‘Savour Tasmania’ Itinerary (21 Days)

This Tasmania itinerary (21 Days) is all about savouring the best of Tasmania and creating the most incredible road trip experience! By car or by van… things to do, gourmet dining, and Tassie’s most beautiful scenery – it has everything you need to plan your 3 week Tasmania itinerary.

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.

This 3 week Tasmania itinerary shows you exactly how to plan your Tassie holiday – and if you have more time available you can easily extend it to a 30 day itinerary, 4 weeks, or even longer.

For every single day of your road trip I have used my experience as a local Tasmanian to show you:

• the best activities for both your morning and afternoon (including how much time to allow for each);
• my favourite dining options for breakfast, lunch and dinner (I’m a huge foodie, so I’m speaking from experience); and
• the best places to stay in each region to put your feet up and relax for the night, covering B&Bs, free and low-cost campsites, caravan parks and more!

All you need to do is choose the activities that appeal to your interests and style of travel, get your vehicle organised, and either book your accommodation or plan your nightly campsites – it’s that easy.

This itinerary has been written a little bit differently to my other itineraries on the website. It starts in Devonport, because I know that so many of you like to catch the ferry to Tasmania with your own vehicle, and it also takes you anti-clockwise around Tasmania.

It is completely up to you though!

If you are flying into Hobart then simply start the itinerary from Day 10. And if you prefer to go clockwise then all you need to do is follow the itinerary in reverse.

Keep in mind that you will need to allow for travel time each day, depending on which activities you choose to include in your itinerary. If you aren’t sure about this or have any other questions, please feel free to ask our wonderful community of road trippers and local Tasmanians over in the Lap of Tasmania Facebook Group.

Before we get into the detail, here is a quick overview showing you how this 3-week itinerary is structured. As you can see, I’ve allocated 2 nights in most regions. Hobart and Bicheno get 3 nights each because they are fantastic ‘hubs’ for exploring their surrounding regions.

Let’s get your itinerary planning started!

Self-Drive Tasmania Itinerary (21 Days / 3 Weeks)

Day 0: Arrive in Devonport

I have marked this as ‘Day 0’ because some of you might be arriving early in the morning, while others may be arriving on the Spirit of Tasmania ‘night sail’.

If you are arriving in the morning, here are some great ideas to fill your ‘bonus’ day.

Breakfast

• Laneway (open 7 days) – OR – The Little Goat (closed Sundays)

Activities

• Maritime Museum (1-2 hrs)
• Mersey Bluff Lighthouse (0.5 hrs)
• Antique Emporium (0.5 hrs)
• Home Hill, National Trust Property (Wed/Thur/Sat – 1.5 hrs)
• Devonport Regional Gallery at the Paranaple Arts Centre (Mon-Sat – 1 hr)

Dinner

• Mrs Jones (Devonport) – OR – Hungry Birds (Devonport)

Where to stay

• Couples – Waterfront Apartments – OR – The Cove
• Families – Badger’s Inlet – OR – Waterfront Apartments
• Cosy B&B – The Grand on Macfie B&B
• Camping – Mersey Bluff Caravan Park – OR – Horsehead Creek Riverside Park

Day 1: Explore the Cradle Coast

An easy start to your lap of Tasmania – it’s completely up to you how much you would like to squeeze into your day. The options I outline below take you in a rough anti-clockwise loop from Devonport out to Sheffield, around through Mole Creek and back up via Deloraine, Christmas Hills and Elizabeth Town. The Tasting Trail is a highlight of this region!

If you feel like pushing hard there are a couple of nice excursions out west to Gunns Plains and down south to Liffey Falls that you may want to include.

Breakfast

• Harbourmaster Cafe (Devonport) – OR – Playfish (Devonport)

Morning activities

• Reliquaire (0.5 hr)
• Anvers Chocolates (0.5-1 hr)
• Don River Railway (1 hr)
• Tasmanian Arboretum (1-2 hrs)
• Tazmazia and Lower Village of Crackpot (1-2 hrs)
• Sheffield murals (1 hr)
• Wings Wildlife Park (2-3 hrs)

Lunch

• Cruisin’ in the 50s Diner (Deloraine) – OR – Blacksmith Gallery Cafe (Sheffield)

Afternoon activities

• Mole Creek Caves (2.5 hrs)
• Liffey Falls (2.5 hrs)
• Explore Deloraine and the banks of the Meander River (1 hr)
• Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm (0.5-1 hr)
• Van Diemens Land Creamery (15 mins)
• Ashgrove Cheese (0.5-1 hr)
• Reliquaire (0.5-1 hr)

Dinner

• Valentino’s (Devonport) – OR – Strait Off the Boat (Devonport)

Where to stay

• Couples – Waterfront Apartments – OR – The Cove
• Families – Badger’s Inlet – OR – Waterfront Apartments
• B&B – The Grand on Macfie B&B
• Caravan Park / Campsite – Mersey Bluff Caravan Park – OR – Horsehead Creek Riverside Park

Day 2: Devonport to Stanley

The northern coastline of Tasmania is a stunner, and Highway 1 takes you as close as you can possibly get to the icy waters of Bass Strait. The Tasting trail continues, and you will also find some gorgeous natural landscapes such as Table Cape and Rocky Cape NP where you could easily spend a few hours or more.

