The Ultimate West Coast Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary
- Tullah Lakeside Lodge
- Nov 13
- 3 min read
Tasmania’s rugged West Coast is a region of untamed wilderness, dramatic landscapes, and charming historic towns. For travelers seeking adventure, a West Coast Tasmania road trip offers the perfect mix of scenic drives, fascinating stops, and cozy accommodations. This detailed Tasmania road trip itinerary will guide you through the highlights, complete with driving times, must-see attractions, and essential tips to make your journey unforgettable.
Day 1: Hobart to Queenstown (Approx. 4.5 hours, 260 km)
Begin your journey in Tasmania’s capital, Hobart. Stock up on road trip essentials, like snacks, water, and fuel, before heading northwest on the Lyell Highway. The route is itself a West Coast Tasmania scenic drive, winding through the Derwent Valley and past Lake St Clair.
Stops along the way:
Russell Falls in Mt Field National Park, an easy walk to one of Tasmania’s most famous waterfalls.
Lake St Clair, Australia’s deepest freshwater lake, with excellent photo opportunities.
Arrive in Queenstown, a former mining town with stark, surreal landscapes and famously winding roads perfect for photographers.
Accommodation: Overnight in Queenstown at a local inn or motel.
Day 2: Queenstown to Tullah (Approx. 1.5 hours, 100 km)
Depart Queenstown and head north along the Murchison Highway. Make sure to stop at the quirky Iron Blow Lookout, offering panoramic views of the old open-cut mines.
Must-see stop: The Zeehan Spray Tunnel, a 100-meter-long abandoned mining tunnel where you can drive or walk through to reach a hidden bushland. It’s a true highlight of any West Coast Tasmania itinerary.
Continue to Tullah, a quiet lakeside village nestled on the shores of Lake Rosebery. Here, you’ll find one of the best places to stay on the West Coast.
Accommodation: Settle into Tullah Lakeside Lodge accommodation, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views across the lake, cozy dining, and easy access to surrounding nature walks. It’s the perfect place to relax after a day on the road.
Day 3: Tullah to Cradle Mountain (Approx. 1 hour, 55 km)
After a restful night, head east to the world-renowned Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. The short drive means you’ll have plenty of time to explore.
Top activities:
Take the Dove Lake Circuit, one of Tasmania’s most scenic walks.
Visit Waldheim Chalet for a glimpse into the area’s history.
Capture photos of the jagged peaks reflected in the still lake waters.
Accommodation: Stay in a Cradle Mountain lodge or cabin for easy access to the park.
Day 4: Cradle Mountain to Strahan (Approx. 2.5 hours, 150 km)
Drive west toward Strahan, a picturesque harbor town on Macquarie Harbour. This leg of the trip is filled with winding roads and rainforest scenery.
Things to do in Strahan:
Cruise along the Gordon River, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed area of pristine wilderness.
Visit Ocean Beach for dramatic coastal views.
Explore the historic Strahan Village and its charming shops.
Accommodation: Overnight in Strahan, where options range from waterfront cottages to boutique hotels.
Day 5: Strahan to Hobart (Approx. 5 hours, 300 km)
On your return trip to Hobart, take time to appreciate the diverse landscapes you’ve traveled through. Stop for fuel and food in towns like Queenstown or Derwent Bridge to break up the journey. Depending on your schedule, you may choose to add an extra night at Tullah or Lake St Clair to relax before heading back to the capital.
Road Trip Essentials: What To Pack
The West Coast’s wild beauty means you’ll often be traveling through remote areas, so preparation is key. Use this checklist to stay comfortable and safe.
Full tank of fuel before leaving major towns
Refillable water bottles
Snacks and non-perishable food
Warm, weatherproof clothing (the weather changes quickly)
Camera and spare batteries for capturing the scenery
Sturdy shoes for short hikes and walks
Offline maps or GPS, as reception can be patchy
First aid kit and basic supplies
Final Thoughts for the Ultimate West Tasmania Roadtrip
A West Coast Tasmania road trip is about more than just reaching your destination — it’s about the journey itself. From the winding mountain passes of Queenstown to the serenity of Lake Rosebery and the dramatic peaks of Cradle Mountain, every day brings a new adventure. Staying at Tullah Lakeside Lodge accommodation provides a peaceful retreat right in the heart of the West Coast, making it an ideal stop on your travels.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring mining history, or soaking in lakeside sunsets, this West Coast Tasmania itinerary ensures you’ll experience the best the region has to offer. Pack smart, fuel up, and hit the road!
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