The Ultimate Road Trip To Tasmania

Our Founder, Michelle recently went on a 10 day road trip around Tasmania. She can't recommend the beautiful and underrated isle more and suggests taking two weeks to do it properly. But as they say, time is money, so here's the abridged version of how to do Tasmania by road trip.

Day 1-3: Hobart & Southern Tasmania  

Take the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Melbourne. If you don't rent an RV with all the facilities, a campervan is just as adventurous. There will be plenty of national parks and RV parks to stay overnight. The sun sets early and reception isn't great, so bring a good book or movies and be prepared for early nights and sunrises.

Salamanca Market - There is one every Saturday and well worth the visit. Be sure to arrive early and hungry. Sample your way down both sides of the market and gather up fresh woodfired bread, Tasmanian cheese and organic veggies to take with you for a picnic at MONA (Museum of Old and New Art).

MONA is an experience unto itself. Board the 30-minute ferry ride at Hobart pier and spend a good 3-4 hours exploring the exhibits and taking in the site. Then after a full day of art, drive up to Mount Wellington for a panoramic view of the city and a gorgeous sunset.

Jack & McRoss Bakery - If you like baked goods (who doesn't?!) this popular bakery will be heaven. Arrive at the crack of dawn to avoid the crowds. We liked the artisanal bread, sausage rolls, Lamingtons and cream buns. Preachers is another popular spot in Hobart for drinks and dinner. 

Day 4-5: The Tasman Peninsula

Port Arthur Historic Site - This place is a fascinating part of Australia's colonial history and world heritage site. Each ticket includes a guided tour, cruise around the site and a 2-day pass of the site. You'll need it for the vast grounds, heritage buildings, reenactments, museums and exploring all the ruins. If you don't have the time, allow for at least 4-5 hours wandering around the site. 

Explore the ancient forest from 50m in the air at Tahune Airwalk. The view from the treetops is exceptional. The Hastings Caves are a must see. The stalactite caves took millions of years to form. After the underground adventure, you can warm up in the natural thermal springs on the grounds.

Day 5-7: The Great Eastern Drive

The highlight of the trip was this drive up the East Coast. It has the most stunning coastline views; from Coles Bay to Bicheno, to Bay of Fires. There were so many beautiful beaches, hikes for every fitness level, nature and wildlife experiences. We did the Wineglass Bay/Hazards Beach Hike (4.5hrs) and were rewarded with a white sand beach all to ourselves.

Then onto Freycinet Marine Park for a no white table clothes experience. Sit at sunny picnic tables and gorge on fresh from the sea oysters and wine from nearby wineries.

Then onto crystal clear waters at Binalong Bay via Scamander and the charming fishing town of St Helens, where we had an adventure trying to get back into the van, I locked us out of...

Day 8-9: Northern Tasmania | Launceston

The drive to Launceston is dotted with orchards that work on an honour system, small and large wineries with open cellar doors offering all visitors wine tastings. There wasn't the usual pretence at all, only warm and personable service.

We started at Beautiful Isles Wines, this charming winery has been revamped by husband and wife duo, who hold their own among the wine giants in the region.

Named after the wine region and the river, Tamar Ridge is one of the larger makers and exporters. We stopped for a tasting and cheese platter at their peaceful space. Be sure to order the Triple Brie. Further up North, we finished at Ghost Rock, which has been crowned Tasmania's Best Cellar Door, twice!

Before heading back to the ferry at Devonport, make a pitstop at Launceston Town for a walk around the docks and brunch at Cuccina Cafe.

And if that wasn't enough, here are some other road trip guides depending on what kind of traveller you are.

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