The Perfect 9-Day Tasmania Itinerary For That Epic Adventure
Looking for a perfect 9-day Tasmania itinerary?
Tasmania is home to an impressive array of well-known Australian wilds and animals. Mountain ranges and glacial lakes dominate the western side, while massive cliffs and pristine beaches surround the island’s east.
Hobart, the state’s capital, is as vibrant as Melbourne or Sydney without the crowds. With that in mind, this article will walk you through the best 9-day Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary.
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Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary
In this 9-day itinerary, we will take you on a thrilling journey through some of the island’s most iconic destinations, allowing you to immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty and unique charm of Tasmania.
Over nine days, we will explore a range of extraordinary landscapes, from rugged mountains and ancient rainforests to pristine coastlines and secluded beaches.
Day 1: Explore Hobart CBD
Go on Museum Dates
The Tasmania Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) is a must-see while in Tasmania, owing to its impressive collection and shows. As Australia’s second-oldest museum, it’s located in some of the state’s most historic structures. Some of the items in its collection date back to the Royal Society of Tasmania’s inception in 1843.
Indeed, tourists of all ages and interests may enjoy TMAG, a well-known state museum in the area. The museum features vast collections of geology, biology, and marine history.
The next museum that you must visit focuses on the tremendous maritime legacy of the islands, The Maritime Museum. You’ll discover exhibits on early European explorers and whalers, as well as exhibitions on native boats.
Moreover, the museum’s collection of ship models, artifacts, paintings, and pictures is accordant to the Carnegie Building’s architectural splendour.
In fact, archaeological findings from shipwrecks off the coast of Tasmanian islands can also occur here. Hence, the Maritime Museum is open from 9 am to 6 pm seven days a week (except on certain holidays).
Another worth going to is the Mawson’s Huts Replica Museum, which is located on the waterfront in Hobart. On your visit to this museum, you may trace the footsteps of pioneer Dr Douglas Mawson who set sail from Hobart in 1911.
As a matter of fact, the museum recreates Mawson’s and his crew’s huts from their two-year expedition. With that, opening hours are from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm from Mondays-Sundays, so be sure to check them out!
Salamanca Place
Every Saturday from 8:30 am to 3 pm, the Salamanca Market gathers artists and food sellers. So stock up on organic or handmade delights made from Huon pine.
The Salamanca Arts Center is a sandstone complex with a dozen galleries and performing spaces. Here, you’ll find fresh veggies from local farmers, steaming coffee, delicious breakfast and lunch, as well as handmade gifts and souvenirs.
While in the CBD, you may want to try the famous Drunken Admiral restaurant. Here you can enjoy a fresh Tasmanian seafood platter in a dynamic nautical atmosphere. Moreover, this restaurant has been run by the same family since 1979 and has an old-fashioned ship-like cabin vibe inside.
In addition, cool Boag’s draught is an excellent complement to the saline sea air and freshly shucked oysters. You can also reel in a yachtie’s seafood mixed platter set on an oven-fired stone to complete cooking.
Where to Stay in Hobart
The top hotels in Tasmania can accommodate whatever level of splendour you choose. Whichever budget you’re operating on, you’ll find a great variety of places to stay in Tasmania.
For an extensive guide on where to stay in Hobart, check my article on the Best Accommodations in Hobart.
Luxury – MACq 01
The 114 guestrooms and suites of MACq 01 Hotel are detectable for their spacious layouts and casual decor. All of the hotel’s waterfront rooms provide views of the River Derwent and Mount Wellington. Not to mention, the Hunter Rooms overlook the city’s historic Hunter Street.
Average – Bay Hotel Apartments
The Bay Hotel provides studio double, studio twin, and two-bedroom, self-contained apartments in an average price range.
Budget – Edinburgh Gallery Bed & Breakfast
Centrally located in Hobart, Edinburgh Gallery Bed & Breakfast is within easy walking distance of the city’s main attractions. Moreover, it provides reasonably priced lodging with an included continental breakfast.
Looking for other accommodation options? Use this interactive map to see vacation rentals and hotels in the area. You can zoom in, set filters, select your travel dates and more!
Day 2: MONA and Mount Wellington
Mount Wellington
In this Tasmania itinerary, we will start your day 2 by exploring Mount Wellington (also widely recognized as Kunanyi) which dominates the Hobart skyline.
Regardless of where you travel in the city, you’ll see this 1271-meter-high peak. There are several routes to get to The Pinnacle, the highest point in the mountain range.
Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)
Mona is unquestionably one of the strangest sights to see. There are few museums as huge or as contentious as MONA when it comes to contemporary art and antiques. Still, their three levels of underground architecture, art, and displays are sure to make an impact on anybody who visits.
More than 1900 items are part of the general collection, which is constantly developing and expanding. Indeed, it is best to view well-known artworks, as well as new installations here. Moreover, the Museum of Old and New Art is great to visit by using fast and convenient ferries.
It takes approximately twenty-five minutes to get directly from Brooke Street Pier to Mona. Ferries can operate in all seasons, but check the website for the scheduled time. For prices, admission is $30 for adults and $27 for students and seniors.
Day 3: Ferry Ride to Bruny Island
When it comes to spectacular and varied scenery, Bruny Island is a must-visit and should be on your Tasmania itinerary. Bruny Island is a small island off the southeast coast of Tasmania that can only be hit by a boat. With this, one of the island’s top attractions is the short isthmus or “The Neck” which connects to the mainland.
Located in the D’Entrecasteaux Channel, off the southeast coast of Tasmania, Bruny Island is a popular destination for visitors. In addition, a frequent ferry service to the island departs from Kettering, about 40 minutes from Hobart.
It takes roughly 20 minutes to cross the river by ferry. In addition to that, to take a vehicle on the ferry, you’ll have to pay $38 for the return fare.
You may also want to check my article on The Best Bruny Island Day Tours from Hobart
Cape Queen Elizabeth
The Cape Queen Elizabeth route is one of Bruny Island’s most popular treks. The starting point for this tour is a tiny parking lot on Bruny Island Main Road, just across from the Bruny Island Honey shop.
The Rocky Archway, which is near Mars Bluff around 3-4 kilometres into the track, is the course’s most notable feature. Indeed, many visitors choose to see the arches instead of hiking to the coast, saving themselves time and effort. Low tide is the ideal time to visit this attraction for the most incredible shots!
In addition, walkers may look forward to beautiful hidden beaches and unusual rock formations. Indeed, during low tide, you may take a faster and more exciting route down the beach below Mars Bluff.
Cape Bruny Lighthouse
Located near the island’s southern point, Cape Bruny Lighthouse is accessible by “Lighthouse Road”. Indeed, this clean gravel road on Tasmania’s southwest fork is well worth a visit. Without a doubt, one of the best places to visit in Tasmania.
It was built-in in 1836 and is the only southern Tassie lighthouse that is open to the public for visits. The 114-meter-tall cliffs and coves of this heritage-listed monument are perfect for both photographers and history buffs both. The views from the lighthouse balcony over the South West Wilderness and coasts are very breathtaking.
You can watch the seals and the Albatross as they play on the rocks nearby. Also, during the Whale Migrations, Southern Right and Humpback Whale sightings are common.
Truganini Lookout
Enjoy the beautiful views of the isthmus’s heart, where you may see small penguin tracks in the early morning. For the best chance of seeing penguins, go when the skies are clear or just before or just after sunset.
Near the shore, there is a spot where you may watch for penguins. Furthermore, the beach on the neck has crystal-clear water and is an excellent place to take a stroll.
Explore the South Bruny National Park
Another noteworthy place to add to your Tasmania Itinerary is exploring the South Bruny National Park. Indeed, many outdoor activities are available at the South Bruny National Park.
So explore windswept beaches and coastal cliffs or climb to the top of towering sea stacks for spectacular vistas. Likewise, you may discover several kinds of animals and plants that are at risk of extinction in this park.
Moreover, other birds that make this region home include the hooded plover and forty-spotted pardalote. Muttonbird (short-tail shearwater) and penguin rookeries dot the coastline. These wallabies may be seen feeding in the open fields near the Fluted Cape entrance to Kakadu National Park.
Not to mention, echidna and possum species, pademelons, and a small colony of beautiful white Bennett’s wallabies. It is truly an exciting sight you should not miss while you are here.
Bruny Island Cruise
This trip around Bruny Island’s south shore would be at the top of any Tasmania Itinerary. Bruny Island Cruises’ excursions are often cited as among the top things to do in Tasmania. From Adventure Bay, you may go on boat tours to witness marine life such as seals, dolphins, whales, and seabirds.
A cruise ship is the best way to experience Bruny Island’s stunning coastline with sea cliffs, blowholes, and coastal caves.
