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West Coast Tasmania
Road Trip Guide

Highlights | Accommodation | Essentials

Tasmania’s own heart of darkness – brooding and utterly unforgiving – Tasmania’s West Coast is a place like no other, teetering on the edge of the known world. 

Include the Western Wilds in your Tasmania road trip adventure and uncover its secrets!

This page contains affiliate links. If you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Read my full disclosure policy here.

Lap of Tasmania road trip
Strahan at Sunset | Photo: Tourism Tasmania and Rob Burnett
  • Things to See & Do
  • Where to Stay
  • Where to Eat
  • Festivals & Events
  • West Coast Weather
  • Road Trip Essentials

On the West Coast of Tasmania the indigenous palawa established an easy balance over tens of thousands of years. 

But in the eyes of early colonists it was a brutal, inhospitable wilderness suited only to the Empire’s most hardened criminals.

And yet beneath that beautifully harsh exterior they found a land of riches. Tin and timber proving an irresistible lure despite the grim lifestyle – fostering a resilient, fiercely independent community.

That ‘West Coaster‘ legacy lives on today!

Mining and logging once fueled the West Coast, but its natural wonders are now the star attraction.

Untouched rainforests of Huon pine and sassafras, serpentine rivers with tannin-stained banks of gold and burnt caramel, and some of the world’s best seafood, plucked from the icy, surging waters of the Indian Ocean.

This is Tasmania at its most raw, bringing a sense of adventure and exhilaration to every road trip!

Quick Info – Tassie Road Trip Resources

Local tips, advice and answers for the most common questions asked by Lappers!

  • Vehicle Rental – Car & SUV | Campervan | Motorhome | Motorcycle
  • Road Trip Itineraries – Click here to search by duration and region
  • Discounts & Special Offers – Click here
  • FREE Planning Tools – Click here
  • eBooks
    • How to Plan Your Tasmania Road Trip
    • Local’s guide to Camping & Caravanning Tasmania
  • Paper Maps – Click here


Highlights

Things to See & Do

The ’99 Bends’

Lap of Tasmania road trip
The ’99 Bends’ to Queenstown | Photo: Pete Harmsen

Every Tasmanian road trip should include a couple of hours cruising down (or up) the ’99 Bends’ between Derwent Bridge and Queenstown.

Its sweeping curves and magnificent views are acclaimed as being some of the best in Australia. With such a smooth tarmac surface its inclusion as one of the most thrilling stages in the Targa Tasmania road race is also no surprise.

Read More: 12 Must-Pack Items for Your Tasmania Holiday

Queenstown

You’ll never forget the lunar landscape that greets you as your road trip descends into Queenstown. Bare hills slashed with pink, red, and gold – the unfortunate yet highly photogenic results of its mining heritage.

Regeneration is important to this resilient town. Not only is the landscape recovering, but the community is reinventing its image through its unique heritage and unusual arts scene.

See the lovingly restored Paragon Theatre in Queenstown on your Lap of Tasmania road trip
Paragon Theatre in Queenstown

After years of neglect the iconic art deco Paragon Theatre has been lovingly restored to its former glory. Whether it’s dinner and a classic movie, or just a taste of their homemade choc-tops, it’s a surprising gem in the heart of Queenstown that is always hosting new and exciting events. Check their calendar to see what is coming up!

Did you know…?

The Queenstown football field is the most intimidating in Australia – covered with gravel instead of grass. That’s ‘West Coaster’ tough!

It has been very exciting to see Queenstown embrace the arts in recent years, evidence of which can be seen in the many murals dotted about town and tiny galleries like the Soggy Brolly shared art space, Empire Art Box, and the intriguing Q Bank Gallery. 

Missing Tiger bookshop is also worth a stop on your walk around town. This fantastic little bookshop specialises in books all about Tasmania and the fascinating history of the West Coast region. Why not pick up something quintessentially Tasmanian to read on your travels?

West Coast Wilderness Railway

Lap of Tasmania road trip
Rugged beauty on the West Coast Wilderness Railway | Photo: Tourism Tasmania & Nick Osborne

To ride one of the majestic steam trains on the West Coast Wilderness Railway is to take a journey back in time – to the days of tenacious fettlers and tough-as-nails prospectors.

The terrain is stunning, and with tours departing departing from both Queenstown and Strahan you’ll be amazed and inspired by the ingenuity of the early West Coasters.

Strahan and Macquarie Harbour

Perched on the shores of Macquarie Harbour, Strahan is a picture-perfect seaside village full of history.

