Great Western Tiers Scenic Route (Tasmania)

An invitation to slow down, breathe in crisp Tasmanian air, and soak up a landscape of layered hills, emerald valleys, and old world charm. The Great Western Tiers Scenic Route is more than a drive. It is a journey through a dynamic slice of Tasmania where rolling dolerite mountains meet fertile farmland, artist towns, and welcoming country hospitality. If you are chasing a memorable Australian road trip that blends natural beauty with artistic towns, this route should be at the top of your map.

What is the Great Western Tiers Scenic Route?

The Great Western Tiers Scenic Route is a celebrated driving circuit in Northern Tasmania that threads along the edge of the Great Western Tiers – a dramatic chain of rounded dolerite hills that rise from the Midlands to the west of Launceston. This landscape has long inspired painters, walkers, and explorers, and the route gives you front row seats to spectacular viewpoints, quiet farming valleys, and a handful of iconic Tasmanian towns.

Key features of the route include:

• A landscape dominated by terraced hills and sweeping farmlands
• Short detours to caves, waterfalls, and wildlife experiences
• Charming towns known for art, craft, food, and welcoming hospitality
• Easy to moderate driving, suitable for a relaxed weekend away or a longer Tasmanian itinerary

Whether you are visiting Launceston, Devonport, or simply cruising through the Northern Midlands, the Great Western Tiers Scenic Route provides a quintessential Tasmanian experience with photo opportunities at almost every bend in the road.

Why travelers choose this route

• Scenic panoramas that change with the light of the day
• A curated mix of natural wonders, historic towns, and contemporary Tasmanian cuisine
• Family friendly stops that keep kids and adults entertained
• Opportunities to see native wildlife in natural settings and in small wildlife parks
• A comfortable pace that lends itself to short day trips or an extended loop

If you plan your trip well, you can enjoy several distinct experiences in one journey. Here is a practical guide to help you make the most of your time along the Great Western Tiers Scenic Route.

Best time to visit

Tasmania is famous for its four distinct seasons, and the Great Western Tiers Scenic Route shines in different ways throughout the year.

• Spring (September to November): Blooming wildflowers in the gullies, baby wildlife, and cooler mornings with mild days. Great for nature walks and photography.
• Summer (December to February): Warmer days, long daylight hours, and plenty of outdoor markets and cellar doors. Ideal for combining a scenic drive with a dip in a river or a creek.
• Autumn (March to May): A painterly palette as the leaves change color. Crisp mornings and comfortable days make this a favorite for photographers.
• Winter (June to August): Fresh air, frosty mornings, and a quieter feel on popular stops. Be prepared for shorter days and occasional road dampness or ice on higher sections.

No matter when you go, check local weather and road conditions, especially in shoulder seasons when fog can blanket the valleys or rain can make some rural roads slippery.

The driving route options

The Great Western Tiers Scenic Route can be experienced as a loop or as a series of connected day trips from a base such as Launceston, Deloraine, or Devonport. Here are two popular ways to structure your journey.

Option A: Classic Launceston to Devonport loop (two to four days)

• Start in Launceston, a city renowned for its waterfront, food scene, and access to nature.
• Travel west toward Deloraine along Tasmanian roads that reveal the first glimpses of the tiers.
• Stop in Deloraine to explore galleries, cafes, and the meandering Meander River.
• Continue to Mole Creek to explore caves and wildlife experiences, including guided tours at Mole Creek Caves.
• Head north to Sheffield, a town famous for its murals and arts scene.
• Move toward Latrobe or continue along to Devonport to complete the loop or to extend your trip to the north coast.
• Optional add-ons: Liffey Falls Reserve, Trowunna Wildlife Park, and nearby wineries and farm stalls.

Estimated driving time: about 3 to 4 hours of actual highway travel in one direction, with plenty of stops. A relaxed two to three day itinerary is common, but you can stretched this into a full four days if you want to linger.

Option B: Shorter Launceston to Mole Creek day trip

• Base in Launceston and drive to Mole Creek for the caves and wildlife experiences.
• Return via Deloraine to enjoy a different perspective on the same scenic corridor.
• This option emphasizes nature experiences and town charm with a focus on caves, wildlife, and local cuisine.
• Perfect for a long weekend or a comfortable midweek escape.

If you are visiting during a festival or market season in any of these towns, align your route to enjoy special events, local produce stalls, and live music that often accompanies weekend markets.

Destinations and highlights along the route

To help you plan, here are some of the standout stops along the Great Western Tiers Scenic Route, with insider tips on what to see and do.