Breakfast

• Laneway (open 7 days) – OR – The Little Goat (closed Sundays)

Morning activities

• The Berry Patch (1-2 hrs) – Meals, pick your own fruit, and kids playground!
• Leven River Cruises (tidal dependent, allow 1-4 hrs) – Click here for 10% OFF
• Hellyers Road Distillery (0.5-1 hr)
• Fern Glade Platypus Reserve (0.5-1 hr)
• Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden (0.5-2 hrs)

Lunch

• Communion Brewing Co. (Burnie)
• The Chapel (Burnie)
• The Vault (Wynyard)

Afternoon activities

• Table Cape Lighthouse Tour (0.5-1 hr)
• Table Cape Lookout (0.5 hr)
• Boat Harbour Beach (0.5 hr)
• Rocky Cape walking trails (0.5-4 hrs)
• Big Tree and Dip Falls in Mawbanna (0.5-1 hr)

Dinner

• Hursey Seafoods (Stanley)

Where to stay

• Couples – The Inlet Stanley – OR – Ship Inn Stanley
• Families – Church Street Villas – OR – The Flower Beds
• B&B – The Ark Stanley
• Caravan Park / Campsite – BIG4 Tassie Getaway Parks Stanley – OR – Stanley Golf Club

Day 3: Explore Stanley or The Tarkine

Most road trippers will stay close to Stanley, exploring the iconic ‘Nut’ and colonial history of Highfield House and surrounds, but if you prefer getting close to nature I also show you how to make the most of a day doing the Tarkine Loop Drive.

If you can squeeze an extra day into your itinerary, then I would definitely do both!

Breakfast

• Marleys @ Sticks and Stones Shells and Bones – OR – Touchwood Cafe

Morning activities

• Highfield House (1-2 hrs)
• The Nut (chairlift and walk, 1-3 hrs)
• Stanley Heritage Walk (1-2 hrs)
• Joe Lyons Cottage (0.5 hr)

Lunch

• Nut Rock Cafe (Stanley) – OR – Zivah Stanley

Afternoon activities

• Trowutta Arch (0.5 hr – allow 45 minutes driving from Stanley to get there)
• Jimmy Lane Memorial Lookout before sunset (0.5 hr)
• Penguins at sunset (0.5-1 hr)
• Pre-dinner drinks @ Stanley Wine Bar

Dinner

• The Stanley Hotel (bookings are essential – I thought people were joking when I heard this, but we nearly missed out on dinner because we decided to ‘wing it’)

Where to stay

• Couples – The Inlet Stanley – OR – Ship Inn Stanley
• Families – Church Street Villas – OR – The Flower Beds
• B&B – The Ark Stanley
• Caravan Park / Campsite – BIG4 Tassie Getaway Parks Stanley – OR – Stanley Golf Club

Day 4: Stanley to Cradle Mountain

An unforgettable day, as you climb your way up from sea level to nearly 900m elevation at Cradle Mountain Village!

Breakfast

• Marleys @ Sticks and Stones Shells and Bones – OR – Touchwood Cafe

Morning activities

• Blue Hills Honey (0.5 hr)
• Dip Falls & The Big Tree (1 hr)
• Hellyer Gorge walk (0.5-1 hr)
• Explore Waratah (1-2 hr)

Lunch

• Bischoff Hotel (Waratah) – OR – Wilderness Lounge (Discovery Resorts Cradle Mountain)

Afternoon activities

• Vale of Belvoir Lookout
• Cradle Mountain Village – Explore short walks around the interpretation centre (don’t worry if you can’t fit them all in, as you can do some tomorrow if you like):
  • Pencil Pine and Knyvet Falls – My favourite short walk at Cradle and very easy!
  • Enchanted Walk – Perfect for children
  • Rainforest Walk – Very easy loop walk through the forest
  • Speeler Track to the King Billy Tree loop walk – Also easy

Dinner

• Hellyers Restaurant (Discovery Resorts Cradle Mountain Village) – OR – Tavern Bar & Bistro (Cradle Mountain Lodge)

Accommodation

• Best of the Best – Discovery Resorts – Cradle Mountain Village – Use the LAPOFTAS code and SAVE 20%
• Camping and Cabins – Discovery Resorts – Cradle Mountain – Use the LAPOFTAS code for 20% OFF
• Budget – Cradle Mountain Highlanders 
• Luxe – Cradle Mountain Lodge

Day 5: Explore Cradle Mountain

Fresh alpine air and an ever-changing landscape from mountains, to forests, lakes and everything in between… this is one epic day of exploration!

If you enjoy bushwalking then I strongly recommend that loop walk from Ronny Creek to crater Lake, Marion’s Lookout and down to Dove Lake via the Wombat Pools – especially during autumn when the fagus leaves all turn golden orange and red.

If you aren’t up for a long walk, the short trail to Pencil Pine and Knyvet Falls is an absolute stunner and massive reward for minimal effort. It starts right out front of Cradle Mountain Lodge and is very easy.

Breakfast

• Your accommodation – OR – Cradle Mountain Hotel (non-guests are allowed)

Morning

• Dove Lake loop walk (2-3 hrs) – OR – Short walks that you couldn’t fit in yesterday afternoon
• Ronny Creek to Dove Lake via Crater Lake & Marion’s Lookout (3 hrs)

Lunch

• Picnic hamper / Packed lunch – OR – The Wilderness Lounge (Discovery Resorts Cradle Mountain Village)

Afternoon

• Cradle Mountain Wilderness Gallery (Cradle Mountain Hotel) – Beautiful artworks and free entry
• Waldheim Alpine Spa – Spa Treatment
• Peppers Lodge – Wine and cheese tasting
• ‘After Dark’ Tassie Devil Feeding Tour

Dinner

• Hellyer Restaurant (Discovery Resorts Cradle Mountain Village)

Accommodation

• Best of the Best – Discovery Resorts – Cradle Mountain Village – Use the LAPOFTAS code and SAVE 20%
• Camping and Cabins – Discovery Resorts – Cradle Mountain – Use LAPOFTAS and receive 20% OFF
• Budget – Cradle Mountain Highlanders 
• Luxe – Cradle Mountain Lodge

Day 6: Cradle Mountain to Strahan

They don’t call them the ‘West Coast Wilds’ for nothing!