Where To Stay on Bruny Island
Guests may pick from a variety of lodging choices and standards on the island of Bruny. Bruny Island, Tasmania, Australia, is south of Hobart and offers outstanding cuisine, gorgeous views, and diverse wildlife.
You may relax in one of the 14 well-appointed bedrooms, each of which has a refrigerator and a microwave. Likewise, Sheepwash Bay and Lutregala Creek are both within driving distance of Bruny Island Escapes and Hotel Bruny.
Day 4: Port Arthur
Port Arthur Historical Site
Visit the Port Arthur Historical Site. This guided full-day walking tour is an interpretive and interactive presentation of the historic convict site bringing the reality of the harrowing life of convicts two centuries ago.
You will have access to over 30 restored buildings and ruins including the penitentiary, the separate prison, the commandant’s house, the church, and more.
Tasman Bay National Park Lookout
The Tasman National Park Lookout is about 56 kilometres east of Hobart. Located on both the Forestier and Tasman peninsulas, the 107.5-square-kilometre park includes the whole of Tasman Island.
Certainly. this is a famous place for travellers to admire the towering sea cliffs and huge rock formations. In fact, the park’s dolerite cliffs are the world’s tallest at 300 meters. In addition to the brushtail possum, the park is home to Australian fur seals, penguins, dolphins, and migratory whales.
The quick parrot and other forest-dwelling species are also found here. Wedge-tailed and sea eagles may also be seen in the sky above. For a more thrilling adventure, go on a wilderness cruise between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck.
Port Arthur Lavender Farm
This Tasmania Itinerary suggests visiting Port Arthur Lavender Farm in SE Tasmania for some retail therapy and leisure. The Tasmanian lavender season is in full swing, with the peak period being between mid-December and early January.
Australian lavender farms and fields come to life at this time of year, bursting with colour and fragrance. In fact, The Long Bay visitor centre and café in Port Arthur’s Long Bay has over 70 lavender-inspired artisan handicrafts. Moreover, lavender ice cream, lavender teas and hot cocoa, and spicy lavender chutney are all on the menu.
Year-round, visitors may stroll the lavender trail, conduct self-guided field excursions, and learn about the farm’s unique distillery.
Tesselated Pavement
Indeed, it’s a photographer’s paradise within an hour’s drive from Hobart at this small tourist attraction. Tile-like rocks on the water’s surface are what give the area its name. Visitors and nature lovers alike will find this geological phenomenon awe-inspiring in the Tassie wilderness.
For animal enthusiasts, the rock fissures are home to a variety of animals, including Tasmanian crabs and other creatures. After a short walk from the parking lot, you’ll be able to see the rocks. If you have time, descend many flights of stairs to explore the rocks and their surroundings.
Remarkable Cave
The Remarkable Cave is around 5 kilometres south of Port Arthur. The caverns are accessible from the beach level and where you can see the observation platform via a 130-step stairway. So if you’re courageous enough to enter this Cave, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views.
This is called a remarkable cave because of its features: The end of the tunnel is shaped like a silhouette of Tasmania. It is made of different types of sandstones including dolerite which formed deep inside the earth. It has two entrances which were created by ancient earthquakes.
Inside the Cave, you’ll witness a variety of sandstone walls, each with a distinct colour and texture. As you look from the outside wall of the cave, it has beautiful folded patterns, created by earthquakes, which are rare and remarkable.
The remarkable Cave is inaccessible without getting wet in harsh weather, yet this won’t distract you from the Cave’s natural beauty. Include the Remarkable Cave for that remarkable Tasmania itinerary!
Tasman’s Arch, Devil’s Kitchen, Blowhole
The Blowhole, Tasman Arch, and Devil’s Kitchen are must-sees on every Tasmania itinerary. Make it even better with some fish and chips made by Doo Lishus. In addition, located on the Tasman Peninsula, the Blowhole is a popular tourist destination. It originated as a tiny cave, like the nearby Tasman Arch and Devil’s Kitchen.
The unusual geological structures observed today are the result of millions of years of water and wind erosion. The Blowhole and its spray may be awe-inspiring when the waves are raging.
The Devil’s Kitchen started as a humble cave and turned into a great gulch. This gulch formed a joint and has been linked to Tasman’s Arch.
The Devil’s Kitchen, Tasman Arch and the Blowhole are all former sea caves or tunnels. The Blowhole has still much of its roof while Tasman’s Arch has lost most of it. The roof of the Devil’s Kitchen, on the other hand, has completely fallen in.
