The Great Eastern Drive showcases some of the best natural scenery, national parks, beaches and coastline that Tasmania has to offer. This amazing road trip takes you from Launceston in Tasmania’s North to Hobart in the South, via a beautiful East Coast drive.
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy this Great Eastern Drive, as the temperatures get a little warmer, spring flowers begin to bloom, and wildlife is abundant! You might even spot some humpback and southern right whales as they undertake their annual migration between May and November.
Heading North from Launceston, before you make your way to St. Helens we recommend stopping at the Lalla Flower Farm, especially if you’re travelling in Spring. The Gardens here are teeming with life and colour! Enjoy a guided or self-guided tour of these stunning grounds and unique flower displays. If you’re travelling during the summer, make sure you stop at the Bridestowe Lavender Farm to witness the stunning rows of blooming lavender.
The next stop before heading to St. Helens is the Little Blue Lake in the South Mount Cameron region. This ‘lake’ is a natural phenomenon, formed in an old tin mine hole. The lake reflects a vivid aqua blue due to the minerals in its base. Due to the high mineral content, swimming in the lake isn’t recommended but it is still a stunning view.
Complete the first leg of the drive to St. Helens, your first overnight stop of the Great Eastern Drive.
St. Helens is the perfect base to explore the stunning Bay of Fires region, the picturesque town of St. Helens and the beautiful Binalong Bay with its iconic orange rocks near the Skeleton Bay Reserve. The region is known for it’s beautiful white-sand beaches, crystal blue waters and fantastic local seafood, so take your time soaking in this stunning location.
The next stop of your Great Eastern adventure is the delightful coastal town of Bicheno.
Bicheno is famous for the Bicheno blowhole, so its a must-see stop on your trip. Afterward, journey down to the Bicheno Marina where you can enjoy a delicious seafood lunch or enjoy seeing all the unique sea life via a glass bottom boat tour.
If you’re an animal lover, pay a visit to the Natureworld Wildlife Sanctuary or the Bicheno Penguin Tours where you can see up close Tasmanian Devils and native penguins. When you’re finished exploring Bicheno, its time to continue down the coast to the magnificent Freycinet National Park and stunning Wineglass Bay.
Freycinet National Park is one of the most beautiful destinations along the Great Eastern Drive. Spend at least a day exploring this picturesque region, discover the many walking trails and lookouts. Make sure you experience the Wineglass Bay Trail and Lookout, this gives you the chance to see one of Australia’s most scenic views.
The nearby Coles Bay is a charming village too. We recommend staying in this area to give you ample time to explore the beautiful beaches, partake in some fun watersports, take a boat tour or even a scenic flight over the Bay. For the final leg of the Great Eastern Drive its time to head to Triabunna, your base to explore Maria Island. On the way, stop off at the Spikey Bridge outside Swansea. This unique historic bridge was built by convicts in the mid 19th century.
Triabunna is the perfect base to explore the breathtaking Maria Island. This unique destination is brimming with wildlife, stunning beaches, colourful seacliffs and lush wilderness. Take your time discovering the many beautiful trails and views around the Island and make sure you pay a visit to the world-heritage listed convict probation site at Darlington for some fascinating insights into the history of the area.
Finally, it’s time for the Great Eastern Drive to come to an end as you make you way back to Hobart. While in Hobart, enjoy the abundance of art and culture on offer at the Museum of Old and New Art or the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. Don’t forget to experience the incredible local produce of food and wine available in the area.
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