way. Your first stop will be the famous Boatshed where photographers from all over the world swarm to capture this famous scene. 

Hansons   Peak

A lot less popular, which boggles me a lot, is the hike to Hanson’s Peak. With that said it is definitely my all-time favorite and I’ve done it a few times. It’s a perfect spot to see the sunset and has a good view of the Weindorfers Tower and Cradle Mountain Summit.

Again the trailhead is at the Dove Lake car park. Head left along the lake first following clockwise the Dove Lake Circuit. After around 20 minutes the track will split into two.

Follow the left side (Lake Rodway Track) and start going up. After another 45m-1h and a bit of scrambling on the last part, you will reach the top and the spectacular views that go with it! (See below)

Mount Campbell 

This is an unofficial track and no longer maintained but I thought I will include it anyway. If you are feeling a bit more adventurous and prefer off-the-beaten-path hikes, then completing this one should be your top priority when visiting Cradle Mountain NP.

The hike to Mount Campbell starts the same way as Hanson’s Peak. Once you reach the saddle you will see Lake Hanson to the left and Dove Lake to the right. Instead of following the path to Hanson’s Peak, turn around and start going up the opposite direction, with your back facing Cradle Mountain.

After around 45 minutes of scrambling you will reach the top. This was by far my favorite sunrise spot in the whole park! (photo below)

Bonus: Tasmanian Devil Sanctuary

Right near the entry to the Cradle Mountain National Park, you will find Devils @ Cradle – a Tasmanian Devil Sanctuary. This endangered species is native to Tasmania and until recently it could only be seen on the island. In recent years a small population was introduced to mainland Australia in the hopes of saving the species.

You can stroll leisurely through the sanctuary, observing the animals in their natural daytime routines. Witness them sleeping in their cozy dens, basking in the sun, engaging in playful fights, or foraging for food.

Best places to stay in Cradle Mountain National Park

Discovery Parks – Cradle Mountain  

Holiday cabins with cooking facilities, dorms, tent sites, and powered sites for your campervan

Cradle Mountain Hotel   

affordable luxury with two restaurants and a beautiful photo gallery 

Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge  

selection of wood cabins surrounded by the Tasmanian Wilderness equipped with either gas or wood fire

Day 7-8: Mount Field National Park

It’s time to see some waterfalls! The drive out of Cradle Mountain towards Mount Field National Park is a long one but can be broken up by stopping at Nelson Falls (photo below) just 700 meters from the A10. This part of the drive through the native rainforest passes many photogenic roadside lakes.

Montezuma Falls would be another interesting walk to do, but it’s a bit longer (8km). I personally didn’t find the waterfalls as spectacular as the other ones you are about to see but the choice is ultimately yours. 

Upon arriving in Mount Field National Park you’ll notice there’s nothing there except a visitor center and a campsite. The newly refurbished visitor center is packed with information about the local flora and fauna and deep down I’m glad there are no shops and hotels there. It adds to the whole scenic experience.

There are many beautiful photography spots here in Mount Field but the two listed below are my favorites.

Russel Falls

These are one of the most easily accessible falls in all of Tasmania, they are also one of the most awe-inspiring too. The short 400m track leads to a huge two-tiered waterfall that appears out of nowhere. You’ll definitely hear it before you see it.

Horseshoe Falls

A further 10 minutes past Russell Falls will take you to the more secluded Horseshoe Falls. The whole walk can be made into a loop via the Tall Trees Walk.

Places to stay in Mount Field NP

Campsite inside the park. Basic amenities but an incredible experience. You can pay for the site at the visitor center. 

Roslyn House B&B  

Rustic country decor and antique furniture.  It includes a fully-cooked breakfast, a guest lounge with a log fire, and free WiFi access.

Midrange/Luxury  

Sassafras Springs  

20 min away from Mount Field NP and on the way back to Hobart. Breathe the fresh country air, drink the fresh spring water, and eat the fresh seasonal fruit and veg from this eco-friendly hotel in the Derwent Valley

Day 8-9: Bruny Island

This leg of the agenda will take you south away from rainforests and toward the southern coast of Tasmania. The ferry to Bruny Island leaves from a small town called Kettering and costs 38$ in return during peak season. Timetables for the ferry can be found here, and the journey lasts approximately twenty minutes.

Bruny Island is basically two islands connected by a small stretch of road called The Neck, which happens to be one of my favorite photography spots in Tassie. This is a great part of the road trip.

Bruny Island is a place of sheer indulgence, you’ll love it. Once you find yourself on the island you’ll get the chance to eat local cheeses, meats, whiskeys, seafood, wines, beers, berries, and much more. You won’t need to look far to find such frivolities, most of them are located just off the main road.

TIP: Another possibility to visit Bruny Island is to travel back to Hobart, drop off your rental car, and join an organized day trip.

Best hikes on Bruny Island

Fluted cape track.

This 2.5-hour hike (5.4km) leaves from the beach at adventure bay on the southern part of Bruny Island. It winds up the cliffs and offers spectacular views of local fauna and flora.

Cape Queen  Elizabeth

This is longer than the fluted cape track but is quite flat in comparison. It’s a 12km route, going in and out on the same track, and it should take 4 hours. You’ll get spectacular views of cliffs but instead of being on top of them as on the Fluted Cape track you’ll be on the beach looking up at them.

Places to stay on Bruny Island

The Campsite at the neck

There is no booking system for it. It’s on a first come first serve basis. With basic and clean facilities it’s perfect for budget travelers. 

Budget/Midrange

Captain Cook Holiday Park 

This park is directly opposite the beach with its white sand and sky-blue sea and it isn’t uncommon to see pods of dolphins and migrating whales in the Bay.   

Adventure Bay Retreat  

Just a minute’s walk from a beautiful white sand beach and set in the native bushland. 

Day 10: Fly out of Hobart

Unfortunately, your time in Tasmania is coming to an end. Take the ferry back and travel to Hobart to drop off your rental and catch a flight to the mainland.

This tour can be adapted into a week by taking out a few days on the Tasman Peninsula and Cradle Mountain or can be extended into a two-week itinerary by adding extra days in Strahan and doing side trips to either the Hartz Mountains just south of Hobart or to Mount Eliza in Southwest National Park. 

If you found this itinerary useful please use the affiliate links I have provided in the itinerary. It won’t cost you anything extra (in fact it’ll actually save you money) and every time you make a purchase I make a small commission on the products and places I recommend. It also helps me to maintain my website and create more awesome itineraries like this one! Thanks. 

Have you got any questions about this itinerary? Post them in the comments! I always answer. 

Useful websites and apps for planning your trip around Tasmania

• Booking.com  – for booking hostels and hotels around the island
• Discover Cars – for finding the best deal on compact car rentals in Tasmania
• Motorhome Republic  – search engine for motorhome hire in Tasmania
• Parks & Wildlife Services  – the official website for National Parks Services in Tasmania. Includes information about hikes, maps, and current trail conditions. 
• Wikicamps Australia  – fantastic smartphone app for finding campsites and roadside stops for all of Australia. It will pay for itself after its first use. 

Hi! I am the photographer and creator of www.inafarawayland.com. I come from Poland, but I've been living, travelling and working around the globe since I turned 18. A few years ago, during one of my trips to Scotland, I bought my first DSLR and my adventure with photography began. When I am not stuck to my computer editing photos, you can find me hiking somewhere in the mountains.

Did you have any issues taking your furry friend into any of the parks and reserves?

I would love to bring my little cattle dog along the ride with me 🙂

Hi Zac. No, Jasper my dog joinied the team recently when I came back to Europe. Look up the rules for certain areas directly on the Tasmania Parks site.

I’m headed to Tassy with my son (7yo) this July. Will the outdoor hikes be unbearably windy/intolerable? (We’re New Yorkers, so we can stand the cold:)). Just want to make sure this is still going to be a good trip for us during this time of year. (Thank you for providing so many details!!)

Hi Nicole. Thanks for visiting. I wish I could give you a straight answer but I can. July is the mid winter season in Tasmania. But winter in Tasmania is very different to winter in New York 🙂 It is very mild and it only snows in the high parts of the mountains. You won’t be able to hike in Cradle mountain much but you should be able to do coastal walks and waterfall walks etc.

Hi Marta! This blog post is so excellent and EXACTLY the kind of trip planning I’ve been searching for. I don’t have any questions, I just wanted to thank you for putting together such a thoughtful route with so many excellent options. I’m both a photographer and hiker, and cannot wait to plan a trip like this to Tasmania, hopefully soon!

Hi Hannah. Thanks so much for your lovely feedback. I hope you have an amazing time in Tasmania when you decide to visit!

Hi Marta, super blog and info thank you. How is mud Sept for being in a camper van? Family with 2 kids (11&13). Like our remote beautiful and unique places to stay but also like a bit of comfort too! 10 days in and out of Launceston. Much appreciated, Lorraine

Hi Lorraine. September is officially spring time in Tasmania, but it is early spring. You can expect some low temperatures at night still so getting a campervan with a heater to deal with the cold and condensation would be ideal. I hope that helps!

Hi Marta, just wondering if this itinerary is solo traveller friendly? thank you.

Hi April. Absolutely, but if you travel solo then you have to take some precautions, particularly if you plan on hiking. Always let someone know your plan, where you are heading and when do you plan on being back. Mountains can be treacherous any everyone should exercise caution when hiking.

Your itenary looks amazing! I will go to Tasmania with 2 friends in February.

Unfortunately we only have 5 full days in Tasmania. We fly to Hobart on Monday evening and fly from Launceston to Sydney on Sunday evening (so 6 nights). Which itenary would you recommend to us in which we will definitely do/see all the highlights of Tasmania? We love hiking. I would like to include Brunny Island, but perhaps as a day trip (without an overnight stay), but I don’t know where it is best planned. We would also like to visit Bay of Fires to relax on the beach for an afternoon/evening. Thank you very much in advance for all the tips! Greetings

Hi Joni. Thanks for visiting and for your lovely feedback. It would be best if you visit Bruny Island first. There are organized day trips with transfers from Hobart. I would then head to Tasman Park, and Cradle Mountain. So 1 night Bruny, 1 night Tasman, 2 nights in Freycinet (or 1 night Freycinet, 1 night Bay of Fires) then 2 nights Cradle Mountain. Cradle Mountain is not too far from Launceston so you can get back for your flight in no time. I hope that helps! 🙂

Hi Marta! I wanted to drop a comment and let you know how amazing your Tasmania itinerary appears! The mix of destinations and activities you’ve chosen showcases the stunning beauty of the region. I’m particularly intrigued by the diverse experiences you’ve included, from exploring Cradle Mountain to savoring local delicacies in Hobart.

