Tasmania Campervan Loop: Hobart, Cradle Mountain and Freycinet

Tasmania was made for the open road. A compact island rich in national parks, wild coastlines and gourmet food, it rewards travelers who bring their home on wheels. The classic Tasmania campervan loop from Hobart to Cradle Mountain to Freycinet and back is one of Australia’s great short road trips. It blends alpine wilderness with white-sand bays, heritage towns and cool-climate vineyards, all within easy driving distances and on well-maintained roads.

In this guide you will find a ready-to-drive itinerary, practical planning tips, the best campsites and experiences, and ways to tailor the loop for couples, friends or families. It is written to help you book and go with confidence, and to make your time on the road as relaxing and unforgettable as the landscapes you will wake up to.

Why Choose a Campervan for Tasmania

• Freedom to pause at a vineyard, beach or short walk, then roll into camp when you are ready.
• Scenic drives that are enjoyable rather than epic, with most legs under five hours.
• National park campgrounds in prime locations, often steps from trailheads or beaches.
• Tasmania’s compact size makes a loop efficient, with minimal backtracking.
• A campervan simplifies logistics in remote areas where hotel options can be limited near parks like Cradle Mountain.

If you are new to van life, Tasmania is a friendly first destination. Roads are sealed to all headline sights on this loop, facilities are frequent by Australian standards, and locals are helpful.

How Long You Need and When To Go

• Ideal trip length: 7 to 10 days. Seven days suits highlights at a comfortable pace. With 10 days you can add side trips like Bay of Fires, Maria Island or the Tasman Peninsula.
• Best time: October to April for longer daylight and pleasant hiking conditions. Summer brings warm days and cooler nights, usually 15 to 25 C. Shoulder seasons of October to November and March to April can be perfect for fewer crowds and stable weather. Winter is beautiful and quiet, yet alpine areas can see snow and ice, and some walks may be closed. If you travel in winter, plan short drive legs and bring warm layers.

Wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk, so plan your drives for midday when possible.

The Classic Loop Itinerary: 7 to 10 Days

Below is a 7 day circuit that you can stretch to 10 days with extra nights and side trips. Distances and driving times are approximate and assume normal conditions.

Day 1: Arrive in Hobart, collect your campervan, explore the city

• Pick up your campervan from Hobart Airport or a city depot. Do a quick orientation, check your inventory, and shop for groceries in Hobart. Major supermarkets and bottle shops are in Sandy Bay, New Town and Kingston.
• Explore Hobart’s waterfront and historic Battery Point. If it is Saturday, browse Salamanca Market for artisan produce and food stalls.
• Optional highlights: Ride up to the summit of kunanyi Mount Wellington for views of the Derwent and Tasman Peninsula, visit MONA for bold contemporary art, have oysters at Barilla Bay or seafood at Mures.
• Camp suggestions:
  • Discovery Parks Hobart, a practical base with facilities.
  • Barilla Holiday Park at Cambridge, close to the airport and wineries.
  • Snug Beach Cabin and Caravan Park, south of Hobart with a water outlook.

Day 2: Hobart day trip options or start north toward Cradle Mountain

You can add a second night in Hobart for local day trips, or begin the northerly leg toward Cradle Mountain.

• Option A, Hobart day trip:

  • Bruny Island for cheese, oysters and the Neck lookout, plus short walks among towering eucalypts.
  • Mount Field National Park for the Russell Falls circuit through temperate rainforest, then return to Hobart.
  • Tasman Peninsula for Port Arthur Historic Site and the Tasman Arch and Devil’s Kitchen viewpoints.

• Option B, ease into the drive:

  • Leave Hobart after breakfast and head to the heritage town of Richmond for its convict-built bridge and bakery.
  • Continue to Campbell Town and Ross for classic Midlands Highway stops, then overnight in the north to break up the journey.
  • Camp suggestions mid-route: Longford Riverside Caravan Park, Launceston Holiday Park at Legana, or Deloraine Apex Caravan Park.