Hike around Three Capes Track
If you have additional 3 more days to spare, why not try to hike the Three Capes Track? It’s a challenging yet worthy hike with charming coves, stunning heathlands, and stunning vistas of the coast. Hikers on the Three Capes Track, on the other hand, must fork up a minimum of $500 for the privilege.
As a result, a new hiking trail has been built with the “luxury” paradigm in mind. If you have extra time and prefer to rough it a little, this is the place for you. Getting out and seeing the world is all about letting go and letting yourself be a part of it.
Cape Raoul is also the third and last point in Tasmania’s Three Capes Track, a popular hiking destination. However, if you cannot reach Cape Raoul, you can self-drive to the southern tip of the Tasman Peninsula and climb up from there.
Tasman Island: 3-Hour Wilderness Cruise
A Wilderness Cruise between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck in Tasmania is necessary. For a bird’s eye view of Australia’s tallest sea cliffs, a yellow boat will take you there.
On your nature cruise’s strong catamaran, look for seals, dolphins, seagulls, and even migrating whales. In addition to the famous Tasmanian Devil, the trip includes possums, wallabies, and kangaroos.
Check out my review on The Tasman Peninsula Wilderness Cruise
Where to Stay in Port Arthur
There’s also the Fox & Hounds Inn, a Tudor-style house on a stunning seashore surrounded by woodland. Port Arthur’s major tourist attraction is only a one-minute walk away from them.
It’s also situated in Port Arthur, Tasmania, on the breathtaking Tasman Peninsula and provides excellent service and amenities. Located close to several magnificent trails, including those to Cape Hauy, Cape Raoul, and many more.
On the lavish side, Port Arthur’s Cove on the Rocks is an excellent option. Port Arthur’s rock cove is 3 km from Port Arthur and 32 km from Dunalley. It has a secluded beach area and air conditioning.
Visitors to Port Arthur’s Cove on the rocks may take advantage of the garden and surrounding hiking and fishing opportunities. Port Arthur’s ghost tours are just 3 km distant, while the historic site is 6 km.
On the premise of my own experience, I strongly recommend Storm Bay Bed and Breakfast for your lodging needs. Historical and natural elements are matched with hearty, locally sourced ingredients and the comforts of home in this beautiful combination.
Indeed, it’s a refuge for birdwatchers and wildlife lovers, as well as photographers, history buffs, and those seeking solitude. It’s also within 20 minutes of the Port Arthur Historic Site, Port Arthur Lavender Farm, and Remarkable Cave.
Where to Dine in Port Arthur
For breakfast, lunch, or dinner, On the Bay is the place to go for an exceptional dining and drinking experience. Indeed, the superb customer service and pleasant ambience of “On the Bay” reflect the gorgeous landscape and wonderful waterfront views.
Day 5: Freycinet National Park
Wineglass Bay
It’s a no-brainer to visit Freycinet National Park if you’re travelling down the east coast of Tasmania. Wineglass Bay is one of Tasmania’s most popular tourist sites and definitely should be on your Tasmania itinerary. To say nothing, wildlife watching, fishing, hiking, and rock climbing are some of the activities available in Wineglass.
Freycinet National Park, which was established in 1916 together with Mount Field National Park, is one of Tasmania’s oldest parks. Along with, 49 indigenous plant and animal species found in the park.
Wineglass Bay Cruise
One of Australia’s greatest mysteries is Wineglass Bay. It’s a stunning and secluded white sand crescent that juts out into a crystal-clear blue sea. Not to mention, the most fantastic way to see Wineglass Bay is by boat, not on foot.
Eco-catamaran Schouten Passage II will take you to Wineglass Bay and the Freycinet Peninsula. When the boat stops, you may get some great shots of the granite cliffs and fauna that line the wayside. The trip includes lunch and informative facts about locations, wildlife, and culture.
For an in-depth understanding of this cruise, please check my article on The Wineglass Bay Cruise Review
Cape Tourville Lighthouse and Sleepy Bay
Freycinet National Park protects a beautiful peninsula on the east coast of Tasmania. Plus, from Cape Tourville, you can see the peninsula and the park’s beaches, which are Tasmania’s pride. The historic Cape Tourville Lighthouse is reached through a 600-meter walk around this headland on the peninsula’s east side.