Dense, lush rainforest, tannin-stained rivers, and epic rainfall during winter – it’s incredible to think about what it must have been like for the indigenous palawa and old miners and loggers who called this inhospitable region home back in the day.

Breakfast

• Your accommodation – OR – Cradle Mountain Hotel (non-guests are allowed)

Morning activities

• Wee Georgie Wood Railway (Tullah)
• Walk to Montezuma Falls (3 hrs) – A lovely walk, and dogs are allowed on-lead
• Zeehan Spray Tunnel (1 hr)
• Mt Murchison walk (5 hrs) – Only experienced bushwalkers should attempt this, but the rewards are immense!

Lunch

• Central Hotel (Zeehan) – OR – Pitstop Cafe (Zeehan)

Afternoon activities

• West Coast Heritage Centre (Zeehan)
• Henty Dunes (0.5-1 hr)
• Ocean Beach Lookout (0.5 hr)
• Macquarie Heads (0.5-1 hr)
• Walk along the Strahan waterfront at sunset

Dinner

• Risby Cove (Strahan) – OR – Westerly Seafood (Strahan)

Where to stay

• Couples – Wheelhouse Apartments – OR – Salt Box Hideaway
• Families – The Crays – OR – Strahan Village
• B&B – Ormiston House – OR – Franklin Manor
• Camping – Big4 Strahan Holiday Retreat – OR – Strahan Golf Club

Day 7: Gordon River Cruise – OR – West Coast Wilderness Railway

Decision, decisions, decisions… which one will you chose?

Breakfast

• Tracks on Point (Strahan) – OR – The Coffee Shack (Strahan)

Morning activities

If it was me, I would be making a Gordon River Cruise your #1 priority while exploring the West Coast, followed up by an evening of laughter watching Australia’s longest running play, The Ship That Never Was. It’s the ultimate combo.

The West Coast Wilderness Railway is a great alternative, but I suggest catching the train from Queenstown, as the views and all-round experience are better than the option leaving from Strahan.

• Gordon River cruise with World Heritage Cruises (9am – 3pm) – Use LAPOFTAS for 10% OFF !
• West Coast Wilderness Railway
• RoamWild 4WD Tour (half or full day)

Lunch

• Provided on your tour – OR – Regatta Point Tavern (Strahan)

Afternoon activities

If you’ve chosen to do the cruise then you will probably only have time to see The Ship That Never Was in the evening.

If you’ve chosen to do the railway tour then you’ll be able to squeeze in a couple of these options…

• Strahan
  • Wilderness Woodworks (0.5 hr)
  • Hogarth Falls (1 hr)
  • The Ship That Never Was (1.5 hrs)
• Queenstown – allow 1hr for the drive from Strahan (one-way)
  • Paragon Theatre (0.5 hr)
  • Empire Hotel (0.5 hr)
  • Soggy Brolly Art Gallery (0.5 hr)
  • Eric Thomas Galley Museum (1 hr)
  • Spion Kopf (0.5 hr)

Dinner

• View 42 (Strahan) – OR – Hamers Bar & Bistro (Strahan)

Where to stay

• Couples – Wheelhouse Apartments – OR – Salt Box Hideaway
• Families – The Crays – OR – Strahan Village
• Cosy B&B – Ormiston House – OR – Franklin Manor
• Camping – Big4 Strahan Holiday Retreat – OR – Strahan Golf Club

Day 8: Strahan to Mount Field

Twisting and turning your way over to historic Queenstown, up the famous ’99 Bends’ to Derwent Bridge and then back down to the fertile hills of the Derwent Valley – this is what a Tassie road trip is all about!

Breakfast

• Your accommodation – OR – Tracks on Point (Strahan)

Morning activities

• Iron Blow Lookout (0.5 hr)
• Horsetail Falls Lookout (0.5 hr)
• Drive the ’99 Bends’
• Nelson Falls Walking Trail (0.5 hr)
• Franklin River Nature Trail (0.5 hr)
• Donaghy’s Hill Lookout (0.5-1 hr)

Lunch

• Hungry Wombat (Derwent Bridge) – OR – Derwent Bridge Hotel (Derwent Bridge)

Afternoon activities

• Lake St. Clair Walks (1-4 hrs)
• The Wall in the Wilderness (1 hr)
• See if you can spot the Highland Coos at Tarraleah
• Gin and whisky tastings at Lawrenny Estate Distilling (0.5-1 hr – open 7 days but closes at 4pm)

Dinner

• In-suite dining at Hamlet Downs (Fentonbury) – OR – Maydena Eats at Giants’ Table and Cottages (Maydena)

Where to stay

• Couples – Mt Field Retreat
• Families – Russell Falls Holiday Cottages
• B&B – Hamlet Downs
• Camping – Left of Field Camping Gardens – OR – Mt Field Campground

Day 9: Explore Mt Field – OR – Lake Pedder & Gordon Dam

For me, I’d be spending a full day exploring the lower and upper regions of Mt Field NP. I’ve travelled the world doing a lot of hiking, and there aren’t many places that come close to the natural beauty of this special park.