Day 3: Hobart or Launceston region to Cradle Mountain

• Distance Hobart to Cradle Mountain: about 330 to 360 km, 4.5 to 5.5 hours depending on stops and route.
• From Hobart, the simplest route is the Midlands Highway to Launceston, then west via Sheffield. From Launceston, it is about 2 hours.
• Make a break in Sheffield, the town of murals, for coffee and a stroll. Top up fuel here or in Railton or Devonport, since there is no fuel at Cradle Mountain.
• Check in at your campground mid afternoon and head to the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre for information and to plan hikes.
• Important: Private vehicles are usually not permitted to drive to Dove Lake during shuttle operating hours. Park at the Visitor Centre and take the frequent shuttle buses that service key trailheads.
• Camp suggestions near Cradle Mountain:
  • Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain on Cradle Mountain Road, with powered sites, hot showers and a handy location near the visitor centre.
  • Gowrie Park Wilderness Village near Mount Roland, a scenic base about 45 minutes from the park, often quieter and good value.
  • Sheffield caravan park is a budget-friendly alternative, with a longer commute.

Day 4: Cradle Mountain day of hikes and wildlife

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is a World Heritage wilderness known for wombats, mossy rainforest and dramatic dolerite peaks.

• Signature walks:
  • Dove Lake Circuit, 6 km, 2 to 3 hours, an easy loop around the lake with views of Cradle Mountain and the iconic boatshed. Perfect introduction to the park.
  • Enchanted Walk, 20 minutes, a magical boardwalk along a stream through ancient myrtle forest, great for kids.
  • Cradle Summit or Marions Lookout, full day or half day for experienced hikers. The Summit route is 12 to 13 km and steep in parts with boulder sections. Marions Lookout via the Overland Track is a shorter yet steep challenge with superb views.
• Wildlife: Wombats and pademelons are commonly seen near Ronny Creek and around the shuttle stops. Keep a respectful distance and never feed wildlife.
• Evening: Consider a guided spotlighting tour to see nocturnal animals, or settle into your camp with a hearty dinner.

Day 5: Cradle Mountain to the Freycinet Peninsula or Bicheno

• Distance Cradle Mountain to Coles Bay or Bicheno: about 300 to 350 km, 4.5 to 5 hours.
• Route ideas:
  • Stop in Launceston for a quick walk at Cataract Gorge and coffee in the Seaport precinct.
  • Detour to farm-gate classics near Elizabeth Town, such as Ashgrove Cheese and Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm.
  • Continue to Bicheno for the blowhole and a coastal overnight, or push on to Coles Bay at the edge of Freycinet National Park.
• Camp suggestions:
  • BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet Holiday Park in Coles Bay, a top choice with powered sites near the beach and general store.
  • Freycinet National Park campgrounds at Richardsons Beach and Honeymoon Bay are basic and sought after. Bookings are essential, and summer often uses a ballot for peak season.
  • Friendly Beaches has simple, scenic free camping within the national park, first come first served, no power or water.
  • Bicheno East Coast Holiday Park offers a convenient town base with amenities.

Day 6: Freycinet National Park, Wineglass Bay and Cape Tourville

Freycinet is all granite mountains, white sand and sapphire seas. It is a place for short, spectacular walks and lazy beach time.

• Essential walks:
  • Wineglass Bay Lookout, 3 km return, 1.5 to 2 hours. A stepped track to a panoramic viewpoint of the bay and the Hazards range.
  • Hazards Beach Circuit, 11 km, 4 to 5 hours. Combine Wineglass Bay with a loop through forest and a stroll along Hazards Beach. Less crowded and a fantastic day walk.
  • Cape Tourville Lighthouse walk, 20 minutes on an easy boardwalk, with ocean cliffs and often dolphin or whale sightings in season.
  • Sleepy Bay and the short walk to Honeymoon Bay are lovely sunset spots close to Coles Bay.
• Experiences:
  • Join a Wineglass Bay cruise for a different perspective and a chance to see seals and sea birds.
  • Kayak the sheltered waters around Coles Bay at sunrise.
  • Taste oysters at Freycinet Marine Farm on the way into Coles Bay, and sip cool-climate wines at Devil’s Corner, Spring Vale or Gala Estate.