Lap of Tasmania road trip
Macquarie Harbour World Heritage Cruises | Photo: World Heritage Cruises

A Macquarie Harbour Cruise is a must, crossing the mirror-like waters to the fury of Hell’s Gates, before gliding up the Gordon River to stillness and serenity. Ancient temperate rainforests line the banks, silent witness to one of Tasmania’s most merciless penal settlements – Sarah Island.

Save 10% on your Gordon River cruise

Use the LAPOFTAS code and receive 10% OFF all full-priced tours with World Heritage Cruises.

Choose the ‘Red Boat’ and support this fantastic, locally owned company for the best day out on the Gordon River.

Check Availability

Once back ashore, settle in at the Richard Davey Amphitheatre to watch Australia’s longest running play – The Ship That Never Was. A rollicking adventure of canny convicts, hijack hijinks, and their quest for freedom!

West Coast Adventure Activities

Lap of Tasmania road trip
Tobogganing at Henty Dunes | Photo: Jason Futrill

With its rugged coastline, soaring sand dunes, and deep chasms, the West Coast Wilds are irresistible for adrenaline junkies!

White water rafting is a blast on both the Franklin and King rivers. Surrounded by World Heritage forests and with pure Tasmanian waters rushing beneath your feet – this adventure is sure to float your boat!

Closer to Strahan are the soaring, toboggan-friendly Henty Dunes and the endless expanses and crashing waves of Ocean Beach.

Did you know…?

Macquarie Harbour is 6x larger than Sydney Harbour, and its cold waters are like a layer-cake, with fresh water from the Gordon River sitting above a layer of salty sea water.

Keen to see the west coast from the skies? A tour with Par Avion Wilderness Tours (10% OFF with the LAPOFTAS code) is a great day trip from Hobart, and it also includes a cruise up the Gordon River!

Looking for fun on two-wheels? West Coast Mountain Bike Trails is the West Coast’s newest and most exciting escape for thrill-seekers. The trails of Mt Owen (Queenstown), the Silver City (Zeehan) and greater West Coast provide stunning views for experienced and beginner riders alike. Shuttles are available to get your from A to B as well – click here for more information.

To learn more about the West Coast region, including its timber pioneers and hydro heritage, consider a day-tour with RoamWild in Queenstown. Their comfortable 4WD vehicles will transport you to some of the West Coast’s most beautiful hidden secrets.

Waterfalls and Rainforest Nature Trails

Lap of Tasmania road trip
Nelson Falls | Photo: Jess Bonde

Can you believe that some towns on Tasmania’s West Coast receive nearly 3,000 mm of rain every year?!

The rainforests are sublime, full of primordial lichens, mosses and fast-flowing streams. And many are accessible by short walks taking no more than 30 minutes.

The Franklin River Nature Trail, and trails to Nelson Falls and Hogarth Falls are all suited to any age or level of ability. While Tasmania’s highest waterfall – Montezuma Falls – is also worth a visit. Close to Queenstown is the short and rewarding walk to views of Horsetail Falls.

 Pencil in your favourite West Coast walk today!

Read More: Best Short Walks in Tasmania (<2hrs)


Accommodation

Where to Stay

West Coast Tasmania accommodation options are both plentiful and memorable. The weather is unpredictably exhilarating and those old-timers really knew how to use the local timber in crafting some wonderfully cosy cottages and sprawling manors!

Penghana B&B - Entrance
Penghana B&B – Queenstown

Queenstown

In Queenstown I thoroughly recommend staying at Penghana B&B. Not only is this unique National trust heritage property simply stunning, but it is steeped in local history. 

Your hosts, Karen and Stephen, put their heart and soul into the most delicious cooked breakfasts and they love sharing their extensive knowledge of the local area with their guests.

Special offer for Lappers!

Mention the Lap of Tasmania when booking your relaxing getaway at Penghana B&B and receive your choice of either a complimentary:

  • silver service Devonshire tea served between 3-4 pm. (min. 48hrs notice required) – OR –
  • bottle of Penghana house wine

Check Availability

Valid for direct bookings only, and not available in combination with other offers.

Queenstown Cabin & Tourist Park is the place to stay for campers and caravanners, or for something a bit quirky you could stay the night next to Queenstown’s gravel footy field at The Oval RV Parking (self-contained only).

Strahan

The harbour town of Strahan is a huge favourite with visitors to Tassie’s wild west coast.

A few nights is ideal for indulging in a comfortable B&B from yesteryear, or a little luxury by the water!

