Hobart Winter Road Trip into Tasmania’s Wilderness 

Winter is the best time to explore Tasmania. Enjoy the crisp air, clear nights and rugged, snow-capped mountains. Tasmania also holds many exciting winter events such as the Winter Feast, Winter Solstice Festival and Southern Lights viewings! If you’re thinking of planning a road trip in Tasmania, winter is the time to do it.  

One special road trip adventure from Hobart is the Hobart – Macquarie Heads trail. We have everything you need to know to make this adventure one you won’t forget. Check it out! 

Hobart – Macquarie Harbour Winter Road Trip 

Hobart to New Norfolk – approx 0.75 hours 

To kick off this great Tassie road trip, head North-West from Hobart to gorgeous, culturally rich town of New Norfolk. New Norfolk is located in the heart of the Derwent Valley and is filled with charming antique stores, historic buildings, cafes and restaurants. The seasons are distinct in New Norfolk making it a perfect winter road trip pitstop. 

Just around the corner are the famous Salmon Ponds, the oldest rainbow and brown trout farm in Australia. This lush, peaceful and green region is the perfect place for a quick picnic before you continue your adventure. 

New Norfolk to Russell Falls/ Mount Field National Park –  approx 0.75 hours 

Known as ‘Tasmania’s Favourite Waterfall’, Russell Falls is a great stop on your winter road trip. Surrounded by deep green rainforest and featuring two main drops, this waterfall is a stunning attraction of natural beauty. The trail to the Falls is a short 1.4km loop but there are plenty of additional beautiful trails in Mount Field National Park.  

Mount Field National Park is one of Tasmania’s oldest national parks and it is also one of its most diverse. It is home to some of the world’s tallest eucalypt forests and in winter, snow dusts the surrounding slopes. 

Russell Falls to Central Highlands – approx 1-1.5 hours 

Next on this great winter road trip to Macquarie Heads in Western Tasmania is a visit to the Central Highlands. Tasmania’s central highlands comprises of numerous charming and stunning rural town such as Tarraleah, Hamilton and Derwent Bridge. The Central Highlands boast beautiful scenery and great history & heritage. We recommend making one of these gorgeous towns an overnight stop so you have time to explore the region before continuing your adventure! 

Must-see spots in the Central Highlands include: 

• Tarraleah Power Station Lookout: This spot gives amazing views of the valley and the engineering marvel that is the Tarraleah Power Station 
• Tarraleah Falls: This hour-long return walk is worth the stunning view of the 40m high, single-drop waterfall. 
• Lake St Clair (southern gateway through Derwent Bridge): Get the ferry from Derwent Bridge across Lake St Clair to Echo Point to experience the unforgettable Overland Track through deep rainforest.  

Central Highlands to Queenstown – approx 2 hours 

Once you’ve explored some of the stunning natural beauty the Central Highlands have to offer, this winter road trip continues to Queenstown. Queenstown on Tasmania’s west coast is a town steeped in history and natural wonder. A former mining town, the area is a rugged and rocky moonscape. Tourists come from all over the world to experience Queenstown unique, colourful and beautiful landscape.  

During this stop you can explore the old mines, venture off into the mountains to uncover the breathtaking vistas of the region or take magnificent West Coast Wilderness Railway – a steam-powered train travelling to the nearby Strahan. 

If you would extra time to explore all Queenstown has to offer, book a stay at the Queenstown Cabin & Tourist Park. 

Queenstown to Strahan and Macquarie Harbour – approx .075 hours 

The next stop of your Tassie winter road trip is down the road to the picturesque seaside town of Strahan on Tasmania’s west coast. The area is surrounded by national parks, breathtaking views, fascinating history, lively activities and delicious local cuisine. 

The top things to see and do in Strahan and Macquarie Harbour include: 

• Sarah Island: Tasmania’s oldest convict settlement and known to be one of the severest penal establishments in Australia, this island is a must-see attraction in Macquarie Harbour. Cruises do daily tours over to this beautiful and haunting heritage site.  
• Cape Sorell Lighthouse: At the southern end of the harbour mouth, this historic landmark provides a dramatic backdrop for the rugged coastal landscape and rough seas of Macquarie Harbour. 
• Ocean Beach: Offering over 40kms of flat beach, wild waves and stunning sunsets, Ocean Beach is a must-see on your winter Tasmania road trip. 
• Gordon River Cruise: Embark on a scenic Gordon River Cruise to witness breathtaking views of pristine wilderness. 

This winter road trip from Hobart to Strahan, through Tasmania’s Central Highlands is a journey through some of Australia’s most stunning landscapes. Featuring rugged displays of beauty, dramatic scenery and rich history, this is sure to be an adventure like no other. Plan your winter escape now! 

For more Road Trip inspiration, check out our website.

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