I was wondering, though, how accessible would this trip be for someone who can’t go on hikes? It would be great to know if there are alternative options or recommendations for those who might have mobility limitations. Thanks for sharing your exciting plans!

Hi Mayur. Thanks for your great feedback. You will have no problem following this itinerary but you would have to redesign it a bit. Maybe cut some days out in Cradle Mountain in favour for Coles Bay or Hobart. But even Cradle Mountains is accessible to people with mobility issues as buses and cars can get all the way to Dove lake.

Awesome! very attractive photo and detail itinerary, appreciate it!

I plan to visit Tasmania March 2023! one question: about every location you mentioned, with hiking, is it a “round trip” that I can return to the starting point, that I left my car there?

Thanks in advance for your reply 🙂

Hi Vincent! Thanks for visiting and for your great feedback. Yes, all hikes take you back to where you started. They are either out and back the same way or they go in a circle. Let me know if I can help further!

Thank you for the info! It looks absolutely EPIC! Would you recommend this itinerary for the winter months ( July)?

Hi Kim! Thanks so much for stopping by. Winters in Tasmania are quite mild so yes, I would, however, you can skip the Lavender Fields as there won’t be any. You could spend a little bit more time around Hobart instead. I wouldn’t recommend travelling in a campervan during this time of the year, just hiring a regular compact car and staying in cozy hotels. Also expect snow in Cradle Mtn NP so some hikes won’t be accessible. I hope that helps! Let me know if you have more questions.

Thanks for all the info- how awesome. My husband and I were wanting to travel in April- would this be a good time to go to Tassy and to follow your blog? Thanks!

Hi Liv! Thanks for stopping by. April is a beautiful month to travel Tassie and especially for visiting the Cradle mountain NP, where the autumn foliage takes place. I would recommend however that you opt-in for hotel stays instead of travelling in a campervan, because the nights can be cold already. Let me know if I can help any further!

Hi Marta, this blog is brilliant and I will be basing our 16 night adventure on your recommendations for sure!! Just a question though, since COVID the prices for cars in Tasmania is more than 4 times the usual amount so I am trying to work out a way to reduce the number of days we need to hire a car. What would you suggest we can see/do without a car? ie The trip to Bruny Island? Time spent in Hobart? Thank you so much!

Hi Nicole! Thanks for stopping by. Sorry to hear about the rental prices. I would have thought it would be the other way around since noone is travelling at the moment they would try and attract as many people as possible, but then again I imagine local travel is doing just fine. tbh the only place I can think of are the two you have mentioned. After all you will be visiting many places which are far away from each other so you will need a car to get there. Sorry I can’t help any further, but I reckon a car is a very useful thing to have on a roadtrip in Tasmania.

Hi Marta, I was wondering how would the itinerary work if I started from Devonport if I was to come by the Sprit of Tasmania in my own car? Thank you!

Thank you for a detailed, informative post! I loved that you captioned the photos in your descriptions!

Your welcome! i am glad I could help!

Hi Marta, your itinerary sounds perfect. We would like to get to see The Southern lights, would you have any suggestions to help us out ourselves in the best position possible to see them. We plan to travel to Tasmania in August this year. Any hints would be greatly appreciated. We are thinking 12 days Thanks Carmel

Hi Carmel. Thanks for visiting. I am glad you like my itinerary. Now to your question, Southern lights are actually quite disappointing. You need to have a crazy storm to actually be able to see any colours with the naked eye, otherwise you only see faint lighter lights on the horizon. The photos of the Southern light that you see online are taken with long exposure. The camera can catch the colours. Very intense storms happen rarely. What I am trying to explain is that don’t get high expectations and if seeing aurora is your dream, then go to Northern Canada, Iceland, Lofoten Islands. Anywhere in the arctic circle. I hope that helps.

Hi Marta, great pics and places. I am the owner of the campground @ cape raoul that you gave a plug to. I know your intentions are well but I don’t want my place advertised online for the world to see. Please remove the plug. Andy

Hi Andy. Yes it was definitely put with the best intentions as we really enjoyed our stay there, but I understand and removed the info. You might now want to remove your comment too. Cheers, Marta

Love this blog! Thanks for sharing.

Planning to go to Tasmania at the end of May. Is it easy to drive to Cradle Mountain at this time of year? Will a small hire car be ok?

Hi Sarah. It can happen that it already snows at higher elevations, but the snow hardly ever stays down in the valleys. Plenty of locals drive small cars year-round there. You might have to look into renting a car that also comes with snow chains, in case you have to use them, but generally, you should be ok.

Hi Marta, Thx for the lovely blog. We have just booked our flights. We are 2 adults 2 kids (3yo + 10yo). We are flying in/out of Launceston. Dec 29 – Jan 9 so 12 days. What would be the best route to travel – Launceston to Cradle to Hobart and back up? Would a Campervan work for us and will it be easy to find places for it? We have never done a Campervan trip and would love to do it here. What would you suggest? We are coming from Sydney.Thx Robbie

Hi Robbie! Thanks for stopping by. If you look at the map I have made for this itinerary you will see that it is a loop and it goes through Launceston. It means you can do exactly the same loop, just instead of starting in Hobart as per my itinerary you start in Launceston. I would probably also do it clockwise in that case leaving Cradle Mountain for last (I think it’s the best part of itinerary and it will leave you something to look forward to). So Launceston -> Bay Of fires – Freycinet – Tasman NP – Hobart – Bruny Island (optionally) – Mt Field NP then Cradle Mtn and if You have time afterwards you could also add walls of Jerusalem NP. Let me know if that helps and if you have more questions!

Thx for the tip Marta. Yes Clockwise sounds better. Would you recommend we spend 1-2 days in Launceston (or surrounds) (my wife is adamant to relax here before the drive start)? Also, Campervan – Van type/Toyota hi-ace – is it ok for the drives or should i just car hire and book rooms along the route? Thx again..

Hi Robbie. It’s really up to you. I am not sure what kind of a traveller are you. More into camping and roughing it out or more into luxury. What I do know is that Toyota Hiace campervan might be very small for a family of four and small confined spaces can create tensions (speaking from experience here:) If you had 2 weeks of guaranteed beautiful weather when the campervan would only be used for driving and sleeping then it might be ok, but personally with two kids I would probably opt more for option nr 2. As for Launceston I didn’t find it very exciting. I am not sure where you are flying from. I presume from within Australia because of all the lockdowns so spending 2 days in Launceston might be a bit of an overkill. 1 night would be more than enough. Bay of fires isn’t too far of a drive from Launceston and I would much rather hang out there longer and rest than in Launceston.

Hi Marta, this blog is amazing! Thank you for giving so much detail, it is going to make our trip much easier and I am so excited now 🙂 My boyfriend and I are hoping to do this itinerary and I was wondering roughly how much we should estimate to spend if we did this based on the budget accommodation? Any rough estimate would be greatly appreciated! 🙂 Thanks in advance, Sophie x

Hi Sophie. Thanks so much for your awesome feedback. Your question is highly dependent on so many things, but most importantly the timing. If you go during the busiest time you can count on spending twice as much on accommodation as during the shoulder season. The most budget option would be to rent a campervan during the shoulder season and just stop at campsites every 2-3 days. My very rough estimate would be around 50 AUD/person/day excluding the rental but including gas, food (self cooking) and parks entries, but if you are a hardcore budget traveller you could even do it for cheaper. I hope that helps!

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The Perfect 2-Week Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

• Last Updated: January 12, 2024

Check out this perfect 2-week self drive Tasmania road trip itinerary to help you plan your epic adventure around Australia’s most beautiful state!

Tasmania, that bit of Australia that everyone knows exists but few seem to visit.

I first visited Australia in 2008 and sadly did not make it to Tasmania. Since then it’s been a place that has been on my bucket list.

Recently my wife and I finally made it down that far south to check out all the best places to visit in Tasmania .

This stunning island may just be Australia’s best-kept secret. Although I cannot imagine it staying that way for long.

Unlike the rest of Australia, Tasmania is small and compact.  The journeys are short, the roads are winding and the sea is cold. It’s perfect for a road trip.

The scenery is simply breathtaking. Of all the places I have been in Australia, this may just be my favourite state.

From the beauty of a national park to the natural beauty from nearly any side of the road views, a road trip through Tasmania is truly spectacular.

Table of Contents

Driving Comfort

Buying a national parks pass, eating and drinking in tasmania, day 1: hobart, day 2: port arthur, day 3: tasman peninsula, day 4: maria island, day 5: freycinet national park and wineglass bay, day 6: freycinet national park and bay of fires, day 7: bay of fires, day 8: tamar valley, day 9: cradle to coast tasting trail, day 10: boat harbour beach and cradle mountain, day 11: cradle mountain summit, day 12: cradle mountain, horse riding and onto the west coast, day 13: strahan and the western wilderness way, day 14: bruny island, what did we miss on our tasmania road trip itinerary, tips for a self drive tasmania road trip.

Below is our 2-week Tasmania itinerary that took us all the way around this beautiful island. Obviously some parts can be extended or chopped off as you wish.

However, we found this Tasmania itinerary gave us plenty of time to see the vast majority of what we wanted to see without being rushed.

Be warned though, Tasmania is not like mainland Australia.

It does rain, especially around Cradle Mountain. So even in the middle of summer, do not be surprised if you encounter a fair few showers during your road trip.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our new  travel to Australia  guide.

How to Get Around – Car vs Campervan

You cannot road trip Tasmania by public transport alone. To really enjoy and experience everything this incredible place has to offer you need your own set of wheels.

Luckily renting a car in Tasmania is cheap, we rented a car for $66 dollars a day, which included zero excess insurance.

The cheapest campervan we found was 3 times this amount. But if you love this style of travel, then this could be a good option. Check out Spaceships for affordable vans for rent.

We would recommend hiring a car for Tasmania for the following reasons:

The overall cost of renting a car is substantially cheaper. However, in effect, you need to work out if car rental + accommodation is going to be cheaper than camper-van + holiday parks.

From our pre-trip calculations, a car turned out to be our best bet.

We averaged $150 on car + accommodation on our trip, which was cheaper than the rental cost of a camper van.

