Tasmania is known for its scenic views and natural wonders. What is not often discussed is how wonderful Tasmania is for us who like to take our cars on long road trips. The roads on the island of Tasmania take you from the coastlines to the mountains and plains. Here is a short list of the best driving roads on the island.
The Great Eastern Drive
The part of the Tasman Highway from St. Helens to Orford is called the Great Eastern Drive. It is famous for being the best coastal driving road in Tasmania. Some even say that it will rival the best seaside highways of mainland Australia.
The Great Eastern Drive is 180km long that gives you access to some breathtaking coastal views. Along the route, there are coastal towns there you can rest and dine. At its northern end is the Bay of Fires which features orange granite rocks and white beaches. Freycinet National Park is another stop which should not be missed. The national park is known for its scenic views of the mountain, the Great Oyster Bay and its beaches.
At the southern tip is Orford which is home to some of the best vineyards on the island. It is also a good place to shop for Tasmanian produce and indulge in a gourmet dining experience.
Huon Trail
The short 130km loop takes drivers from D’Entrecasteaux Channel to Huonville and Peppermint Bay. The route is dotted with scenic views, cultural centres and World Heritage Wilderness areas. The route is also filled with views of the valley and waterways.
The Huon Trail is doable in a day and there are lots of spots to sample the food and wine of the region. The longer 304km loop which would include Cockle Creek take more than a day to complete but there are accommodations along the route should you need a place to rest for awhile.
The Tarkine Drive
If you fancy a drive through the forest, then the Tarkine Drive is for you. The route takes you from the coastline to the Tarkine Forrest. Along the way, there are also button grass plains, a lake and hills. The route is also filled with stops for picnics and to explore what the forest could offer.
While a majority of the drive is along sealed roads, the route is mostly along the wild country. Be sure to stock up on fuel and food because rest stops and gas stations are few and far in between. The drive, while short, can take up to a day if you want to explore tourist spots and especially the forest.
Tasmania is an island gifted with scenic views and cultural heritage. It is best to take your time when exploring this island. Do remember to check your vehicle before you embark on your Tasmanian driving adventure. Fuel up as often as possible and also stock up on food if you are planning to explore the wilderness roads. Drive safe, have fun and please avoid hitting any wandering Tasmanian devils!
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