7 days on the ultimate camping road trip

Cruise down the open highway and along back-country roads; drive past lush forests and majestic mountains; then roll your windows down. There’s nothing but clean, crisp air here.

Break away from the same old, same old, and rediscover yourself with the ultimate seven-day road trip through Tasmania. Explore the unexpected and find a connection with every stop. Pack up the van or load up the car with your camping gear - it's time to experience Tasmania by road.

From peaceful campsites to must-do destinations and hidden gems, here's the best way to road trip through Tasmania if you only have one week.

Day 1: Devonport to Mole Creek

Start your road trip in the charming coastal city of Devonport – the third-largest city on the island and the first port of call for the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Victoria. From Devonport, make the short drive down to Sheffield.

Tucked in the foothills of Mount Roland, Sheffield is a historic town known for the impressive murals lining its streets. Don’t miss a stop at Sheffield Honey Farm to taste award-winning leatherwood honey.

Mole Creek is 30min south of Sheffield and is home to some of the most spectacular caves in Australia. You can join a tour into some of the 300 caves in Mole Creek Karst National Park or get some fresh air and explore one of the many walking tracks (you’ll need a parks pass to access the area).

Tonight, drive 40min east from Mole Creek to Quamby Brook and set up camp at Quamby Corner Caravan Park.

Day 2: Mole Creek to Bay of Fires

Fresh from your first night's sleep, head east for 50min to Launceston – a historical and vibrant cultural epicentre. As one of only two places in Australia to be named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, make sure to taste some of the local cuisine as you wander the streets past striking buildings, manicured parks, and beautiful riverfronts.

From Launceston, continue east for approximately 2hrs and 40min to the larapuna / Bay of Fires area. For waterfall lovers, consider stopping at Mathinna Falls, a series of four waterfalls towering over 100m. Close out the day with a walk along a beautiful beach before bed, as the sun sets on the red rocks at Binalong Bay. 

Camp at Cosy Corner South or Swimcart Beach Campground for the night.

Day 3: larapuna / Bay of Fires area to Bicheno

Explore the turquoise beaches of the larapuna / Bay of Fires area before driving down the picturesque coast for about 90min to Bicheno: a chilled-out seaside town lined with beachy boutique shops and cafes.

Taste delicious local seafood and dive among fur seals at Governor Island Marine Reserve. At dusk, observe adorable wild penguins with Bicheno Penguin Tours.

Drive 25min north to tonight’s beachside campsite, Chain of Lagoons Beach Free Campground – a secluded spot just south of St Marys, perfect for snorkelling, hiking and fishing.

Day 4: Bicheno to Freycinet National Park

The journey south continues. Today, bring your parks pass for the 1hr journey down to Freycinet National Park. Pristine beaches, rugged pink peaks and abundant wildlife: this picturesque peninsula is a magical place.

Walk to the breathtaking Wineglass Bay, Tasmania’s most famous beach. It’s a 60–90min return walk to the lookout, or a 2.5–3.5hr trek to the beach and back. Enjoy a kayak tour with Freycinet Adventures, or – if you’re an experienced hiker – climb Mount Amos for spectacular views of the bay.

Stay overnight at a Freycinet walker's campsite.

Day 5: Freycinet National Park to Turrakana / Tasman Peninsula

Head south from Freycinet National Park bright and early for a 3hr journey to Turrakana / Tasman Peninsula, home to towering 300m sea cliffs and historic convict settlement Port Arthur Historic Site.

Fancy a hike? Embark on the 4hr Cape Hauy Walk – one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks – and marvel at those dramatic cliffs. For an easier option, the Maingon Blowhole walk (1hr) is a beautiful stroll to a natural blowhole formed by a collapsed sea cave. Or, if colonial history’s more your thing, wander through Australia’s most intact and poignant convict site at Port Arthur. 

Spend the night at the Lime Bay Campground or park your caravan at NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park, which has access to Ladies Bay Beach.

Day 6: Turrakana / Tasman Peninsula to Hobart

Head out of Turrakana / Tasman Peninsula and drive 90min to Hobart, Tasmania’s capital. Brimming with cultural history and shaped by nature, this city has something for everyone.

Experience Hobart from the water, on foot or on the saddle of a bike. Pay a visit to kunanyi / Mount Wellington for panoramic views of the city and beyond. Experience the city's dynamic food scene with waterfront dining overlooking the River Derwent.

Pique your curiosity with a provocative exhibition at Mona, or see a performance at the Theatre Royal, Australia’s oldest working theatre. 

Kick back and relax by the beach on your final night at Snug Beach Cabin and Caravan Park, 30min south of the CDB.

Day 7: Hobart to Devonport

On the final day of your road trip, wake up nice and early to make the 4hr drive back to Devonport.

Along the way, take in the beautiful scenery and reflect on the week that was – from the awe-inspiring sights to the unexpected adventures. Perhaps your perceptions have broadened and your connection with nature has deepened.

In any case, you’ve experienced pure freedom – the Tasmanian way.