Northen Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary: Penguins, Devils & Stunning Coastal Views

Hello dear reader, welcome to Holicay’s series of “low-key places we bet you didn’t know you can travel to”. I’m Avria— Holicay’s marketing girlie turned unofficial journalist. Today, I’ll be covering a piece on Tasmania, Australia— one of my favourite places to visit. I loved Tasmania so much to the point that I wanted to study there— but the expenditure slapped me back to reality. Anyways, I diverge from my main point. Tasmania, Australia is a place of nature, where one truly gets to connect with nature. There are fewer humans than land mammals there. 500 thousand humans, 3 million land mammals. By that theory, there is a ratio of 1 human to 6 land mammals. Literally perfect for a quiet getaway from mankind.

You may not have heard of Tasmania before stumbling upon this article, but really, after you read this piece— you’d want to add it to your travel plans. Furthermore, we have it all planned out for you— a 7-day itinerary around the Northern end of Tasmania. We will cover Hobart & the Southern end if you request us to! Meanwhile, here’s the link to the itinerary I built from scratch: https://www.holicay.com/itinerary/northern-tasmania-road-trip-itinerary-penguins-devils-and-stunning-coastal-views-o5rfs5 

Tasmania is filled with the wonders of nature: it is one of the three recognised carbon-negative areas; it has prehistoric trees that date back not only to when Tasmania was geologically close to Antarctica, but also to the Jurassic period; and it is home to six unique species found only on the island.

Tassie, one of the only carbon-NEGATIVE jurisdictions in the world— it removes more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than it emits.

According to the Tasmanian Greenhouse Gas Emissions Report, in 2023 the state recorded net emissions of –4.93 Mt CO₂‑e, representing a reduction of 125.2% since 1990 

(ReCFIT, 2024)

This remarkable reversal is largely due to the cessation of native forest logging around 2011–12, which drastically increased carbon sequestration in the state’s forests, and the state’s long-standing reliance on renewable hydropower and wind energy—even reaching 100% renewable electricity provision by 2020. (Tasmania Goes Net Carbon Negative by Reducing Logging, 2023)
 

Together, Tasmania’s robust forest management and clean energy generation have positioned it as a global leader in climate action.

I shan’t bore you by making this travel article into a research piece, but it’s honestly so cool to actually achieve a carbon-negative status when everywhere else is over-polluting the world. 

Prehistoric trees, with one tree standing at over 10,000 years old!

Tasmania is a living remnant of prehistoric Earth, where some giant Huon pines stand as clonal organisms estimated to be over 10,000 years old, based on pollen records in lake sediments and clonal age estimates from Mount Read (CSIRO, n.d.)

These ancient conifers, along with Jurassic-era pencil pines and King Billy pines, trace their lineage back to the Gondwanan forests that once stretched across Tasmania and Antarctica during the Jurassic period, over 140 million years ago. (The Gondwana Project Inc., n.d.)

While individual Huon pines today may be 1,000–3,000 years old, the single-gene clone grove persisted for millennia—truly making Tasmania Earth’s “long‑lost sibling of Antarctica”, sharing botanical heritage through continental drift and ancient climate systems. (Tosolini & Cantrill, 2024)

Seemingly small landmass, but home to 6 unique species found natively in Tassie (flora & fauna)

• The Tasmanian devil, the world’s largest carnivorous marsupial, now confined to Tasmania and surviving only there in the wild
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• The eastern quoll, once widespread across mainland Australia but now extinct there, continues thriving only in Tasmania’s forests
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• The Tasmanian pademelon, a compact forest-dwelling macropod unique to Tasmania, known for its rufous underparts and nocturnal habits
   
• The critically endangered spotted handfish, a peculiar marine species found only in Tasmania’s Derwent Estuary that “walks” along the seafloor using its modified fins
   
• The giant freshwater crayfish, the largest freshwater invertebrate globally, living only in Tasmanian rivers and facing severe conservation threats.
   
• King’s lomatia (Lomatia tasmanica), an ancient, sterile shrub that reproduces vegetatively and is restricted to a single clonal colony in southwestern Tasmania, genetically unchanged for over 40,000 years
   

These six remarkable species are emblematic of Tasmania's rich and isolated ecosystems—remnants of Gondwana that still survive on this unique landmass.

Planning Your 7-Day Northern Tasmania Adventure

Before hitting the road, here are some essential things to know:

Best Time to Visit Northern Tasmania?

Tasmania is a year-round destination, but each season offers something unique:

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Perfect for beaches and coastal walks.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Vibrant foliage, mild temperatures.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Snow at Cradle Mountain, cozy cabin stays.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Blooming wildflowers and active wildlife.

For penguin spotting in Bicheno, evening tours are available year-round, but late spring to summer offers the most activity.