Launceston: Your starting point and gateway to the Tasmanian north

• Cataract Gorge Reserve: A short hop from the city center, this gorge offers walking trails, chairlifts, and riverside cafés. It is a graceful opening act for your scenic route.
• City Park and markets: Stroll through leafy avenues and sample local foods, jams, cheeses, and freshly baked goods.
• Vineyards nearby: If you love wine, plan a side trip to the Tamar Valley for boutique wineries and scenic river views.

Tips

• Allow extra time for a morning coffee and a stroll along the gorge to set a relaxed tone for the drive.
• Check if there are any local farmers markets on your travel days for fresh Tasmanian produce.

Deloraine: A hub of arts, food, and nature

Deloraine sits at the heart of the Mersey River valley and serves as a cultural and gourmet anchor on the route. It is the ideal base for exploring the Tiers while enjoying a thriving arts scene.

What to do

• Galleries and studios: Deloraine is known for its artisan community. Spend time visiting local galleries and meeting artists.
• Riverside strolls: Take a gentle walk along the Mersey River and enjoy the town’s historic charm.
• Food and coffee: Look for seasonal menus that highlight local produce.

Tips

• If you plan to stay overnight, book ahead in peak seasons as Deloraine can fill up quickly.
• Combine Deloraine with a short detour to the nearby Liffey Falls Reserve for a forested hike.

Mole Creek: Caverns, wildlife, and forested landscapes

Mole Creek is a natural magnet for cave lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The area provides a quiet, green landscape with opportunities to get close to Tasmania’s unique creatures.

Key attractions

• Mole Creek Caves: Marakoopa and King Solomons caves offer guided tours with stunning limestone formations and underground streams.
• Trowunna Wildlife Park: A place to see Tasmanian devils and other native species in a passionate and educational setting.
• King Solomon’s Gorge: A short nature walk with streams, ferns, and mossy rocks.

Tips

• Book cave tours in advance, especially in peak tourist seasons.
• Wear sturdy shoes and bring a light layer for cool cave temperatures.

Sheffield: The murals town and a gateway to the high country

Sheffield is famous for its outdoor art. The town’s murals transform the streets into a living gallery and provide excellent photographs.

What to see

• Street art and murals: A walking tour of the murals offers a snapshot of regional life and creative energy.
• Café culture: Enjoy a coffee or lunch at a local café before continuing your journey.
• Proximity to outdoor activities: Use Sheffield as a base for shorter hikes or scenic viewpoints along the hills.

Tips

• Plan a morning or late afternoon visit to catch the best light on the murals.
• Check the weather for nearby hikes if you want to explore beyond town.

Liffey Falls Reserve: A natural reward

A short detour from the main route, Liffey Falls Reserve offers a series of gentle trails and a cascade of water over basalt and sandstone. It is a perfect spot for a family walk or a peaceful picnic.

What to expect

• Easy to moderate walking trails
• Cascading waterfalls and lush forest
• Quiet environments that feel miles away from city life

Latrobe and the coast: A different coastal perspective

Continuing along or branching toward the coast, Latrobe and the nearby coastline provide an alternate flavor to the Great Western Tiers experience. It offers a chance to see a different side of Northern Tasmania, with farm landscapes giving way to coastal scenery.

Tips

• If you have extra time, consider a coastal loop after your inland experiences to round out your Tasmanian adventure.

Natural wonders and wildlife

The Great Western Tiers Scenic Route is as much about wildlife and nature as it is about towns and architecture. Here are some highlights to help you plan nature focused days.

• Wildlife viewing: Expect kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, and a variety of birdlife in rural and forested areas.
• Cave ecosystems: The Mole Creek Caves reveal subterranean wonders, with stalactites, stalagmites, and unique cave-dwelling creatures.
• Water features: Waterways along the Mersey River and in forest reserves provide beautiful reflective scenes, especially at sunrise and sunset.
• Spring blooms and autumn color: Depending on the season, fields and hedgerows explode with color, offering fantastic photo opportunities.

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you will appreciate the balance of driving and outdoor activities along this route.

Food, wine, and farm experiences

Tasmania is celebrated for its high quality produce, and the Great Western Tiers Scenic Route showcases this in abundance. Here are some ideas to deepen your culinary experience.

• Local markets: Look for weekend farmers markets to sample Tasmanian honey, berries, cheeses, and baked goods.
• Dairy and cheese producers: Small batch cheeses produced in the region are often available at farm stalls and local shops.
• Wineries and cideries: The northern regions around Launceston and the Tamar Valley offer a selection of boutique wineries.
• Farm stays and tasting experiences: A farm stay can pair with a guided farm tour, giving you a deeper connection to the land.

Pro tip

• Arrive with an appetite for a long lunch. Tasmanian food culture emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple, well prepared dishes.