It was constructed in 1971 to assist the safe passage of vessels plying the East Coast. Indeed, a must-do for anyone who wants to experience Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks.
Onto the Cape Tourville Road is a car park going to Sleepy Bay. Graded steps for about 10 minutes lead to the shoreline of Sleepy Bay. This provides coastal views of the turquoise waters with orange lichen crust on rocks and boulders.
Where To Stay in Freycinet
During your stay at Freycinet Lodge, you’ll fall in love with all the pavilion has to offer. Sophisticated but cozy accommodations allow you to immerse yourself in nature’s splendour.
Enjoy a delicious meal prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, or create lasting memories with a unique activity or event. In addition, the Coastal Pavilion at Freycinet Lodge is really an excellent combination of natural simplicity and supreme luxury.
Day 6: Binalong and Bicheno / Bay of Fires
Get Blown by the Bicheno Blowhole
Bicheno, a family-friendly beach town on Tasmania’s east coast, has much to offer to visitors. Car parking is available near the Bicheno Blowhole, and you may approach it from the esplanade. We see a lot of dolerite rocks in Tasmania, but this blowhole is different because it is made of granite.
The water from the ocean blows a hole through the granite. The water then rushes into the cave and erupts out of the hole in the ceiling creating a geyser effect for those standing on top of the sea cave.
Visit Binalong Bay and Go up North to the Bay of Fires
The Bay’s Flames Binalong Bay is the first stop from St Helens to Binalong Bay. The scene is magnificent, with water crashing onto a white sand beach framed by gigantic boulders adorned with orange lichen.
The Bay of Fires, which stretches from Binalong Bay to Eddystone Point, is a natural wonderland with pristine beaches that should be added to your Tasmania itinerary.
The name Bay of Fires was from Tobias Furneaux in 1773. It comes from seeing the many fires lit by the aboriginal people in the northeast coastal plains.
It is easy to unwind at Binalong Bay, a quaint community of holiday cottages and campgrounds. If you like water sports, this is a terrific area to spend some time in. There are also vacation rental houses at the Bay of Fires to suit all budgets.
It doesn’t matter if you want a cozy lodge, a luxurious designer villa, or a beach hut with sea views. They provide a variety of alternatives for singles, couples, and families alike. To make your stay as pleasant as possible, they’ve carefully vetted each of the properties they’ve picked.
Visit The Gardens
Get away from all the noise at the Gardens; they’re an excellent area for a quiet getaway. Exclusive vacation houses in the Gardens overlook the shore and give direct access to one of Tasmania’s most outstanding beaches. Between the Gardens and Binalong Bay, there are several quiet beaches and rocky inlets to explore.
Taylors Beach also has a beautiful white sand beach perfect for a leisurely walk or a fishing expedition. Furthermore, throughout the weekend, the typically deserted beach bursts to life with eager fishermen hoping to catch a prized catch.
Indeed, the Gardens are home to a wide variety of species. It’s possible to see dolphins or whales migrating from the comfort of your own deck if you’re fortunate.
Eddystone Point Lighthouse at Mount William National Park
An idyllic picnic area and secluded beaches await you at Mt. William National Park’s Eddystone Point. The 35-meter-tall granite lighthouse’s massive crystal lenses project a beam of light 26 nautical miles out to sea.
The lighthouse guards the entrance to Banks Strait and guides ships around the offshore dangers of Victoria and Georges Rocks. Unfortunately, visitors cannot enter the lighthouse, but they may observe the surroundings and enjoy the ocean views from the outside.
Moreover, Eddystone Point is one of six authorized camping places in Mount William National Park. This campsite is best for tents or small caravans and RVs, but it’s still a fun place to stay. All of the sites include picnic tables and pit toilets, making them ideal for families.
Also worth mentioning is the 90-minute return hike up Mount William, which offers a spectacular perspective of the surrounding area. Mount William, which stands at only 216 feet above sea level, provides stunning vistas which you should definitely put on your Tasmania itinerary.
In the Bass Strait, between Tasmania and Victoria, you may see the Furneaux Islands. Wedge-tailed Eagles, Wombats, and Wallabies are just a few of the animals you’ll see on your tour. Likewise, hiking, picnicking, swimming, and fishing are popular activities around Ansons Bay and Bay of Fires beaches.
Drive to Launceston and Stopover at Bridestowe Lavender Estate
We made a pit break at Bridestowe Lavender Estate on our way to Launceston. The Bridestowe Lavender Estate is a popular tourist site for visitors from all around Australia and the world.