How to Get There

• Fly into Launceston Airport (LST) from Melbourne, Sydney, or Brisbane.
• Car rental is essential, as Northern Tasmania’s highlights are spread out.
• Remember: Drive on the right, and GPS is highly recommended.
  
   

What to Expect

• Towns are small and charming, but shops and restaurants close early—often by 7 p.m.
• Tasmania is eco-conscious: bring reusable grocery bags.
• Prepare for a mix of driving and walking—your daily steps will soar!

Northern Tasmania 7-Day Road Trip Itinerary

Now, let’s dive into a walk-through of the itinerary, shall we?

Day 1: Arrival in Launceston, The Gateway to Northern Tasmania

Your adventure begins the moment you touch down at Launceston Airport, a small and friendly entry point that immediately reflects Tasmania’s relaxed charm. After collecting your rental car— essential for any road trip on the island— you’ll begin the short drive into Launceston, a city where heritage streets meet tranquil riverside walks.

Check into your Airbnb or boutique hotel, drop your bags (or just leave them in the car), and start your exploration with Cataract Gorge Reserve. This unique natural escape lies just minutes from the city center. Walk along the suspension bridge, ride the Scenic Chairlift, and watch the South Esk River carve its way through dramatic cliffs and lush gardens. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a wild peacock wandering through the reserve.

Next, head to City Park, a peaceful spot that surprises visitors with its Japanese macaque enclosure— a quirky slice of wildlife in the city. Grab some local treats from Woolworths or a nearby bakery to enjoy as an afternoon snack. In the evening, indulge in your first taste of Tasmanian cuisine. Cataract on Paterson offers beautifully plated local seafood and wine, a perfect introduction to Tassie’s renowned food and drink culture. Just remember: shops and restaurants often close early, so plan dinner before 6.30 p.m. A gentle evening stroll through Launceston’s illuminated streets caps off your first day in Northern Tasmania.

Day 2: Bay of Fires, Fiery Boulders and Pristine Beaches

Rise early for the drive east to the world‑famous Bay of Fires, where orange‑hued lichen‑covered boulders line stretches of sugar‑white sand and crystal‑clear turquoise waters. Begin your coastal exploration at Binalong Bay, perfect for a morning walk along the shoreline or even a bracing dip if you dare.

Continue northward along the coastline, stopping at Halls Falls, where the cascading water and mossy rocks feel like a hidden oasis. A lunch of freshly caught fish and chips at Skippers Fish Shop (I ate there back in 2018! It was so good) It is the perfect way to refuel while watching the waves.

Spend the afternoon slow‑driving the coastal route, hopping between quiet beaches and scenic lookouts that seem untouched by time. In the evening, return to Launceston for a relaxing night— your ocean‑kissed adventure has only just begun.

Day 3: Cradle Mountain, Into the Heart of Tasmania’s Wilderness

Today, the road leads you into Tasmania’s alpine heartland. Depart Launceston early and wind your way towards Cradle Mountain‑Lake St Clair National Park, part of Tasmania’s UNESCO‑listed wilderness.

Your first stop is the Dove Lake Circuit, an easy yet breathtaking hike where the iconic Cradle Mountain peaks reflect in the mirror‑still waters of Dove Lake. Along the way, you’ll pass through moss‑covered rainforests, button grass plains, and stands of ancient King Billy pines, some over 1,000 years old— living relics of the Gondwanan era.

In the afternoon, visit Devils@Cradle, a sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of the Tasmanian devil. A close encounter here offers both education and awe, as you witness one of the island’s most iconic— and endangered— species up close. Settle into your Cradle Mountain lodge or cabin for a cozy alpine night, where the sound of the wild surrounds you.

Day 4: Stanley and The Nut, Volcanic Peaks and Coastal Charm

Start the day with a final morning at Cradle Mountain, soaking in the alpine air and taking one last short walk around the Dove Lake or Pencil Pine Falls trails. After breakfast, check out from Cradle Mountain Hotel and begin the scenic drive towards Tasmania’s northwest coast.

Your first stop is Hursey Seafoods in Stanley, where you can savor fresh fish and chips or lobster with a view of the sparkling Bass Strait. Just a few minutes away stands The Nut, Stanley’s iconic volcanic plug. Ride the chairlift to the summit or tackle the short but steep walking track for breathtaking 360‑degree views of the town, coastline, and surrounding farmland.

Continue your journey south, stopping in Sheffield, known as the “Town of Murals”. Stroll the streets and admire vibrant wall art depicting the region’s history, from pioneer life to natural wonders.

As the sun lowers, make the final drive to Bicheno, a picturesque east‑coast town where you’ll check in for the night. After a day of diverse scenery—from alpine peaks to oceanfront views— you can relax by the coast, ready for tomorrow’s penguin encounters and blowhole adventure.