For an easier day on the road I also show you how to plan a day-trip out to Lake Pedder and Gordon Dam.

Whichever option you choose you’ll have a great day out!

Breakfast

• Enjoy your gourmet breakfast at Hamlet Downs – OR – Maydena Bites (after 9:30am)

Morning activities

• Browse the gallery, art, crafts and souvenirs on display at Waterfalls Cafe & Gallery (15 mins)
• Mt Field Walk #1 – Russell Falls (easy, 0.5 hr)
• Mt Field Walk #2 – Russell Falls + Horseshoe Falls (medium, 0.5-1 hr)
• Mt Field Walk #3 – Russell Falls + Horseshoe Falls + Lady Barron Falls (medium, 2.5-3 hrs)

Lunch

• Waterfalls Cafe and Gallery (Mt Field) – Special Offer

Afternoon activities

• Burmese Cooking Class or Pasta Making Workshop at Hamlet Downs
• Farm Tour of Hamlet Downs
• Explore the Styx Tall Trees Conservation Area (1-4 hrs) – Access is via a 17km unsealed road in good condition
• Mt Field Walk #4 – Lake Dobson Pandani Grove Nature Walk (easy, 2hrs driving and 1hr walking)

Dinner

• In-suite dining at Hamlet Downs (Fentonbury) – OR – Maydena Eats at Giants’ Table and Cottages (Maydena)

Where to stay

• Couples – Mt Field Retreat
• Families – Russell Falls Holiday Cottages
• Cosy B&B – Hamlet Downs
• Camping – Left of Field Camping Gardens – OR – Mt Field Campground

Day 10: Mt Field to Hobart

A relaxing day on the road and a chance to catch your breath after the last few jam-packed days.

Breakfast

• Enjoy your gourmet breakfast at Hamlet Downs – OR – Maydena Bites (after 9:30am)

Morning activities

• Railtrack Riders (2 hrs)
• Westerway Raspberry Farm (0.5-1 hr)
• Salmon Ponds (1 hr)
• Pulpit Rock Lookout (15 mins)
• Explore New Norfolk (1-2 hrs)
• Wine tasting at Derwent Estate Wines (1 hr)

Lunch

• Agrarian Kitchen (New Norfolk) – OR – The Shed Restaurant (Granton)

Afternoon activities

• Explore Salamanca and waterfront precinct (1-2 hrs)
• Hobart Horse Drawn Carriages (1 hr)
• Brooke St Pier (0.5 hr)

Dinner

• Urban Greek (Hobart CBD) – OR – Da Angelo (Battery Point)

Where to stay

Choosing your accommodation in Hobart can be a bit overwhelming. To help provide a personal touch, the recommendations I provide below are places where I have either stayed together with my wife, or where I hear heaps of great reviews from fellow road trippers.

• Couples – MACq 01 – OR – Crowne Plaza Hobart
• Families – RACV Hobart Hotel – OR – The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel
• Budget – Bay Hotel Apartments – OR – Edinburgh Gallery
• Luxe – Quarry House Luxury Retreat – OR – The Tasman 
• Camping – Discovery Parks Hobart – OR – Phil’s Place

Day 11: Explore Hobart

You could easily spend a few days exploring everything Hobart has to offer, and you could easily substitute the Bruny Island day-trip (Day 12) with another day in Hobart if you felt like it – especially if you want to visit MONA and spend more than half a day there.

My favourites in Hobart include Mt Wellington, a walk through Salamanca and along the waterfront, and a ‘Posh Pit’ ferry trip to MONA. For more tips and advice, you’ll love my Hobart Day-Trip Planner.

Breakfast

• Pigeon Hole Cafe (Hobart) – OR – Machine Laundry Cafe (Hobart)

Morning activities

• Drive to Mt Wellington lookout (1.5-2 hrs)
• Explore Salamanca and the waterfront precinct (1-2 hrs)
• Lark Distillery (0.5-1 hr)
• Kelly’s Steps (10 mins)
• Walk to Battery Point and explore (2 hrs)
• MONA Ferry and Museum (half day)
• All-day Option – Hop-on Hop-off Bus

Lunch

• Iconic – Flippers Fish Punt (Hobart)
• Scallop Pie & More – Jackman & McRoss Bakery (Battery Point)
• Quirky – FARO Restaurant (MONA)
• Family – Billy’s Burgers (Hobart)

Afternoon activities

• Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens (1-3 hrs)
• Hobart Rivulet walk (1-2 hrs)
• Cascades Female Factory (1-2 hrs)
• Cascade Brewery Tour + Beer Garden (1-2 hrs)

Dinner

• Family – Da Angelos (Battery Point)
• Tapas – La Sardina Loca (CBD)
• Degustation – Dier Makr (CBD)
• Tasmanian Produce – Landscape Restaurant (Waterfront)
• Water Views – Aloft (Brooke St. Pier)
• Pub & Log Fire – New Sydney Hotel (CBD)
• Popular – Drunken Admiral (Waterfront)

Where to stay

• Couples – MACq 01 – OR – Crowne Plaza Hobart
• Families – RACV Hobart Hotel – OR – The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel
• Budget – Bay Hotel Apartments – OR – Edinburgh Gallery
• Luxe – Quarry House Luxury Retreat – OR – The Tasman 
• Camping – Discovery Parks Hobart – OR – Phil’s Place

Day 12: Bruny Island Day Trip

A fun excursion to one of Tasmania’s most popular destinations – especially for foodies!

