Take a breather in Tassie: A must-see Tasmania travel itinerary for the Apple Isle

Take a breather in Tassie: A Tasmania travel itinerary full of where to go, what to do and places to eat and drink

See more of the Apple Isle than you thought possible with this Tasmania road trip itinerary. 

In the past decade, Australia’s island state of Tasmania has found its way onto many a must-do list, and with very good reason. With spectacular scenery, endless activities and a burgeoning food scene, Tassie is a traveller's dream.

Even better, because of its size, it's possible to cover more of Tasmania than you think.

Take a breather in Tassie: A must-see Tasmania travel itinerary

Our journey starts in Devonport – the home of the Spirit of Tasmania, which makes bringing your car over from the mainland hassle-free. If you’d prefer, hiring one is quick and easy throughout Tassie; all you need to be is 25 years or older with a valid drivers license.

DEVONPORT

Sitting in the north of the state, the coastal town of Devonport has a rich local history and is often referred to as the ‘Gateway to Tasmania’.

Things to do in Davenport

Take yourself for a nice walk through the streets of the port town by heading to Mersey Bluff and its iconic lighthouse, then be rewarded with sweeping views of the coast.

Devonport is the perfect location to begin the famous Tasmanian Tasting Trail which covers the northwest of the state. Follow it along the coast towards Burnie and discover incredible fresh produce and fine wines from all over region has to offer.

Check out our blog about the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail here.

Places to eat and drink in Devonport

Once you’re back in Devonport, take yourself on a trip to the local chocolatier, The House of Anvers. Located in LaTrobe, just 8km from Discovery Park - Devonport, Anvers use traditional chocolate methods and European recipes to create a distinct, mouth-watering treat that will stick with you for life.

Latrobe is also home to the Chocolate Winter Fest that takes place in August each year - reason enough to make the trek in our humble opinion!

Overlooking the ocean, Mrs Jones Restaurant, Bar and Lounge is a must for any foodie. The striking building is almost as impressive as the contemporary menu which showcases the best Tassie produce through elegant, refined dishes.

For a more laid-back dining experience, you can’t go past Drift Café, which has both dine-in and takeaway options, plus lawn games to keep the kids entertained while you enjoy the beachside atmosphere.

Take a short drive out of town to find Ghost Rock Wines and treat yourself to some of their award-winning drops. Drive in the other direction and you’ll find Spreyton Cider, where you can enjoy the sweet taste of Tasmanian apple cider at their idyllic cellar door, where they often host live bands and walking tours of the orchards.

LAUNCESTON

Distance from Devonport – 102km – 1hr 15 minutes

Take the stunning route from Devonport to Launceston and be amazed at the natural beauty of Tasmania. Along the way, do yourself a favour and visit Tassie’s finest cheese purveyors with a stop at the Ashgrove Dairy Door in Elizabeth Town.

You can also explore Narawntapu and Mt William National Parks, take a Tamar River Cruise, and taste your way through Tasmania’s oldest wine region, the Tamar Valley.

Things to do in Launceston

Taste the very best of Tassie with a visit to the Harvest Market. Every Saturday morning, you can grab yourself a bacon and egg roll and a locally roasted coffee while you meander the many stalls of local farmers and producers that make up this iconic market.

Afterward, take the scenic 45-minute drive to Bridestowe Lavender Farm, which makes for the perfect Insta-worthy snap and allows you to sample the best lavender ice cream, scones and unique savoury dishes, all while taking in the view of nearby Mount Arthur.

If you’re in the area during September, be sure to check out the Junction Arts Festival which celebrates art in all its forms during its annual four-day 'artravaganza.'

Places to eat and drink in Launceston

When UNESCO declare somewhere a “City of Gastronomy”, you better take note.

Launceston joined just 48 other cities worldwide when it was awarded the coveted title in November 2021 and the city has quickly becoming a destination for food lovers. From upscale restaurants such as Stillwater, Novaro’s and Rupert & Hound to the more casual dining hot spots of The Metz, plus what is arguably the best Japanese in Tasmania, Kosaten.

HOBART

Distance from Launceston – 193km – 2hr 20 minutes

Next, make your way to Tasmania’s main hub, Hobart. You’ve probably heard of the MONA museum and its annual Dark Mofo Festival, but this vibrant city has so much more to offer.

Things to do in Hobart

On the way here from Launceston, make a stop at the country town of Ross and discover the fascinating history behind Tasmania’s women convicts at the Ross Female Factory. Then unwind from your drive with a drink at the Old Kempton Distillery before parking up and getting comfortable for a jam-packed time in Hobart.

The aforementioned Dark Mofo Festival happens each year in June, but it’s not the only event worth your time.

The Huon Valley Mid-Winter Festival is a two-day pagan-inspired celebration of the region's apple-picking history and takes place half an hour outside of Hobart. Cider infused with folklore awaits you as you dance to local folk bands, vie for best dressed and cheer as the burning of the 13-foot stature lights up the sky.

Tassie is also well-known for its award-winning breweries and distilleries, and Tasmanian Whisky Week sees events pop-up across the entire state for 7 days in August, including several worth your time in Hobart.

If you do travel in winter, no trip to Tasmania would be complete without seeing snow and a trip to Mount Wellington allows you to do that without venturing far from the city.

Drive yourself or jump on the bus to the summit so you can take in the incredible views along the way. Stay past dark for the chance to witness the elusive Aurora Australis or Southern Lights and watch as blues, greens and purples dance across the sky in one of Australia's most fascinating natural phenomenoms.

Check out our awesome list of things to see and do in Hobart for more ideas. We can't fit them all in here!

Places to eat and drink in Hobart

It’s hard to narrow down the best places to eat in Hobart, as it feels like there’s a hidden gem around every corner.

For a memorable dining experience, head to the water and find Institut Polaire, whose cuisine and décor pay homage to the state’s proximity to Antarctica. If you’re with the kids, grab some fish and chips from Mure’s Lower Deck and keep your eye out for the local seals, who might well pay you a visit!

You also can’t go past the weekly Salamanca Markets in Hobart for your dose of warm, freshly baked goods.

CRADLE MOUNTAIN

Distance from Hobart Discovery Park – 290km – 3hrs 50minutes

The longest leg of your journey is also the most scenic.

Journey through the picturesque Lake St Clair National Park before catching sight of Montezuma Falls and Nelson Falls, both of which are on the way from Hobart.

Things to do in Cradle Mountain

As you would imagine, there is plenty to discover on foot around Cradle Mountain, with hiking trails galore to suit all fitness levels. For something different, opt to hike the adjacent Hanson’s Peak and be rewarded with stunning views of Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake.

You’ll likely see snow if you’re travelling in the winter months, which can be admired while you soak in a hot tub or get a well-deserved massage at Waldheim Alpine Spa.

Cradle Mountain is one of the best places to spot a wild wombat or get up close and personal with the locals at the Cradle Mountain Tasmanian Devil Sanctuary.

Places to eat and drink near Cradle Mountain

You may feel a million miles away at Cradle Mountain, but that doesn’t mean good food can’t be found.

Cradle Mountain Lodge is convenient, with three eateries to choose from including a rustic, homestyle tavern complete with open fire. The Cradle Mountain Hotel is great if you’re travelling with kids and offers a full buffet dinner.

It is important to note that food options can be a little bit limited, so we recommend taking the opportunity to pick up some fresh, local produce from the markets and cook up a storm inside your cabin at Discovery Parks - Cradle Mountain.

ARE YOU READY TO TAKE A BREATHER IN TASMANIA?

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