Tasmania Holiday (16 Days) in March

hoondaboy on 22/02/2024 - 00:25
Last edited 06/03/2024 - 19:00

Hi OzB friends!

My family and I are heading to Tassie in March for 16 days.
Our basic itinerary is:
Hobart - 3 days
Brunie Is - 1 day
Strahan - 2 days
Burnie - 1 day
Sheffield - 1 day
Gowrie - 2 days
Hillwood - 2 days
Binalong - 2 days
Coles Bay - 2 days
Back to Hobart

Google Map of travel

We have a couple of recommendations for hikes, some distilleries and wineries to check out, etc - but really I'm just wanting to know if anyone's been there recently, had a great experience doing something and is happy to share!

It's my wife and I, and two kids 13yr and 10yr old. We have a car for the whole time.

Thanks in advance for reading and sharing :-)

***Update****

Thanks so much for the generous time taken to comment. Even you, ChatGPT ;-)

I'll respond to most comments below but it's fair to say we've added a few extra drop-ins on the way around.

Thanks again

Travel Tasmania

Comments

  • sumyungguy on 22/02/2024 - 00:49
    +2

    APT 12-day Tasmania Complete will give you an idea of the touristy things. It's low season for penguins so I assume that's why you've skipped Bicheno. If you're foodies there are some great pie shops around. Last time I was there (Oct 2023) I paid $60.46 for a 3-day rental with Budget.

    • jellykingdom on 22/02/2024 - 09:19

      Yep Bicheno was cool

    • hoondaboy on 08/03/2024 - 01:11

      Some great suggestions in their itinerary. A few gold-tooth options as well which spark some interest.

  • jv on 22/02/2024 - 00:53
    +1

    Coles Bay - 2 days

    Much better than Woolies Bay.

    • NatoTomato on 22/02/2024 - 09:40
      +1

      Once parked my car in the woolies bay, they weren't very happy with me. 3/10, won't visit again

      • jv on 22/02/2024 - 10:18
        -1

        Maybe you had an Australian flag on your car?

  • Ozbargainite on 22/02/2024 - 03:23
    +1

    What's the attraction of 2 nights in Hillwood? Family? There is a highly rated penguin tour at nearby Low head though.
    https://www.penguintourstasmania.com.au/
    Personally I'd recommend more time at Port Aurthur / Tasman peninsula. I stayed at a airbnb right on the beach at Stewart's Bay which is an amazing spot.
    https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/15918984?source_impression_i…

    • hoondaboy on 08/03/2024 - 01:17

      Funny you should say that - we're staying there for two night for a bit of a breather tbh. We've actually booked to stay in a converted accordian bus which looks fun, but you've made me a bit nervous now. It seems a half-hour drive will get you to around 20 towns, incl Launceston.
      Outside that, we haven't looked any further into what's nice around there…

      • Ozbargainite on 08/03/2024 - 09:39

        Yes, good spot for a breather and to explore the Tamar valley and Piper's river for Vineyards. Hillwood has a small shop, pick your own berry farm and pub on the highway.
        George town is 15 mins away, has a woolworths open till 10pm. Have a good trip.

  • saltypete on 22/02/2024 - 09:06
    +2

    With kids if you have an hour or so near Eaglehawk Neck, go to the Tasselated Pavement and then walk to the point. It’s not long, but the most amazing place with deep very narrow channels and kelp. I’d avoid on a stormy day though….
    Another good walk with kids is to go down to Cockle Creek and do the walk to the point. Just watch the tide a bit, but it’s half on the beach and half above. You need to scamper some bits or you’ll get wet feet. The history of the place is a bit of a laugh too….

    • hoondaboy on 08/03/2024 - 01:20
      +1

      Tessalated Pavement looks amazing and probably would have driven straight past it! Thanks for the heads up.

