Tasmania has the kind of wild, untamed beauty that we rarely see anymore. This trip will take you through unspoilt wilderness, all the way to Tasmania’s north eastern coast and the town of Swansea. Gently curving roads will transport you on a journey through vineyards, beach towns, forests, farmland and coast. Along the way, you’ll get to taste award-winning cool climate wines, and sample the food of a region that is rapidly becoming famous for its fresh produce. Tasmania really does have it all.
Hobart
Begin in Hobart, Tasmania’s capital – a port city with a rich history that in recent years has been experiencing somewhat of a renaissance. With a burgeoning whisky industry, natural wine production, and a thriving food scene, Hobart (and Tasmania), are well and truly on the map as alternative must-see destinations for those in the know – and those with a thirst for adventure. Hobart’s gorgeous waterfront is abuzz with the sound of old and new in harmony. With quaint pubs, microbreweries, modern cafes and restaurants, Hobart exudes an inimitablecharmunlike any other Australian city. For visitors, the Museum of Old and New Art, known as MONA, is a must-do. Get out an experience Hobart and its fresh, salty air before picking up your Hertz rental car and heading for the Tasmanian wilderness.Hobart to Orford
After picking up your rental car in Hobart, hit theroadforOrford, a small village 73km northeast of Hobart, famous for its pretty beaches and picturesque coastal walks.Orford’s bestbeachesincludeRaspins,Millingtons,SpringandRheban. The coastal walk between Shelly Beach and Spring Beach stretches for 2km along cliff tops, taking in views of the quarry, which provided sandstone for buildings in Hobart and Melbourne, including the Melbourne General Post Office and Law Courts.Orford to Triabunna
Just 10 minutesnorthofOrfordisTriabunna, the second largest township on the east coast of Tasmania and a place filled with history. The best way to see the sights is to take a self-guided walk to seethe the town’s historic architecture, followed by a stroll along Pelican Walk. The Tasmanian Seafarers’ Memorial and Visitor Information Centre are also worth a visit – the latter of which has a display of tapestries that show the town’s history. If you’re hungry after driving, walking or exploring, then look no further thanSpringBaySeafoods to grab a bite to eat and sample some of Australia’s freshest organic seafood.Maria Island
Triabunna is also the departure point for the short boat trip to the Maria Island National Park.There’s lots to do on the island, and depending on your preference, you could spend a day exploring, or longer if you wish. For those keen on walking, there are a number of walks of varying lengths that offer the opportunity to admire the exciting geology of the island. Take a walk to Painted Cliffs and you’ll be rewarded with the beautiful sight of intricate patternsformedovermillennia.ReturntoTriabunna, or consider staying overnight at the wonderfully unique Maria Island Penitentiary Accommodation.Triabunna to Swansea
The final leg of this trip will take you on a40 minutedrivefromTriabunna to Swansea, along roads with superb views of Great Oyster Bay and Maria Island. Although the drive only takes 40 minutes, you’ll want to factor in time to stop and take photographs at multiple places along the way. There’s also the opportunity to venture off route and explore some hidden beaches,includingMayfield Bay and Nine Mile Beach.Swansea
The final stop on this road trip is Swansea, a charming old town, cradled by the Freycinet Peninsula, looking out over Great Oyster Bay. It’s a town filled with history and is the oldest rural municipality in Australia, with many architecturally significant buildings that attest to its age. Pick up a copy of the Heritage Walk booklet and take a stroll through town, taking time to browse the shops and galleries, before visiting the East Coast Heritage Museum. For a great bite to eat, drop in to The Bark Mill Tavern and Bakery. Tasmania has so much to offer every traveller. Jump in a rental car today and set out to explore the beauty and isolation of this great island.