We recently paid a visit and had a great time exploring the lavender fields. Moreover, I suggest visiting them in January, when the lavender is in full bloom and ready to pick.
Where to Stay in Launceston
Balmoral On York
It is a four-star hotel located in the centre of Launceston, Tasmania, featuring a contemporary restaurant and conference amenities. Launceston is a lovely city with an architectural style with plenty of lush parks that add to its historical charm.
Aurora Stadium is a 10- to 15-minute walk from The Balmoral on York. Also, Balmoral On York is also conveniently set in Launceston’s business district, near the city’s great parks.
Other Hotels You Can Try
Budget- The Cornwall Historic Hotel
Mid-range- Hotel Grand Chancellor
Luxury- Peppers Silo
You can also check this guide to help you in choosing the Best Hotels in Launceston.
Day 7: Launceston CBD
Try the Chairlift Experience at Cataract Gorge
The Gorge Scenic Chairlift in Launceston, Northern Tasmania, offers a breathtaking perspective of the Cataract Gorge so don’t forget to add this to your Tasmania itinerary. Moreover, you can see the Cataract Gorge from a single-span chairlift. So enjoy the calm of the South Esk River after a flood, and the rhododendrons and fern glades.
Moreover, going up and down the Gorge Scenic Chairlift in Launceston should be on your Tasmanian Itinerary. Indeed, Canyon Scenic Chairlift is a value-for-money experience that provides guests with breathtaking views of the old rock gorge.
Rides at a leisurely pace allow guests to take in the stunning countryside. In order to guarantee that you have a safe and comfortable journey, their team takes adequate measures.
Day 8: Cradle Mountain
Experience Cradle Mountain’s Famous Walks
As a tourist in Tasmania, you want to see as much of the island as possible and enjoy the voyage. You might spend all day driving to Cradle Mountain if you stop at every sight you see. It will take around three hours of continuous driving, which is plenty of time to add to your Tasmania itinerary.
To see more hiking adventures, I have created The Best 5 Amazing Cradle Mountain Walks to guide you in your Tasmania journey.
Cradle Mountain National Park is a hiker’s paradise for all skills. Enchanted Walk leads travellers through woodlands with running water amid grass and trees. It’s just a short distance away, yet the name of this location could not be more appropriate.
This woodland walkway was like walking into a storybook under a soft layer of shimmering rainfall. As a bonus, the 10-minute Rainforest Walk leads to a glimpse of Pencil Pine Falls from the Interpretation Centre’s boardwalk. Not to mention the lookouts on the Knyvet Falls Track, which is across the road from Cradle Mountain Lodge.
A shuttle bus service was also announced to safeguard the World Heritage Area’s vital features and the visitor experience. Shuttle buses to Dove Lake leave from the Cradle Mountain Visitor Center every fifteen minutes.
Do the Dove Lake Circuit hike (Moderate) at Cradle Mountain
I’m sure you can find the Dove Lake Walk Circuit in any Tasmania itinerary. Indeed, it is one of Tasmania’s most popular day treks, around the namesake Dove Lake. On a clear day, you can view Cradle Mountain and the surrounding greenery as you go counterclockwise around the circuit.
This stroll, which concludes at the lake’s famed boat shed, is a must-do for people of all fitness levels. As a matter of fact, for a six-kilometre hike in Tasmania, this is one of the best. You can see Cradle Mountain’s majestic spires and Dove Lake from the route.
Likewise, it’s a two-hour walk around Dove Lake, which is a glacial landform. I guarantee that this six-kilometre trek offers views of Cradle Mountain, Dove Lake, and lush rainforest greenery.
Unfortunately, snow and ice may make the boardwalk very hazardous, even if the track is perfectly clean. So I recommend that you walk this circuit clockwise. Also, consider extending your stroll to Marion’s Lookout.
Indeed, this is a more challenging hike before returning to the visitors centre on the shuttle bus. Also, on your way to Dove and Crater Lakes, keep an eye out for additional picture-perfect vistas. Without a doubt, along the trip, you’ll get to see some stunning scenery.
Where to Stay in Cradle Mountain
Cradle Mountain Hotel
While staying at Cradle Mountain Lodge, you’ll have access to all of Cradle Mountain’s luxurious facilities. All of the Lodge Cabin and Suite layouts puts guests right in the middle of the alpine forest.