Day 7: Freycinet to Hobart via the Great Eastern Drive, with optional Maria Island or Tasman Peninsula

• Distance Coles Bay to Hobart: about 195 to 220 km, 2.5 to 3 hours without stops.
• Options to expand your day:
  • Maria Island from Triabunna. Park the van, take the passenger ferry, and spend a half or full day among convict ruins, painted cliffs and plentiful wildlife. No vehicles on the island, so bring a daypack.
  • Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur. Explore the dramatic coastal rock formations and the moving World Heritage site. For a taste of the peninsula without a long stop, visit the Tessellated Pavement and the Blowhole near Eaglehawk Neck.
• Back in Hobart, return your campervan if your trip ends, or overnight and enjoy a final dinner on the waterfront.

Stretching to 9 or 10 days

• Add a night at Bay of Fires north of Bicheno. Camp at Cosy Corner North or South for free beachfront sites with basic facilities, and walk the orange-lichened granite coastline.
• Spend a night at St Helens for mountain biking or a seafood feast.
• Add Lake St Clair or Strahan after Cradle Mountain. Lake St Clair offers peaceful forest walks and lake views. Strahan gives you the famous Gordon River cruise and a taste of the West Coast.
• Build in an extra Hobart night to fully enjoy MONA, the markets and Bruny Island.

Driving Distances at a Glance

• Hobart to Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre: 330 to 360 km, 4.5 to 5.5 hours.
• Launceston to Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre: about 140 km, 2 hours.
• Cradle Mountain to Bicheno or Coles Bay: 300 to 350 km, 4.5 to 5 hours.
• Coles Bay to Hobart: about 195 to 220 km, 2.5 to 3 hours.
• Freycinet to Bay of Fires: around 160 km to the top end, 2 hours.
• Hobart to Port Arthur: 95 km, 1.5 to 2 hours.

Allow extra time for photo stops, wildlife, roadworks and slow coastal sections.

Campsites and Holiday Parks Worth Booking

A mix of national park sites and holiday parks gives you the best of both worlds. Always check current availability and book ahead in peak periods from December to March, long weekends and school holidays.

• Hobart area

  • Discovery Parks Hobart. Family friendly, good facilities, straightforward access.
  • Barilla Holiday Park, Cambridge. Handy if you fly in late or want to visit wineries and Richmond.
  • Snug Beach Cabin and Caravan Park. Waterside and relaxed, south of the city.

• Cradle Mountain area

  • Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain. Walk to the visitor centre shuttle stop, powered sites, camp kitchen and wildlife passing by at dusk.
  • Gowrie Park Wilderness Village. Spacious sites with mountain views on the way to Cradle.
  • Sheffield caravan park. Budget option close to shops and murals.

• Freycinet and East Coast

  • BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet Holiday Park. The prime Coles Bay base with everything you need.
  • Freycinet National Park campgrounds at Richardsons Beach, Honeymoon Bay and Ranger Creek. Basic but unbeatable locations, book early and check seasonal ballot details.
  • Friendly Beaches campsites. Free, beautiful, exposed to wind, no facilities beyond toilets. Carry water.
  • Bicheno East Coast Holiday Park. Convenient if you want to be near cafes, the blowhole and the Bicheno Penguin Tours.
  • St Helens and Bay of Fires. BIG4 St Helens Holiday Park for amenities, or free camps at Cosy Corner, Sloop Reef and Swimcart Beach for that iconic Bay of Fires experience.

Dump points are available at many holiday parks and at designated public sites in Sheffield, Coles Bay, St Helens and Hobart. Always use proper dump points to protect Tasmania’s waterways.