Escape the West Coast chill in your own private spa at Wheelhouse Apartments, while families will love Castaway Holiday Apartments. 

Another really popular option is Strahan Village, with its pretty views through the treetops and across the harbour.

Campers and caravanners don’t have a lot of great choices in Strahan unfortunately, with both main caravan parks – Big4 Strahan Holiday Retreat and Strahan Beach Tourist Park receiving mixed reviews. To be honest, the Strahan Golf Club may be your best bet (for self-contained campers).

Wheelhouse Apartments - Strahan
Wheelhouse Apartments – Strahan

Zeehan and Tullah

The Heemskirk Motor Hotel is the best option in Zeehan, and at Tullah Lakeside Lodge you’ll be torn between exploring the shores of Lake Rosebery and curling up with a book in front of the roaring log fire!


Where to Eat

Where to Eat

For thousands of years the West Coast of Tasmania provided an abundance of food for the palawa – and it continues to do so today. The cold, clear waters of the Indian Ocean surging against the rugged coastline produce Tasmania’s finest crayfish, abalone and scallops – and the inland freshwater fishing is second to none.

Fishing at Lake Burbury on your Lap of Tasmania road trip
Fishing at Lake Burbury | Photo: Samuel Shelley

Tracks on Point has all your traditional breakfast favourites from 9am, but if it was me I’d be tucking into a plate of their fluffy buttermilk pancakes with lemon curd and mixed berry compote! If you’re up early for the Gordon River cruise then duck into The Coffee Shack Strahan from 6am daily for quality coffee and light meals. 

Looking for lunch? For traditional fare with friendly ‘West Coaster’ service and some of the best views in Tasmania, drop by the Regatta Point Tavern (12-2pm and 6-8pm daily). The fish and chips can’t be beat at Westerly Seafood, right by the water (Sun-Fri from 4:30 to 7:30pm).

Hamer’s Bar and Bistro (7am to 8pm daily) is a solid dinner option that will leave you satisfied, but for me, I really like the meals – and views – on offer at Risby Cove (5:30 to 9pm daily). The buffet and a la carte menu at View 42 is also worth a look (daily from 7:30am to 9:30pm).

Charlotte’s at Franklin Manor (Tue-Sat, 5:30 to 11pm) is the place to go for a special night out – especially if you need a late dinner option – fine dining at its best!

In Queenstown you’ll find Tracks Cafe is the best all-rounder for coffee, breakfast, and a light meal or lunch, while Orange Pete’s is a quirky option for homemade treats and a hot coffee. Queenie’s Cribs is a welcome addition for breakfast, lunch and the occasional dinner (Thur-Sat), receiving fantastic reviews from locals and visitors alike.

For hearty pub tucker with a touch of history you can’t beat the Empire Hotel in the heart of Queenie, or on the northern edge of town you’ll find great meals at the Gold Rush Inn Restaurant.

For a light meal during the day or classy cocktail after dark, Moonscape Wine Bar and Cafe is the place to be, where you will enjoy dishes created from the region’s best independent producers. 

For dinner, why not drop into Mimso Kitchen for delicious Thai food?  

Zeehan – Pitstop Cafe, Carol’s on Wheels, or Big Z Cafe for breakfast or early lunch, and Heemskirk Hotel for lunch/dinner.

Rosebery – The Top Pub is your only option for lunch and dinner.

Tullah – Platypus Cafe or Tullah Cottage Cafe for breakfast and lunch. Personally, I’ve always had great breakfasts and dinners at Tullah Lakeside Bar & Grill.


Festivals & Events

Festivals & Events

Unconformity Festival

Lap of Tasmania road trip
Unconformity Festival | Photo: We are Explorers

A contemporary arts festival exploring what it means to be a West Coaster, and what the future folds for this evolving region. It’s a little bit quirky and a whole lot of fun!

  • Where: Queenstown
  • When: Odd years (ie. 2025, ’27, ’29 etc.)
  • Find out more: The Unconformity

Rosebery Festival

Enjoy the Rosebery Festival on your Lap of Tasmania road trip
Rosebery Festival

For a fun weekend with the whole family, book in the Rosebery Festival. Held across 4 days every February, this celebration of West Coast life is full of music and arts for the oldies, while the kids will enjoy the billy cart races, teddy bear picnics, and colour run!

  • Where: Rosebery
  • When: February
  • Find out more: Rosebery Festival

DIVERGE Skyruns

A sky and trail-running festival held in May, pushing runners to step outside their comfort zone. Epic terrain, sweeping vistas and challenging ridge-line and sky-line routes celebrating the phenomenal West Coast wilderness.

