East to the West Tassie Road Trip

Join Dave’s Eats for a guided walking tour through Hobart’s scenic waterfront and vibrant city streets, discovering the best local flavours along the way. From award-winning cheeses and artisan deli meats to just-caught seafood, handmade chocolates, and creamy local ice cream, each stop offers a uniquely Tasmanian experience. Meet passionate producers, explore family-run fishmongers and charming bakeries, and hear the stories behind every delicious bite. This relaxed, flavour-filled stroll is perfect for foodies and curious travellers alike; offering a true taste of Hobart, with plenty of laughs, nibbles, and surprises along the way.

Discover the iconic Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), a world-renowned cultural destination on the banks of the River Derwent. Start your adventure with a scenic ferry ride from Hobart —just look for a giant camouflaged catamaran with fibreglass animals for seats. The ferry offering spectacular views of the city and waterfront as you cruise towards the museum.
Arrive at MONA, Australia’s largest private museum, where ancient artifacts and contemporary art collide in a provocative and thought-provoking collection. Explore the underground galleries at your own pace, encountering works that challenge, inspire, and ignite curiosity. The museum’s architecture is a masterpiece in itself, blending seamlessly with the Tasmanian landscape to create an unforgettable setting. Enhance your visit by indulging in a meal or drink at one of MONA’s acclaimed dining spots, featuring locally sourced produce and wines. MONA is also home to the Moorilla Winery, The Source restaurant, a bunch of other bars and restaurants, luxury accommodation pavilions, and Tasmania’s biggest craft brewery (Moo Brew).
At the end of your visit, relax on the return ferry to Hobart and admire the incredible views of the Hobart landscape.  

Bruny Island Safaris offers a unique all-inclusive tour featuring the best of Bruny Island. Explore South Bruny National Park, see spectacular views, and learn about the island's history and wildlife from expert guides. Visit the Cape Bruny Lighthouse, spot wallabies in their natural habitat, and take a refreshing dip or paddle (time permitting). This comprehensive tour includes park entrance fees and covers all the must-see sights including Truganini Lookout and Neck Wildlife Zone, Adventure Bay, Two Tree Point, South Bruny National Park, Mabel Bay Lookout.  Enjoy a delicious lunch, fresh local produce like oysters, cheese, and honey, and a private fudge tasting. 

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range or ask our team for a suggestion. From compact economy to prestige SUVs. First time driving in Australia? Check out this helpful guide.
Please note, a one-way fee may apply

Tasmania’s most scenic journeys, offering stunning coastal views, historic sites, and natural wonders. Starting in Hobart, you’ll pass rolling hills, vineyards, and charming towns like Sorell and Dunalley, perfect for breaks and local treats. Along the coast, stop at Eaglehawk Neck to explore iconic rock formations such as the Tessellated Pavement and Tasman Arch. Approaching Port Arthur, the landscape becomes rugged and forested within Tasman National Park. At Port Arthur Historic Site, immerse yourself in Australia’s convict past through guided tours, museum exhibits, and waterfront cruises, a truly memorable Tasmanian experience.

Port Arthur was the perfect place for a prison – it was remote and isolated by both the foreboding natural landscape and deep tempestuous seas. Despite the perilous odds, escape attempts were frequent and took many forms. Convicts went to extreme measures, men whose desire for freedom far outweighed any fear of consequences. They were not intimidated by authority and were more than willing to risk severe punishment and ultimately survival. Join a 60 minute tour to meet the convicts who risked everything to Escape Port Arthur.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with a cruise beneath the awe-inspiring vertical sea cliffs of Cape Pillar, the highest in the Southern Hemisphere. This journey takes you through the breathtaking Tasman National Park, where you will explore magnificent waterfalls, intricate rock formations, mesmerising archways, and mysterious deep-sea caves. The Tasman National Park is a wildlife haven, teeming with life. Marvel at the sight of hundreds of seals basking on the rocks, catch a glimpse of migrating whales and witness the spectacular display of thousands of sea birds. No matter the season, you’re likely to experience the thrilling spectacle of diving gannets, graceful albatrosses, and majestic sea eagles. Watch cliff-nesting cormorants and peregrine falcons in their natural habitat, and delight in the playful antics of dolphins surfing the boat’s bow wave An extraordinary cruise that combines the raw beauty of nature with the thrill of close encounters with wildlife, all from the comfort of specially designed vessels. Experience the Tasman Peninsula like never before!