Cars drink less fuel, period. We had a lovely Toyota Prius Hybrid which meant our fuel costs were minimal. This is a big plus on a Tasmania road trip, where fuel prices can be quite high.

I personally prefer driving cars to camper vans due to the manoeuvrability, ease of parking in cities and less stress driving on winding roads.

Of course, this is all up to you though. With an epic Tasmania itinerary, you’ll have an amazing time no matter how you choose to get around.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Buying a National Park Pass is a must for anyone planning to visit Tasmania’s National Parks .

It costs $89 AUD per vehicle and gives you unlimited entry to Tasmania’s National Parks for 2 months.

You can buy it at any National Park visitor centre. Just remember to display it on your dashboard or you will be fined.

It also saves $10 AUD on the ferry to Maria Island. The alternative is paying $24 AUD per 24 hours. So long as you visit national parks for a minimum 3 days then you’ve made your money back.

Like mainland Australia, eating out can be quite expensive at times. As a result, the vast majority of travellers will be cooking for themselves at numerous points on their travels.

Pick up a cheap cool bag to keep food fresh, as you cannot always guarantee a fridge (unless of course, you have a campervan).

We stayed in a mixture of holiday parks, AirBnBs, hotels and guesthouses on this Tasmania itinerary. We only had a couple of nights without a kitchen which helped us keep our spending down.

Click here to get $35 off of your first AirBnB booking!

That being said, Tasmania’s gourmet produce is both popular and delicious so don’t forget to indulge now and then, especially on the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail!

2-Week Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

Without further ado, let’s hit the road with my ultimate Tasmania road trip itinerary!

Fly into Hobart city centre and pick up your rental car.

After getting to our AirBnB and dumping our stuff head up Mount Wellington for stunning views over Hobart and the wider area, even as far as Bruny Island.

Then head to the Museum of Tasmania before spending the evening wandering around Battery Point and beautiful Salamanca.

From Hobart, it’s a short drive to Port Arthur on the east coast. This excellent historical site gives you the opportunity to understand more about Tasmania’s fascinating convict history.

You can book a guided tour or a ghost tour to learn more about the history and spookiness around the historic site. Also consider booking your entry ticket online in advance during peak season to save yourself some time.

Port Arthur is also home to Australia’s worst-ever massacre. While this is a pretty morbid topic, it’s important to pay homage to the victims at the Port Arthur Memorial Garden.

• Where We Stayed: Bluegum Guesthouse

On Day 3 of your Tasmania road trip, you are likely to first experience the island’s infamously temperamental weather.

Spend the morning exploring the convict coal mines located on the north west coast of the Tasman peninsula.

From there, head back to quirky little Doo Town for some gorgeous coastal scenery and excellent food from the fish and chip van next to the blowhole.

Close to Doo Town are some beautiful coastal viewpoints which a well worth exploring.

After crossing back across the Eagles Neck, check out the dog line museum before heading on towards the tessellated pavements. Here there is a lovely walk along the coast giving some wonderful views of the Tasman peninsula.

From here, head up to the tiny coastal town of Triabunna, in preparation for your journey to Maria Island.

• Where we stayed: Triabunna Holiday Park

Check out our full guide to the best things to do on the Tasman Peninsula !

Catch the ferry from the Tiabunna Visitor Centre at 10:30. You should aim to get to the ferry terminal around 30 minutes before departure.

Incidentally, you can also pick up you National Park Pass here and save yourself $10 AUD on the ferry ride.

The journey only takes around 30 minutes. And if the weather is looking good, you can stake out space at the front to sunbathe.

We only spent one day on Maria Island . If you want to stay the night there are campsites and cabins that can be booked.

READ MORE: Check out our brand new guide to the best things to do in Tasmania !

You are also able to rent mountain bikes, which can be arranged at the visitor centre in Triabunna and picked up in Darlington.

If you are only doing 1 day, a bike allows you to cover a decent amount of ground.

From Darlington, we headed for the painted cliffs which are leisurely 30-minute ride. We dumped our bikes and went to explore the amazing coastline.

We carried on further down the track stopping at various points along the way to explore the coastline and find a place to have our picnic.

It was here we encountered wombats, wallabies and pademelons.

We carried on further down the coast before heading back to snorkel around the painted cliffs.

The area from Darlington to just beyond the painted cliffs is a protected marine reserve. The snorkelling is pretty good, but the visibility isn’t great.

This wasn’t helped by the huge thunderstorm that hit not long after getting in.

As I was coming back in I got the fright of my life in the form of a 2-meter wide stingray coming out of nowhere.

Do be aware that the water here is cold too. I went in without a wet suit and was okay, but you will definitely have a more pleasant experience with one.

We spent the remaining couple of hours dropping the bikes off, spotting roos on the hills close the jetty and avoiding the rain.

After getting the last ferry back we drove up to Bicheno. Coles Bay is the other popular option for accommodation in the park. Coles Bay is closer to the attractions, but Bicheno is a bit bigger and has more going on.

We chose this as it was cheaper than anything else close to Freycinet and after camping in the rain in Triabunna a tent wasn’t on the agenda for Miranda.

• Book your accommodation for Bicheno ahead of time here .

We hopped in our car and headed for the Freycinet National Park for day 5 on our Tasmania road trip.

From Bicheno, it’s around a 30-minute drive. Probably more during dawn or dusk as the risk of wildlife jumping out increases dramatically in and around the national park.

We headed down to the visitor centre to check out some of the walks to come up with our plan of action. We ended up doing the Wineglass Beach Walk overlooking Wineglass Bay.

Understandably this is one of the most popular walks in Tasmania, so don’t be surprised if it’s busy. To avoid the crowds simply walk down to Wineglass Bay Beach from the lookout.

The vast majority of tourists head up to the Wineglass Bay Lookout and back down again. As a result, the beach is actually very quiet in comparison. This is a great spot to pull out that picnic basket.

Alternatively, if you have the time, consider this Wineglass Bay cruise from Coles Bay.

There are plenty of other great walks in the national park. The Hazards Beach walk, in particular, gets rave reviews, and you can’t really beat the Mount Amos hike at sunrise .

Don’t forget to display your Parks Pass if you are doing any longer than 2 days in Tasmania’s parks.

That evening it was back to our AirBnB in Bicheno and dinner at a Pasini’s, a great little restaurant on the edge of Bicheno.

Day 6 of the road trip, we spent the morning at Freycinet checking out Sleepy Bay and the beautiful friendly beaches. The latter giving the iconic windswept beach vibe that Tasmania is known for.

We grabbed something to eat in Bicheno and headed up towards the Bay of Fires. This drive is spectacular, a real highlight of any road trip around Tasmania. So have your camera ready and keep your eyes peeled for places to park.

Accommodation in the Bay of Fires area around St Helens in the summer can be eye-wateringly expensive. We actually stayed 30 minutes south of St Helens at Scamander Sanctuary Holiday Park in possibly the nicest tent I have ever seen.

After dumping our stuff we carried on up Tasmania’s other famous beach, Binalong Bay along the east coast. Head to the Northern section of Binalong Bay, by taking the C848, to avoid the crowds.

The water here actually wasn’t too cold, although it can get really windy, so a tent or windbreaker could be a lifesaver on the beach.

• Where we stayed: Scamander Sanctuary Holiday Park

The park has a fully equipped kitchen and fantastic glamping style tents. It’s awesome for a Tasmania road trip.

On Day 7 of your Tasmania road trip itinerary you’re in for a treat.

From Scamander towards St Helens and the Bay of Fires, the coastline is absolutely stunning and the chances are you will have it all to yourself.

Even in mid-January, one of the busiest times in Tasmania, we had whole beaches to ourselves.

Following this, we headed beyond Binalong Bay up to the Gardens for some beautiful coastal scenery and a bit of bouldering.

Once you get beyond one of Tasmania’s most famous beaches you have a plethora of beautiful places to stop and explore.

We headed as far as the road would take us hopped out of our car and went exploring. Half the fun of the Bay of Fires is exploring. Just park up somewhere that looks pretty and go for a wander.

Late afternoon we headed for little Launceston, Tasmania’s second city, for want of a better description.

We still had some picnic food so we took it down to the marina for dinner as the sunset.

This was definitely a highlight of our road trip along Tasmania’s east coast.

We took a slightly more relaxed pace in our road trip today taking in the gorgeous Tamar Valley.

We did plan on heading over the Bridestowe Lavender Farm. However, we ended up in Seahorse World and Platypus House at the northwestern end of the Tamar Valley.

This was a little pricey, but pretty interesting. The platypuses and echidnas are extremely adorable.

From Tamar Valley we headed back down towards to Cataract Gorge stopping in at the Exeter bakery for a curry rice pie (a must if you’re passing).

At Cataract Gorge, there is a lovely walk or you can do like most and hop straight in the lake.

This was one of our highlights during our two-week road trip in Tasmania.

Effectively this is a 150km trail that you drive and stop off at gourmet produce places and eateries on the route. If you are in any way a foodie, this is an absolute must.

Most of the eateries are between Deloraine and the wonderfully named town of Penguin. However, we carried on beyond Penguin to beautiful Stanley for our final stop on the trail.

After an amazing seafood dinner, we hiked up the Nut for some stunning sunset views. Whilst it’s not a long hike, the initial climb is extremely steep.

On day 10 of the road trip, we spent the morning at the beach and the afternoon in the mountains.

We spent the morning at the beautiful Boat Harbour Beach with golden sands, clear blue water and gorgeous coastal scenery!

From here it was a 1.5-hour drive down to one of Tasmania’s highlights; Cradle Mountain.

After checking into our hotel, we headed down to complete the Dove Lake hike. Here we found a gorgeous, easy hike that is perfect to do around sunset.

• Where we stayed : Cradle Mountain Hotel

The Cradle Mountain Hotel was above our budget. But the convenience and lack of more affordable accommodation close to the park made this a winner in our eyes.

Cradle Mountain- Lake St Clair National Park has some of the best hiking in Tasmania and is a must-see on a road trip. It is the beginning of the Overland Track, as well as being the stage for some phenomenal day walks.

Sadly we did not have enough time to do the Overland Track so I settled for the summit hike. (Although you can read all about the founders of this website’s experience of hiking the Overland Track by clicking here .)

Safe to say this is a tough hike and it absolutely should not be attempted in wet or snowy conditions since it will make the final rock scrambling and bouldering sections extremely dangerous.

This hike is an absolute must if you are heading to Cradle Mountain. And you can easily spend a few hours relaxing along Lake St Clair after the hike.