I provide heaps of info here on how to do a DIY road trip using your own vehicle, together with my recommendations for guided tours if you prefer to have a no-stress, no-fuss day out.

Breakfast

• Born in Brunswick (Hobart) – OR – Berta (Hobart)

Morning activities

I provide a quick overview below, but for a comprehensive Bruny Island Day trip itinerary click here.

• Catch the ferry to Bruny Island
• Pennicotts Bruny Island Cruise (3 hrs – Book Here) – To make the most of your time on the island I recommend booking either the first or last cruise of the day – you could book the 11am tour, but it will limit what else you can see on the island – this itinerary shows you my preferred approach.
• Bruny Island Cheese Company (0.5-1 hr)
• Get Shucked Oysters (0.5 hr)
• Scenic Flight (1 hr)
• Walk to The Arch (Cape Queen Elizabeth trail, 2 hrs)
• Enjoy the views from ‘The Neck’ lookout (0.5 hr)

Lunch

• Bruny Island Premium Wines – OR – Hotel Bruny (Taranna)

Afternoon activities

• Bruny Island Lighthouse tour (30-40 mins drive from Alonnah on an unsealed road – tour is 20 mins long)
• Inala Jurassic Garden (1 hr)
• Sprokkelwood – Art Garden (by appointment, 1 hr)
• Pick up a freshly baked loaf from the ‘Bread Fridge’ on the road to Alonnah
• Bruny Island Chocolate Company (0.5 hr)
• Spy a white wallaby at Adventure Bay (0.5 hr)
• Fluted Cape hike (2.5 hrs for the full walk, or 1 hr for the Grass Point section only)
• Bruny Island House of Whisky (0.5-1 hr)
• Enjoy the views along the drive to Dennes Point and go for a walk on the beach (1-2 hrs)
• Catch the ferry back to Kettering

Dinner

• Family – Da Angelos (Battery Point)
• Tapas – La Sardina Loca (CBD)
• Degustation – Dier Makr (CBD)
• Tasmanian Produce – Landscape Restaurant (Waterfront)
• Water Views – Aloft (Brooke St. Pier)
• Pub & Log Fire – New Sydney Hotel (CBD)
• Popular – Drunken Admiral (Waterfront)

Where to stay

• Couples – MACq 01 – OR – Crowne Plaza Hobart
• Families – RACV Hobart Hotel – OR – The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel
• Budget – Bay Hotel Apartments – OR – Edinburgh Gallery
• Luxe – Quarry House Luxury Retreat – OR – The Tasman 
• Camping – Discovery Parks Hobart – OR – Phil’s Place

Day 13: Hobart to Dover

Winding your way through the orchards and vine-draped hills of the Huon Valley, you will understand why Tasmania is often called the ‘Apple Isle’.

Keep heading south and you will quickly find yourself leaving civilisation and surrounded by imposing mountains, sandy beaches, and fascinating caves!

Breakfast

• Harbour Lights Cafe (Waterfront) – OR – Straight Up Coffee + Food (gluten free – CBD)

Morning activities

• Willie Smiths Apple Shed and Cider (1 hr, open from 10am – Ranelagh)
• Huon Jet Boats (1 hr – Huonville)
• Frank’s Cider (1 hr, open from 10am – Franklin)
• The Wooden Boat Centre (0.5-1 hr, open from 10am – Franklin)
• Franklin Lockup (15 mins)

Lunch

• The Lost Captain (Huonville)
• Cinnamon and Cherry (Franklin – opening days/hours vary)
• Masaaki’s Sushi (Geeveston – opening days/hours vary)
• The Old Bank of Geeveston (opening days/hours vary)

Afternoon activities

• Explore Geeveston and surrounds (1 hr)
• Tahune Adventures (half day – airwalk, walking trails, rafting, cable-gliding)
• Hartz Mountains #1 – Arve Falls walking trail (easy, 0.5 hr)
• Hartz Mountains #2 – Lake Osborne walking trail (easy, 1 hr)
• Hartz Mountains #3 – Lake Esperance walking trail (easy, 2 hrs)
• Hartz Mountains #4 – Hartz Pass walking trail (medium, 3-4 hrs)
• Hartz Mountains #5 – Hartz Peak walking trail (medium, 4-5 hrs)

Dinner

• Post Office 6985 (Dover)

Where to stay

• Couples – Tides Reach – OR – Driftwood
• Families – Beyond the View
• Cosy B&B – Ashdowns of Dover B&B
• Budget – River Run Lodge
• Camping – Dover Caravan Park – OR – Franklin Camping Ground

Day 14: Explore Far South Tasmania

How many people can say they’ve driven as far south in Australia as you possibly can?

Not many tourists visit Far South Tasmania, which means you’ll have a day of solitude, contemplation of the French explorers who landed on its shores, and fun exploration.

