Embark on an epic adventure and discover the breathtaking wonders of Tasmania – your ultimate road trip guide awaits!
Hello fellow wanderers! My name is [Author’s Name], and I have just returned from a spectacular road trip through Tasmania, the enchanted island situated south of mainland Australia. I traveled with a group of friends and we rented a camper van to explore this hidden gem for two weeks. I am excited to share my personal experiences and tips with all of you, so that you too can plan the perfect independent trip to Tasmania.
Tasmania is a unique destination with an abundance of natural beauty, charming towns, and warm hospitality. As a recent college graduate with a passion for travel, I wanted to create a comprehensive guide that covers everything you need to know before embarking on an adventure in Tasmania. Get ready to be inspired with a detailed itinerary, recommendations for accommodation, and insider tips for the best local food and wine experiences. Bon voyage!
Pre-Trip Preparation
I remember the excitement I felt when my friends and I decided to embark on a two-week road trip through Tasmania. We knew we needed to plan properly to make the most of our time there.
First, we had to choose the right vehicle for our adventure. We opted for a camper van as it offered us flexibility, comfort and affordability. This decision allowed us to stop at any beautiful spot we encountered along the way, and also meant we saved money on accommodation.
Next, we had to plan our route and itinerary. We researched Tasmania’s numerous attractions and natural wonders and picked the ones that interested us the most. We made sure we had enough time to see everything we wanted and also left some free time to explore places that we found spontaneously along the way.
Lastly, we made sure we packed all the essentials for a comfortable journey. We brought our camping gear, such as sleeping bags and a portable stove, as well as clothing suitable for Tasmania’s ever-changing weather conditions, such as rain jackets and thermals.
With all the necessary preparations completed, we were ready to set off on an unforgettable road trip through Tasmania.
Hobart and Surrounding Areas
As soon as we landed in Hobart, we knew we were in for a treat. The city has a charm that’s hard to miss, with its beautiful architecture and friendly locals. Our first stop was the famous Salamanca Market, which is held every Saturday. The market is a hub of activity, with over 300 vendors selling everything from local produce to handmade crafts. We spent hours wandering around, trying the delicious food and picking up souvenirs.
One of the highlights of our time in Hobart was the trip up to Mount Wellington. We drove up the winding road to the summit, taking in the stunning views of the city below. At the top, we walked around the observation deck, marveling at the scenery and taking plenty of photos. It was a little chilly up there, so we made sure to bring jackets and hats.
Another day, we ventured out of the city to explore some nearby attractions. Our first stop was Bruny Island, which is a must-visit if you’re in the area. The island is known for its amazing wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and penguins. We took a boat tour and got up close with some of the animals, which was an unforgettable experience.
We also visited the Huon Valley, which is famous for its apple orchards and cider. We stopped at several farms and tried the different varieties of apples and ciders on offer. The scenery in the valley is breathtaking, with rolling hills and lush greenery.
Overall, our time in Hobart and the surrounding areas was a highlight of our trip. There’s so much to see and do, and we were constantly surprised by the beauty of Tasmania.
East Coast Adventure
As we left Hobart and headed up the East Coast, we were excited to explore some of Tasmania’s most beautiful beaches and landscapes. Our first stop was at Wineglass Bay, located in Freycinet National Park. As we hiked up to the lookout, we were left breathless by the stunning view of the bay and the crystal clear waters below. We spent the afternoon sunbathing on the beach and swimming in the refreshing water.
Next, we headed further up the coast to Bay of Fires, known for its bright orange lichen-covered rocks and secluded beaches. We set up camp on one of the beaches and spent the evening watching the sunset and stargazing.
One of our favorite experiences on the East Coast was a visit to Maria Island, a national park located just off the coast. We took a ferry over and spent the day hiking, biking, and exploring the island’s wildlife and history. We even saw some Tasmanian devils in the wild!
As we continued up the coast, we stopped at Bicheno to see the famous Blowhole and spent a night in a cozy cabin overlooking the ocean. We also made a detour to the historic town of Ross, with its beautiful sandstone buildings and famous bakery.
Overall, the East Coast of Tasmania was a highlight of our road trip. The stunning natural beauty and secluded beaches made for a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
North West Tasmania
I was blown away by the natural beauty of Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park. The jagged peaks and crystal-clear waters were simply breathtaking. I spent a day hiking around the area and was lucky enough to spot some of the local wildlife, including wallabies and wombats.
Another highlight of this part of Tasmania was the town of Stanley. I climbed the Nut, a steep volcanic plug that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The hike was challenging, but the views from the top were well worth the effort.
One of the most memorable experiences of my trip was taking a tour of the Tarkine Rainforest. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable about the local flora and fauna and showed us some truly remarkable sights, including ancient trees and hidden waterfalls. It was a humbling reminder of the incredible power of nature.
Overall, I found North West Tasmania to be a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The natural beauty of the area is truly awe-inspiring and I feel lucky to have had the opportunity to explore it at my own pace.
West Coast Wilderness
Driving along the scenic West Coast was one of the highlights of my Tasmanian road trip. The rugged landscapes and quaint historic mining towns like Queenstown and Zeehan made for an unforgettable experience. I stopped at Queenstown for a brief exploration of the town’s rich mining history and to marvel at the unique landscape that was created by over a century of copper mining.
Taking a cruise along the Gordon River was another adventure that I will never forget. The World Heritage-listed wilderness area was truly a sight to behold. The cruise took us through ancient rainforests and past towering cliffs. I even got to see some remarkable wildlife up close, including the Tasmanian devil and the spotted-tailed quoll.
Hiking in the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park was a challenging but rewarding experience. The park is home to some of the most rugged wilderness in Tasmania, and I felt like I was truly out in the wild. The scenery was breathtaking, with sweeping views of the mountains, rivers, and forests. I also saw some unique flora and fauna, including the endemic pencil pine and the elusive platypus.
Overall, my Tasmanian road trip was an epic adventure that I will never forget. I highly recommend this trip to any independent traveler who wants to explore the natural beauty and unique culture of Tasmania. Just be sure to pack accordingly, as the weather can be unpredictable, and always respect the environment and the local communities.