Key Experiences Along the Loop

Hobart and its surrounds

• Salamanca Market every Saturday, with artisan goods, produce and street food.
• Battery Point heritage walk among cottages and cafes.
• MONA, reached by fast ferry or a short drive, for provocative art and architecture.
• kunanyi Mount Wellington summit road for sweeping views. Check weather and be mindful of rapid changes at altitude.
• Food and drink: Lark Distillery tasting flights, Farm Gate Market on Sundays, oysters and seafood on the waterfront, Cascade Brewery tours.

Optional side trips:

• Bruny Island for a day of cheese, whisky and sweeping surf beaches.
• Tasman Peninsula for Port Arthur and wild coastline.

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

• Shuttle-served network of trails to waterfalls, rainforests and alpine lakes.
• Short walks like the Enchanted Walk and Weindorfers Forest, suitable for families and low-effort days.
• Mid-length walks including Dove Lake Circuit and Lake Lilla to Wombat Pool.
• Challenge routes to Marions Lookout and Cradle Summit for experienced hikers.
• After dark, stargazing and nocturnal wildlife, with very little light pollution.

Pro tip: In shoulder seasons, arrive early for the first shuttles to enjoy quieter trails and calm morning reflections on Dove Lake.

Freycinet National Park

• Wineglass Bay Lookout for the postcard view that draws travelers from around the world.
• Hazards Beach Circuit to swap crowds for solitude.
• Cape Tourville boardwalk at golden hour, a short and accessible walk that feels cinematic.
• Honeymoon Bay and Sleepy Bay for rock-hopping, snorkeling when conditions suit and gentle bays for kids.
• Kayak, cruise or simply linger with a picnic among pink granite boulders.

Nearby:

• Bicheno’s blowhole and penguin tours.
• East Coast wine trail, including Devil’s Corner and Spring Vale.
• Freycinet Marine Farm for oysters and scallops fresh from the bay.

Practical Essentials for a Smooth Campervan Trip

• National Parks Pass. Cradle Mountain and Freycinet are in national parks that require a valid pass. A Holiday Pass covers all parks for multiple weeks and is cost effective for a road trip. Purchase online or at visitor centres.
• Fuel and groceries. Fuel up in larger towns before entering parks. Hobart, Launceston, Devonport, St Helens and Bicheno have fuel and supermarkets. Coles Bay has a small general store with limited stock and higher prices.
• Water and dump points. Carry extra drinking water, especially if you plan to use basic national park sites. Dispose of grey and black water at designated dump points only.
• Road rules and safety. Drive on the left. Rural speed limits are commonly 100 km per hour, yet many roads are winding. Wildlife is active at dusk and dawn. Slow down at night and avoid after-dark driving when possible.
• Coverage and navigation. Mobile coverage can be patchy in national parks and between small towns. Telstra has the widest coverage. Download offline maps and carry a physical map as a backup.
• Weather. Tassie’s weather changes fast. Pack layers, waterproofs and warm sleepwear for alpine nights, even in summer. In winter, check road conditions for ice or snow near Cradle Mountain.
• Vehicle restrictions. Many rental companies prohibit travel on unsealed roads, off-road tracks and beaches. The loop described uses sealed roads to all main sites.
• Shuttles and parking. At Cradle Mountain, use the park shuttle during operating hours. At Freycinet, car parks fill early on peak days. Start important walks early or visit later in the afternoon.

What To Pack for a Tasmania Campervan Adventure

• Clothing layers, including a warm fleece or puffer and a waterproof jacket.
• Comfortable walking shoes or boots, plus sandals for the beach.
• Beanie and gloves for alpine mornings, hat and sunglasses for coastal days.
• Sunscreen and insect repellent. Tasmanian UV can be strong even in cool weather.
• Headlamp or lantern with spare batteries.
• Reusable water bottles and a thermos for hot drinks on the trail.
• Compact camp chairs and a picnic rug for beach and lookout stops.
• Power bank and multi-port charger for devices.
• Basic first aid kit and any personal medications.
• Binoculars for spotting birds, seals and, in season, whales.
• Reusable shopping bags to reduce plastic and manage waste.
• Swimwear and a quick-dry towel for beach days and hot showers at holiday parks.

