Shaped by wild coastlines, ancient rainforests, and a fiercely independent spirit, Tasmania is Australia’s island state – a compact world of epic wilderness, convict history, and a food-and-wine scene that punches far above its weight. From the dolerite spires of Cradle Mountain to the pristine bays of the Bay of Fires, Tassie feels like a continent in miniature, perfect for a self-drive odyssey.
Highlights & What to See
- Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park: Tackle the Dove Lake Circuit or the Overland Track to immerse yourself in alpine heath and glacial lakes, with wombats and pademelons as your trail companions.
- Port Arthur Historic Site: Wander the haunting ruins of this former penal settlement on the Tasman Peninsula, then join a ghost tour for chills after dark.
- Freycinet National Park: Hike to Wineglass Bay lookout for that postcard-perfect arc of white sand and turquoise water, then kayak in the Hazards’ shadow.
- MONA (Museum of Old and New Art): Hobart’s subterranean temple of provocative art, with a ferry ride up the Derwent River that’s an experience in itself.
- Bay of Fires: A 50-km stretch of orange-lichen-covered granite boulders and sapphire sea – perfect for beachcombing, swimming, and camping under stars.
Suggested Time to Spend
Give Tasmania at least 7–10 days to do it justice. A classic loop from Hobart takes you east to Freycinet, north to the Bay of Fires and Launceston, then west to Cradle Mountain before returning south. Speed demons can hit highlights in 5 days, but you’ll miss the quiet magic of the Huon Valley or the Tarkine. Budget extra days for hiking or simply lingering over a Pinot Noir in the Coal River Valley.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Victoria (Melbourne & the Great Ocean Road): Fly from Hobart to Melbourne and add the dramatic cliffs of the Great Ocean Road or the Yarra Valley wine region for a contrasting mainland leg.
- New South Wales (Sydney & the South Coast): Pair Tassie with a few days in Sydney for urban buzz, then drive south to Jervis Bay’s white sands.
- South Australia (Kangaroo Island & Barossa): Combine a Tasmanian wildlife fix with Kangaroo Island’s seal colonies and the Barossa Valley’s shiraz – a foodie’s double act.
- Australian Capital Territory (Canberra): On your way to or from Tassie, stop in Canberra for national museums and a taste of the bush capital.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.