If you’re planning a road trip to Tasmania, one of the most common questions that might come in your mind is – How long do you need to explore this beautiful Australian island state? Well, the answer to that question depends on what you want to see and experience during your journey.
Tasmania has plenty of natural wonders, stunning coastlines, historic sites, and delicious food that can keep you occupied for weeks. However, if you’re short on time, a week-long trip can be enough to cover some of the top attractions.
The Ideal Timeframe for a Road Trip in Tasmania
To have a comfortable road trip experience without rushing through the sights, spending 10-14 days in Tasmania is ideal. This duration allows you to explore all the major regions of the island and indulge in various activities. However, if you only have one week or less, it’s still possible to see some of the highlights by focusing on one or two regions.
One-Week Itinerary
If you have limited time but still want to discover some of Tasmania’s best attractions, here’s a sample one-week itinerary:
Day 1: Start your journey in Hobart and visit Salamanca Market (if it’s open on that day), MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), Mt. Wellington lookout point.
Day 2: Drive towards Port Arthur Historic Site (a UNESCO World Heritage site) via Eaglehawk Neck and stop at Tasman Arch and Devil’s Kitchen.
Day 3: Explore Freycinet National Park – hike up to Wineglass Bay Lookout or head out for a cruise around Coles Bay.
Day 4: Visit Bay of Fires on the east coast and spend some time at Binalong Bay beach.
Day 5: Head towards Launceston via the Tamar Valley Wine Region, stop at some of the wineries and vineyards for wine tasting.
Day 6: Explore Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park, hike around Dove Lake or take a scenic drive.
Day 7: Drive back to Hobart via Derwent Valley and stop at Mt. Field National Park to see Russell Falls.
This itinerary covers most of Tasmania’s iconic destinations but make sure you have a comfortable pace and add extra time for unexpected stops or detours.
Two-Week Itinerary
If you have more time to spare, here’s a sample two-week itinerary that covers more regions and allows you to explore each place in-depth:
Days 1-3: Follow the same itinerary as the one-week trip mentioned above.
Day 4: Drive towards Strahan on the west coast and take a cruise on the Gordon River.
Days 5-6: Explore Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park and its surroundings.
Day 7: Head towards Stanley via Burnie and visit Table Cape lookout point and Rocky Cape National Park.
Day 8: Visit The Nut in Stanley (a volcanic plug) and explore Tarkine Rainforest – one of the largest temperate rainforests in Australia.
Day 9-10: Drive towards Launceston via Cradle Coast Tasting Trail, stop at some of the artisanal food producers along the way for cheese, chocolate, or honey tasting. Spend some time exploring Launceston itself, including Cataract Gorge Reserve and Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery.
Days 11-12: Head towards Bay of Fires via Bridestowe Lavender Estate (if it’s in bloom), stop at towns like Scottsdale or St. Helens on the way.
Day 13: Explore Freycinet National Park in-depth, hike around Hazards Beach, or take a guided tour.
Day 14: Drive back to Hobart via Richmond, visit historic sites like Richmond Bridge and Old Hobart Town Model Village.
This itinerary covers most of the major regions of Tasmania and allows you to discover its unique culture, nature, and history at a leisurely pace. However, you can always customize it according to your interests or add extra days if you want to spend more time in a particular place.
- Tips for Planning Your Tasmania Road Trip:
- Book Accommodation Early: Tasmania is a popular tourist destination, and accommodations fill up quickly during peak season. Make sure you book your stay well in advance.
- Rent a Car: The best way to explore Tasmania is by car as public transport is limited.
Rent a car or campervan from one of the major cities (Hobart, Launceston) and hit the road.
- Pack for All Seasons: Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable – it can be sunny one minute and rainy the next. Pack layers of clothing that can keep you warm and dry.
- Budget for Entry Fees: Some of Tasmania’s attractions (national parks, museums) require an entry fee. Budget accordingly.
The Bottom Line
Tasmania is an island state that has something for everyone – from stunning beaches to rugged mountains, from historic sites to delicious food. Depending on how much time you have, plan your road trip itinerary carefully so that you can make the most out of your journey. Whether it’s a week-long trip or a two-week adventure, Tasmania promises to offer you an unforgettable experience.