Jewels of Tasmania's East Coast
In Hobart, heading for the great north? Or in Hadspen and travelling to the big city? If you have some time, take on the road with an open mind and a daring spirit. It's not always about the destination. Sometimes it can be about the great food eaten, mountains conquered, and pictures snapped along the way. Meander through Tasmania's East Coast on a great adventure.
Check out our main stops to stretch your legs when you're driving alongside the Tasman Sea.
BEN LOMOND NATIONAL PARK
Image from Tourism Tasmania.
Big beautiful cliffs! Winding roads! Ben Lomond National Park is a must for skiiers and your walking group's next summit. By about July, you'll find snow coating the mountains. Hire out a toboggan or a snowboard and glide down. No snow? No problem. In summer, the wildflowers bloom and the trails clear. Take a day to go walking and witness the striking features of this region. Make sure to see Jacob's Ladder - a road that ascends up the mountainside in a zigzag.
BICHENO
Image from Tourism Tasmania.
At the heart of the Great Eastern Drive is the quaint coastal town of Bicheno. Less than two hours away from Launceston, it's a unique oasis in Tasmania. Remove the stereotype of cold, foggy, rainy days in every nook and cranny in this state. It's a reputation it doesn't always deserve. Bicheno has hours & hours of sunlight, little rainfall, and a mild climate. Fish some gummy or visit East Coast Natureworld - an animal sanctuary set amongst 150 acres of parkland and lagoons.
FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK
Image from Tourism Tasmania.
Charm and elegance is what we think of when looking out onto Wineglass Bay. Since 1916, Freycinet National Park has been one of the most important conservation efforts in the state. Amongst the brush lives native wildlife and plantlife. From wallabies and kookaburras on land to the dolphins and whales at seas, Freycinet is a protected home for many creatures. Dip your feet into the turquoise waters, sit on the white sand, and go for a hike along the rocky trails. An adventurer's delight!
MARIA ISLAND NATIONAL PARK
Image from Tourism Tasmania.
Take a day trip or spend a couple of nights here, an island retreat and a spot to get away from it all. Accessed by ferry, Maria Island is fairly remote - so you'll need to bring your food with you. See animals of days past immortalised into the side of Fossil Cliffs, hire a bike and take on the trails, or snorkel in one of the best reserves you'll find in Tasmania. Don't forget to look up! The birdlife is particularly special; endangered species of birds are protected on the island. Quench your thirst for knowledge: learn about the convicts that would escape here from the mainland.
RICHMOND
Image from Tourism Tasmania.
Richmond is a historic village set in the Coal River Valley. After walking through the 19th century model village, pick strawberries at Littlewood Berry Farm or visit the Riversdale Estate with the only Peter Rabbit garden south of the equator. Book a high tea in the garden - warm, fresh scones will be served to you on silver platters. Once you've had your filling, sample internationally-acclaimed riesling and chardonnay from the vineyards nearby. A stop along the Southern Wine Trail, the valley has a number of cellar doors and food tours. So wear your stretchiest pants and bring a bottle of water!
At this stage, you're probably used to the quiet of nature away from the city. Our park in Hobart has the best of both worlds - close to the CBD but far enough away to not get caught up in the commotion. Book your accommodation for the beginning and end of your journey at Discovery Parks - Hadspen and Discovery Parks - Hobart.
