This route connects two of the major cities in Tasmania, Hobart and Launceston, and is about 1,000 km in length.
Hobart
Things to see:
- Mount Wellington
- Salamanca Place
- Battery Point
- Mona
After picking up your camper, be sure to take some time to explore Hobart and the surrounding areas. Take in the views of Mount Wellington, check out the market at Salamanca Place and visit the historic areas at Battery Point.
Hobart to Derwent Valley
Distance: 175 km
Estimated driving time: 2.5h
Things to see:
- Mount Field National Park
- Derwent Bridge
After taking in the sights of Hobart we begin heading toward our first destination Strahan. The drive to Strahan can be a little long and windy so we recommend an overnight stop on the way.
The Derwent Valley area is a perfect location, home to the Mount Field National Park and Derwent Bridge, both of which are good options for a pit stop. The region is also home to miles of rural scenery, with waterfalls and forests to explore.
Derwent Valley to Strahan
Distance: 300-350 km
Estimated driving time: 4.5h
Popular Attractions:
- Franklin Gordon Wild River National Park
- Wilderness Railway
After recharging in the Derwent Valley we finally make our way to Strahan. A popular tourist destination, Strahan is a must-do on most Tasmanian road trips. Take a river cruise, ride the West Coast Wilderness Railway or check out the Franklin Gordon Wild River National Park. With so much to explore, it’s worth spending at least 2 days in Strahan if you can spare the time.
Strahan to Cradle Mountain
Distance: 150 km
Estimated driving time: 2h
Attractions along the way:
- Cradle Mountain
- Lake St Clair
From Strahan, we head east to Cradle Mountain. Part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Cradle Mountain is home to numerous hiking trails, giving you the chance to see rugged mountains, glacial lakes and other incredible natural scenery. There are plenty of campsites in the area, making it relatively easy to find accommodation for the night.
Cradle Mountain to Launceston
Distance: 150 km
Estimated driving time: 2h
Popular Attractions Nearby:
- Cataract Gorge
- James Boag Brewery
- Tamar River
- Devonport
Two hours east of Cradle Mountain we arrive at Launceston. The city is a great hub with access to multiple activities in the area.
Visit Cataract Gorge, take a tour of the James Boag Brewery, enjoy a cruise on the Tamar River or even take a day trip an hour north-west and visit the coastal city of Devonport.
Launceston to St Helens
Distance: 170km
Estimated driving time: 2-2.5h
Things to see:
- Binalong Bay
- Bay of Fires
- St Helens Point
- Peron Dunes
Heading west we drive 170 kilometres to arrive at St Helens. St Helens is the largest town on the northeast coast of Tasmania and is a gateway to many natural attractions including Binalong Bay and the Bay of Fires.
St Helens to Swansea
Distance: 120 km
Estimated driving time: 1.5-2h
Popular attractions:
- Freycinet National Park
- Milton Vineyard
- Bicheno
Driving just 120 kilometres south from St Helens will take you to the coastal town of Swansea. Swansea offers scenic views of the Great Oyster Bay and also gives access to the Freycinet National Park. The region is known for its cool climate wines with a few wineries in the area offering tours and tastings.
Swansea to Port Arthur
Distance: 140km
Estimated driving time: 2-2.5h
After taking in the sights of Swansea, we head south around the coastline to Port Arthur, located just over 2 hours from Swansea. Port Arthur is home to many attractions including a lavender farm, river cruises and the Port Arthur historic site.
Just half an hour from Port Arthur is the Tasman National Park, home to stunning coastal scenery and dense forests, a perfect place to camp for the night.
Port Arthur to Hobart
Distance: 100km
Estimated driving time: 1.5h
After exploring Port Arthur our loop of Tasmania is complete. We end the journey where we began back in Hobart. Enjoy a bit more time in Hobart and be sure to see any attractions you missed the first time around.
Other Itineraries
Popular Questions about Tasmania
When is the best time to visit Tasmania?