Breakfast

• Dover Top Shop – OR – Ashdowns of Dover B&B

Morning activities

• Drive to Cockle Creek (1 hr each way from Dover)
• Take a photo next to the ‘End of the Road’ sign
• Walk to the Whale Sculpture (5 mins)
• Cockle Creek historic cemetery (5 mins)
• Walk to Fishers Point (easy, 2 hrs)
• Half-day bushwalk from Cockle Creek to South Cape Bay (moderate, 4-5hrs)

Lunch

• Take a picnic lunch – OR – Southport Hotel (Southport)

Afternoon activities

• Walk to Mystery Creek Cave (20 min drive from Southport – easy/moderate walk, allow 2 hrs)
• Roaring Beach lookout (0.5 hr)
• Lune River gem fossicking (1 hr – click here for more info)
• Hastings Caves (1.5-2 hrs)
• Short walks at Hastings Thermal Springs (easy, 30 mins)
• Hastings Thermal Springs (1 hr)

Dinner

• River Run Lodge & Tavern (Strathblane) – OR – Little Dover Bar and Bistro (Dover)

Where to stay

• Couples – Tides Reach – OR – Driftwood
• Families – Beyond the View
• Cosy B&B – Ashdowns of Dover B&B
• Budget – River Run Lodge
• Camping – Dover Caravan Park – OR – Franklin Camping Ground

Day 15: Dover to Port Arthur (via Richmond)

Note: This is a fairly busy day, with plenty of things to see and do along the way. Keep an eye on the time, as you don’t want to be arriving in Port Arthur after dark if you can help it due to native animals on the roads.

If you want more time in Richmond, don’t bother driving there via Cygnet and Woodbridge (as recommended below). Instead, drive direct from Dover to Hobart via the Channel Highway, and then out to Richmond. This frees up an extra couple of hours for you to explore Richmond, or to have a more relaxing drive over to the Tasman Peninsula in the afternoon.

Breakfast

• Dover Top Shop – OR – Ashdowns of Dover B&B

Morning activities

• Explore Cygnet and Cygnet Foreshore walk (2-3 hrs)
• Enjoy coastal drive back to Hobart via Eggs and Bacon Bay and Woodbridge
• Grandvewe Cheese (0.5-1 hr – Woodbridge)
• Hartshorn Distillery (0.5-1 hr – Woodbridge)
• Nutpatch Chocolates (0.5 hr – Kettering)

Lunch

• Frogmore Creek Winery (Cambridge)
• Czegs (Richmond)
• Richmond Arms Hotel (Richmond)
• Richmond Bakery (Richmond)

Afternoon activities

• Explore historic Richmond Village by foot – Richmond Bridge, Richmond Gaol, Richmond Tasting House, Amaze, and plenty more (1-2 hrs)
• Vanilla slice or scallop pie from Richmond Bakery
• Taste gourmet cheese and chocolates at Coal River Farm (0.5 hr)
• Wicked Cheese (0.5 hr)
• Drive across to the Tasman Peninsula (1-1.5 hrs)
• Pirate’s Bay Lookout (15 mins)
• Remarkable Cave (0.5 hr)
• Port Arthur Ghost Tour

Dinner

• On The Bay Restaurant (Tue-Sat, Port Arthur)
• Fox & Hounds Hotel (Port Arthur)
• 1830 Restaurant (Wed-Sun, Port Arthur)

Where to stay

• Families – Ruby’s Cottage Farm Stay
• Value – Port Arthur Villas
• Quirky Glamping – NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park
• Luxe Treat – Stewarts Bay Lodge
• Camping – NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park – OR – Lime Bay Campground

Day 16: Explore Port Arthur & Tasman Peninsula

Note: As you will see, there is an incredible range of activities you can experience on the Tasman Peninsula and a day isn’t enough to do them all. An extra day would be perfect, if you can squeeze it in!

Breakfast

• Port Arthur General Store – OR – The Nubeena Cafe

Morning activities

• Port Arthur Historic Site (you could spend from 2 hours up to a full day here) – Click here for tickets
• Port Arthur Lavender Farm (0.5-1 hr)
• Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Cruise (3 hrs) – Click here to book

Lunch

• Port Arthur Lavender Farm (Port Arthur)
• Port Arthur Historic Site Cafe (Port Arthur)
• Doolishus (Eaglehawk Neck)
• Blue Seal Seafood Shack (Eaglehawk Neck)
• Fox & Hounds Hotel (Port Arthur)

Afternoon activities

• Explore the Coal Mines Historic Site and surrounding walking trails (0.5-2 hrs)
• Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry (0.5 hr)
• Tasmanian Devil UnZoo (1-2 hrs)
• Cape Hauy bushwalk (moderate/hard, 4-5hrs)
• Crescent Bay bushwalk (easy/moderate, 3-4 hours)

Dinner

• On The Bay Restaurant (Tue-Sat, Port Arthur)
• Fox & Hounds Hotel (Port Arthur)
• 1830 Restaurant (Wed-Sun, Port Arthur)

Where to stay

• Families – Ruby’s Cottage Farm Stay
• Value – Port Arthur Villas
• Quirky Glamping – NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park
• Luxe Treat – Stewarts Bay Lodge
• Camping – NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park – OR – Lime Bay Campground

Day 17: Port Arthur to Bicheno

When creating this itinerary I was in two minds as to how I should construct your East Coast activities and accommodation…

On one hand, Freycinet and ‘The Hazards’ ae a must-visit. On the other, we have the absolutely iconic red rocks and pristine sands of Bay of Fires.

This is where Tassie’s small size comes in handy. I’ve chosen Bicheno as your base, because it splits the East Coast in half, making it easy to do day trips south and north. I figure you may prefer this instead of unpacking/packing multiple times in Coles Bay (Freycinet) and Binalong Bay (Bay of Fires).

Bicheno also has more facilities and better shopping and dining options, but of course, there’s nothing stopping you from doing it your own way if you prefer to stay as close as possible to Freycinet or Bay of Fires.