If your van lacks certain items, you can buy inexpensive camp gear in Hobart or Launceston, then donate or recycle responsibly at the end of your trip.

Food, Wine and Farm-Gate Stops

Tasmania’s produce is a highlight of the loop.

• Near Hobart: Farm Gate Market on Sundays, Salamanca Market on Saturdays, Lark Distillery, Tasmanian whisky bars and seafood shacks.
• Midlands Highway: Bakery stops in Ross and Oatlands, plus country cafes in Campbell Town.
• North of Launceston: Ashgrove Cheese for tasting plates, Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm for waffles and coffee.
• East Coast: Freycinet Marine Farm for oysters and mussels, Devils Corner and Spring Vale for cellar doors with scenic decks, Gala Estate for pinot and riesling, Bicheno for fish and chips near the blowhole.
• St Helens and Bay of Fires: Seafood dinners and coastal cafes, with fresh flathead and scallops a local specialty.

Carry a cooler bag for picnic supplies. Many holiday parks have camp kitchens with fridges for temporary storage.

Budget Planning: What a Week Might Cost

Actual costs vary by season and vehicle size. The following is a ballpark estimate for two people over 7 days.

• Campervan rental: AUD 120 to 250 per day, so AUD 840 to 1750 total.
• Campsites: Free to AUD 60 per night. Assume an average of AUD 35 per night for a mix of national park and powered sites, so about AUD 245.
• National Parks Pass: About AUD 90 for a holiday vehicle pass that covers multiple weeks. Check current pricing.
• Fuel: The loop plus side trips can be 900 to 1100 km. A mid-size camper using 12 L per 100 km would need around 110 to 130 L. At AUD 2 per litre, fuel might cost AUD 220 to 260.
• Activities: Keep a buffer of AUD 200 to 600 for optional cruises, tours or entry fees.
• Food and drink: Groceries and occasional dining, AUD 300 to 600 depending on tastes.

Estimated total for two: roughly AUD 1900 to 2945 for a well-rounded week, excluding flights.

Sustainability and Cultural Respect

• Leave No Trace. Pack out all rubbish, use dump points, and keep soaps away from natural waterways.
• Wildlife. Observe from a distance, do not feed, and secure food overnight. Drive slowly in wildlife zones.
• Fires. Use gas stoves or established fire pits where permitted. Observe fire bans during summer.
• Cultural respect. Acknowledge the palawa people as the Traditional Owners of lutruwita Tasmania. Many places along this loop hold deep cultural significance. Stay on marked tracks and be mindful around shell middens and cultural sites.

Alternate Routes and Easy Extensions

If you have extra time or want more variety, consider these add-ons.

• Bay of Fires. Add one or two nights north of Bicheno. Free beachside camping at Cosy Corner and Swimcart Beach, or step up to a holiday park in St Helens. The lichen-bright boulders and translucent water are unforgettable.
• Maria Island. Park your van at Triabunna and take the passenger ferry. Explore Darlington, the Fossil Cliffs and Painted Cliffs on foot or by rented bike.
• Tasman Peninsula. Spend a night in Port Arthur or White Beach. Hike to Cape Raoul or Cape Hauy for dolerite sea cliffs and ocean views.
• Lake St Clair. Quiet forest walks, lakeside views and the southern terminus of the Overland Track.
• Strahan and the West Coast. A full extra loop that rewards with a Gordon River cruise and wild coastlines. Best as a separate add-on if you have 12 or more days.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need a 4WD for this loop? No. All major roads to Hobart, Cradle Mountain and Freycinet are sealed and suitable for 2WD campervans. Some scenic gravel side roads exist, yet many rental agreements prohibit unsealed travel. Always check your contract.