Don’t miss the NOMADasaurus guide to  hiking the Larapinta Trail , one of Australia’s other great walks.

We checked out some of the shorter walks that began around the experience centre in the morning.

Afterwards, we headed out with Cradle Country Adventures to go horse riding around their Belvoir Area track taking us up for a stunning view of Cradle Mountain.

From here we headed down towards the old mining town of Queenstown stopping in a Zeehan on the way.

Whilst it makes an interesting place to look around, Zeehan does have a slight “straight out of a horror film” kind of vibe, fascinating in an odd kind of way.

Queenstown is littered with relics and reminders of the mining boom. It was a great place to spend the night.

• Where we stayed : Empire Hotel

This excellent old hotel is a stark reminder of the gold era time of the west coast. The food here is great!

If you want a real adventure from Cradle Mountain and have a bit more time, head out to the Tarkine for this 2-day road trip extension!

On Day 13 of our road trip, we drove down the west coast to the quaint seaside village town of Strahan. If you head due west from here the next bit of land you would hit would be Argentina.

Along with Zeehan and Queenstown, Strahan also benefitted hugely from the gold rush times. Now it’s a much more sedate and laid back affair.

It’s a decent place to explore for a morning, but probably not worth much more time than that. From here it was a long drive down to Hobart.

The west coast is Tasmania at its most desolate. There is one road from Strahan to Hobart. At times, it almost seems like the outback but with more trees.

There are plenty of viewpoints, short hikes and sights on route to break up this long drive.

This gorgeous little island is only an hour or so away from Hobart. As a result, Bruny Island can get pretty busy at weekends or during the holidays.

It pays to show up half an hour early than you really need to as the queue to get on the boat can be pretty long.

We immediately headed for the Neck viewpoint, which since it is one of the best viewpoints can be pretty busy. However, the views are absolutely spectacular.

From here we headed down to grass point for a beautiful coastal and then spent to rest of the day beach hopping around the rest of the island.

A great idea is to go ahead and book this tour in advance so you get the best of Bruny Island in a 3-hour cruise. If you have more time, consider this highly-rated full-day tour .

Alternatively, if you missed it on Day 1 of your Tasmania road trip you could spend the day exploring Mount Wellington for some incredible views over Hobart.

Well in our 2 week Tasmania road trip we managed to see a huge amount of the island. But there were a few things we sadly did not get the opportunity to visit.

The list below were places that we planned on visiting on the road trip. However, unfortunately for us, time ran out.

• Haast Caves
• Mole Creek National Park
• Mt Field National Park

There are probably plenty of other amazing things that we missed on our road trip, but that just gives us a reason to return to this incredible island.

Hope you enjoyed my 2-week Tasmania road trip itinerary. If you did leave a comment below! Happy travels.

Richard Barnes

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Hey, I am from Israel and planning (with my wife) a trip to Tasmania, around February-March. First of all, thank you for your route, it is well described and provided a lot of information that I will certainly use in my planning. I read several posts, and what I’m missing, including yours, is a reference to watching (terrestrial) animals. I know Tasmania is one big nature reserve. Have you encountered any animals? Which? where? Are there any established sites to meet animals? Anything you recommend? Thanks for everything, Shmulik.

Tasmania is a great state to travel around. There are a few sanctuary around but do your research before you go. We highly recommend Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary just outside of Hobart. They are great.

You can have animal encounters sometimes when you are hiking and on Maria Island. Please keep your distance from the animals and never touch them. They are wild. Have a great time.

Wow! We are trying to plan a road trip around Tassie and had no idea where to start. You have given us so much wonderful information. I will be telling my friends about your site. So very thankful for the breakdown you provided. Thank you thank you thank you. Hugs and Blessings to you both.xx

Hi Wendy, how exciting you are going to Tasmania. We love this state so much. We spent 3 months exploring Tassie, so if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to reach out. We are happy to help. Happy planning. 🙂

I would suggest you missed a few things to do around Strahan. The wilderness in that location is absolutely incredible and there are some beautiful hikes to do, along with train and boat excursions. Apart from that critique, your itinerary and write-up was excellent. Thanks for posting.

This is on my bucket list as well, such a beautiful place. I’m wondering being from the states if I will be able to adjust to driving because I would rather drive myself around. Fantastic article thank you!!

Hi Heather, thank you so much. We totally understand about driving on the other side of the road. It is like that for us when we visit the USA or Canada. The rental companies understand this and some offer a lesson before hiring. Definitely get the insurance so you are covered incase anything happens. Your travel insurance may offer you car rental insurance so check with that first before taking out the rental car’s insurance. Our suggestion is to hire a small car. This will depend on what time of year you are going. In winter hire a larger vehicle as it may snow. In the summer, you should be fine with a smaller car. The roads are quiet in Tasmania compared to other places in Australia, like near Sydney, Melbourne and the Gold Coast.

A perfect Tas itinerary indeed! Beaches and national parks are the best for families with kids. Thanks for the self-drive tip as we also wouldn’t want a rushed trip. Keeping this post handy!

Agree. They are so beautiful there. We were blown away. Thank you. Glad the article was helpful

Tourism Tasmania owes you a beer! I wanted to take a two week holiday in October 2021 but wasn’t sure where Was contemplating scuba trip on Great Barrier Reef, Margaret River/Perth road trip, Darwin NT, and Tassie.

Read your article and within 6 hours booked Spirit of Tasmania for a two week stay in Tassie and started making some pre and post travel and accommodation plans!

haha thank you. We are stoked this article was helpful for you. There is so many awesome places to go in Australia. That is awesome we could help you decide. You are going to have such a great time in Tasmania. It is a beautiful state. When are you planning on going. If you have any questions don’t hesitate to reach out. There is so much to do in Tasmania. It is a little overwhelming (in the good way). Have a great trip.

Very helpful ideas. We are planning a trip to Tasmania to see and learn more about the convict sites. Not sure how they would fit into your itinerary but we will see.

We have budgeted $5000.00 to cover accom car hire food and drink etc for 14 day tour….hope this covers it all,we are happy for 4star accom and mix some cabin s in as well… I think a plan of Hobart one night,port Arthur one night,Coles bay one night,Bicheno one nightLaunceston 2 nights,(including drive to Campbell town and Ross and back one day),then one night Devonport (why don’t people seem to like Devonport as a stop?)then overnight Wyndham,one night cradle mountain,Strahan 2 nights ,then back to Hobart 3 nights.and do road trips down to Huonville,Bruny ,mt Wellington etc.

Interesting read. We did a similar itinerary but focus a bit more on hiking and camping. Tasmania is a great place for outdoor lovers!.

When in Strahan, one must take the trip on the cog railway and the spectacular Gordon River tour. You might give a warning about driving on the road into Queenstown from the south – it is treacherous.

Near Hobart is the Bonorong Wildlife Refuge. There is a nighttime tour I did not get to take that is supposed to be especially worthwhile. A good place doing good things.

Sorry if the names I gave aren’t exact – it’s been a few years. (I hope to go again soon!)

Thank you so much for the tips Ginny. Something to add to our list. 🙂

great pictures, I would love to go to one of these places, thank you for sharing this post.

Thank you for your comment Jasmine. Richard made us want to go too. We have never been either. Tasmania looks like an incredible place.

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The Ultimate Tasmanian Road Trip

Driving around Tasmania is the best way to see this island state in its entirety. In the last half a decade, Tasmania has found itself on top of everyone’s to-do list. Mainlanders have heard of its rugged beauty, farm-to-table produce and quirky arts scene that has put Tasmania on the map. So, what are you waiting for? Here is the ultimate guide to plan your Tasmanian road trip!

Planning your Tasmanian Road Trip

Before you make your way to Tasmania, it is important to know that the success of a Tassie road trip lies in the planning and preparation. As any local will tell you, it’s all about knowing where to go and when, given our major shifts in seasons to determine what kind of adventure you will be having.

Start by deciding where you will fly or cruise into. Hobart is the capital city in the South of the island where most travellers decide to begin their Tasmanian road trip. Another (and arguably better) entry point is in the North of the island, the second largest city named Launceston . Flights are plentiful from Melbourne and Sydney, with direct access to the Gold Coast and Brisbane, too. It is often cheaper to fly into Launceston, so be sure to research both options. A final choice could be to catch the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Melbourne, which docks at Devonport in the North.

Booking Accommodation

If you are visiting Tasmania in Spring or Summer, I would highly recommend you book your accommodation before you arrive. Summer is peak season in Tasmania and many accommodation offerings will be booked months in advance.

There are some great Airbnbs on offer in Tasmania ‘s biggest cities Hobart and Launceston, as well as some secret special stays off the beaten path. The best hotels are usually privately owned and operated, with a real focus on bringing the warm Tasmanian hospitality straight to you. Plus, many of the boutique properties support other local business owners so it is a great way to support this ecosystem of small business owners.

Arriving in Tasmania

The  Spirit of Tasmania  is the only way to transport your vehicle to the island.

The ferry leaves Melbourne at either 9am or 6pm and arrives in Devonport roughly 10 hours later. It is more enjoyable in the summertime when the seas aren’t as rough.

Fares start at $87 one way for your vehicle. Fares for people start at $60, however, a cabin for $180 is highly recommended if you are travelling overnight.

The more affordable way to travel to Tasmania is by flying. Jetstar, Qantas and Virgin have multiple flights a day to Launceston and Hobart out of all major Australian cities. From there you can rent a car for the duration of your trip. You can travel in a circular motion to return to your port of entry, or choose to fly into Hobart/Launceston and out of the alternative city.

This article will begin in Launceston as it is my hometown and preferred port of entry into Tasmania. It is the second-largest city on the island, located in the North.

Stay: The newly opened Stillwater Seven is your best choice for luxury and style. The small boutique hotel exists inside a renovated 1830’s flour mill and hosts not only accommodation but also impeccable food. It is widely regarded as the best restaurant in the city and when a room comes with breakfast, who could say no! The Red Feather Inn is a great choice for travellers seeking a quieter escape, in a countryside town just ten minutes drive from the airport.

Eat: Geronimo is the perfect choice for light bites and inventive cocktails in a cool, dark setting. You will find a gastronomically focused menu without the hefty price tag, making it a great choice for sharing a few dishes. Stillwater is hard to beat for a casual-refined dining experience and arguably the most inventive chef in the city. Their sister restaurant The Black Cow Bistro is unbeatable for meat lovers. Finish off your evenings at Charlie’s Dessert House , Launceston’s only late-night dessert restaurant offering a full sweets menu, patisserie and one of the best coffees in town.

