Epic 5-Day Road Trip Through Tasmania

Share


Tasmania is one of those places that you travel to that truly takes your breath away. From its untouched wilderness and incredible scenery, to its vibrant towns, Tasmania attractions and lovely locals, this is one trip we absolutely love… especially when you rent a travel van! A driving holiday in Tasmania will allow you to enjoy all the great things to do in Tasmania on your own time and at your own pace. This blog is going to outline our epic 5 day road trip through Tasmania, but of course we’re sure you’ll find many more wonderful spots to stop off at along the way! So, read on, get inspired and start planning your road trip to Tasmania today!

Travel

5 days


Route

Hobart to Hobart

1008km


Best Time of the Year

September - April

Highlights

  • MONA
  • Freycinet National Park
  • Cradle Mountain
  • Salamanca Market

The Journey

Days

1 2 3 4 5

Day 1
Hobart to Eaglehawk Neck

Distance 75.3km - Driving Time 1 hour 10 minutes

Day one of the Australian road trip in Tasmania starts off in the wonderful Hobart. If you’ve never been here before, you’re in for a real treat because there are so many great things to do in Hobart! But, first things first, you’re going to want to pick up your maui camper from the conveniently located maui Hobart branch.

Before leaving Hobart in your campervan to embark on your van travel, there are a few experiences that we highly recommend checking out including the Tasmanian Museum of Art Gallery where an abundance of history and culture are on show that will enrich your understanding of this beautiful island. The ever-popular MONA Tasmania is also an absolute must! With a diverse range of art and culture on display, you’re sure to be amazed at every turn.

After you’ve strolled through the museums and galleries, head over to Mount Nelson to take in the awe-inspiring panoramic views of Hobart and the surrounding areas. The drive to the lookout is a scenic one that is bursting with beauty, and when you reach the top you’ll be treated to spectacular views. We love enjoying a bite to eat up here, before heading off to the first destination.

The first stop on the road trip is Eaglehawk Neck which is a scenic coastal town that is well-known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. There is so much to see and do here, including exploring the iconic Tasman Arch and the remarkable geological formations of the Blowhole.

 

After a day of exploration, you’re going to want to find a relaxing and peaceful place to park your maui camper, and the NRMA Holiday Park is just the spot. With great amenities and spacious camping spots, you’re sure to love your stay here.

Day 2
Eaglehawk Neck to Freycinet National Park

Distance 167km - Driving Time 2 hours 30 minutes

Next up we’re off to Freycinet National Park which is a 2.5 hour drive from Eaglehawk Neck. Once you arrive you must visit the Wineglass Bay lookout. Once you arrive at the carpark, you can leave your maui camper and hike up to the lookout point where you’ll be in awe of the breathtaking views of one of Tasmania’s most iconic beaches. Afterwards, we love to head down to Honeymoon Bay for a picnic lunch and dip in the crystal-clear waters, before lazing in the sunshine for a little while to relax and unwind.

A night at the BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet is sure to delight as the campground offers a great range of campsite facilities, lovely campsites and an ideal location close to all that this area has to offer.

Day 3
Freycinet Park to Cradle Mountain

Distance 321km - Driving Time 4 hours 30 minutes

The journey continues and next on the Tasmanian road trip itinerary planner is Cradle Mountain. This 4.5 hour drive will offer spectacular scenery along the way, with many spots to stop off and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Once you get to Cradle Mountain a must-do is go for a walk around Dove Lake. This iconic spot boasts spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and of course, Cradle Mountain. It’s a 6 km circuit that will take you through a diverse range of landscapes including ancient rainforests, alpine meadows and peaceful shores. The locals say to walk clockwise around the lake, and don’t be surprised if you come across a few wandering wombats on your journey!

Another great walk to go on is the Enchanted walk in Cradle Mountain. It’s a short, easy trail for all ages and fitness levels that will lead you through dense forest that will have you feeling as if you’ve stepped into a fairy tale thanks to the moss-covered trees, trickling streams and hidden waterfalls.

 

When it comes to places to stay, the Discovery Holiday Parks in Cradle Mountain is our go-to. With excellent facilities to make your stay comfortable, as well as a lovely natural session, you’re sure to be impressed.

Day 4
Cradle Mountain to Strahan

Distance 145km - Driving Time 2 hours

An easy and picturesque 2 hour drive will have you at the next destination on the road trip itinerary planner, Strahan.

When you arrive, one must-do is take a cruise on the pristine waters of the Gordon River. Onboard, you can marvel at the untouched World Heritage-listed Tasmanian wilderness, dense rainforests and dramatic landscapes.

After time on the water, head over to the historic Sarah Island which will have you feeling as if you’ve stepped back in time. This island used to be a notorious penal settlement and while here you’ll have the opportunity to take a guided tour to learn about the island’s past and captivating stories.

 

All this exploring will have you wanting a comfortable place to park your maui campervan, and the BIG4 Strahan offers exactly this! With modern amenities, friendly staff and great campsites, this will be the welcomed rest spot during your road trip.

Image: Samuel Shelley

Day 5
Strahan to Hobart

Distance 300km - Driving Time 4 hours 30 minutes

After seeing all the wonderful parts of Tasmania, it’s time to head back to Hobart. This 4.5 hour journey will have some great spots to stop off at along the way to stretch your legs. This is a big reason why we love van travel so much, you get to see and experience so many more things that you may have otherwise not been able to as you have the freedom of having your own transport and your accommodation on wheels!

When you arrive in Hobart there are a few more activities we think you’re going to love, including a lovely stroll through the beautiful Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. Here you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty whilst admiring the diverse range of flora.

Another place to explore is the vibrant Salamanca Market. This bustling marketplace is held every Saturday and showcases a wide range of local crafts, fresh produce, drool-worthy food stalls and lively entertainment. Head down, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy a bite to eat to round off what is sure to be a magical 5 days exploring Tasmania.

 

Once you’ve done all you want to in Hobart, it’s time to drop off your maui camper at the maui branch. The friendly staff will be ready to welcome you back to make the whole van rental process easy and stress-free.

 

Ready to book your own Tasmanian adventure?

So there you have it, our insider’s guide to an epic 5 day road trip through Tasmania. If you have extra time there are of course many more places to stop off at and enjoy. Be sure to check out the maui website for most travel itineraries that you could add on to this list! From walking trails and dining scenes, to museums and awe-inspiring views, Tasmania is full of untouched beauty just waiting to be discovered!

If you’re ready to hit the road and start exploring, then be sure to head online or into a maui branch to book your camper today!