Breakfast

• Port Arthur General Store – OR – The Nubeena Cafe

Morning activities

• Explore Eaglehawk Neck and The Dog Line (0.5-1 hr)
• Drive through Doo Town (15 mins)
• Short Walk #1 – Tasman Arch and Devil’s Kitchen (<0.5 hr)
• Short Walk #2 – Tessellated Pavement (0.5 hr – best at low-tide)
• Tasmanian Bushland Garden (donation entry, 1-2 hrs)
• Kelvedon Boat Shed (15 mins)
• Spiky Bridge and Spiky Beach (15 mins)
• Kate’s Berry Farm (0.5-1 hr)

Lunch

• Bark Mill Tavern (Swansea)
• Milton Vineyard (Swansea)
• Flora’s Restaurant at Craigie Knowe Winery (Cranbrook)
• Devils Corner Vineyard (Apslawn)

Afternoon activities

• Wine tastings (Milton Vineyard, Gala Estate, Craigie Knowe, Devils Corner)
• Soak up the panoramic views of The Hazards from the Devil’s Corner carpark
• Bicheno Blowhole (0.5 hr)
• Bicheno Foreshore Walking Trail – Includes the Bicheno Blowhole, views of The Gulch, Peggy’s Point and Waub’s Beach (1-2 hrs)
• Bicheno Beer Co. (0.5-1 hr)
• Bicheno Glass Bottom Boat (40 mins – departs at 10am, 12pm and 2pm daily)
• Penguin-spotting at sunset

Dinner

• Food ‘n’ Brew Co – OR – Le Coq

Where to stay

• Couples – Bicheno Garden Cottages
• Families – Bicheno by the Bay
• Budget – Apartments on Fraser Bicheno
• Penguin Spotting – Diamond Island Resort
• Luxe – Seastacks at the Denison
• Caravan Parks – Bicheno East Coast Holiday Park – OR – Big4 Iluka on Freycinet – OR – Scamander Sanctuary Holiday Park
• Low-Cost Camping – Bicheno Pine Ridge – OR – Cosy Corner Beach (Bay of Fires) – OR – Freycinet NP Campground (ballot-only during peak season)

Day 18: Freycinet and Wineglass Bay Day Trip

One of Tasmania’s most globally recognisable natural landmarks, Wineglass Bay and Freycinet NP are only 30mins south of Bicheno, and there are plenty of walks, tours, and other things to see and do along the way fill your day.

Breakfast

• Governörs Bicheno – OR – Blue Edge Bakery

Morning activities

• Wineglass Bay Cruise (4.5 hrs – check-in by 9:30am) – Sky Lounge (incl. lunch) or Vista Lounge (excl. lunch)
• Cape Tourville Lighthouse (0.5 hr)
• Honeymoon Bay (0.5 hr)
• Walking Option #1 – Wineglass Bay Lookout (medium, 1-1.5 hrs)

Lunch

• On a Wineglass Bay Cruise you have the option of paying for lunch, or you can get a cheaper ticket and BYO picnic lunch
• Freycinet Marine Farm (they also provide hampers/picnics, so this would be a good option if you wanted to take a lunch on the cruise)
• Geographe Restaurant & Coffee Bar

Afternoon activities

• Walking Option #2 – Wineglass Bay and return (medium/hard, 2-3 hrs)
• Walking Option #3 – Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Loop (medium/hard, 4-5 hrs)
• ‘Tasmanian Tasting‘ at Freycinet Lodge (1 hr)
• Oyster Bay Tours (2 hrs)
• Bird watching at Moulting Lagoon (0.5-1 hr)

Dinner

• The Edge Restaurant (Coles Bay)
• Le Gulch (Bicheno)
• Sealife Restaurant & Cafe (Bicheno)
• Food ‘n’ Brew Co. (Bicheno)
• Lobster Shack (Bicheno)

Where to stay

• Couples – Bicheno Garden Cottages
• Families – Bicheno by the Bay
• Budget – Apartments on Fraser Bicheno
• Penguin Spotting – Diamond Island Resort
• Luxe – Seastacks at the Denison

Day 19: Bay of Fires Day Trip

A trip to the Bay of Fires is essential for any Tasmanian road trip.

But at the same time, I don’t feel you need to spend multiple nights/days there to get what’s all about.

Personally, I feel that a day trip is heaps of time to see its amazing beaches and to capture dozens of breathtaking photos. Keep reading to learn how to make it happen!

Breakfast

• Governörs Bicheno – OR – Blue Edge Bakery

Morning activities

• East Coast Nature World (2 hr)
• Apsley Waterhole (0.5-2 hrs)
• Beer tastings at Ironhouse Brewery at White Sands Estate (0.5-1 hr)
• Winifred Curtis Reserve (1-2 hrs)
• Shelly Point (0.5 hr)
• St Helens MTB Trails (half or full day)
• Secret River Gem Hunting and Kayaking Tours (4-5 hrs)

Lunch

• East Coast Village Providore
• Lifebuoy Cafe
• Breeze Burgers

Afternoon activities

• Lease 65 Oyster Farm (no eat-in facilities, enjoy them by the beach!)
• Drive to The Gardens and then continue by foot, exploring the beaches and coves of Bay of Fires as far as you like (1-3 hrs)
• Serpentarium Wildlife Park (1-2 hrs)
• Explore St Helens (Mint Gallery, Suncoast Gallery, The Shop in the Bush, Priory Ridge Wines)
• Mainly Maritime History Museum (0.5-3 hrs)

