Updated on November 12th, 2026
Roads are made for journeys, not destinations, and sometimes, while travelling, we have moments that words can’t explain. Tasmania is a road-trip destination, with outstanding views around every corner, plenty of beachfront, and roadside produce stalls aplenty. There’s every reason for you to hit the highway. Road trip: Tasmania offers plenty to make it a lifelong memory.
Many years have passed, but the memories are still fresh, and I can recall all the wonderful moments I experienced during my trip to Launceston & Hobart in Tasmania. We travelled from Launceston to Hobart by bus. In 2014, the University of Tasmania organised a trip for education consultants working with them, and I was part of it. We spent two nights in Launceston, a beautiful Tasmanian city. It feels like a holiday destination, where you can find everything that refreshes your mind and soul. You can’t help but praise the city’s elegant architecture.
It’s a city full of art and design; beautiful green parks, surrounding hills, and pleasant, cool weather make you feel at home. I spent my time walking around Launceston and taking in the sights. Tasmania offers wild, beautiful landscapes and friendly people with a relaxed lifestyle, and Launceston is no exception.
Tamar Valley, Launceston
Tamar Valley is a must-visit in Launceston. It’s a scenic place where you can easily spend an afternoon checking out wineries.
Launceston’s local airport receives flights from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Before coming here, I was in Melbourne, where I often stay when I am in Australia. Launceston Airport is a regional airport on the city’s outskirts.
After visiting university campuses and a few colleges in Launceston, we headed to Hobart. The trip organisers planned to take us to Hobart by tourist bus. The trip guide asked us to be ready at a certain time in the morning.
First, we stayed at Colonial Town Campbell for some refreshments
The next morning, we were all ready in front of our hotel on time. We were all excited because the road trip would be full of wonderful experiences. Our first stop was Campbell Town. Located 67 km southeast of Launceston, Campbell Town is the perfect place to stay and relax. Take a walk along the banks of the Elizabeth River, then find a local bar or restaurant for a well-earned meal.
In 1811, Governor Macquarie named the river Elizabeth after his wife’s name. The town has many interesting tourist spots to explore. Many buildings date from the 19th century. Campbell Town is rich in colonial history, with many structures you can’t help but admire. Red Bridge is one of them, built in 1830 by convicts. You can also visit Campbell Town Museum to learn more about the town’s history. Here you can get a useful brochure from the Visitor Information Centre.
If you feel hungry, don’t worry. Many eateries offer quick snacks and lunches. If you have time, you can sit on the riverbank and enjoy a picnic.
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
Our next stop was Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, just 17 miles from our last destination, Hobart, Tasmania’s capital city. As the sanctuary is mostly situated outdoors, you get plenty of free parking. We arrived as evening was falling.
Bonorong is one of Tasmania’s important sanctuaries. It is home to many awesome animals, including Kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and Tasmanian devils. You can spend free time visiting the sanctuary, touching, and even feeding these beautiful, cute animals like kangaroos and koalas. Visitors can have photos taken to keep as memories.
Check timing before planning a trip
As I said, the sanctuary is outdoors, so you must dress in weather-appropriate clothing. The sanctuary is open almost daily, but you must check it before planning your trip. You can bring your own food for a picnic, but if you forget, excellent restaurants serve snacks and other food.
Entry to the wildlife sanctuary is paid. This entry fee helps maintain the Bonorong sanctuary. The entry fee also includes a free bag of kangaroo food. We all enjoyed a good time at the sanctuary. I can certainly recommend this place as a must-visit if you are ever near Hobart.
In Hobart, we stayed at Hotel Maya Colonial, near Salamanca Market. It was very comfortable, especially because of its location. Hobart’s picturesque waterfront is quite close to this hotel. Salamanca Market is Tasmania’s largest and most vibrant outdoor market, which opens every Saturday. You can buy almost everything you need, from fresh food to homeware, crafts, jewellery, and more.
As I mentioned earlier, the University of Tasmania and the Department of Education organised our trip, so we focused on visiting the university and various Tasmanian TAFE campuses. After two or three busy days, our trip organisers planned another leisurely trip to two awesome places. One was Mt Wellington, and the other was Bruny Island.
Exploring the Salamanca market
Trip to Mt Wellington
On the day of the trip, we again started around 8 am. Everyone was excited to see Mt Wellington from the coast; it is usually visible from Hobart itself. We were all on a tourist bus, winding through green forest and zig-zag slopes. All of this created an incredible experience.
Everyone in the group enjoyed the scenery and tried to feel the wind in the mountains. It was a cool, sunny day, but the roaring wind made everyone feel chilled. I recommend dressing for the weather.
From Mt Wellington, you can see Hobart city somewhere in the clouds, and the scenery is stunning and unforgettable. You can catch panoramic views of clouds, sunrise, and sunset. The Wellington Range is popular for mountain biking and horse riding. We spent a few hours there, enjoying nature’s beauty before heading to our next destination.
Day spent at Bruny Island
Bruny Island, a paradise for those who love beaches, surfing, scenic views, boat rides, and food. We went there in our tourist bus arranged by the trip organisers. The entire way was through a green forest. You board a ferry at a designated point, which takes you to the island.
The first view upon reaching the island is unforgettable. A natural wonderland with a stunning coastline leaves a soothing impression you won’t forget. Food lovers will find a variety of dishes that will make them want to stay a few days there. Enjoy locally produced cheese, chocolate, whiskey, seafood, berries, wines, and more.
Bruny Island’s scenic views are an all-time attraction. Enjoy a long beach walk, watch the sunset, and make many more memories. Boating can add a thrill to your trip. Overall, it is a complete paradise you’ll want to visit again and again.
… more about Bruny Island
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