  • jellykingdom on 22/02/2024 - 09:19
    +1

    Cradle Mountain is pretty great, worth the trip

    • aidenh37 on 06/03/2024 - 21:00
      +1

      Seconded - really well organised, recently refurbished. Don't be put off by lines - it's a really slick operation and absolutely worth it once you get down to the lake.

    • hoondaboy on 08/03/2024 - 01:22

      Yeah we've given ourselves a bit of time in the central north to explore that area. We're pretty active people so will be looking to take on some longer day-hikes. We need to do a bit more research about what's available.

  • cupcake on 22/02/2024 - 09:33
    +1

    Love this.
    How about a day trip (tour) to Bruny Island, Tasman Island or Port Arthur?

    • kerfuffle on 22/02/2024 - 09:51
      -1

      Bruny Island is already on the agenda under Hobart.

    • hoondaboy on 08/03/2024 - 01:25

      Yeah we're staying a night in Kettering close to the ferry - I've heard stories of long lines so hopefully we snag a good day. Kids are pumped to get the hire BYD on the ferry :-)
      I've been told to go to Bruny, but need to find out why! Looks like a lot of eating…

  • sharka on 22/02/2024 - 10:04
    -4

    Your itinerary for Tasmania sounds fantastic and well-rounded, covering a great mix of urban, coastal, and rural experiences. Tasmania is known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, rich history, and excellent local produce, making it a wonderful choice for a family trip. Given your interests in hikes, distilleries, wineries, and the inclusion of your children, here are some tailored suggestions that might enhance your journey:

    Hobart (3 Days)
    Mount Wellington: For a hike, the drive up to the summit offers stunning views of Hobart, the Derwent Valley, and the southeastern coast. There are also walking trails for all levels.
    Salamanca Market (Saturday): A bustling outdoor market with local crafts, food, and performances. Great for the whole family.
    MONA (Museum of Old and New Art): While more adult-themed, it offers unique experiences that might intrigue your older child. Check current exhibitions as some are more family-friendly than others.

    Bruny Island (1 Day)
    Bruny Island Cruises: Offers an unforgettable boat tour showcasing coastal wildlife and stunning sea cliffs.
    The Neck: A narrow, sandy isthmus with boardwalks and lookout points offering panoramic views.
    Bruny Island Cheese Co.: For a tasty stop, they offer cheese tastings and have a range of products that might appeal to the whole family.

    Strahan (2 Days)
    Gordon River Cruise: A peaceful way to see the UNESCO World Heritage-listed wilderness with insights into the area's history and ecology.
    West Coast Wilderness Railway: A heritage steam train ride through beautiful landscapes and historical sites.

    Burnie (1 Day)
    Guide Falls: A short drive from Burnie, this easy walk to the waterfall is quite scenic and suitable for families.
    Makers Workshop: Learn about local crafts and maybe participate in a workshop.

    Sheffield (1 Day)
    Murals: The town is famous for its murals depicting its history and natural scenery. A casual walk around town can be quite enjoyable.
    Tasmazia & The Village of Lower Crackpot: A fun and quirky maze park that's great for kids and adults alike.

    Gowrie Park & Surrounds (2 Days)
    Cradle Mountain: If Gowrie Park is your base for exploring this area, don't miss Cradle Mountain. There are walks for all levels, including the Dove Lake Circuit which is family-friendly.

    Hillwood & Tamar Valley (2 Days)
    Tamar Valley Wine Route: While primarily for adults, many wineries like Tamar Ridge or Josef Chromy have beautiful grounds for kids to explore and sometimes non-alcoholic products to taste.
    Hillwood Berry Farm: Pick your own berries and enjoy homemade products in a beautiful setting.

    Binalong Bay & Bay of Fires (2 Days)
    Bay of Fires: Known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and orange-hued granite. There are lovely short walks and beach activities suitable for families.
    St Helens: A nearby town where you can find local eateries and maybe take a fishing charter.

    Coles Bay & Freycinet (2 Days)
    Wineglass Bay Lookout Walk: A moderately challenging walk but with one of the most rewarding views in Tasmania.
    Freycinet Marine Farm: Taste fresh oysters and mussels, and learn about local marine cultivation.

