Premier Tasmania Self Drive - Itinerary

Welcome to Hobart, capital of the Apple Isle. Nestled beneath Mt Wellington, this charming harbour city blends heritage character with a vibrant modern lifestyle. Wander from the lively waterfront of Salamanca Place to the historic cottages of Battery Point. After checking into your hotel, take a bus to Mt Wellington’s summit for panoramic city views or catch a ferry from Brooke Street Pier to MONA. 

In the evening, discover Hobart’s acclaimed food scene and join a walking pub tour for a lively 2.5-hour journey through historic pubs, local flavours, and fascinating stories.

Accommodation: Hobart - 1 Night 

Today, collect your rental vehicle and drive from Hobart to the Tasman Peninsula, a region of dramatic cliffs, rugged headlands, and sweeping ocean views. 

On arrival, visit the Port Arthur Historic Site, one of Australia’s most significant convict settlements. In the afternoon, join a guided Isle of the Dead tour, exploring the haunting cemetery and learning about the lives and stories of the convicts buried there. The striking landscape and rich history of the area offer a powerful introduction to the natural beauty and human stories that define this remarkable corner of Tasmania.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 95 km | 59 miles   Total Driving Time: 1 hour 30 mins

Accommodation: Port Arthur - 2 Nights

The Tasman Peninsula boasts some of Tasmania’s most remote and dramatic coastal scenery. Take to the waves on a 3 hour Wilderness Cruise this morning and see the spectacular peninsula at its best.

Cruise between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck with unrivalled views over the rugged shoreline. With Australia’s highest sea cliffs as looming over you, you'll discover waterfalls, rock formations, archways and sea caves along the shore. At any time of year, you're likely to see the feeding frenzy of diving gannets, albatross and sea eagles, cliff-nesting cormorants and peregrine falcons, or a pod of playful dolphins surfing the bow wave of the boat

If you thought Tasmania couldn’t get any more beautiful, Freycinet will prove you wrong. Framed by pink granite mountains, the region boasts secluded bays, pristine waters, and white sandy beaches. Wineglass Bay, the crown jewel, offers a crescent of white sand against emerald waters, best admired from the lookout or via a scenic hike. 

This afternoon, join a relaxed guided tour along the Freycinet coastline, gliding past pink mountains and winding bays. Spot wildlife, hear fascinating local stories, and pause at a quiet beach to enjoy coffee, snacks, and the serene coastal views.

Approximate Distance: 205 km | 127 miles   Total Driving Time: 3 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Freycinet National Park - 2 Nights

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Freycinet National Park on a cruise from Coles Bay to Wineglass Bay. Travel along a stunning coastline of white sand beaches and dramatic granite cliffs. 

Explore the secluded inner passage of Schouten Island before heading into the Tasman Sea toward the iconic curve of Wineglass Bay. Discover sea caves and blowholes carved into rugged cliffs, and watch for seals, dolphins, whales, and seabirds. Enjoy lunch at anchor, surrounded by the pristine scenery of Tasmania’s spectacular east coast.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

The riverside city of Launceston is a vibrant hub for food and wine, culture, and nature. It's famed for the Cataract Gorge, visit this unique natural formation with panoramic views.

Embark on a 50 minute round river cruise and explore the old and new facets of Launceston's Seaport precinct today. Departing from Home Point, learn about the history of Launceston's Seaport, Kings Wharf, heritage properties and of course the spectacular Cataract Gorge. See the gorge from the perspective of the water and enjoy a unique experience on-board the 1890's replica Lady Launceston. A popular option for those who would like a quick taste of what the Tamar River and the Cataract Gorge have to offer.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 180 km | 112 miles   Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Launceston - 1 Night

The drive from Launceston to Stanley takes about three hours but is a scenic journey through farmland and historic towns. 

Follow the coast road through Ulverstone and Penguin, then rolling hills to Table Cape for stunning Bass Strait views. Stanley comes into view, dominated by the sheer-sided bluff known as ‘The Nut.’ Take time to explore before continuing to Smithton. Penguin is a charming seaside stop, famous for its little penguins and beachfront Uniting Church, offering a serene, picturesque glimpse of Tasmania’s north coast towns.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 235 km | 146 miles   Total Driving Time: 3 hours

Accommodation: Smithton - 2 Nights

This Tarkine Adventure introduces you to unique flora and fauna, globally significant rainforests, wild river landscapes, and dramatic coastlines. This " Edge of the World" area of World Heritage significance. 