The drive from Port Arthur to Triabunna takes offers a mix of natural beauty, coastal towns, and historic sites. Early on, stop at Eaglehawk Neck to see dramatic formations like the Blowhole, Tasman Arch, and Tessellated Pavement. These scenic spots are perfect for a short walk and photos. Passing through the fishing town of Dunalley, you can enjoy fresh seafood and see the unique swing bridge over the Denison Canal. A detour to Marion Bay offers peaceful beaches and coastal views if you have extra time. Further along, Orford is a lovely seaside town with beaches and walking trails. Finally, in Triabunna, you’ll find a charming harbour village and the ferry departure point to Maria Island, known for its wildlife, walking trails, and convict history.

Maria Island is a truly unique destination, offering visitors a blend of World Heritage convict history, abundant wildlife, dramatic coastal cliffs, and pristine deserted beaches. This active day tour showcases the island’s many highlights, making it perfect for adventurous travellers who love walking and exploring. Located just an hour’s drive from Hobart and a short 30-minute ferry ride across the water, Maria Island feels like a world away. Highlights include the stunning Painted Cliffs and Fossil Cliffs, along with opportunities to spot incredible wildlife, immerse yourself in fascinating history, and take in the breathtaking scenery that makes this island so special.

The drive from Triabunna to Coles Bay (Freycinet National Park) showcases Tasmania’s scenic east coast. Along the way, you’ll pass through peaceful countryside and coastal towns like Little Swanport and Swansea. Swansea is a great stop for a coffee or a stroll along the waterfront, with beautiful views across Great Oyster Bay to the Hazards mountains. Just past Swansea, make a quick stop at the historic Spiky Bridge, built by convicts in the 1840s. As you continue north, the views become more dramatic, with glimpses of the coast and native wildlife. Arriving in Coles Bay, you’ll be welcomed by the striking granite peaks of the Hazards. It’s the perfect base for exploring Freycinet National Park, with highlights like Wineglass Bay, walking trails, kayaking, and fresh local seafood.

Discover the beauty of Freycinet National Park on this relaxing twilight kayaking tour through Coles Bay. Led by expert guides, glide past pristine beaches and the Hazards mountain range as the sunset casts a golden glow. Spot wildlife, learn about the region, and enjoy a refreshment as you soak in the tranquil ambiance.

Embark on an unforgettable culinary journey through the heart of Coles Bay and Freycinet. Your extra-long lunch begins with being collected from your accommodation to embark on a full-day journey. Visit up to 4 Vineyard Cellar Doors with picturesque views and decadent wines. Throughout the day, you will be immersed in Tasmania's rich history and culture. Most of the Vineyards are still owned by the original settlers that forged their way in the 1800’s. Visit Convict built cellar doors, see how the pioneers lived and learn how their descendants are making their own piece of history. Savor the region's renowned produce with a decadent lunch featuring fresh seafood and wood-fired pizza paired with two glasses of wine at the picturesque Devils Corner. Complete your experience with a tantalizing Tasmanian cheese platter. 

Make your way to the Tasman Highway and head north towards Bicheno. This family-friendly town located just 40 minutes north of Freycinet National Park is home to white-sand beaches, clear blue sea and a resident population of Fairy Penguins. If there is a good swell in the Tasman Sea, it's worth checking out the Bicheno Blowhole, where water sprays out between beautiful orange coloured rocks.
As you leave Bicheno, you will pass Douglas Apsley National Park, a nature lover's paradise, with gorges, waterfalls and bushwalks. Continue north along the coast to your final destination of St Helens. If you're up for an adventure, you can walk to Peron Dunes and try sandboarding.

Travelling from St Helens to Launceston via Derby offers a scenic inland route through Tasmania’s lush northeast. Departing the coast, you’ll leave behind the beaches of the Bay of Fires and head into forested hills and farmland. About 1 hour and 15 minutes in, you'll reach the town of Derby, famous for its mountain biking trails and creative small-town charm. Stop to explore the Blue Derby trail network, visit the Tin Centre, or relax at a café. For something different, book ahead for a session at the Floating Sauna overlooking Lake Derby.
If you have extra time, consider a 30-minute side trip to the Little Blue Lake near South Mount Cameron. This striking, mineral-rich lake glows a surreal blue and makes a great photo stop. While swimming isn’t advised, it’s a unique detour for curious travellers.
From Derby, continue west through the rolling countryside, passing through Scottsdale, a great spot to stop for coffee or a light bite. The town is surrounded by farmland and forests, and the North East Rail Trail begins here if you're keen for a short walk. From Scottsdale, it’s just under an hour to Launceston, where you’ll arrive back in the city with plenty of great memories from the journey inland.

