Tasmania East Coast
Australia
The Tasman Highway from Hobart up Tasmania's beach-lined east coast, through dry hills, Freycinet Peninsula's geometrically perfect Wineglass Bay, the Bay of Fires' white sands and orange lichen-stained rocks, and the Pyengana Dairy Company to Launceston. The gentle counterpoint to the wild west coast.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Hobart
The east coast route heads north up the Tasman Highway as Hobart gives way to dry sclerophyll hills and the first glimpses of Tasmania's extraordinary coastline.
- Freycinet Peninsula
Pink granite Hazards peaks frame Wineglass Bay, one of the world's most beautiful beaches. The 45-minute climb to the saddle lookout is the essential non-negotiable stop.
- Bicheno
The east coast's diving capital, with a natural foreshore rock pool, the Gulch fishing harbour, and nightly little penguin parades as blue penguins return to their burrows after dusk.
- Bay of Fires
White sand, turquoise water, and rocks blazing orange with lichen in a palette of impossible intensity. Named for the Aboriginal fires Abel Tasman's crew saw from the sea in 1642.
- Pyengana Dairy
A working farmhouse cheese factory in a lush valley just inland from St Helens. The cloth-matured cheddar is among Australia's finest, sold direct from the farm cellar door.
- Launceston
The Tamar Valley city that closes the east coast loop. The Stillwater restaurant in a historic flour mill is one of Australia's finest, a perfect end to the coastal drive.
Where to Eat
- The Lobster ShackSeafood
Enjoy fresh, locally caught seafood with panoramic ocean views in Bicheno.
- Freycinet Marine FarmSeafood
Savor freshly harvested oysters and mussels straight from the farm in Coles Bay.
- Blue Edge BakeryBakery
Delight in artisan breads and pastries made daily in Bicheno.
- Stillwater RestaurantModern Australian
Experience fine dining with a focus on local produce in a historic mill in Launceston.
Things to Do
- Wineglass Bay LookoutScenic Viewpoint
Hike to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the iconic Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park.
- Bicheno BlowholeNatural Feature
Witness powerful ocean sprays through a natural rock formation in Bicheno.
- Bay of Fires Conservation AreaNature Reserve
Explore pristine white beaches and crystal-clear waters along the Bay of Fires.
- Cataract Gorge ReserveNature Reserve
Discover walking trails, a suspension bridge, and scenic views in Launceston's natural reserve.