This the largest expanse of temperate rainforest in the Southern Hemisphere. A mixture of rainforest and eucalypt forest, wild rivers, mountains, cave systems, and extensive coastal heathlands await. You will experience an unforgettable 4WD adventure through the breathtaking Tarkine Wilderness. Enjoy fresh Tasmanian produce and a glass of wine for lunch while you experience the area's unique flora and fauna.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After a scenic drive, arrive at Cradle Mountain National Park, one of Australia’s most beautiful parks. Explore alpine wilderness, abundant wildlife, and numerous walking trails. 

The Dove Lake Circuit is a gentle two-hour walk with stunning mountain views, while the steep climb to Marion’s Lookout rewards energetic hikers with panoramic vistas. Non-hikers can enjoy scenic flights, horse treks, canyoning, or wildlife-spotting walks. The park is home to Tasmanian devils, quolls, platypus, echidnas, and many bird species, making it a peaceful haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 190 km | 118 miles   Total Driving Time: 2 hours 45 mins

Accommodation: Cradle Mountain - 2 Nights

This centre houses a large number of adult, sub-adult and baby devils within a range of naturally landscaped viewing enclosures. The Joey Encounter tour will take a small group of visitors behind the scenes to the animal nursery, where you will interact (face to face) with some of our youngest residents.

The tour will incorporate, handling and general health checks by our keepers, and afford visitors the opportunity to pat and get photographs with these beautiful young animals. As part of the Day Keeper Tour you can look into a Tasmanian devils den from comfort of the indoors or step outside onto the viewing deck for a closer look. 

Included Meals: Breakfast

Strahan is a harbour-side village with a dark and fascinating convict past set on the edge of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. 

Nestled on the shores of massive Macquarie Harbour, Strahan is the gateway to the World Heritage listed Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. Strahan is full of stories from the days of convicts and pioneers toughing it out in Tassie's wild west. These days, Strahan is an iconic travel destination with shops selling artisan wares and eateries serving up delicious local produce.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 150kms | 93 miles Total Driving Time: 2 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Strahan - 2 Nights

Step aboard the West Coast Wilderness Railway’s heritage Drewry diesel train at Regatta Point Station in Strahan and journey inland along Macquarie Harbour and the King River. 

As the train departs, expert guides share stories of the railway, river, and the people who lived and worked along the line. The route passes Lowana and follows the King River upstream, stopping near Cryptic Falls, where rainfall spills through the forest beside the track. Along the way, enjoy a complimentary drink, light meal, and canapés, with commentary that brings the area’s history to life. This short yet immersive journey offers a relaxed and unforgettable introduction to the West Coast’s rainforest, rivers, heritage, and stunning scenery.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Today return to the Seaside city of Hobart, taking in the stunning scenery along the way. If you have time, pop up to Lake St Clair to see the Cradle Mountain.

Lake St Clair National Park from another perspective. Lake St Clair is at the southern end of the National Park and is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. The Aboriginal people of the area called the lake Leeawuleena, meaning sleeping water. Carved out by ice during several glaciations over the last two million years, this is the deepest freshwater lake in Australia (167 metres/ 547 feet) and the headwaters of the Derwent River.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 305 km | 190 miles   Total Driving Time: 4 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Hobart - 2 Nights

This is Mona at its most indulgent, a bold, sensory-rich day designed for guests seeking the full experience. Begin in the exclusive Posh Pit lounge, cruising along the River Derwent with canapés and premium beverages, setting the tone before arrival. From the moment you step off the ferry, you’re personally hosted and guided through David Walsh’s subterranean world of art and antiquities. Expect cocktails on arrival, immersive gallery moments, and access to James Turrell’s light installation. Between waterfront views, live music, striking architecture, and thoughtful touches, every detail is curated for maximum impact.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Say farewell to Tasmania today as you board your onward flight, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional Tasmanian experience. We know you will enjoy your Tasmanian self-drive vacation and we hope to help you explore other regions of Australia on your next trip!

Included Meals: Breakfast