Cruise into the magical Cataract Gorge and through Launceston’s riverfront precinct. Head north past Tamar Island, historical buildings, St Matthias Church and the Rosevears Pub. Experience the variety of life as you cruise past charming riverfront communities, vineyards and farms to historical Rosevears and Windermere districts. This fascinating collection of history, fauna, and people at work, rest and play makes an absorbing narrative that will touch, intrigue and inspire. The best vantage point to view the Tamar Valley.

Journey west onto the Bass Highway. When passing through Westbury, look out for the Pearns Steamworld if you're interested in old steam-driven machinery - this is one of the finest collections in the Southern Hemisphere. Rather than hopping back on the Bass Highway, for a more interesting drive, follow the B54 Meander Valley Road as it winds towards Deloraine. Cross the Meander River, hop onto Emu Bay Road and climb the hill of this pretty, historic town. Continue on Emu Bay Road until it joins back onto the Bass Highway.

Just before Elizabeth Town, you will leave the Bass Highway and wind your way towards Cradle Mountain. A popular stop-off includes Sheffield which has huge and fascinating murals, most depicting the early history of the area, on every available blank wall. Carry on through the lush forest and winding roads as you make your way to Cradle Mountain.

Experience the magic of Tasmania’s wildlife after dark with the Tasmanian Devil Feeding Tour at Devils @ Cradle. This unique evening experience lets you witness Tasmanian devils and quolls in their natural environment as they feed, while expert guides share fascinating insights about these incredible creatures and their conservation. Devils are primarily a nocturnal species therefore far more active at night, they use environmentally sensitive lighting and focus on the social interactions and feeding habits of these unique carnivores, allowing visitors a rare up-close opportunity to see Tasmanian devils in a group feeding situation – quite a spectacular sight!

Cradle Mountain is a part of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park and the alpine and sub-alpine glacial landscape, wildlife and scenic views make this a popular walking zone.
Looking for quality over quantity? Head to the Rainforest Walk, a 430m long easy circuit with waterfalls, birdlife and fields of coral fern.
If you are wanting more of a challenge Marion's Lookout beckons the intrepid traveler, at 1200 metres it is steep going however the stunning views of the crater lakes are worth it. A 7.5-8km walk, this should take between 2.5 to 3 hours.
Your first stop should be the Visitor Centre where you can get up to date information on all the walks, learn about access to the park and purchase your National Park Pass. With nine walks ranging from 15 minutes to three hours there is something here for everybody.

The Cradle Mountain and Fury Gorge Adventure begins at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre, taking to the skies and tracking down to the picturesque Dove and Crater Lakes, with the splendour of Cradle Mountain behind.
The flight then travels west, descending and twisting way through the valleys and rivers to the entrance of Australia’s deepest gorge. The gorge is a staggering sight that must be experienced rather than described. From this jaw-dropping gorge, the helicopter climbs its way up to the plateau to see the entire southwest mountain range unfold before your eyes. From here we can see Tasmania’s highest peak, Mount Ossa, and the famous Overland Track. Finally, fly past the Twisted Lakes and one last look at Dove Lake before returning to the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre.

Heading north from Cradle Mountain, you will travel through many old mining towns along the coastline. Halfway into your journey is Rosebery, a little relaxed mining town surrounded by rainforests and natural wonders. This hidden gem provides the perfect stop to stretch your legs and walk along the rainforest trail. Before heading into Strahan the town is surrounded by the rainforest and beaches. If you haven't yet jumped on a river cruise, Strahan has many cruises on the Gordon river showing the historical wilderness sights like the world heritage area and the Penal Colony.

Step onboard the West Coast Wilderness Railway heritage diesel train in Strahan and head deep into the rainforest, while onboard guides share stories of those that built the railway and called it their home. Journey over the Iron Bridge at Teepookana, once a thriving port town, before disembarking at Lower Landing Station on the King River. Enjoy a short nature walk and taste honey with its origins from local endemic species, before heading back to Strahan.