Other Hotels You Can Try
Budget- Discovery Parks
Mid-range- Tullah Lakeside Lodge
Luxury- Lemonthyme Wilderness Retreat
Day 9: Drive back to Hobart
Visit Liffey Falls
Don’t forget to add Lifey Falls to that Tasmania itinerary! It is a must-see stop on your way back to Hobart. Truly, everything you could possibly desire in a waterfall may be at Liffey Falls. In fact, many little falls seem to merge into a single waterfall because of the water’s vast range of movement.
So when capturing the falls, go down low in order to get the best view possible. There is an abundance of lush, tall vegetation around the falls. Sunlight danced off the river as a few rays broke through the trees. When the weather is gloomy and wet, these falls are just as stunning.
The pure water casts a moody blue hue over the lush greenery. In Tasmania, this is a must-see to add to your Tasmania Itinerary, so ensure you have a high-quality camera.
In addition, the Liffey Falls trailhead and parking lot are located southeast of Deloraine. Also, there is a parking lot at the end of Bogan Road for the Gulf Road Picnic Area. The fastest route from Launceston is 53 km in 53 minutes.
Also, a one-hour and twenty-minute drive will get you to Devonport, which is 80 kilometres distant. Hence, it will take approximately three hours to travel from Hobart to Tasmania’s largest city, which is 213 kilometres away.
Russell Falls and Horseshoe Falls in Mount Field National Park
Russell Falls is one of Tasmania’s most accessible and famous waterfalls that should definitely be on your Tasmania itinerary. In fact, it is about 30 minutes north of New Norfolk in Mount Field National Park. Plus, the 600-meter circle around the Falls is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers and takes only 20 minutes to complete.
Not to mention, the Horseshoe Falls, spectacular natural beauty in Mount Field National Park, is only a 10-minute walk from Russell Falls. Definitely, something you should also include in your Tasmania Itinerary.
You can also set foot on Horseshoe Falls through a short but steep hike from here. Horseshoe Falls, albeit smaller than Russell Falls, is likely more famous and popular in Mount Field National Park.
Retrace your steps or use a nearby trail to go back to the parking lot at Russell Falls. Horseshoe Falls is a good starting point for the Tall Trees circuit, which is a more challenging climb.
Getting to Tasmania
Getting to Tasmania typically involves travelling by air or sea. Here are the common methods of reaching the island:
✈️ By Air:
The main point of entry to Tasmania is Hobart International Airport (HBA), located approximately 17 kilometres (11 miles) from the city centre of Hobart. Several domestic airlines offer regular flights to Hobart from major Australian cities such as Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane. Flight durations vary depending on the departure point but generally range from 1 to 2 hours.
Alternatively, you can fly into Launceston Airport (LST), which is located about 15 kilometres (9 miles) south of Launceston. Launceston has connections to major Australian cities as well.
🛳️ By sea:
Tasmania can also be reached by ferry from mainland Australia. The Spirit of Tasmania is a popular passenger and vehicle ferry that operates between Melbourne in Victoria and Devonport in Tasmania. The ferry journey takes approximately 9 to 11 hours, depending on the weather conditions and the specific voyage.
Once you arrive in Tasmania, there are car rental services available at the airports and ferry terminals, allowing you to explore the island at your own pace. Alternatively, you can opt for public transportation options, including buses and taxis, or join guided tours to navigate the island’s attractions.
Visiting Tasmania FAQs
Can you do Tasmania in 7 days?
Absolutely! While a 9-day itinerary allows for a more leisurely exploration of Tasmania, it is indeed possible to experience the highlights of the island in 7 days. Here are some Tasmania highlights that you can include in your 7 days itinerary: Hobart / Port Arthur / Freycinet National Park / Launceston / Cradle Mountain / West Coast.
How many days in Tasmania is enough?
A general guideline would be to allocate at least 7 to 10 days to truly experience the diverse beauty and attractions of the island. With a week-long trip, you can cover some of Tasmania’s iconic destinations, such as Hobart, Port Arthur, Freycinet National Park, Cradle Mountain, and Launceston.
The Wrap-Up: The Perfect 9-Day Tasmania Itinerary
Tasmania has its own means of displaying fascinating nature; from magnificent islands to beautiful coastlines. Spending 9 days in Tasmania is not even enough to explore its full beauty but I hope this Tasmania Itinerary would help you plan your epic journey adventure.