    General Tips
    Wildlife Parks: Consider visiting a wildlife park like Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary near Hobart to see Tasmanian devils and other local animals.
    Distilleries and Wineries: Many have family-friendly policies but check ahead for activities or spaces for kids. Sullivans Cove Distillery near Hobart or Spring Vale Wines on the east coast might be worth visiting.
    Food: Tasmania is renowned for its fresh produce. Markets and local eateries are great for tasting local specialties like seafood, cheese, and chocolates.

    Compliments of ChatGPT

  • pharkurnell on 22/02/2024 - 10:38
    +1

    Dont try and do too much in 1 trip.

    Our basic itinerary is:

    Personally I dont make an itinerary … as you might like places and want to stay more… or think places are shit and want to keep going

    • hoondaboy on 08/03/2024 - 01:27

      I really stress about NOT having an itinerary.
      I guess it's all personal preference, but a) accomodation is booking out due to the holidays, b) I don't holiday often so don't want to spend half the trip googling things I could've researched earlier, and of course c) FOMO :-)

      But I get that some people like to free-wheel on holidays and more power to them

  • tulip99 on 22/02/2024 - 10:45
    +1

    Distances look close on the map but in reality they take longer to get to than you think, especially going to Strahan. It will take you ALL DAY to drive from Bruny Island to Strahan. The last chance to get petrol is Derwent Bridge before you hit Queenstown. If you're taking the railway trip make sure you stay in the same town where the train departs from, eg either Queenstown or Strahan as it will take you 45 mins from Queenstown to Strahan because of the narrow winding roads.

    At Strahan, the petrol station closes at 6pm I think and the IGA which is near the petrol station and the only one in town along with the petrol, closes at 7pm. I think. I was there 2 years ago. You need to book in advance at the restaurants for dinner and some have MID WEEK CLOSING, otherwise you need to turn up at 5pm to get s4eated right away - hopefully. Otherwise self cater buying food from the IGA.

    Port Arthur is amazing but you'll be there all day looking at it all and I don't know if it's changed but you couldn't drink the tap water in the area years ago.

    • hoondaboy on 08/03/2024 - 01:31

      So you're telling me the 332km from Kettering to Strahan will take all day?!? I'd believe it :-)
      But I have planned for that day to be a travel day with a few drop ins and a Strahan kick-off in earnest the next day.
      I've actually hired an EV (BYD Atto3) for the holiday, and we get free charging at ChargeFox which have four locations on the way so that should cover it (although it will add even more to the travel time).

      • tulip99 on 08/03/2024 - 11:08

        I hope you enjoy the drive! There might be an app where you can check that the EV charging places are actually functioning? I haven't heard of ChargeFox but I have a petrol car. There is free EV charging at Geeveston and Huonville in the public car parks.

  • tulip99 on 22/02/2024 - 10:46
    +1

    P.S. It took me 7 hours to drive from Huon Valley to Strahan and Bruny is further away from my starting point.

    • hoondaboy on 08/03/2024 - 01:33

      Unless I'm reading that wrong, Huon Valley is in the deep south and looks pretty rural.
      Unless you came out of Florentine or Maydena, you would have driven past Kettering on your way up to Strahan?

      • tulip99 on 08/03/2024 - 11:05

        Kettering is further south than Huonville by at least 40 mins and via a different highway than starting from Huonville.

  • dogboy on 22/02/2024 - 11:12
    +1

    West Coast Wilderness Railway from Strahan is great: https://www.wcwr.com.au/
    The Wall in the Wilderness is a must see in Derwent: https://thewalltasmania.com.au/
    Hike around Dove lake in Cardle Mountain is fantasic: https://parks.tas.gov.au/explore-our-parks/cradle-mountain/d…
    Tazmazia is fun for a couple hours: https://www.tasmazia.com.au/
    Port Arthur is really beautful and well worth a visit.
    Wine Glass Bay day cruise was also really great.

