We have spent some wonderful holidays in Tasmania over the years, as a family with small children, and later on as a couple with a few dollars in our pocket! We love the State and believe that you will too. Oh, it can get a bit wet and chilly on occasions, so be prepared to rug-up! Warning. With so many possible distractions along the way you will get diverted! ED: Kevin Parker
A trip to Tasmania offers the traveler a truly diverse range of experiences, from pristine beaches to rugged mountain landscapes, and charming historical towns to gourmet food and wine regions. This guide will help you plan an unforgettable 10-day road trip around this beautiful island. There are plenty of accommodation choices from deluxe to camping although plain ahead in high season.
There are a couple of different versions of the trip in the videos below, including a two-week trip, so see what works for you.
Day 1: Hobart
- Morning: Arrive in Hobart and check into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Begin your exploration at the historic Salamanca Place, home to Georgian sandstone warehouses that now house galleries, theaters, and cafes. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, the renowned Salamanca Market is a must-visit, showcasing over 300 stalls of handmade Tasmanian products.
- Evening: End your day with a visit to MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), the largest privately-funded museum in the Southern Hemisphere. The avant-garde and often controversial artworks are bound to be a conversation starter.
Day 2: Port Arthur
- Morning: Make your way to Port Arthur, roughly a 1.5-hour drive from Hobart. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the history of this former convict settlement.
- Afternoon: Opt for a guided tour of the Port Arthur Historic Site, delving into stories of Australia’s convict past. Then, take in the coastal beauty with short walks or a boat tour in Tasman National Park.
- Evening: Head back to your accommodation, perhaps choosing a historic inn or a boutique hotel for an authentic experience.
Day 3: Freycinet National Park
- Morning: Drive to the Freycinet Peninsula, a journey of about 2.5 hours from Port Arthur.
- Afternoon: Once there, lace up your hiking shoes for the trail to Wineglass Bay lookout. It’s one of Tasmania’s most photographed views and for a good reason.
- Evening: Relax on the pristine beaches of the National Park, perhaps even having a beachside barbecue or picnic under the stars.
Day 4: Launceston
- Morning: Begin the 2-hour drive to Launceston, taking in the rolling countryside views en route.
- Afternoon: Discover Cataract Gorge, an urban oasis with walking trails, gardens, and the world’s longest single-span chairlift.
- Evening: Sample Launceston’s culinary delights, focusing on local produce and wines.
Day 5: Cradle Mountain
- Morning: The drive to Cradle Mountain takes roughly 2.5 hours. Check into your lodge or cabin upon arrival.
- Afternoon: Explore the iconic Dove Lake Circuit, offering unparalleled views of Cradle Mountain itself.
- Evening: Engage in a nocturnal wildlife tour, potentially spotting Tasmanian devils in the wild.
Day 6: Stanley
- Morning: Drive to the historic town of Stanley, about a 2-hour drive from Cradle Mountain.
- Afternoon: Conquer The Nut, a sheer-sided bluff, either by walking or via chairlift.
- Evening: Savour fresh seafood, especially Stanley’s famed lobsters.
Day 7: Strahan
- Morning: Make the 3-hour drive to Strahan, weaving through Tasmania’s wild west coast.
- Afternoon: Hop onto a Gordon River Cruise, offering insights into the area’s natural history and convict past.
- Evening: Experience the thrilling art of sandboarding at Henty Dunes.
Day 8: Bay of Fires
- Morning: Drive to the Bay of Fires, approximately a 3-hour journey from Strahan.
- Afternoon: Revel in the unique juxtaposition of fiery orange rocks against the azure sea. The lichen-covered granite boulders are a sight to behold.
- Evening: Set up camp or check into a luxury lodge, letting the sound of waves lull you to sleep.
Day 9: Tamar Valley Wine Route & Return to Hobart
- Morning: Begin your journey south, heading towards the Tamar Valley, known for its excellent wines and stunning river views. This route will allow you to explore the renowned wine-producing region of Tasmania.
- Afternoon: Stop at various wineries along the Tamar Valley Wine Route. Sample some of Tasmania’s finest Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays, and Sparkling wines. Perhaps visit vineyards like Josef Chromy, Tamar Ridge, or Pipers Brook.
- Evening: Continue your journey to Hobart, which will take around 2.5 hours from Launceston. Settle into your accommodation in Hobart and perhaps enjoy a dinner featuring some of the wines you’ve sampled during the day.
- Remember to always designate a sober driver when touring wine routes or alternatively, consider joining an organized wine tour where transportation is provided.
Day 10: Hobart
- Morning: Explore any sites in Hobart that you might have missed during your initial visit.
- Afternoon: Perhaps indulge in some last-minute shopping in Hobart’s unique boutiques or visit a local art gallery.
- Evening: Choose a gourmet restaurant to round off your Tasmanian adventure, reflecting on the memories made over a delightful meal.
Safe travels and enjoy the beauty of Tasmania!