Explore the pristine beauty of Tasmania’s west coast with the Gordon River Cruise, departing from Strahan. Glide along the mirror-like Gordon River, surrounded by ancient rainforests and towering Huon pines. Step ashore at Sarah Island, a former convict settlement rich in history, and wander the lush rainforest boardwalk at Heritage Landing, home to some of the world’s oldest plants. Witness the dramatic Hell’s Gates, where Macquarie Harbour meets the Southern Ocean. Onboard, savour a gourmet buffet featuring fresh Tasmanian produce. With panoramic views and expert commentary, this is a journey into nature you’ll never forget.

The drive from Strahan to Lake St Clair takes you through Tasmania’s wild west and Central Highlands, featuring dramatic landscapes and unique stops. Leaving Strahan, you’ll pass through the historic mining town of Queenstown, known for its moonscape terrain and the famous gravel football oval. Whilst there, be sure to visit Spion Kop Lookout for panoramic views of the town. Nearby, you can visit the Iron Blow Lookout telling the story of Tasmania’s mining past, and take and easy walk to Horsetail Falls, a beautiful rainforest waterfall. Continuing towards Lake St Clair, you’ll enter the serene wilderness of the Central Highlands. At the lake itself, nestled within Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, you can explore a variety of walking trails, enjoy peaceful lakeside views, and, if you're lucky, spot a local wildlife like platypus. 

The drive from Lake St Clair to Hamilton takes you through the scenic Central Highlands Wilderness of Tasmania. Shortly after departing Lake St Clair, you'll pass The Wall in the Wilderness on your left, Australia’s most ambitious art project in recent years. This remarkable installation features 100 metres of intricately carved Huon Pine panels that tell the story of the region’s history. If time allows, it’s well worth a visit, just remember that bookings are essential. As you continue the drive, keep an eye out for native wildlife such as wombats and echidnas, particularly as you pass through the edge of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Nearing Hamilton, you’ll notice historic sandstone cottages scattered through the landscape, offering glimpses into Tasmania’s colonial past. In the charming heritage town of Hamilton, you can explore convict-era buildings, take a peaceful stroll, or visit Curringa Farm for an authentic working farm experience and warm local hospitality.

Join a guided farm tour around Curringa Farm, a 750-acre sheep and cropping farm located outside the township of Hamilton. Witness a sheep shearing demonstration, working farm dogs, and an escorted forest walk before sitting down for morning tea (or smoko, as commonly referred to by Aussies). Enjoy homemade cake or scones with jam and cream and wash it down with chilled lemon cordial or warm drinks. There are self-walking trails to explore and lots of photo opportunities throughout the property.

The drive from Hamilton to Hobart takes offers a scenic journey through the Derwent Valley. Along the way, you’ll pass rolling farmland and charming riverside towns. Along the way, Salmon Ponds in Plenty offers a peaceful walk through gardens and the chance to feed trout in one of the oldest hatcheries in the Southern Hemisphere. A great stop is New Norfolk, one of Tasmania’s oldest towns. It’s worth stopping to explore its antique stores, riverside cafés, and the picturesque Derwent River foreshore. You can also visit Willow Court, a heritage-listed site that was once an asylum, offering both historical insight and a touch of mystery. For those with extra time, a worthwhile detour is Mount Field National Park It’s home to the iconic Russell Falls, as well as a range of easy to moderate walks through lush temperate rainforest, including the Tall Trees Walk and Horseshoe Falls. As you near Hobart, consider stopping at MONA, the renowned Museum of Old and New Art, set on the riverbank. The route ends in Hobart, where you can explore historic streets, markets, and the views from kunanyi / Mount Wellington.

Raise a Glass to Hobart’s Past with Dave’s Cheeky Pub Tour. Thirsty for a bit of history with your drink? Join a Dave on Hobart’s cheekiest pub tour, where the stories are tall, the drinks are local, and the history is anything but dry. Wander the cobbled streets of Hobart’s historic waterfront as you visit four classic pubs, each with its own unique charm. Sip your way through Tasmania’s finest beers, ciders, or wines, one glass at a time, while your guide shares colourful tales of convicts, sailors, scandals, and the spirited beginnings of this port-side city. From Australia’s oldest pub to tucked-away heritage gems, this 2.5-hour adventure serves up Hobart’s liquid history with a side of cheeky humour, no museum monotony here. Bring your curiosity, your thirst, and maybe a mate or two. By the end, you’ll be brimming with stories (and perhaps just a little tipsy). Cheers to that!

Drop your vehicle at the Launceston Airport depot as stipulated in your itinerary.