    • hoondaboy on 08/03/2024 - 01:44

      Love a good bullet-point with links. Appreciate the time and effort :-)
      Couple of quick questions:

      what time of year did you do your tours?
      what specifically did you like about the wineglass tour? Was the boat pretty stable?

  • Clear on 22/02/2024 - 11:38

    Hillwood - 2 days

    There's accommodation there? It's a tiny suburb with a whole lot of nothing around.

    • hoondaboy on 08/03/2024 - 01:45

      Haha. Yeah. So we keep hearing :-)
      We're using it as a bit of a breather, but also hoping that one of the towns within half an hour will offer some eating or hiking or drinking experiences…

      • Clear on 08/03/2024 - 06:33

        Launceston will.

  • zombrex on 22/02/2024 - 18:50
    +1

    Raspberry farm is great, the ice cream they use from the ice-creamery next door is amazing.

    • hoondaboy on 08/03/2024 - 01:47

      Which raspberry farm specifically?
      I just google 'Raspberry Farm Tasmania' and turns out there's quite a few!

      • tulip99 on 08/03/2024 - 11:13
        +1

        It might be the Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm at Elizabeth Town

        • zombrex on 08/03/2024 - 18:43

          That is the one.

  • aidenh37 on 06/03/2024 - 21:07
    +2

    Be aware that if Bruny Island is busy you may be in a ferry queue for hours - in both directions. Like lots of things in Tassie, it's worth the wait.

    We found it very difficult to get to restuarants and shops before closing sometimes, so plan carefully and have a backup plan. Try not to drive at night - the roads are very quiet usually, so wildlife are more likely to cross at random times and potentially make impact. Also no phone service outside of any of the towns - but every single town did have Telstra 5G, so worth switching to Boost Mobile for that alone. Usual warnings of having maps downloaded and music to listen to apply. Roads absolutely stunning and a great drive though.

    Definitely make a booking to eat at Strahan - very popular. If going to Cradle Mountain consider Launceston and things around it too. You'll probably pass through anyway.

    • hoondaboy on 08/03/2024 - 01:51

      You're not the first person to warn of driving at night in Tassie.
      Seems bizarre that's it such a risk, but I guess these warnings come from experience!

      Cheers for the heads up on the mobile reception too. Might get a sneaky Boost sim just for the holiday.

      "Definitely make a booking to eat at Strahan" -> any recommendations?
      Google's favourites seem to be View 42, Hamer's Bar, Risby Cove & a new pop-up fish and chips van Westerly Seafood.

      • tulip99 on 08/03/2024 - 11:15

        I went to a fancy buffet at Strahan and it was $60 pp 2 years ago but it was pretty good. I can't remember what ti was called but it wasn't down on the main drag, it was up a hill and it had a lot of accommodation there too.

        UPDATE: I think it was View 42.

        • aidenh37 on 09/03/2024 - 20:05

          Yup View 42 for buffet, we went to Hamer's Bar without a booking (being the only place still serving when we arrived) and had to wait over an hour to get a table.

      • aidenh37 on 09/03/2024 - 20:07

        Yup - I was shocked by how quickly the wildlife started jumping out after the sun went down, and if you do get hit there'll be no phone service to call for help either.

        Talking of phone service, don't be tempted by anything other than Boost Mobile or Telstra proper, I'm not confident Telstra Wholesale would work.

        • Clear on 10/03/2024 - 20:07
          +1

          The amount of people who come to Tassie with shitty Vodafone or similar and wonder why their phones don't work. Telstra and Telstra Wholesale are perfectly fine, while Optus comes second best (due to B28 towers). Anything else and you're dead in the water once you leave the cities.

          • aidenh37 on 10/03/2024 - 21:11

            @Clear: This x100. Always research before you go - and consider budgeting for occasional Telstra if on a Vodafone or Optus plan with device payment.

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