Where: Queenstown
When: May
Learn more: DIVERGE Skyrun

Ten Days on the Island

A truly epic arts festival, with performances and exhibitions held across Tasmania over three weekends. Opera, dance, theatre, performance art…it’s got the lot!

  • Where: Statewide
  • When: March 2023 (every two years)
  • Find out more: Ten Days on the Island

West Coast Weather

On the West Coast of Tasmania you can expect Mother Nature to throw everything at you but the kitchen sink!

Summer temperatures average between 11°C and 21°C, while in winter it isn’t as cold as you might think, with averages between 5°C and 12°C.

The West Coast gets a lot of rainfall. In summer there’s a 40% chance of daily rain, while in winter that rises to 60% – and when it rains it buckets down, so don’t forget your waterproofs!

Snow is rare at sea level on the West Coast, and is more common in the higher altitudes of Derwent Bridge, Zeehan or Tullah during winter.

Read More: The Best Time to Visit Tasmania


Essential Information

Road Trip Essentials

Here are some local tips and advice to help with the planning process, and ensure you have a smooth, safe and fun road trip on Tasmania’s wild West Coast!

Wondering what to pack for Tasmania’s cool climate?

To help you out I’ve created a handy Tasmanian road trip packing list.

It lists all the most important things you need to take on your road trip, making your road trip planning a breeze!

FREE Road Trip Packing List

A list of Tasmania’s national parks can be found here: Parks and Wildlife

A valid permit is needed before you can drive into these parks. For more information on the which pass you should buy, click here.

Permits can be purchased online here, from National Park Visitor Centres, Accredited Tasmanian Travel Information Centres, the Spirit of Tasmania, Service Tasmania shops, or by mail/email following these instructions.

Discounts are available for Seniors.

Here are some typical West Coast driving times between popular locations, for cars and larger vehicles.

Hobart ⇌ Strahan: 300km / 4hr 30mins (6hrs or more for caravans)

Derwent Bridge ⇌ Strahan: 130km / 2hrs (3hrs for caravans)

Strahan ⇌ Cradle Mountain Village: 140km / 2hrs (2hrs 30mins for caravans)

Devonport ⇌ Strahan (via Queenstown): 220km / 3hr 15mins (5hr for caravans)

Strahan ⇌ Queenstown: 42km / 45mins (1hr for caravans)

Complete Guide: Driving Times and Distances in Tasmania

For Tasmania Police emergency road closure alerts click here.

Watch out for ice on the roads in the early morning

High rainfall and dense vegetation on the West Coast means some road sections receive little sunlight. This can cause moss to grow on the verges and can be very slippery.

For those in large campervans or towing heavy vehicles, use low gear instead of your brakes on steep, downhill sections.

Snow is rare on Tasmanian roads, generally only occurring in winter at high altitudes. When it does fall it doesn’t normally settle.

However, be aware that while uncommon, snow has occasionally blocked the road between Derwent Bridge and Queenstown. Check the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) forecast here for the latest updates.

Most rental companies prohibit driving in the snow. Check your T&Cs and don’t be afraid to ask them for advice before setting out on your road trip.


All my Tassie info at your fingertips…

There are literally dozens of articles and guides here on the website to help plan your Tassie road trip – but it can take a long time to find the ones that are most relevant to you and your style of travel.

My eBooks pull everything together into one place, saving you hours of browsing and getting you on the road with my practical (and local!) tips and advice.

eBook - Caravanning and Camping Tasmania

Guide to Caravanning & Camping Tasmania

Learn More
eBook - How to Plan Your Tasmania Road Trip

How to Plan Your Tasmania Road trip

Learn More
eBook - Hobart Day Trip Planner

Complete Hobart Day Trip Planner

Learn More

When only a map will do…

Tasmania’s remote location means there are internet ‘black spots’ across the island. 

A paper map is the perfect backup, and I love the range from HEMA and Lonely Planet.

My HEMA maps are sourced through the wonderful team at Adventure Awaits, and they are providing Lappers with a generous 10% OFF when you use the links below, or the LAPOFTAS code on checkout!

HEMA - Tasmania Map

HEMA Map (Regular)

Click for 10% OFF
HEMA - Tasmania Pocket Map

HEMA Map (Pocket)

Click for 10% OFF
Lonely Planet - Tasmania Map

Lonely Planet Map

Buy Now

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