Day 5: Bicheno, Penguins and Blowholes by the Sea

Start with a visit to the Bicheno Blowhole, where the ocean’s power is on full display as seawater surges through the rock formations in dramatic bursts.

Take a short hike up Whalers Lookout Scenic Reserve, where panoramic views of the coast and the Tasman Sea reward your climb. For lunch, indulge at Lobster Shack Tasmania, where the seafood is as fresh as it gets.

As night falls, the real magic begins. Join the Bicheno Penguin Tour to watch little penguins waddle ashore, returning from their day at sea. This wildlife spectacle under the stars is one of Tasmania’s most heartwarming experiences, leaving travelers with memories they’ll cherish forever.

Day 6: Tamar Valley, Vineyards & Farm Visits

Check out from Bicheno and journey north towards Launceston, detouring through the Tamar Valley, renowned for its cool‑climate wines, farms, and gourmet experiences.

Begin with a stop at Yimarra Farm, where you can get hands-on with organic farming and meet friendly farm animals. Continue to Freycinet Vineyards or other boutique wineries along the valley, sampling award‑winning Pinot Noir and sparkling wines while enjoying vineyard views.

For lunch, Timbre Kitchen offers seasonal farm‑to‑table dishes that showcase Tasmania’s produce. Arriving back in Launceston by afternoon, you can explore local galleries, shops, and river walks, soaking in the relaxed city vibe before your final day.

Day 7: Launceston– Art, Souvenirs, and Departure

Spend your last morning enjoying Launceston’s cultural side. Visit the Queen Victoria Art Gallery at Royal Park, which highlights Tasmania’s natural history and art. Then, take a stroll down Charles Street, perfect for souvenir shopping, from handmade crafts to local gourmet treats.

After lunch, head to Launceston Airport, returning your rental car and reflecting on a week of coastal beauty, wildlife encounters, and prehistoric landscapes. Your Northern Tasmania road trip leaves you with a deep appreciation for this small island’s big adventure potential.

A summary to your 7 days in Tasmania

A week in Tasmania spent, and it’s only 1/3rd of Tasmania explored— love it? You’d definitely have to return and take a month to really explore all of Tasmania’s charms, or maybe do multiple trips down!

Tasmania is more than just a scenic holiday— it’s a step into a world where prehistoric forests meet rugged coastlines, penguins waddle past crashing waves, and Tasmanian devils remind us of nature’s wild charm.

Over seven days, you’ll explore Launceston’s urban quirks, the fiery lichen boulders of Bay of Fires, Cradle Mountain’s alpine majesty, Bicheno’s penguin-dotted shores, and the windswept heights of The Nut in Stanley. Along the way, indulge in farm-fresh produce, world-class seafood, and cool-climate wines that make Tasmania a culinary gem.

If you’d like a visual guide to this adventure, watch this Tasmania Travel Guide on YouTube. It’ll tell you what to expect in Tasmania, and how to prepare for your trip prior!

Pack your walking shoes, charge your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable Tasmanian journey— a land where nature still whispers its ancient story.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Northern Tasmania Road Trips

1. Do I need a car to explore Northern Tasmania?
Yes, a rental car is essential. Northern Tasmania’s highlights— like Cradle Mountain, Bay of Fires, and Bicheno— are spread out. Public transport is limited outside major towns like Launceston.

2. What is the best time of year to visit Northern Tasmania?

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Great for beaches, coastal walks, and long daylight hours.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild weather and stunning foliage.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Snow at Cradle Mountain and cozy cabins.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Flowers bloom, and wildlife is active.
   

3. Where can I see penguins in Northern Tasmania?
The Bicheno Penguin Tour is the most popular and reliable spot to see little penguins at dusk.

4. Can I see Tasmanian devils in the wild?
Wild sightings are rare, but Devils@Cradle sanctuary near Cradle Mountain provides an up-close experience while supporting conservation efforts.

5. Are shops and restaurants open late in Tasmania?
Not typically. Many shops (4pm closure) and restaurants close by 7 p.m., especially in smaller towns. Plan meals and grocery runs early.

6. Are there any unique foods I should try?
Absolutely! Don’t miss:

• Fresh seafood like oysters, scallops, and fish & chips (Australia used to hold annual Fish n Chips competitions, and Tassie won in 2017).
• Lavender and cheese ice cream—quirky and local.
• Tasmanian honey and cool-climate wines from Tamar Valley.
   

7. Is Tasmania really connected to Antarctica?
Yes, it was once, geologically and botanically. Fossil evidence shows Tasmania was once part of the Gondwana supercontinent, sharing flora with Antarctica. Ancient forests like those at Cradle Mountain are living relics of that prehistoric era.

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Brought to you by Avria Lim,

Holicay’s marketing girlie turned journalist (wearing multiple hats here)

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