Driving around Tasmania is the best way to see the entire island state. Over the past five years, Tasmania has found itself at the top of everyone’s bucket list. If you’re a mainlander, you’ve probably heard about Tasmania’s rugged beauty, farm-to-table produce and quirky arts scene that made it famous around the world. So what are you waiting for? Here’s the ultimate guide to planning your Tasmanian road trip.
Plan your Tasmania road trip
Before you head to Tasmania, it’s important to know that a successful Tassie road trip depends on planning and preparation. As any local will tell you, given the big seasonal changes, any adventure is all about knowing where and when to go.
Start by deciding where to fly or cruise. hobart It is the capital of the southern part of the island and is where most travelers begin their Tasmanian road trip. Another (and perhaps better) entry point is the second largest city in the northern part of the island. launceston. There are also plenty of flights from Melbourne and Sydney, with direct access to the Gold Coast and Brisbane. It’s often cheaper to fly to Launceston, so be sure to look into both options. A final option is to take the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Melbourne. devonport In the north.
Accommodation reservation
If you are visiting Tasmania in spring or summer, we strongly recommend that you book your accommodation in advance of your arrival. Summer is peak season in Tasmania and many accommodations are booked months in advance.
There are some Amazing Airbnbs on offer in TasmaniaIts largest cities are Hobart and Launceston, and secret special stay Off the beaten path. The best hotels are usually privately owned and operated and focus on delivering warm Tasmanian hospitality directly to you. Additionally, many boutique hotels support other local business owners, so it’s a great way to support this ecosystem of small business owners.
Arrival in Tasmania
boat
of Spirit of Tasmania This is the only way to get your car to the island.
Ferries leave Melbourne at 9am or 6pm and arrive in Devonport approximately 10 hours later. It is more enjoyable in the summer when the sea is not rough.
Vehicle fares start at $87 one-way. Prices start at $60 for the general public, but we highly recommend the $180 cabins for overnight trips.
plane
A more affordable way to travel to Tasmania is by plane. Jetstar, Qantas and Virgin Airlines operate multiple daily flights to Launceston and Hobart from major Australian cities. From there you can rent a car for the duration of your trip. You can travel in a circle and return to your port of entry, or you can fly into Hobart/Launceston and exit from another city.
launceston
This article begins in Launceston. Because Launceston is my home town and a priority port of entry into Tasmania. It is located in the northern part of the island and is the second largest city on the island.
Stay: The newly opened stillwater seven It is your best choice for those seeking luxury and style. This small boutique hotel is housed in a converted 1830s flour mill and offers not only accommodation but also impeccable cuisine. Widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in the city, who wouldn’t say no if breakfast was included in their room? The Red Feather Inn Located in a rural town just 10 minutes’ drive from the airport, it’s perfect for travelers looking for a quiet getaway.
Eat: Geronimo The cool, dark atmosphere is perfect for enjoying light snacks and creative cocktails. With a menu focused on gastronomy without the hefty price tags, it’s perfect for sharing a few dishes. Still water Offering a casual and sophisticated dining experience, this restaurant is arguably the city’s most inventive chef. Sister store The Black Cow Bistro It’s unbeatable for meat lovers. The end of the night Charlie’s Desert HouseLaunceston’s only late-night dessert restaurant, offering a full sweets menu, patisserie and some of the best coffee in town.
do: Bridestowe Lavender Farm He became one of the heroes of the Tohoku region. Visit in January to see the fields in full bloom. of Tamar Valley wine region There are plenty of vineyards to explore here. Round out the experience with locally sourced ingredients and matching local cheeses. If you are coming by boat, be sure to stop by. ash grove cheese On the way to Launceston Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm The entire menu is raspberry based.
Bay of Fires
Launceston to Bay of Fires: 2 hours 30 minutes
Stay: Luxury vacations abound on the East Coast. art house A great option for a private retreat, perfect for an isolated getaway. For the adventurous traveler, there are plenty of campsites, as well as several B&Bs if you’re looking for a mid-range vacation.
Freycinet
Bay of Fires to Freycinet: 90 minutes
Stay: luxurious Sapphire Freycinet Receive a cake from Tasmania’s most luxurious accommodation. This all-inclusive resort has long been the benchmark for luxury hotels on the island, and continues to have nightly rates of $2,000. More affordable luxuries near you Freycinet Eco Lodge (From $300) Enjoy stunning views and an on-site restaurant.
do: This area is famous for its hiking. The easiest and most popular is Wineglass Bay. The observation deck offers spectacular views from above, but the extra effort to reach the beach below is more rewarding. If you’re brave enough to start early, Mount Amos is a great 3-hour hike. There is no better place to capture the sunrise than at the top.
hobart
Freycinet to Hobart: 2 hours 30 minutes
Hobart is not only Tasmania’s capital but also its cultural centre. Home to many great art galleries, cafes, restaurants, and boutique hotels, this city has enough to offer you that you could spend the majority of your trip seeing all that Hobart has to offer. You’ll need at least two nights here, but you can easily do up to four.
Stay: beautiful Islington Hotel This has been my second home for a long time and I rarely stay anywhere else. There is also. Henry Jones Art Hotel Not only located at the port, but also designer friendly Salamanca Slow Hotel.
eat: Argentinian restaurant frank Perfect for a long lunch or late dinner. glass house Architecturally it’s a hard concept to beat (the food is also great). Born in Brunswick Perfect for brunch or casual lunch in trendy North Hobart. Stop outside of town The Agrarian Kitchen For hearty local cuisine.
do: No trip to Tassie is complete without a visit. MONA Museumwhich probably put Tasmania on the map. Salamanca Market If you’re visiting on a weekend, this is a must-see. Early risers can climb Mount Wellington for spectacular sunrise views (lazy travelers don’t worry, you can also drive there).
Huon Valley and Bruny Island
Hobart to Huon Valley: 45 minutes
Next on the agenda is the Huon Valley, one of Tasmania’s lesser talked about but much loved gems. Bruny Island. It doesn’t take long to escape the city and reach rolling hills and cider country.
Stay: This is the land of B&Bs, so feel free to browse and find what tickles your fancy. This is one of the areas with very few accommodation options, so book in advance to avoid missing out.
eat: Willie Smith’s Apple Hut must stop. The cider is to die for and the setting is straight out of a postcard. Lotus Eaters Cafe With an extensive vegan and gluten-free menu and a casual, outdoor atmosphere, it’s the perfect place for a quick lunch.
do: The Tarkine Forest Airwalk is a great way to immerse yourself in nature. Bruny Island is just a short ferry ride away and offers another great getaway just off Tasmania’s coast.
cradle mountain
Huon Valley to Cradle Mountain: 5 hours 45 minutes
A trip to the Central Highlands is not for the faint of heart or the time-sensitive traveler. Once you arrive in the south, you have several options. First, you can fly out of Hobart and call it a day. You can then fly to Launceston and back, checking out the Midlands on the way ( loss, Oatlands and campbeltown). Finally, why not take a trip to the West Coast for a stop? Strahan Give it a night and move on. cradle mountain.
Where to stay: Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge This is the best accommodation in the middle of the island. For the more adventurous traveler, the five-day Overland Track offers an all-inclusive Tassie experience with spectacular terrain views.
eat: It’s no secret that this part of Tasmania is lacking in food options. The food served here is limited and nothing to write home about.
do: The Overland Track is a journey to remember.