Exploring Tasmania: A 10-Day Campervan Adventure from Devonport to Hobart

Tasmania, Australia’s island state, offers a remarkable blend of rugged landscapes, pristine wilderness, and charming towns. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, Tasmania’s roads are perfect for a campervan journey. Starting by picking-up your hired campervan from the Devonport ferry terminal and ending this epic adventure in the vibrant capital of Hobart. This 10-day itinerary will guide you through Tasmania’s must-see destinations.

Day 1: Arriving in Devonport and Exploring the North Coast

• Pick up your campervan: After arriving at Devonport’s ferry terminal (via the Spirit of Tasmania), head to a local rental agency to collect your campervan. Devonport is a great base for the start of your journey, with campervan rentals just minutes away.
• Explore Devonport: Spend your first day getting to know Devonport. Visit the Mersey Bluff Lighthouse for beautiful coastal views or stop by the Bass Strait Maritime Centre to learn about the region’s seafaring history.
• Overnight in Devonport: You can park your campervan at one of Devonport’s caravan parks such as Discovery Parks Devonport.

Day 2: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

• Drive to Cradle Mountain: Head southwest towards one of Tasmania’s crown jewels, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. The drive is about 1.5 hours, but with Tasmania's stunning scenery, you might find yourself stopping often for photos!
• Hike around Cradle Mountain: Once you arrive, take one of the many walks, like the Dove Lake Circuit or the more challenging Cradle Mountain Summit hike. This area is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and offers stunning views of alpine landscapes and wildlife.
• Overnight near Cradle Mountain: There are plenty of camper-friendly sites just outside the national park such as Cradle Mountain Discovery Parks.

Day 3: Explore the Tarkine Wilderness

• Drive to the Tarkine: On day 3, venture to the Tarkine, an ancient rainforest located in northwest Tasmania. The drive is around 2 hours.
• Explore the Rainforest: Spend your day wandering through some of the world’s oldest temperate rainforest and marvel at the dense canopies and unique flora. Stop by Trowutta Arch or take the Sumac Lookout Walk for breathtaking views.
• Overnight in Arthur River: Continue west to Arthur River, a remote town known as the "Edge of the World." Park your campervan at Arthur River Cabin Park.

Day 4: Stanley and the Nut

• Drive to Stanley: Start the day with a coastal drive to Stanley, a charming fishing village located at the base of an extinct volcanic plug known as The Nut.
• Climb The Nut: Take the chairlift or hike up The Nut for panoramic views of the town and coastline.
• Explore Stanley: After your hike, explore the historic streets of Stanley. Visit the Highfield Historic Site, an old convict-built estate, or stop for fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
• Overnight in Stanley: There are several caravan parks and free camping options in and around Stanley. We recommend the Stanley Cabin and Tourist Park.

Day 5: Heading to Launceston

• Drive to Launceston: Take a 2.5 hour drive inland to Launceston, Tasmania’s second-largest city. Known for its mix of culture, history, and nature, Launceston has much to offer.
• Cataract Gorge: Spend the afternoon exploring Cataract Gorge, just minutes from the city center. Enjoy the walking trails, suspension bridge, and the world’s longest single-span chairlift.
• Launceston City Sights: Stroll around City Park or visit the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery for insights into Tasmanian history.
• Overnight in Launceston: You can easily find campervan-friendly sites in or around the city such as the Launceston Holiday Park Legana.

Day 6: The Tamar Valley Wine Route

• Tamar Valley Wine Region: Dedicate day 6 to the Tamar Valley, a region known for its cool-climate wines, especially pinot noir and sparkling varieties.
• Visit Vineyards: Spend the day visiting local vineyards like Jansz Tasmania and Pipers Brook Vineyard, where you can sample some of the island’s best wines.
• Explore Beaconsfield: On your way back, stop at the Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre, a museum focused on Tasmania’s mining history.
• Overnight in the Tamar Valley: Many vineyards offer campsites for a peaceful evening among the vines. Our top pick would be the Tamar Valley Resort – Grindelwald.

Day 7: Bay of Fires and East Coast

• Drive to the Bay of Fires: Journey east towards the famous Bay of Fires, known for its white sandy beaches and orange-tinged granite boulders. The drive takes about 2 hours.
• Explore the Bay of Fires: Spend the afternoon swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the stunning beaches of this iconic Tasmanian location.
• Overnight at Binalong Bay: Stay overnight at BIG4 St Helens Holiday Park

Day 8: Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay

• Drive to Freycinet National Park: Head south to the east coast’s other major attraction, Freycinet National Park, about 2 hours from Binalong Bay.
• Wineglass Bay: Take the famous Wineglass Bay Lookout Walk for breathtaking views of the crescent-shaped beach. If you’re up for it, hike down to the beach itself.
• Overnight at Freycinet: Camp inside the national park for a night under the stars. Other nearby campsites include BIG4 Iluka or Freycinet Holiday Park.

Day 9: Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur

• Drive to the Tasman Peninsula: Travel down to the Tasman Peninsula to visit one of Australia’s most significant historic sites, Port Arthur. The drive takes around 2.5 hours.
• Port Arthur Historic Site: Explore this World Heritage-listed convict settlement, taking in its preserved buildings, informative tours, and poignant history.
• Overnight on the Peninsula: Spend your night at a campsite nearby such as the NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park, allowing time to explore more of the peninsula’s natural wonders the following day.

Day 10: Final Stop in Hobart

• Drive to Hobart: Make your way to Hobart, Tasmania’s capital, about 1.5 hours from the Tasman Peninsula.
• Explore Hobart: Finish your journey by exploring Hobart’s sights. Wander through the historic Salamanca Market (if it's a Saturday), or visit the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) for a unique cultural experience.
• Mount Wellington: Drive your campervan to the top of Mount Wellington for incredible views of the city and surrounding landscape.
• Drop off your campervan: End your 10-day adventure by returning your campervan at a Hobart depot and soaking in the memories of your epic Tasmanian road trip.

Final Thoughts

Tasmania is a dream destination for a campervan road trip. From the lush rainforests of the Tarkine to the dramatic cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula, each day of this 10-day itinerary offers something new and unforgettable. With its open roads, stunning scenery, and warm hospitality, there’s no better way to experience Tasmania than behind the wheel of your own mobile home. If you need help choosing a campervan, reach out to our friendly team members and for recommendations and a competitive quote.