Tasmania, Australia’s island state, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, offering stunning coastlines, pristine wilderness, and charming historic towns. A 7-day road trip around Tasmania is the perfect way to experience the island’s diversity—mountain peaks, tranquil beaches, lush rainforests, and rugged landscapes. This ultimate itinerary will take you through some of the best spots Tasmania has to offer, ensuring you get a taste of the island’s magnificent wilderness and rich history.

Day 1: Hobart – Start Your Journey

Begin your Tasmanian adventure in the charming capital city of Hobart. Nestled on the banks of the Derwent River and surrounded by the spectacular Mount Wellington, Hobart offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Highlights of the Day:

• Salamanca Market: If you’re in Hobart on a Saturday, start your day with a visit to the famous Salamanca Market. It’s a vibrant outdoor market offering fresh produce, local artisan products, and street food.
• MONA (Museum of Old and New Art): Known as one of Australia’s most provocative and unique museums, MONA showcases contemporary art with a focus on the controversial and the unusual.
• Mount Wellington: Take a scenic drive or hike up Mount Wellington for panoramic views over Hobart and the surrounding landscapes. On a clear day, you’ll see the city, harbor, and the southern coastline.
• Battery Point: Wander through this historic area with its charming colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and quaint cafes.

Accommodation: Stay in one of Hobart’s boutique hotels or cozy Airbnb options to rest for the night before hitting the road.

Day 2: Hobart to Port Arthur (95 km, 1.5 hours)

After a leisurely morning in Hobart, head east to the Port Arthur Historic Site, one of Australia’s most significant heritage locations.

Highlights of the Day:

• Port Arthur Historic Site: This former convict settlement is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a fascinating glimpse into Tasmania’s convict past. Explore the ruins of the prison, learn about the island’s dark history, and take a boat tour around the site.
• Remarkable Cave: Just a short drive from Port Arthur, the Remarkable Cave offers a stunning coastal view through a natural rock arch.

Accommodation: Stay overnight in Port Arthur or nearby Taranna, where you can enjoy a peaceful night near the coast.

Day 3: Port Arthur to Freycinet National Park (160 km, 2.5 hours)

Drive northeast to Freycinet National Park, one of Tasmania’s most beloved natural treasures. Famous for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic granite peaks, Freycinet is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Highlights of the Day:

• Wineglass Bay: Begin your Freycinet adventure with a hike to the stunning Wineglass Bay Lookout. This iconic view of the crescent-shaped beach surrounded by pink granite mountains is one of Tasmania’s most photographed landscapes. If you’re up for a challenge, continue the hike down to the beach itself.
• Honeymoon Bay: Spend some time at Honeymoon Bay, a secluded beach known for its calm waters and beautiful scenery, perfect for a relaxing swim or picnic.
• Cape Tourville Lighthouse: For another incredible view of Freycinet, head to the Cape Tourville Lighthouse. A short walk from the car park leads you to a viewpoint with sweeping views of the coastline.

Accommodation: Stay in Coles Bay or nearby Swanwick for easy access to Freycinet National Park.

Day 4: Freycinet to Bicheno (35 km, 30 minutes)

A short drive from Freycinet is the coastal town of Bicheno, known for its stunning beaches, wildlife, and proximity to the Douglas-Apsley National Park.

Highlights of the Day:

• Bicheno Blowhole: This natural wonder is a must-see in Bicheno. Watch as the waves crash into the rocks, creating a spectacular spray of water.
• Bicheno Penguin Tours: At dusk, take a guided tour to see the resident little penguins return to their burrows along the beach.
• Douglas-Apsley National Park: Spend some time hiking in this stunning national park, where you’ll find rugged landscapes, waterfalls, and native wildlife.

Accommodation: Overnight in Bicheno, where you can enjoy the coastal charm of this seaside town.

Day 5: Bicheno to Launceston (160 km, 2.5 hours)

Continue your journey to Launceston, Tasmania’s second-largest city, located in the north of the island. Known for its beautiful parks, historical sites, and surrounding vineyards, Launceston makes for a perfect stop to break up your journey.

Highlights of the Day:

• Cataract Gorge: A short walk from the city center, Cataract Gorge offers walking trails, a scenic chairlift ride, and views of the river and cascading waterfalls.
• City Park and Macquarie House: Visit City Park, a lush green space in the heart of Launceston, and take a stroll around Macquarie House, a Georgian-style mansion.
• Tamar Valley Wine Route: If you’re a wine lover, explore the Tamar Valley, Tasmania’s premier wine-producing region. Stop by local vineyards for wine tastings and enjoy the scenic vineyard landscapes.

Accommodation: Stay in Launceston for a cozy city escape, with plenty of options ranging from boutique hotels to comfortable bed-and-breakfasts.

Day 6: Launceston to Cradle Mountain (140 km, 2 hours)

Venture west to Cradle Mountain, one of Tasmania’s most iconic and stunning natural landmarks. Cradle Mountain is the gateway to Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, which offers a variety of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery.

Highlights of the Day:

• Cradle Mountain Summit: For avid hikers, the Cradle Mountain Summit hike is a challenging but rewarding trek that offers panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.
• Dove Lake: If you prefer a less strenuous activity, walk around Dove Lake, a beautiful glacial lake surrounded by rugged peaks and lush rainforest.
• Tasmanian Devil Sanctuary: Visit the Tasmanian Devil Sanctuary near the park, where you can see these endangered creatures up close and learn about conservation efforts to protect them.

Accommodation: Stay in one of the lodges or cabins near Cradle Mountain, where you can enjoy a peaceful night surrounded by nature.

Day 7: Cradle Mountain to Hobart (220 km, 3 hours)

On your final day, make your way back to Hobart. Along the way, consider stopping at some interesting sites and small towns.

Highlights of the Day:

• Sheffield: Known as the “Town of Murals,” Sheffield is a charming stop to see over 60 murals depicting the area’s history and natural beauty.
• Mt Field National Park: Before arriving in Hobart, stop by Mount Field National Park, home to Russell Falls, one of Tasmania’s most beautiful waterfalls.
• Mole Creek Caves: If you’re interested in underground adventures, you can visit Mole Creek Caves to explore limestone formations and underground passages.

Return to Hobart: Arrive back in Hobart, where you can reflect on your incredible 7-day journey around Tasmania.

Conclusion

A 7-day road trip around Tasmania is the perfect way to explore the island’s diverse landscapes, from stunning beaches and rainforests to rugged mountains and charming towns. With each day offering a new adventure, from hiking in Cradle Mountain to exploring the history of Port Arthur, you’ll experience the best of Tasmania’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. So, pack your bags, rent a car, and hit the road—you’re in for an unforgettable Tasmanian adventure!