How to Plan a Scenic Loop Road Trip from Hobart
How to Plan a Scenic Loop Road Trip from Hobart
f you want to explore Tasmania’s natural wonders without doubling back on your journey, a scenic loop road trip from Hobart is the perfect way to do it. With the flexibility of a rental car from YesDrive, you can take your time, avoid the crowds, and dive deep into the island’s coastlines, rainforests, historic towns, and mountain ranges—all in one continuous journey.
Here’s how to plan a memorable loop road trip starting and ending in Hobart.
Table of Contents
Suggested 5-Day Loop Itinerary
Day 1: Hobart to Port Arthur (1.5 hrs)
Drive southeast to the Tasman Peninsula. Explore the Port Arthur Historic Site and enjoy the dramatic sea cliffs of the Tasman Arch and Devil’s Kitchen. Overnight in Port Arthur or nearby Eaglehawk Neck.
Day 2: Port Arthur to Bicheno via the East Coast (3.5 hrs)
Head up the coast through Orford and Swansea, stopping at Freycinet National Park for a walk to Wineglass Bay. Bicheno makes a charming overnight stop, especially if you’re up for a penguin tour.
Day 3: Bicheno to Launceston (2.5 hrs)
Turn inland through the Midlands or via Scottsdale for a scenic detour. Explore Launceston’s Cataract Gorge and enjoy the city’s heritage architecture. Great food options here too.
Day 4: Launceston to Strahan via Cradle Mountain (5–6 hrs)
This is a longer day, but packed with stunning scenery. Visit Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park, then continue through the wild West Coast to reach Strahan. Overnight stay recommended.
Day 5: Strahan to Hobart (4.5 hrs)
Drive through the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park and stop in Queenstown or Lake St Clair for a break. Arrive back in Hobart by evening.
Highlights Along the Route
Wineglass Bay: An iconic beach with a world-class view
Cradle Mountain: Great for nature walks and wildlife
Port Arthur: Rich in convict history and haunting stories
Strahan: Gateway to wild rivers and remote beauty
Derwent Valley: Rolling hills, historic towns, and fresh produce on the way back to Hobart
Tips for a Smooth Trip
Book your accommodation in advance, especially in smaller towns
Refuel often: petrol stations can be few and far between in rural areas
Check road conditions before driving into remote areas
Pack snacks, water, and layers for comfort on longer drives
Why Choose YesDrive for Your Loop Adventure
Local pick-up options in Hobart
Reliable cars suited for both sealed and gravel roads
Flexible hire periods and 24/7 support
Unlimited kilometres available on many vehicles
Ready to hit the road? Book your scenic loop road trip with YesDrive and explore Tasmania at your own pace.
