Are you strapped for a holiday that'll truly leave you flabbergasted? Look no further than Tasmania, a state bursting with natural wonders, quirky towns, and enough adventure to make your inner Crocodile Dundee dance. But forget the tourist traps – Drive mate car rental in Tasmania is here with a guide for an epic Tasmania road trip.
Day 1: Hobart: History and Hops
Start your Tassie odyssey in Hobart, the capital city with a heart of gold (and a penchant for craft beer). Take a wander through Salamanca Market, a treasure trove of local produce, quirky crafts, and buskers belting out tunes that'll have you tapping your foot. In the afternoon, delve into Hobart's convict history at Port Arthur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that'll send shivers down your spine.
For a taste of history with a modern twist, check out the Henry Jones Art Hotel. Housed in a beautifully restored 1800s warehouse, it's got character oozing from its exposed brick walls and boasts a cracking harbour view.
Day 2: Bruny Island: A Feast for the Senses
Feeling peckish? Today's all about indulging your inner gourmand on a day trip to Bruny Island. This island paradise, accessible by ferry from Kettering, is a haven for fresh seafood, local cheeses, and providores overflowing with gourmet delights. Treat yourself to a shucking fresh oyster experience (with a cheeky Tassie pinot noir, of course) followed by a visit to the Bruny Island Cheese Company – their creamy brie is a personal favourite.
Bruny Island offers some seriously unique accommodation options. Imagine waking up to the sound of crashing waves at the Bruny Island Neck Game Reserve eco-cabins, or stargazing from the luxurious eco-friendly pods at Pumphouse Point.
Day 3: Wineglass Bay: Nature's Perfection
Buckle up, because today we're heading to Wineglass Bay on Freycinet National Park. This horseshoe-shaped beach, with its impossibly white sand and turquoise water, is the stuff of postcards (and Instagram dreams). Lace up your hiking boots and conquer the short but challenging Mount Amos walk for panoramic views that'll leave you speechless. In the afternoon, kayak around the Hazards mountains, a jagged range of peaks that jut dramatically from the coastline.
Rest those weary legs: Freycinet National Park has a range of camping options for the budget-conscious adventurer. Alternatively, cosy up in a beachfront shack for that quintessential Tassie experience. For a touch of luxury, splurge on a night at the Saffire Freycinet, an award-winning eco-lodge with stunning ocean views and a world-class restaurant.
Day 4: Cradle Mountain: A Walk in the Wild
Cradle Mountain—Lake St. Clair National Park is a hiker's paradise. Lace-up your boots and embark on the iconic Overland Track, a multi-day trek that winds through ancient rainforests, glacial lakes, and towering mountains. Short on time? Don't worry; there are plenty of shorter walks suitable for all abilities, like the Dove Lake Circuit, which offers breathtaking views of Cradle Mountain itself.
Night under the stars: There's nothing quite like camping under a blanket of stars in the Tasmanian wilderness. Cradle Mountain National Park has several designated camping grounds, or for a truly unique experience, try glamping (glamorous camping) in one of the luxurious safari tents scattered throughout the park.
Day 5: Strahan: Wilderness and Whiskey
Today we head west to Strahan, a charming little town nestled on the edge of Macquarie Harbour. Take a cruise down the harbour and keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins and majestic humpback whales. In the afternoon, delve into Tassie's convict past at Sarah Island, a World Heritage-listed penal colony with a fascinating and sometimes brutal history.
Day 6: Queenstown—Off the Beaten Track
Queenstown – don't let the name fool you, this quirky town is anything but posh! Embrace your inner adventurer with a white-water rafting trip down the Franklin River, considered one of the world's best. Feeling less adrenaline-pumping? Explore the town's rich mining history on a guided tour or take a dip in the refreshing waters of Lake Burbury.
Queenstown Quirks: For a truly unique stay, check out the Pencil Pine Lodge – a funky accommodation option built entirely from recycled materials. It might not be a five-star luxury, but it's a cracker place to experience Tassie's sustainable side.
Day 7: West Coast Wilderness—Wild and Remote
Today's all about getting off the grid and exploring the rugged beauty of Tassie's west coast. Take a four-wheel drive adventure along Tarkine Drive, a scenic route that winds through temperate rainforests, past towering karri trees, and along deserted beaches. Keep your eyes peeled for wallabies, wombats, and even the elusive Tasmanian devil!
Secluded Stays: There are some seriously remote (but incredibly rewarding) campsites along Tarkine Drive. Alternatively, for a touch of comfort, check out some of the eco-lodges scattered throughout the region.
Day 8: Cradle Mountain to Launceston – History and Hospitality
Start the day with a scenic drive back through Cradle Mountain National Park, taking in the sights you might have missed on your first visit. In the afternoon, continue your journey to Launceston, Tassie's second city. Launceston boasts a rich history, evident in its colonial architecture and convict-built bridges. Take a stroll through the Cataract Gorge, a natural bushland oasis in the heart of the city, or visit the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens – the perfect spot for a picnic lunch.
Launceston Luxury: After a week of adventure, you might be due for a treat. Spoil yourself with a night at The Old Bakery, a five-star boutique hotel housed in a beautifully restored 1840s bakery building. Think exposed brick walls, luxurious furnishings, and an award-winning restaurant serving up the best local produce.
Day 9: Back to Hobart
For your last day, take a leisurely drive back to Hobart, stopping off at the charming town of Richmond along the way. Richmond is a living history museum with convict-built sandstone buildings and a Georgian gaol that'll transport you back in time. Grab a bite to eat at one of the town's many cafés, or sample local wines at a nearby vineyard.
Hobart Homecoming: Celebrate your epic Tassie adventure with a slap-up feed at one of Hobart's waterfront restaurants. Savour fresh seafood dishes with a glass of Tassie's finest pinot noir as you reminisce about the waterfalls you chased, the mountains you climbed, and the quirky characters you met along the way.
The Drive mate Difference
Tasmania is a big island, and having the right car is crucial for an unforgettable road trip. That's where Drive mate comes in. We understand that every adventure is different, so we'll take the time to find the perfect car for your needs. Whether you're a seasoned off-roader or a weekend explorer, we have a wide range of vehicles to choose from, all at competitive prices.
Hit the road with Drive mate and experience Tassie like a true blue Aussie!
This is just a taste of what Tassie has to offer – there are countless other waterfalls to chase, mountains to climb, and fresh seafood dishes to devour. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Tassie road trip today, and let Drive mate help you get behind the wheel for an adventure you'll never forget!
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