Where to stay along the Great Western Tiers Scenic Route

The region is dotted with characterful accommodation options that align with its rural charm. Consider the following types of stays:

• Historic inns and country hotels: Classic Tasmanian hospitality with modern comforts.
• Bed and breakfast stays: Personal hosts provide local tips and a home style experience.
• Farm stays: Immersive experiences on working farms, often including fresh farm-to-table meals.
• Eco lodges or boutique lodges: For travelers seeking sustainability and a quiet, intimate setting.

Booking in advance is wise, especially during high season or holidays. A short stay in two or three towns along the route provides a variety of experiences without sacrificing comfort.

Practical tips for a smooth journey

• Plan for weather changes: Tasmanian weather can shift quickly. Bring a light rain jacket and a warm layer.
• Fuel stops: Ensure you know where to refuel along the route, especially in smaller towns where stations may be limited.
• Navigation: A reliable map or GPS helps, but have a backup plan in case of network gaps in rural areas.
• Road safety: Rural roads can be winding and narrow. Drive to the posted speed limits and take your time at viewpoints to stay safe.
• Time management: Allow extra time for stops at caves, gardens, and viewpoints. A relaxed pace makes the drive more enjoyable.
• Accessibility: If you are traveling with family or a group, plan for kid friendly stops and accessible trails.

Photographers’ and lovers of scenery guide

If you are chasing the perfect photo, plan around the light:

• Early mornings deliver mist lifting off valleys and soft light on the dolerite tiers
• Late afternoons reveal warm colors on the hillsides and long shadows
• Caves can be striking in midday light but require flash for certain textured features inside

Vantage points along the route include hilltops and public lookouts where you can appreciate the layered hills and valleys. If you are visiting during a festival or a market, you will also discover vibrant street life and colorful storefronts that complement the natural scenery.

Planning your trip

• Duration: A two to four day trip offers ample time to explore towns, caves, and viewpoints with a comfortable pace.
• Self drive vs guided experiences: A self drive provides flexibility to stop and linger; guided experiences can offer in-depth knowledge about geology, wildlife, and local culture.
• Seasonal planning: If your trip focuses on caves or wildlife, confirm opening times and guided tour availability ahead of time.

Sustainability and respect for the land

• Respect private property: Some scenic viewpoints and farm gates are on private land. Always seek permission before entering.
• Leave no trace: Carry out all trash and leave natural spaces as you find them.
• Support local communities: Shop at local markets, eat at community cafes, and choose accommodations that emphasize sustainability and local products.

Why this route stands out to travelers

• It combines natural beauty with cultural depth. You don’t just drive through a landscape; you meet artists, farmers, and storytellers who live in the shadow of the Great Western Tiers.
• The route offers both gentle nature experiences and more active options. You can choose easy walks or moderate hikes, depending on energy levels.
• It is adaptable to various travel styles. Whether you are a couple on a romantic escape, a family with kids, or a solo traveler chasing photography, this route delivers.

Example three day itinerary

If you want a ready-made plan, here is a balanced three day itinerary that captures the essence of the Great Western Tiers Scenic Route.

Day 1: Launceston to Deloraine

• Morning: Launceston exploration, Cataract Gorge
• Midday: Drive to Deloraine with a scenic stop for photos
• Afternoon: Deloraine galleries and river walk
• Evening: Local dining and overnight in Deloraine

Day 2: Deloraine to Mole Creek

• Morning: Depart for Mole Creek, visit Mole Creek Caves
• Afternoon: Trowunna Wildlife Park, optional short forest walks
• Evening: Stay in Mole Creek or nearby towns

Day 3: Mole Creek to Sheffield then back to Launceston or Devonport

• Morning: Scenic drive to Sheffield, murals walk
• Afternoon: Optional Liffey Falls detour or a winery visit
• Evening: Return to Launceston or continue to Devonport

If you have four days, extend the schedule with a morning at a farm stall, an extra cave tour, or an added day in Latrobe along the coast.

Conclusion

The Great Western Tiers Scenic Route in Tasmania is a remarkable way to experience the best of northern Tasmania in a single, memorable journey. It blends dramatic scenery with inviting towns, hands-on nature experiences, and a thriving food and arts scene. Whether you are planning a short weekend escape or a longer Tasmanian road trip, this route offers a balanced, satisfying itinerary that showcases the heart of the region.

From the stillness of mossy valleys to the energy of mural laden streets, the Great Western Tiers Scenic Route invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and return home with a treasure chest of memories. Start planning your trip today, map your stops, and prepare for a Tasmanian experience that feels both timeless and vividly new.

Would you like help tailoring this plan to a specific travel window, such as a weekend escape or a family trip? Tell me your preferred travel dates, pace, and interests, and I can customize a detailed, day by day itinerary with driving times, opening hours for attractions, and dining recommendations.