It may be small, but this tiny island promises big adventures. Rich history, rugged landscapes and abundant wildlife make Tasmania a bucket list travel destination – especially since you can easily explore it by car. So, with all of that in mind, here’s our ultimate Tasmania van trip itinerary.
Day 1: Hobart to Port Arthur
Driving time: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours
Pick up your van in Hobart, Tasmania’s capital (and largest) city, and make sure you have your national parks pass sorted before you hit the road. Note: You should probably spend a two to three days in Hobart before starting your van trip. You won’t need a car – Hobart is extremely walkable, and there are plenty of tours that can take you farther afield if you need (Mount Wellington and Richmond are two worthwhile excursions).
On the morning of your road trip, secure the van. Then, head southeast to Port Arthur – but not before doing a grocery shop (there isn’t all that much en route, especially beyond Eaglehawk Neck). You’ll need around three hours at the Port Arthur Historic Site to really soak it all in, so be sure to leave yourself enough time.
When you’re done, drive over to Fortescue Bay Camping Ground. It’s only 30-odd minutes from Port Arthur and is seriously scenic (you may even spot a few dolphins swimming close to shore).
Day 2: Fortescue Bay to Freycinet National Park
Driving time: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours
Leave Fortescue Bay early, heading toward the Swansea area. Be warned: The more direct route (through the Sandspit River Forest Reserve) is partially dirt road. If you’re not sure whether your van will manage, you’ll need to backtrack through Sorrell. If you turn left off the Denison Canal Swing Bridge, not right, it should only add about 15 minutes to your trip.
Along the way, make time to check out a few of the stops on the Great Eastern Drive. Kate’s Berry Farm serves up gelato, jams, chocolate and even berry wine from the adorable Just Dessert’s Café (part of which Kate, who is now in her 80s, built by hand when she first set up shop almost 40 years ago). It’s a perfect stop for a pre-lunch treat, but there is no shortage of cellar doors in the region to check out, too.
If fresh seafood is more appealing to you than a packed lunch, head straight to the Freycinet Marine Farm to refuel. Famous for its fresh seafood, this is a must-visit for any oyster lover. Why not take the tour to the farm itself, to learn the art of shucking fresh oysters?
If you’re not a fan of seafood, drive directly to Freycinet Campground. Perched on the doorstep of famous Freycinet National Park (pronounced like ‘fresh-in-aye’), this campground gives you easy access to countless hikes and swimming spots. Squeeze one in that afternoon, or wake up early and take on Mount Amos for panoramic views of Wineglass Bay.
Day 3: Freycinet National Park to Bay of Fires
Driving time: Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours
Keep driving along the scenic East Coast to the equally scenic Bay of Fires. En route, take a detour to Bicheno – not just for breakfast, but to see the famous ‘blowhole’ in action.
If you need to refuel (both in terms of petrol and food), St Helen’s is your best bet. The Bay of Fires Conservation Area – where you’ll be spending the night – offers free camping, which means the facilities (if they have any) leave a lot to be desired. Expect drop dunnies and… well, that’s basically it. Luckily, St Helen’s has hot showers available for a couple of gold coins. The CamperMate app will be your best friend in situations like this.
Once you’ve arrived at your next campsite (we suggest Swimcart Beach or nearby Jeanneret and Cosy Corner) kick your feet up. The best thing to do in Bay of Fires is soak in the beauty, after all.
Day 4: Bay of Fires to Launceston
Driving time: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours
If you’re looking for another way to relax, stop by Derby’s Floating Sauna on your way to Launceston. Perched on an ice cold (okay, like 6 degree) lake, it’s the perfect way to start the day. While you’re there, keep an eye out for platypuses swimming in the reeds.
Then, it’s on to Launceston – Tasmania’s second most populated city (and one of Australia’s oldest). You can easily while away the hours roaming the streets, poking your head into cute cafes and boutiques. Just make sure you allow time to visit Cataract Gorge, a reserve in the city centre that offers walking tracks, a swimming pool and even a chairlift to take it all in.
For accommodation, Big4 Holiday Parks is pretty much your only option in a van (unless you’re happy to stay slightly out of town in Hadspen, Legana or Longford). It’s pricey – well, more pricey than free – but it’s worth it to be close to the action.
Day 5: Launceston to Cradle Mountain
Driving time: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours
We may be biased, but we think we’ve saved the best until last with Cradle Mountain. Popular amongst hikers and animal lovers alike, the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is teeming with walking tracks, lakes and wildlife (wombats included). If you only have a day there, the Dove Lake Circuit and Ronny Track are must do’s. Circumnavigating Dove Lake lets you take in the national park’s most famous sights, while Ronny Track basically guarantees you’ll see roaming wombats. Two bucket list experiences, if you ask us.
For van travellers, your only option is Discovery Parks – but don’t worry, it’s a good one. It’s more expensive than the bulk of Tasmania’s national park campgrounds, but you get what you pay for with clean (and hot) showers, cooking facilities and a fireplace. It will feel like a real treat.
Day 6: Cradle Mountain to Hobart
Driving time: Approximately 4 to 4.5 hours
After hitting the trails the day before, being in the car for a few hours will be a welcome relief. If you’re up for a detour on your way back, historic Clarendon Estate is just outside Launceston. Try to time your visit for a weekend (it’s only open on Saturdays and Sundays) but, if you can’t, the drive through the storybook town of Evandale will still be worth your while.
From there, you’re back on the open road, headed for Hobart to return the van.
Happy travelling!
Note: These driving times are approximate and may vary depending on factors such as road conditions, traffic, and stops along the way. It’s always a good idea to plan for extra time for breaks and sightseeing during your Tasmania van trip.