Do: Bridestowe Lavender Farm has become one of the heroes of the Northeast region. Time your visit in January to see the fields in full bloom. The Tamar Valley wine region is where you will find ample vineyards to explore – offering a local drop and matching local cheeses to round out the experience. If you are arriving by boat, be sure to stop at Ashgrove Cheese en route to Launceston, as well as the Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm for an entire menu based on raspberries.

Bay of Fires

Launceston to Bay of Fires: 2 hours, 30 minutes

Stay: Over on the East Coast luxury getaways are plentiful. ArtHouse is a great option for an exclusive use retreat, perfect for the isolated escape. For the more adventurous traveller, there are ample camping spots to be found as well as a handful of B&B’s should you be looking for a middle-range escape.

Bay of Fires to Freycinet: 90 minutes

Stay: The luxurious Saffire Freycinet takes the cake for Tasmania’s most luxurious accommodation. This all-inclusive resort has long been the benchmark for luxury hotels on the island and continues to command $2,000 a night room rates. More affordable luxury is nearby at Freycinet Eco Lodge (starting at $300) with spectacular views and a restaurant on site.

Do: This area is renowned for its many hikes. The easiest and most popular is to Wineglass Bay. The lookout is where you’ll get an epic view from above but the extra effort to reach the beach down below pays dividends. Mount Amos is a wonderful three-hour hike if you can brave the early start. There’s no better place to capture a sunrise than the summit.

Freycinet to Hobart: 2 hours, 30 minutes

Not only is Hobart the capital city of Tasmania, but it is also the cultural capital. Home to many great art galleries, cafes, restaurants and boutique hotels, there is enough charm in this city to spend the bulk of your trip taking in all Hobart has to offer. You’ll need at least two nights here, but could easily spend up to four.

Stay: The beautiful Islington Hotel has long been a home away from home for me, so much so that I rarely stay anywhere else. There’s also the Henry Jones Art Hotel on the harbour, as well as the designer-friendly Salamanca Warf Hotel .

Eat: The Argentinian restaurant Frank is great for a long lunch or late dinner. Glass House is a hard concept to beat architecturally (the food is also great). Born in Brunswick is great for brunch and a casual lunch in trendy North Hobart. Out of town, drop into The Agrarian Kitchen for a hearty local meal.

Do: It wouldn’t be a trip to Tassie without visit the MONA museum , arguably what put Tasmania on the map. Salamanca Market is another must-visit if you time your visit on a weekend. For early risers, make your way up Mount Wellington for epic sunrise views (fear not lazy travellers, you can drive).

Huon Valley & Bruny Island

Hobart to Huon Valley: 45 minutes

Next on the agenda is one of Tasmania’s less talked about gems, but much loved by locals: The Huon Valley and Bruny Island . It won’t take you long to escape the city and arrive in rolling hills and cider country.

Stay: This is B&B country so be sure to shop around for what tickles your fancy. Book ahead to be sure you don’t miss out as this is one of the areas where accommodation is few and far between.

Eat: Willie Smith’s Apple Shed is a must stop. The cider is to die for and the setting is nothing short of a postcard. Lotus Eater’s Cafe is great for a light bite at lunch, with many vegan and gluten-free options and a casual outdoor setting.

Do: The Tarkine Forest Airwalk is a great way to immerse yourself with nature. Bruny Island is but a ferry trip away, offering another great escape just off the coast of Tasmania.

Cradle Mountain

Huon Valley to Cradle Mountain: 5 hours, 45 minutes

A trip to the Central Highlands is not for the faint-hearted or the time-sensitive traveller. Once you have arrived down South you have a few options. Firstly, you could fly out of Hobart and call it a day. Secondly, you could make a return trip to Launceston and check out the Midlands along the way (stopping at Ross , Oatlands and Campbell Town ). Finally, you could venture to the West Coast, stop at Strahan for a night, and venture onwards to Cradle Mountain .

Stay: Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge is the peak of accommodation offerings here in the middle of the island state. For the more adventurous traveller, the 5 day Overland Track offers epic views of the terrain and gives you an all-encompassing Tassie experience.

Eat: It’s no secret this part of Tasmania falls short on eating choices. The food offerings here are limited and nothing to write home about.

Do: The Overland Track is a trip to remember.

Still want more?

The 50 Best Places in Tasmania

The Best luxury hotels in Tasmania

Hiking the Overland Track in Tasmania

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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The best road trip in tasmania itinerary (2024 guide).

Are you looking for the ultimate road trip Tasmania itinerary?

The small Australian island is jam-packed full of enchanting waterfalls, mountains screaming out to be climbed and many of Australia’s best trails to explore.

You’ll probably feel a bit overwhelmed at all of the things to do in Tasmania at first; which is where this Tasmania road trip itinerary comes in!

This ultimate Tasmania itinerary accounts for the very best national parks, mountains, lakes and culture in the Australian state.

Whether you’re on a backpacking trip around Australia or visiting Tasmania with your family, there’s plenty for all sorts to enjoy in the Australian state.

How to prepare for this Tasmania road trip itinerary

This Tasmania itinerary begins in Devonport and loops around in a circle; this is presum ing you’ll be taking the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Melbourne with your own vehicle.

If you have your own car already, this is the most cost-effective option, despite the high ferry cost!

If you don’t have a car, fear not, lots of companies in Hobart offer great rental deals.

If you’re planning on flying into Tasmania , just begin this Tasmania itinerary in Hobart and follow the loop around from there!

This itinerary covers three weeks in Tasmania, but there aren’t many days off!

If you want to explore at a more leisurely pace, I’d recommend four weeks in Tasmania.

If you have less time, there are shorter itinerary options at the end.

These obviously do not cover Tasmania in as much detail, but they focus on smaller areas which enable you to see as much as possible in a shorter time.

Are you ready for the ultimate road trip in Tasmania itinerary?

Let’s go! First things first, book your overnight ferry from Melbourne to Devonport. We pick up this itinerary in Devonport the next day!

Suggested time – half a day

Arrive in Devonport bright and early!

There isn’t a huge amount to do in Devonport apart from some pretty beaches and a few cafes.

If you’re feeling energised and ready to take on Tasmania after some caffeine, move straight to stop 2…

Known as ‘ The Platypus Capital of the World ’, Latrobe is a popular place to spot the rare mammal.

Take part in a platypus tour, where you will be taken to the best spots to spot the animal, or just try and spot one in the wild yourself!

Spend a night between Latrobe and Sheffield.

Either find a camp spot using WikiCamps or search for hotels in Latrobe or Sheffield by clicking here .

Sheffield is a distinctly unique little town.

In a quaint  community spirit unlike anywhere else, the town is adorned with murals depicting its history.

Find out the story of all of the village’s local characters by going through its street art .

There are also quirky cafes aplenty and a really interesting antique shop to browse.

Liffey Falls

Your first nature stop on your Tasmania road trip itinerary!

Liffey Falls are gorgeous waterfalls up a gravel road.

A short walk from the car park to the falls ensures that they are very secluded , and the roaring water makes for a perfect picnic backdrop!

Also on site is a ‘big tree’ – spoiler – it’s huge.

Stay the night in Bridport, or at a campsite between Liffey Falls and Mount William. Check out hotels in Bridport by clicking here . 

You could also check out Launceston, the perfect place for a weekend away , en route.

If you’re after a day or two of relaxing and unwinding, this city is ideal for you!

Mount William

Drive Eastwards towards Mount William in the North Eastern corner of Tasmania.

Mount William is an easy 45-minute hike (one way) to a summit that offers amazing views of bushland and coastline.

And if you’re lucky, you might catch one of these cuties in the car park…

Bay of Fires

Suggested time – 1.5 days

Head South from Mount William to the Bay of Fires .

Named in this way because Western settlers saw fire coming from the beaches as they approached, the area is known for gorgeous sandy coves and azure waters.

Binalong Bay was my favourite little town in the area, with amazing tropical-feeling beaches and a small town community.

Things to do in the Bay of Fires

• Eddystone Point Lighthouse – this 37-meter high-lighthouse has saved many ships over its 130-year history. It offers scenic views and interesting architecture.
• Walk along the white sand beaches and swim in the clear waters
• The Gardens Conservation Area – a 20 km self-drive will take you past some of the areas most scenic spots of coastline
• See the Red Rocks – even though they look fiery, they’re not actually how the region got its name (it did so from Aboriginal people lighting fires along the coast). But the red rocks have become symbolic of the area and are a must-visit in the Bay of Fires.
• Halls Falls – Located 45 minutes west of Binalong Bay, Halls Falls is an easy but secluded hike through Eucalyptus trees.
• Grants Lagoon – This is situated just behind Binalong Bay and is somewhat sheltered from the elements – the lagoon water is often a few degrees warmer than the actual sea water.

Find a campsite on WikiCamps, or if you prefer solid walls, check out the best hotels in Binalong Bay by clicking here .

Freycinet National Park

Suggested time – 1-2 days

One of the islands’ most iconic photographs is that of Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park and it will be a highlight of your 3 weeks in Tasmania.

It’s a beautiful beach scene that looks – quite literally – like a wine glass, with beautiful blue seas on each shore.

Things to do in Freycinet National Park

• Mount Amos – This mountain offers a panoramic view of the surroundings and the bay itself. You can also hike to the beach of Wineglass Bay, where you can enjoy a dip in the cool waters as a reward!
• Cape Tourville Lighthouse – This is a 20-minute walk, and offers panoramic vistas of the national park at the end
• Honeymoon Bay Beach – it’s every bit as picturesque as it sounds, Honeymoon Bay Beach is perfectly tranquil and absolutely stunning
• Sleepy Bay – This fantastically named bay is a short 10-minute walk, taking you past some spectacular lookout points. Head down to the very end to see a beautiful view over the bay.
• The Hazards – viewable from outside the park, The Hazards are four granite mountains that change colour during sunrise and sunset – they’re every photographer’s dream.

Stay the night in a campsite near Freycinet National Park or in one of the hotels – click here to view them .

Tasman Peninsula

Suggested time – 1-3 days

Onwards to the Tasman Peninsula!

There are three capes you can traverse here. If you’re an avid hiker and have the time, you could do them all – if not, select the best one for you by using the details below.