Dinner

• Easy Tiger Restaurant, Bar, Cinema & Brewery (St Helens)
• Le Gulch (Bicheno)
• Sealife Restaurant & Cafe (Bicheno)
• Food ‘n’ Brew Co. (Bicheno)
• Lobster Shack (Bicheno)

Where to stay

• Couples – Bicheno Garden Cottages
• Families – Bicheno by the Bay
• Budget – Apartments on Fraser Bicheno
• Penguin Spotting – Diamond Island Resort
• Luxe – Seastacks at the Denison
• Caravan Parks – Bicheno East Coast Holiday Park – OR – Big4 Iluka on Freycinet – OR – Scamander Sanctuary Holiday Park
• Low-Cost Camping – Bicheno Pine Ridge – OR – Cosy Corner Beach (Bay of Fires) – OR – Freycinet NP Campground (ballot-only during peak season)

Day 20: Bicheno to Launceston

Travellers often zoom through Tasmania’s north east region without stopping, but they are missing out big time!

The tiny towns of Pyengana, Derby, and Weldborough are rich in ‘Tin Dragon’ history and natural beauty, and are well worth a half-day or longer on your way through to Launceston.

Breakfast

• Governörs Bicheno – OR – Blue Edge Bakery

Morning activities

• Drive up to Pyengana and walk to Halls Falls (1hr – easy/moderate difficulty)
• Cheese tastings at Pyengana Dairy Company
• See Priscilla the pig at the Pub in the Paddock
• Walk to St Columba Falls (30 mins – easy)

Lunch

• The Hub Derby – OR – Lot 40 Bar and Cafe (Derby)

Afternoon activities

• Explore the Derby Tunnel (0.5 hr)
• Get snap-happy at Mt Paris Dam (0.5-1 hr)
• Marvel at the colours of Little Blue Lake (0.5 hr)
• See the Legerwood Carved Memorial Trees (created with a chainsaw)
• Tastings at Little Rivers Brewery (Scottsdale)
• Enjoy the colours of Bridestowe Lavender Estate (1-2 hrs – Dec/Jan is when they bloom)
• Sip on Tassie’s finest bubbles at Clover Hill, Pipers Brook, Jansz, Delamere, or House of Arras wineries
• Enjoy a tour of the Bass & Flinders Maritime Museum (George Town) and discover Tasmania’s fascinating maritime history!

Dinner

• Value – Stelo at Pierre’s – OR – Cataract on Paterson
• Families – JailHouse Grill
• Small Plates – Pachinko
• Foodies – Stillwater Restaurant – OR – Brisbane Street Bistro
• Wine Bar – Havilah

Where to stay

• Couples – Hotel Verge 
• Families – Leisure Inn Penny Royal Apartments 
• Cosy B&B – Kurrajong House 
• Luxe – Peppers Silo 
• Camping – Discovery Parks Hadspen – Use the LAPOFTAS code and SAVE 20%

Day 21: Explore Launceston

Tassie’s second largest city, Launceston has plenty to keep you busy, and that’s before you extend your trip north up the Tamar Valley, or south to historic Evandale.

A lot of visitors (and locals!) don’t realise that Launceston is actually a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, and you’ll find plenty of amazing dining options for breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks!

As this is your last day, don’t forget to allow enough time at the end of the day to either drive across to Devonport to get the ferry (1 hr drive), or to travel to Launceston Airport with enough time check-in and catch your flight. If you’ve got a rental vehicle you’ll also need to allow time to return the keys and possibly get a taxi or Uber.

Breakfast

• Sweetbrew Coffee House – OR – Florence Cafe

Morning activities

• Spend the morning at Cataract Gorge (1-3 hrs) – Walking trails, cafes, and the world’s longest single span chairlift across the river!
• Tamar Valley Wetlands (1-2 hrs) – Flying under the radar for most visitors, this is one of my favourite things to do in northern Tassie
• Full-day option – Drive your way up and down the Tamar valley, stopping in at the many wineries and other attractions

Lunch

• Du Cane Brewery & Dining Hall – OR – St John Craft Brewing
• Local Hideout Cafe
• Prospect Fish Shop
• Samuel Pepy’s Cafe
• Josef Chromy Winery (Relbia)

Afternoon activities

• Tamar Valley Wetlands (1-2 hrs) – Flying under the radar for most visitors, this is one of my favourite things to do in northern Tassie
• Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (1 hr)
• Stop in at Hazelbrae Hazelnuts Orchard (1 hr – Hagley) on your way back to Devonport – Special Offer
• Drive to Devonport and catch the ferry home – OR – Head out to Launceston airport and shed a tiny tear because it’s all over…

What an epic road trip – the perfect way to ‘Savour Tasmania’!

More tips for planning your Tasmania road trip

I hope you have found my ‘Savour Tasmania’ 21-day Tasmania road trip itinerary helpful in planning your holiday!

Here are some more articles and guides I know you’ll love:

1. Learn more about Tasmania:
   • The best time to visit Tasmania
   • The ‘Big 12’ must-see Tasmania highlights
   • Where to see snow in Tasmania
   • Where to see the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis)
2. Choose your wheels (and save money):
   • Tasmania Car Hire Comparison 
   • Tasmania Campervan Hire
   • Tasmania Motorhome Hire
3. Check out my favourite Tasmania accommodation options

We would love to see you over in our Lap of Tasmania Facebook Group as well. It would have to be one of Tasmania’s friendliest groups, and whether you are a first-timer to Tassie or a repeat visitor you are guaranteed to get some fantastic tips to help with your travel planning.

Happy travels,
Andrew.