Self-drive tour of Tasmania: Launceston and the magnificent north

Itinerary in brief:

• 2 nights Deloraine           
• 2 nights Stanley
• 2 nights Cradle Mountain
• 2 nights Tamar Valley, Launceston

Days 1 & 2: Arrive Launceston    

When you arrive in Launceston, collect your rental car. You’ll then head west to an eco-lodge where you’ll be hosted by an accomplished chef and forest ecologist for the next 2 nights. During your stay enjoy a half day guided rainforest walk and a gourmet dinner at the lodge.

Day 3: Stanley   

Drive to the far north-west today as you head towards Stanley, a charming fishing village with views across the Bass Strait and the Nut; an imposing volcanic plug that rises 150 metres straight up from the sea. You can take a chairlift or hike up it and bask in the glorious views including the penguins that come in at night to nest.

Enjoy the famous Stanley fish & chips and tour the quaint streets, learning about the area's first European settlers. The nearby Rocky Cape National Park offers great vegetation, coastal walks and treks and an active Aboriginal culture.

Day 4: Stanley   

Drive along the ‘Edge of the World’ to the Arthur River, where you will board a river cruise through the Tarkine Rainforest. Spot eagles swooping down and dine on a BBQ of fresh local fish before heading back to Stanley for the night.

Day 5 & 6: Cradle Mountain        

Curve south towards Cradle Mountain and pass through dramatic scenery of mountains, lakes and rivers. Spend two nights in a cosy cottage in the bush and explore the nearby forests for wildlife such as wallabies, possums and wombats.

Day 7 & 8: Tamar Valley    

Driving north-east back towards Launceston, you will be spending your final two nights on the banks of the River Tamar amongst beautiful gardens.

Nearby you’ll find Narawntapu National Park (the Serengeti of Tasmania), which is a peaceful coastal refuge offering islands, wetlands, dunes and lagoons to explore with plenty of endemic wildlife to spot.

Another option is to head to Beaconsfield, a historic gold mining town set in the heart of the wine region – stop at the cool climate wineries and enjoy tasting their produce.

Day 9: Depart from Launceston   

Time permitting, you could enjoy a Tamar River cruise from Cataract Gorge before continuing the one hour journey back to Launceston Airport. Return your rental car at the airport before continuing on the next leg of your travels.