Hobart to Cradle Mountain
Take the family on a road trip across Tasmania
With its deep-rooted history, rugged wilderness and abundance of gourmet food and drink, Tasmania is a destination that leaves little to be desired. And if you’ve got a family full of explorers, there’s no better place to take a break. From the white-sand beaches of the Freycinet Peninsula to Cradle Mountain’s scenic bushwalks, a road trip through Tassie ticks all the boxes.
Explore Tasmania with Europcar
Ready for a getaway in the great outdoors? Tasmania’s wilder side is within reach with a car hire from Europcar. From 4WDs to compact sedans, our fleet of rental vehicles will have you exploring Australia’s isle of adventure in no time.
Hobart
Nestled amongst the foothills of Mount Wellington, Hobart is where heritage buildings are at home with modern architecture and where fine dining is studded with fresh local produce. But with so much to see on the city’s doorstep, your adventure doesn’t have to stop in the CBD. Cross Hobart’s must-see attractions off your list, from Salamanca Place’s restaurants and markets to MONA’s weird and wonderful art exhibits, then set your sights further afield to fit in the rest of Tasmania’s splendour.
Orford 78.5 km
After you pick up your car hire in Hobart’s CBD, head an hour north to reach Orford. Flanked by the bay and the bush, this popular holiday destination offers plenty of opportunities for fun in the sun, with swimming, diving and fishing beaches like Shelley Beach and Spring Beach just moments away from town. More into bushwalks than sunbaking? Orford is an equally great place to explore Maria Island National Park and its surrounding marine reserve, so you can keep the whole family happy before you take off to your next stop.
Swansea 56 km
A further 45 minutes north of Orford, Swansea is a picturesque village that stares out across Great Oyster Bay to the granite peaks of Freycinet National Park – but its scenery isn’t limited to the seaside. The town’s colonial past means it’s home to a handful of historical buildings and landmarks, including the quirky, convict-built Spiky Bridge. Back in the town centre, local cafés and restaurants champion the best of both land and sea, with Swansea’s famous oysters a must-sample dish no matter where you choose to dine.
Coles Bay 41 km
When you’re ready to see Freycinet National Park first hand, make the 40-minute drive to Coles Bay. Home to everything from luxury accommodation to camping facilities, this quiet town is the perfect base to explore the park and its surrounding coastal scenery. Tackle walking trails to reach the famous Wineglass Bay or stick to the uncrowded beaches of Coles Bay, where you can swim, fish and kayak amidst crystal-clear waters. If you’re after adventure, explore the peninsula on a scenic flight, eco-cruise or quad bike, or take a more relaxed approach on a tour of the region’s artisan producers and wineries.
Campbell Town 99 km
After a dose of nature on the Freycinet Peninsula, you’ll be primed and ready for a leisurely morning in Campbell Town. Located on the banks of the Elizabeth River, this historic town is known for its collection of colonial buildings, antique shops and boutiques and is the perfect place to refuel en route to Launceston. Stretch your legs on the Convict Brick Trail and read the individual stories of Tasmania’s convicts along the way, then pop in to one of the local eateries for a quick bite before you take off.
Launceston 54 km
On arrival in Launceston, you’ll find yourself surrounded by food, wine, culture and nature, all with a generous helping of country charm. And much like its big sister to the south, there’s heaps to do in the CBD and beyond. Explore the largest regional gallery in Australia or get your history fix by taking in Launceston’s beautifully preserved architecture and gardens. If you’re looking for wilderness, the Cataract Gorge is just a short walk from the city centre, while the city’s bourgeoning restaurant and bar scene offers plenty of reasons to stay the night.
.jpg)
Beauty Point 48 km
Situated 45 minutes north of Launceston at the top end of Tasmania, this small riverside town stays true to its name with scenic cattle farms and vineyards at every turn. And while the award-winning wineries and cellar doors are a highlight of the region, Beauty Point’s star attraction is its marine life. Originally established as a deep-water port, Beauty Point has since become the site of the world’s first-ever seahorse aquarium, where you can get an up-close look at these fragile and fascinating creatures from dry land.
Cradle Mountain 136 km
With its prehistoric rainforests and alpine landscape, Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park is an unforgettable last stop on your journey. And while you may not be able to tackle the world-famous Overland Track with little ones, there are a variety of shorter walks that wind through the park, from the scenic Dove Lake Circuit to the trek to Cradle Mountain’s summit. Keep your eyes peeled for wilderness while you explore, including Tassie devils, quolls and echidnas, or set out on the Aboriginal Cultural Walk to visit historic Indigenous sites within the park. Once you’ve seen enough on foot, get a bird’s eye view on a scenic flight for a perfect end to your family holiday.
Click here to download this road trip in a printable PDF format.
Reservations 1300 13 13 90
Same smart app. More mobility.
Download the Europcar mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android now!
Why hire a car or van with Europcar
Canstar Blue Most Satisfied Customers 2019
Oceania's Leading Car Rental Company
Member of AFIA
China Ready & Accredited