Walks on the Tasman Peninsula

• Cape Pillar Hike – this two day long hike is very long – 30 kms in total, and the first day 22 kms must be covered as the only place to camp (unless you are with a tour) is 8 kms from the start/ finish point. The views at the end are spectacular – you’re right on the edge of the cape and can see for miles. However, if you don’t like long hikes, this may not be for you.
• Cape Raoul  – this 14 kilometre hike takes you through dense jungle and eventually peters out to oceanic views and sheer cliff. Great for those who like day hikes and speedy hikers, the edge of Cape Raoul will give you views to Hobart, Bruny Island and other spots of the Tasman Peninsula.
• Cape Hauy  – starting from Fortescue Bay, this 8 kilometre hike is ideal for those who like spectacular views without huge distances. With gorgeous ocean and land views from the start, this cape walk is a beautiful way to see the dramatic coastline of the Tasman Peninsula.

Other things to do on the Tasman Peninsula

• The Eaglehawk Tessellated Pavement – the sheer power of the sea has caused this rock surface to be eroded to form a resemblance to a mosaic – it’s a really unique natural attraction!
• The Tasman Arch – this arch is another wonderful natural phenomenon that’s well worth checking out
• The Tasman Blow Hole – At high tide, this blow hole can create a huge gush of water; don’t stand too close!

There are plenty of free and paid-for campsites around the Tasman Peninsula or hotels in the area. Click here to browse .

Port Arthur

Suggested time – 1 day

Located within the village of Port Arthur is one of Australia’s most significant historic sites. It tells the story of the convict settlers of the area and was also the site of the worst mass murder in Australian history. It’s an area steeped in history that’s vital for understanding  Australia’s convict past.

Things to do in Port Arthur

• The historical sites tell the story of Port Arthur as a convict site. Be sure to go on a historical tour with the informative guides.
• Port Arthur ghost tours tell some of the haunting tales of spooky happenings in the jail.
• The Totem Pole and Candlestick Walk is an 8.8-kilometre bush walk with the opportunity to climb up rock formations at the end.
• Check out the Maingon Bay lookout, which is one of the best oceanic views on the peninsula.
• If you’re visiting in November, December or January, check out the Port Arthur Lavender Farm for some amazing smells and great photo opportunities!

You’ll be able to stay in the same place as you did the night before or head to Hobart when you finish your day out and stay in a hotel or campsite there.

Suggested time – 2-4 days

It’s time to touch down in Tasmania’s capital!

Hobart is a hidden gem, a wonderful city bursting with culture and holding immense beauty. It’s an essential to visit, even if you only have 1 week in Tasmania.

The Best Things to do in Hobart

• The Docklands – on a sunny day these look wonderfully idyllic and inviting, with colourful boats and ramshackle coffee shops lining the edge.
• The Tasmania National Museum and Art Gallery  – this free entry museum contains a few interesting exhibitions – including a really informative one about bushfires – and a section about Aboriginal Tasmania which is well worth a look.
• MONA  – this museum may be what makes Hobart famous, and although it’s kind of pricey to get in, it’s a museum unlike no other, challenging you to really think about life and the world through art.
• Salamanca Place  – this charming area of Hobart is home to Georgian architecture housing galleries, restaurants and boutiques – perfect for an afternoon’s exploration. On Saturday mornings (8:30am- 3pm) the Salamanca Markets are hosted here, which sell local produce and hand made gifts.
• Derwent River Cruise  – this historic cruise will tell the tale of the city of Hobart and how it came to be.

Mount Wellington

You can’t visit Hobart without catching a sunset or sunrise at Mount Wellington.

One of my favourite bits of travel advice ever was “if you can see the top of Mount Wellington when you get to Hobart, stop whatever you’re doing and get the hell up there”. (Thanks David, a volunteer at the Devonport tourist information centre).

It will be a highlight on your entire road trip in Australia . Drive right up to the peak and be AMAZED at the view spreading out beneath you. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

If you’ve got a bit of time, try to catch sunrise as well!

Accommodation in Hobart

Even if you’re camping around Tasmania, Hobart is a great spot to recharge in some city-centre accommodation.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Hobart.

Budget: Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse is a hostel that will change your opinion of budget accommodation. Each dorm is intricately furnished, and there is a lovely common area and BBQ to enjoy as well as balconies with mountain views. If you don’t want to stay in a dorm room you can opt for a private bunkroom or queen bedroom. On-site is free parking, free luggage storage and free WiFi. Click here for rates and book today .

Mid-Range:  Riverfront Motel & Villas is perfect for families or those wanting outdoor-based accommodation without camping. Providing a mix of motel-style and villa accommodation, it is located close to MONA. Laundry facilities, a BBQ and a restaurant and bar are on site.  Click here for rates and to book today .

Luxury:  Ibis Styles Hobart is a great luxury spot within the city. On site is a swimming pool and a fitness centre and the rooms are decorated in a state-of-the-art style. It’s in a great location to Hobart centre and Salamanca Market. Click here for rates and to book today .

Bruny Island

Suggested time 1-2 days

Next up, hop on a boat from Hobart to Bruny Island.

Bruny Island offers coastal walks, scenic views and great food and wine. There’s nothing quite like the scenery of the island, and there’s an adventure here to suit everybody.

Things to do on Bruny Island

• Head to the gorgeous beaches of the island
• Visit the Bruny Island lighthouse, the second oldest lighthouse in Australia, for an amazing sunset view
• Sample some of the amazing foods and wines of the island by touring some of the farms and shops – the Bruny Island Berry Farm is a firm favourite, and there are lots of vineyards on the island selling amazing wines.
• Take one of the many walking trails on the island

Stay a night or two on Bruny Island. There are campsites on WikiCamps or click here to look here for accommodation . 

Mount Field

This national park, perfect for practising your travel photography , excels in waterfalls and tall trees – with a 2.5-hour loop walk taking you to the best of both!

Best Spots to Visit in Mount Field National Park

• Russell Falls
• Horseshoe Falls
• Lake Dobson for a scenic, quiet swim – and for downhill skiing in winter!
• Tall Trees Walk – a 30-minute circuit starring the world’s tallest flowering plant

There are plenty of accommodation options and campsites near the national park. Click here for hotels near Mount Field .

Lake St Clair

Beautiful Lake St Clair is the deepest lake in Australia.

There are many hikes you can do from the national park, and it’s also where the overland track, a 60-kilometre odyssey through wild Tasmania finishes.

The Best Hikes in Lake St Clair National Park

• Mount Rufus is an ever-changing hike with a beautiful peak, great views and varied terrain making the walk back really interesting!
• Shadow Lake is well worth a walk around
• Of course, relaxing by the lake and enjoying some of the shorter walks is also a great way to take in Lake St Clair

There are hotels around the national park that are great for a night’s stay – click here to view them . Alternatively, you could camp near the park. 

Heading to the West Coast, Strahan is a port town known as one of the country’s most beautiful seaside towns.

It’s a somewhat sleepy place, but there are a few things to do in Strahan that make visiting the West Coast town worthwhile.

Things to do in Strahan

• Take a boat trip to Sarah Island , which was once a convict prison and has lots of history.
• Artisan shops in the town
• Huge sand dunes (perfect for boarding!) along a rugged beach
• The Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park which Strahan serves as a gateway to. This is Tasmania’s greatest wilderness and is a fantastic place to hike in.

For hotels in Strahan, click here . 

Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain may be the highlight of your Tasmania road trip itinerary.

Its jagged peaks have certainly inspired many an explorer to the island, and heaps of people dream about scaling the mountain one day.

Things to do in Cradle Mountain National Park

•  If you’re a keen hiker or climber, the Cradle Mountain summit hike   should be number one on your list – it is without a doubt one of the best hikes in Tasmania . It wasn’t something I was planning on doing. But for some reason, on the day, I found myself on the top of that thing. It was the scariest experience of my life. I’m so glad I did it, but it’s really not for the faint-hearted (it was much scarier than Huashan, the supposed most dangerous mountain in China ). You have been warned!
• Marion’s Lookout Walk enables you to see Cradle Mountain and snap an iconic feature – without actually climbing up the thing. It’s a bit of a climb to reach this lookout, as you can also see some of the park from a birds-eye view.
• Dove Lake Circuit is an easy walk with a view of Cradle Mountain looming above. This is a great walk for those who don’t like hiking but do love nature.

If you’re camping, there are plenty of spots, both free and paid, around the National Park.

If you’re looking for a room, you could stay in Somerset .

Now it’s time for the North Coast!

Stanley is a gorgeous little seaside town where everything looks astonishingly perfect. It’s small and quiet, but it’s a wonderful place to explore to have a bit of contrast from all the hikes.

If you’re spending 2 weeks in Tasmania or longer, it’s a nice addition to your road trip itinerary.

Things to do in Stanley

• Climb up The Nut, an ancient volcanic crater.
• Treat yourself at one of the many ice creameries lining the quaint high street.
• If it’s warm, the beach is lovely, with calm, kind of warm waters and beautiful views. It’s one of my favourite swim spots in Australia!

Here are some more amazing things to do in Stanley .

Searching for somewhere to stay in Stanley? There are campsites near the town or check here for the best accommodation deals in Stanley itself .

 North Coast

Finish your Tasmania road trip by checking out some of the North Coast highlights. These can be encompassed in a Stanley – Devonport drive.

Best Parts of the North Coast

• The beautiful beaches of Boat Harbour Bay
• The town of Bernie
• Penguin , where if you’re lucky you might see fairy penguins darting on shore at dusk.

If you’ve got another night until your boat back to the mainland, find a campsite on WikiCamps or check out the best places to stay in Devonport .

Back to where you began! Get to Devonport in good time for your Spirit of Tasmania return to Melbourne this evening.

Shorter Tasmania Road Trip Itineraries

“This all sounds great… but I just don’t have the time!” I hear you cry.

Have no fear.

Here are some itineraries for 3 day, 5 day, 7 day, 10 day and 2 week trips to Tasmania.

You can still feel the Tassie magic, even with a shorter amount of time!

Tasmania Road Trip 3 Days

If you only have 3 days in Tasmania, you’ll have to focus on a specific area of the state. Here are my recommendations:

Option One – from Devonport or use alternative day 3 for from Hobart

• Day 1 : From Devonport, drive south to Cradle Mountain – or drive north from Hobart. Spend a day hiking in the national park.
• Day 2:  Explore Lake St Clair National Park.
• Day 3:  See Stanley and the Nut, as well as the north coast en route back to Devonport.
• Alternative Day 3:  Drive to Mount Field National Park. Spend the day exploring the park before heading back to Hobart.

