The Best of Tasmania

What do you think of when you imagine Tasmania as a motorhome road trip destination? There’s a reason this island nation makes it to most ‘top destination’ travel lists when it comes to Australia, so find its magic for yourself. Depending on where you want to start we’ve picked three cities where you can pick up your next motorhome rental and start your epic Tasmanian road trip.

Launceston to Freycinet National Park

This is one of Australia’s oldest cities, so before you pick up your Launceston motorhome rental take some time to check out this historic city and what it has to offer. Did you know Tasmania was a haven for fine foods and delicious wines? We recommend booking a table at Stillwater in Launceston. They offer an award-winning experience inside a historic flour mill, which serves up authentic Tasmanian cuisine. It’ll knock your socks off and fill your belly with goodness before the next part of your journey.

Upon leaving Launceston, swing by Cataract Gorge Reserve especially if you’re travelling with kids. It’s a quick drive and you’ll find there’s an epic chairlift, cafe, swimming pool, river views from the beautiful Kings bridge and Victorian gardens. Entry is free and it’s a wonderful spot to park up, take a picnic and go for a wander.

Binalong Bay is a couple of hours towards the coast and it’s where the Bay of Fires begins. Follow the road South, for a number of glorious sandy beaches and rocky coastlines. You won’t really find surfing beaches in Tasmania, but you will find gently lapping pristine waters, and uncrowded spaces perfect for relaxing. Hazards Beach is a little further south and part of Freycinet National Park. Other places worth stopping include:

• Wineglass Bay

• Coles Bay

• Freycinet Marine Farm for fresh succulent oysters

Hobart to Port Arthur

Start your motorhome road trip in Hobart and follow this scenic circuit itinerary for the perfect introduction to Tasmania. We reckon this itinerary will take you 10-21 days depending on how long you stay, and how much you want to cram in. Otherwise, a smaller chunk of the itinerary would be perfect for taking in some of the sights of Tasmania.

First things first, don’t start your road trip without stopping by MONA in Hobart, the Museum of Old and New Art located on the banks of the River Derwent. Take a tour around the adjoining Moorilla winery and vineyard, grab some lunch or a drink at one of the classy bars onsite, and then wander around the interesting art exhibitions soaking in all that culture.

Once you’re feeling satisfied it’s time to head out on the beginning of your campervan adventure. But which way? Head east for the city of Port Arthur which once housed a notorious prison where over 160,000 inmates were kept during the 17th and 18th centuries. It’s now one of the top tourist attractions in Port Arthur and one of our top holiday destinations for history buffs. If you’re not parking up at the Port Arthur RV resort then head up the east coast for incredible nature reserves, unspoilt bays and tiny towns peppered throughout.

Devonport to Strahan via Cradle Mountain

This part of Tasmania will take you past cute little towns, conservation reserves and national parks before ending up on the pristine west coast. We recommend doing this trip over a relaxing weekend.

If you’re a fan of antiques, cider and artisan chocolates then a Devonport motorhome hire is the perfect way to start. Don’t leave this little city without visiting Antique Emporium, filled with beautiful collections, relics, and exotic items. Even if you’re not the biggest fan of rummaging, there’s an old-fashioned lolly shop, plus a European garden centre worth checking out.

Photo credit: Adrian Webb

Once you’re on the road, head south: you’ll begin to encounter forested wilderness, hiking trails galore and Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair National Park. Park up at the Cradle Mountain Caravan Park and pick one of the hikes to get you closer to this exquisite World Heritage Area. We recommend the shorter, easier four day walk for hikers who have a little less time on their hands. You’ll have the opportunity to wander through ancient rainforests, past waterfalls and over grassy plains.

Once you’re all hiked out, carry on towards Strahan and the Macquarie Harbour, which is a quaint little town with less than 1000 residents but with surprisingly lots to do including:

• Taking a World Heritage Cruise

• Wandering along the Gordon River

• A steam train trip on the West Coast Wilderness Railway