Option Two – from Devonport or reverse for from Hobart

• Day 1:  Visit the Bay of Fires.
• Day 2:  Head to Freycient National Park and hike to one of the Wineglass Bay viewpoints. Then start driving south to Hobart
• Day 3:  Spend the morning looking around Hobart. Then head back to Devonport to catch the ferry.

Tasmania Road Trip 5 Days

• Day 1:  Head to Binalong Bay and the Bay of Fires. Spend the day exploring here.
• Day 2:  Spend the day in Freycient National Park
• Day 3: See the sights of Hobart
• Day 4:  Day trip to Bruny Island
• Day 5:  Visit Port Arthur
• Day 1:  Head to Cradle Mountain and spend the day in the National Park
• Day 2:  Head to Lake St Clair National Park and spend the day hiking
• Day 3:  See Hobart
• Day 4:  Visit Freycinet National Park
• Day 5:  Spend the day at the Bay of Fires

Tasmania Road Trip 7 Days

• Day 1:  Head to the Bay of Fires and spend the day exploring here
• Day 2:  Go to Freycinet National Park and see Wineglass Bay
• Day 3:  Visit the Tasman Peninsula and hike one of the capes OR visit Port Arthur
• Day 4: See Hobart
• Day 5:  Visit Mount Field National Park
• Day 6:  See Lake St Clair National Park
• Day 7:  Hike up Cradle Mountain!

Tasmania Road Trip 10 Days

• Day 1:  Go to the Bay of Fires
• Day 2:  Hike around Freycinet National Park
• Day 3:  Visit the Tasman Peninsula and hike one of the capes
• Day 4:  Visit Port Arthur
• Day 5:  See Hobart
• Day 6:  See Hobart
• Day 7:  See Mount Field National Park
• Day 8:  Head to Lake St Clair and hike up Mount Rufus
• Day 9:  Do some smaller hiking trails around Cradle Mountain National Park
• Day 10:  Hike up Cradle Mountain

2 Weeks in Tasmania

• Day 2:  Spend a day chilling around Binalong Bay
• Day 3: Hike around Freycinet National Park
• Day 4:  Spend another day in the park
• Day 5:  Visit the Tasman Peninsula and hike one of the capes
• Day 6:  Visit Port Arthur
• Day 7:  See Hobart
• Day 8:  See Hobart
• Day 9:  See Mount Field National Park
• Day 10:  Head to Lake St Clair and hike up Mount Rufus
• Day 11: See Strahan, go sandboarding and drive along the beach
• Day 12:  Do some smaller hiking trails around Cradle Mountain National Park
• Day 13:  Hike up Cradle Mountain
• Day 14: Head to Stanley and climb up The Nut

Have you ever been to Tasmania? What were your favourite bits if so? Is this Tasmania road trip itinerary useful? Let me know in the comments below!I hope you enjoyed this list of the best things to do in Tasmania! Please share it or follow me on Facebook ! 

2 thoughts on “ The best road trip in Tasmania itinerary (2024 guide) ”

I have great memories of Tasmania, I can’t understand why so many travellers miss it out. Sounds like you made the most of it though and saw plenty.

It’s a fantastic place it’s it! Definitely saw a lot, there’s still more to see though. I want to go back and do the Overland Track at some point 🙂

Comments are closed.

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In the first week we are looking at just hiring the one car as luggage won't be an issue. I'm tossing up between a Kia Carnival or something like a Toyota Prado.

Does anyone have any suggesions on which would be better on Tassie roads, in terms of handling, fuel costs, parking (size wise)? We're not planning any trips off-road, so a 4wd isn't necessarily needed.

I'm favouring the Carnival just because it would be easier for everyone to get in and out of, but was keen to get feedback if anyone has had experience.

3 replies to this topic

Depending on the size of the teens, I’m pretty sure they won’t want to be squashed upon the back of a prado.

A seven seater SUV is only suitable if you have 2 small kids for the back and even then it is a squash.

I would look at the Kia Carnival as a minimum with its 8 seats.

Don't forget you also need space for all the suitcases

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Self-drive Tasmania Itinerary (7 Days)

7-day tasmanian road trip itinerary, the 'tassie whirlwind' self-drive holiday.

This Tasmania self-drive 7-day itinerary is what I like to call the ‘Tassie Whirlwind’.

It’s fast. It’s furious. It’s jam-packed full of things to see and do, and you’re going to have the time of your life!

This page contains affiliate links. If you book or buy something through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). Read our full disclosure policy  here .

Self-drive Tasmania Itinerary (7 days)

Do you only have one week for your Tasmania itinerary?

Don’t listen to the nay-sayers… 7 days is all the time you need to get a taste of the Lap of Tasmania and have the road trip of your life!

At the same time, with 1 week in Tasmania it is important to realise that every minute counts.

Read More: Complete Guide to the ‘Spirit of Tasmania’ Ferry

Day 1 – Hobart to Strahan (via Mt Field)

Day 2 – Strahan to Cradle Mountain

Day 3 – Cradle Mountain to Launceston (via Stanley)

Day 4 – Launceston to Bay of Fires (via Tamar Valley)

Day 5 – Bay of Fires to Freycinet

Day 6 – Freycinet to Port Arthur

Day 7 – Port Arthur to Hobart (via Richmond)

<Bonus #1> East Coast Loop

<Bonus #2> West Coast Loop

Fair warning, one week is the absolute minimum amount of time I recommend for a full  Lap of Tasmania .

It’s a small island, but it is also jam-packed full of things to see and do.

This Tasmania self-drive 7-day itinerary takes you to Tassie’s Big 12  iconic natural wonders and historic sites, while also giving you the chance to taste the amazing food you’ll find around every corner.

Do you like to live life in the fast lane? Do you try to pack as much as possible into your holiday? Do you find the drive just as enjoyable as the destination?

If you answered ‘yes’, then this exciting ‘Tassie Whirlwind’ is the itinerary you’ve been looking for, showing you the best bits of Tasmania in 7 days!

ps. If this sounds a bit too quick for you, then please have a look at my  Tasmania Itinerary (10 Days) , or  Tasmania Itinerary (14 Days)  for a more relaxed self-drive road trip.

 2x Bonus 7-day Self-Drive Loop Itineraries

I also provide two bonus 7-day itinerary options – the East Coast Loop  and West Coast Loop . 

With less driving , and more time at each destination these itineraries are a fantastic alternative to the full Lap of Tasmania – and they give you the perfect reason to return to Tasmania for another road trip!

Click here to find out more

Day 1: Hobart to Strahan (via Mt Field)

• Explore New Norfolk – St Matthews church, Bush Inn and Drill Hall Emporium
• Salmon Ponds
• Russell Falls (Mt Field)
• Wall in the Wilderness – OR – Lake St Clair
• Drive the ’99 Bends’ between Derwent Bridge and Queenstown
• Franklin River Nature Trail – OR – Nelson Falls Nature trail
• Iron Blow Lookout (Queenstown)
• Budget – Strahan Village (Strahan)
• Bed and Breakfast – Harrison House B&B (Strahan)
• Luxe – Wheelhouse Apartments (Strahan)
• Camping – Big4 Strahan Holiday Retreat (Strahan)

🥂 Special Offer - Strahan B&B

Book the ‘Bed, Breakfast & Boat’ package with Harrison House B&B, and when you mention the Lap of Tasmania you will also receive your choice of either:

Valid for direct bookings only.

Strahan is a small town with limited late night dining options – especially on a Sunday.

View 42 (all week), Hamers Bar & Bistro (all week), and Risby Cove  (Wed-Sun) are your three best options, but make sure you arrive before 8:30pm. Regatta Point Tavern is also a good option, however they are only open from 6-8pm for dinner (all week).

For other venues around town try to arrive before 6:30pm.

Day 2: Strahan to Cradle Mountain

• Gordon River Cruise  ( Promo Code : LAPOFTAS for 10% OFF ) – OR – ‘ River and Rainforest’ Wilderness Railway Tour
• Zeehan – Spray Tunnel (if time allows)
• Vale of Belvoir Lookout
• Cradle Mountain Village – Explore short walks around the interpretation centre
• ‘After Dark’ Tassie Devil feeding tour
• Best of the Best – Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village –  Promo Code:  LAPOFTAS for 10% OFF
• Camping – Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain –  Promo Code:  TASBINGO  for  25% OFF
• Budget  – Cradle Mountain Highlanders  
• Luxe – Cradle Mountain Lodge

Read More: Cradle Mountain Accommodation – 6 Amazing Places to Stay

Day 3: Cradle Mountain to Launceston (via Stanley and Sheffield)

• Dove Lake loop walk
• Hellyer Gorge scenic drive
• The ‘Nut’ – Chairlift to the top of the ‘Nut and explore
• Coastal drive through Burnie, Penguin and Devonport
• Anvers Chocolates (Latrobe)
• See the murals at Sheffield (if time permits)
• Ashgrove Cheese – OR – Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm – OR – Van Diemens Land Creamery
• Hagley – Hazelbrae Hazelnuts (enjoy a picnic in the beautiful orchard!)
• Drive through the historic towns of Deloraine, Westbury and Hadspen
• Camping – Discovery Parks Hadspen –  Promo Code:  TASBINGO  for  25% OFF
• Budget – Leisure Inn Penny Royal Apartments   (Launceston)
• Mid-Range – Kurrajong House  (Launceston)
• Modern – Hotel Verge (Launceston)
• Indulgence – Peppers Silo (Launceston)

Read More : Best Places to Stay in Launceston

Optional alternative

Day 3 is a big day. By staying in Sheffield or Devonport (instead of Launceston) you can have a bit more time in either Cradle Mountain or Stanley. 

The only downside is that Day 4 will be a little bit longer, and you won’t stop in Launceston – pushing through to Bay of Fires instead.

Day 4: Launceston to Bay of Fires (via the Tamar Valley)

• Launceston – Cataract Gorge
• Tamar Valley Wineries (after 11am) – Moores Hill, Small Wonder
• Bridestowe Lavender Farm (allow an extra 40mins drive time)
• ‘Tin Dragon’ – See the historic towns of Branxholm, Derby and Weldborough
• Pyengana – Pyengana Dairy Farm Gate Cafe, St Columba Falls, Pub in the Paddock
• Mountain bikers will want at least half a day to ride the world-class trails of ‘Blue Derby’
• Camping – Big4 St Helens Holiday Park (St Helens)
• Budget – Queechy Motel   (St Helens)
• Relaxing B&B – Beaumaris Beach Guest House (Beaumaris Beach)
• Indulgence – Sea Eagle Cottage (Binalong Bay)

🎉 Special Offer!

Use my LAPOFTAS code when booking your beach escape at Beaumaris Beach Guest House and receive 5% OFF all room rates !

Valid for direct bookings only, and not available in combination with other offers.

Day 5: Bay of Fires to Coles Bay (Freycinet)

• Explore the Bay of Fires beaches, dunes and coves north of Binalong Bay
• Four Mile Creek – Tastings at Ironhouse Brewery -OR – Apsley River Waterhole
• Bicheno – The Bicheno blowhole
• Freycinet Marine Farm
• Friendly Beaches
• Cape Tourville Lighthouse
• Camping – Big4 Iluka on Freycinet (Coles Bay)
• Great Value B&B – Freycinet Waters B&B   (Swansea – 40mins from Coles Bay)
• Indulgence – Freycinet Lodge  (Coles Bay)
• Ultimate Luxury – Picnic Island (Coles Bay)

🌞 Special Offer - Freycinet Waters B&B

Mention the Lap of Tasmania when booking your cosy seaside retreat at Freycinet Waters B&B and receive:

Day 6: Coles Bay (Freycinet) to Port Arthur

• Walk to Wineglass Bay Lookout
• East Coast Wineries – Devil’s Corner, Spring Vale and Milton vineyards
• Swansea – Spiky Bridge
• Pirate’s Bay Lookout
• Tessellated Pavement – OR – Officer’s Quarters Museum (Eaglehawk Neck)
• Tasman Arch / Devil’s Kitchen / Remarkable Cave
• Port Arthur Ghost Tour
• Camping – NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park   (Port Arthur)
• Budget – Port Arthur Villas (Port Arthur)
• Relaxing B&B – Storm Bay B&B (White Beach – 10mins from Port Arthur)
• Indulgence – Stewarts Bay Lodge (Port Arthur)

🌞 Special Offer - Storm Bay B&B

Use my LAPOFTAS code online, or mention the Lap of Tasmania when booking your relaxing escape at  Storm Bay B&B on the beautiful Tasman Peninsula and receive:

• 10% OFF stays of 2-nights or longer

Valid for direct bookings only. Some blockout dates may apply. Not applicable to tours booked through Storm Bay B&B.

 🌞  Day Trip to Maria Island

For something truly special, if you have an extra day available why not consider a day trip to Maria Island?

This island is pure magic, getting you close to nature without the crowds. Wombats are everywhere, the walks are stunning, and there is plenty of history as well.

You will need to allow a full day, as you can’t drive onto the island. 

If you are keen for DIY day trip, the ferry takes 30 minutes each way from Triabunna Wharf. Don’t forget to take a packed lunch as well, as there are no shops on the island.

Alternatively, let the wonderful crew at Maria Island Cruises take care of you as you enjoy a cruise/walk combo. Both of their tours provide the opportunity to spend time on the island exploring by foot, but you also get the choice of either a full circumnavigation of the island, or a cruise to the stunning Ile des Phoques. Use my LAPOFTAS code and receive 10% OFF your cruise!

Click here to check prices and make your booking

Day 7: Port Arthur to Hobart (via Richmond)

• Port Arthur Historic Site
• Richmond Village – See St John’s Church, Richmond Bridge, historic Main Street, Richmond Gaol, and the Richmond Wine Wall
• Wicked Cheese
• Pooley Wines – OR – Coal River Farm
• Camping – Discovery Parks Hobart –  Promo Code:  TASBINGO  for  25% OFF
• Couples B&B (south side) –  Waterview Gardens B&B  (Margate)
• Couples B&B (east side) –  Oceana B&B  (Howrah)
• Budget (Families) – Bay Hotel Apartments   (Hobart)
• Budget (Couples) – Alabama Hotel  (Hobart)
• Budget (Historic) – Edinburgh Gallery (Hobart)
• Mid-Range – RACV/RACT Hotel Apartments (Hobart)
• Indulgence – MACq 01 (Hobart)
• Ultimate Luxury – MONA Pavilions (Hobart)

Read More : Best Places to Stay in Hobart

🌞 Special Offer - Waterview Gardens B&B

Mention the  Lap of Tasmania  when booking your delightful Hobart getaway at  Waterview Gardens B&B  and receive:

• 10% OFF  your booking; and
• FREE bottle of bubbles 🍾 – OR –  cheese platter 🧀 upon arrival!

(Bonus) Tasmania Self-Drive 7-Day Itineraries

If you’ve only got one week in Tasmania and you don’t want your road trip to feel rushed, then you’ll love these two little loop itineraries.

Less driving. More sight-seeing!

East Coast Loop | Tasmania Itinerary (7 days)

This 7-day itinerary takes you along Tasmania’s beautiful East Coast, up to Launceston and then back down through Tasmania’s midlands and the historic towns of Campbell Town, Ross and Oatlands.

As with all my itineraries, you can drive it either clockwise or anti-clockwise and you also have the freedom of starting in either Hobart, Launceston or Devonport (with an additional 1hr).

Day 1: Hobart to Port Arthur

• See : Richmond Village | Eaglehawk Neck | Tessellated Pavement | Tasman Arch
• Eat : Coal Valley Farm | Wicked Cheese | Bangor Vineyard Shed | Port Arthur Lavender Farm
• Stay : Storm Bay B&B

Day 2: Port Arthur to Freycinet

• See : Port Arthur Historic Site | Spiky Bridge | Cape Tourville Lighthouse
• Eat : East Coast Wineries | Freycinet Marine Farm | The Bay Restaurant
• Stay : Freycinet Lodge – OR – Freycinet Waters B&B

Day 3: Freycinet

• See : Wineglass Bay Cruise |   Freycinet/Maria Island Scenic Flight
• Eat : The Edge Restaurant | Geographe Cafe

Day 4: Freycinet to Bay of Fires

• See : Friendly Beaches | Bicheno Blowhole | Apsley River Waterhole | St Helens
• Eat : Lobster Shack | Tastings at Ironhouse Brewery | Life Buoy Cafe
• Stay : Beaumaris Beach Guest House – OR – Bay of Fires Eco-Hut

Day 5: Bay of Fires

• See : Bay of Fires Eco Tour | Explore Bay of Fires beaches
• Eat : Lease 65 Oysters | The Wharf Bar and Kitchen (St Helens) | Parkside Bar and Kitchen (St Helens)
• Stay :  Beaumaris Beach Guest House – OR – Bay of Fires Eco-Hut

Day 6: Bay of Fires to Launceston

• See : Pyengana Dairy Farm | Bridestowe Lavender Farm | Tamar Valley Wineries | Cataract Gorge
• Eat : Pyengana Farm Gate Cafe | Piper’s Brook Vineyard Cafe | Stelo at Pierres
• Stay : Change Overnight

Day 7: Launceston to Hobart

• See : Josef Chromy Wines | Woolmers Estate | Brickendon Estate | Ross Female Factory | Callington Mill
• Eat : Stillwater | Ross Village Bakery | Feisty Hen Pantry | Imbibers | Shene Estate and Distillery
• Stay : MACq 01 Hotel – OR – Prospect House Private Hotel

West Coast Loop | Tasmania Itinerary (7 days)

Day 1: hobart to strahan or queenstown.

• See : New Norfolk | Russell Falls | Wall in the Wilderness | Lake St Clair | Queenstown
• Eat :  Agrarian Kitchen | Salmon Ponds | Waterfalls Cafe | Tracks Cafe | View 42 | Empire Hotel
• Stay : Harrison House B&B (Strahan) – OR – Penghana B&B (Queenstown)

Day 2: Strahan or Queenstown

• See : Macquarie Harbour Cruise | The Ship That Never Was | Ocean Beach | Henty Dunes
• Eat :  Risby Cove | View 42 | Empire Hotel
• Stay :  Harrison House B&B (Strahan) – OR – Penghana B&B (Queenstown)

Day 3: Strahan/Queenstown to Cradle Mountain

• See : West Coast Wilderness Railway | Zeehan Spray Tunnel | Cradle Mountain short walks
• Eat : Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge (Tavern Bar and Bistro – OR – Highland Restaurant)
• Stay : Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village   (Cradle Mountain)

Day 4: Cradle Mountain

• See : Dove Lake loop walk | Cradle Canyons Tour |  Wilderness Gallery | Waldheim Alpine Spa
• Eat : Picnic hamper | Wine and cheese tasting | Altitude Restaurant

Day 5: Cradle Mountain to Stanley

• See : Hellyer Gorge | Table Cape | Boat Harbour Beach | Highfield House | The ‘Nut’
• Eat : Touchwood | Stanley Hotel and Bistro 
• Stay : The Ark Stanley B&B (Stanley)

Day 6: Stanley to Launceston (via Devonport and Sheffield)

• See : Coastal drive | Sheffield murals | Mole Creek caves | Deloraine
• Eat : Hellyers Distillery | Anvers Chocolates | Blacksmith Cafe | Ashgrove Cheese | Christmas Hills | Van Diemens Land Creamery | Hazelbrae
• Stay : MACq 01 Hotel

Plan your Tasmania road trip

I hope you have found my 7-day Tasmania road trip itinerary useful in planning your holiday!

To put it all together just takes 5 simple steps…

• Learn more about the Lap of Tasmania,  the best time to visit and places to see
• Plan your road trip itinerary (right here!)
• Book your flight or ferry to Tasmania
• Book your hire car or campervan
• Book your accommodation

Happy travels, Andrew.

ps. If this is your first time visiting Tasmania, or you are a bit nervous about planning your road trip, then you will love my eBook – “ How to Plan Your Tasmania Road Trip “. It  takes you through the whole process in easy-to-follow steps and also includes a free Holiday Planner that you can use for Tasmania and any other holiday you take in the future!

Travel planning resources

Tasmania’s remote location means there are internet ‘black spots’ across the island. 

A hard copy travel guide or map is the perfect backup, and I love the range from Lonely Planet.

Guide to Tasmania

Map of tasmania, road trip guide.

Andrew Strikis

We acknowledge and pay respect to the Tasmanian Aboriginal Community as the traditional owners  and continuing custodians  of  this island lutruwita (Tasmania).

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