• Can I freedom camp in Tasmania? Roadside camping is not permitted. You can camp for free at designated free camps and some council reserves. Look for signed areas and use apps or visitor information centres to find legal spots. National parks require a pass, and some park campgrounds are paid.

• Is a shuttle required at Cradle Mountain? Yes during operating hours. The park shuttle runs frequently between the visitor centre and trailheads, including Dove Lake. Private vehicles are typically not allowed to Dove Lake during shuttle hours. Arrive early to avoid queues.

• Are drones allowed in national parks? Recreational drone use is restricted or requires permits in many Tasmanian national parks. Check the latest rules with Parks and Wildlife Service and respect no-fly zones to protect wildlife and other visitors.

• How is phone coverage? Patchy in parks and remote areas. Telstra has the best statewide coverage. Download offline maps and let someone know your plan before longer hikes.

• Can I take the ferry from mainland Australia and start the loop in Devonport? Yes. Many travelers arrive on the Spirit of Tasmania ferry into Devonport. You can start with Cradle Mountain, then head across to Freycinet and finish in Hobart, or do the loop in reverse and return to Devonport.

• What about child seats and family logistics? Campervans must have proper anchor points for child restraints. Confirm with the rental company before booking. Choose short walks like Enchanted Walk at Cradle and Cape Tourville at Freycinet for family friendly days, and stick to midday drives to avoid wildlife at dawn and dusk.

Tips for Booking Your Campervan and Camps

• Book early for peak periods from December to March, Easter and school holidays. Popular sites near Freycinet and Cradle Mountain fill quickly.
• Match the van to your travel style. Couples often love a compact self-contained van that can access smaller campsites. Families may prefer a larger motorhome with an internal bathroom and more storage.
• Check inclusions. Ensure your rental includes unlimited kilometers, heating for alpine nights, a camp table and chairs, cooking gear, and an extra gas bottle.
• Insure smartly. Consider reduced excess coverage, and read the fine print on windscreen and tyre cover.
• Time your pick up and return. Aim for morning pick up on Day 1 and late afternoon return on your final day to maximize holiday time.
• Reserve national park camps through Parks and Wildlife Service where required, and understand ballot systems used for peak-season Freycinet sites.

A Sample Day-by-Day Snapshot for 10 Days

• Day 1: Hobart city, kunanyi Mount Wellington, Salamanca. Sleep in Hobart.
• Day 2: Bruny Island day trip or MONA and Battery Point. Sleep in Hobart.
• Day 3: Drive to Launceston via Richmond and Ross. Cataract Gorge at golden hour. Sleep near Launceston or Deloraine.
• Day 4: Drive to Cradle Mountain. Enchanted Walk and dusk wombat spotting. Sleep at Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain.
• Day 5: Dove Lake Circuit and Marions Lookout if conditions suit. Sleep near Cradle Mountain.
• Day 6: Drive across the north to Bicheno. Penguin tour at night. Sleep in Bicheno.
• Day 7: Coles Bay and Freycinet Marine Farm. Wineglass Bay Lookout. Sunset at Cape Tourville. Sleep at Iluka on Freycinet.
• Day 8: Hazards Beach Circuit or a Wineglass Bay cruise. Swim at Honeymoon Bay. Sleep at Friendly Beaches.
• Day 9: Maria Island from Triabunna or Tasman Peninsula highlights. Sleep near Hobart or on the peninsula.
• Day 10: Return to Hobart, final tastings and shopping, return campervan.

The Sales Pitch You Can Believe In

This Tasmania campervan loop is a greatest hits album of the island. It gives you time to breathe in alpine air at Cradle Mountain, sink your toes into the soft sand at Wineglass Bay, and toast your day with oysters and cool-climate pinot as the sun drops behind pink granite peaks. It is relaxed, efficient, and full of wow moments that do not require long drives or rushed schedules.

Book your campervan early, pick two or three must-do walks, and let the rest unfold. The island will take care of the magic.

Conclusion: Turn the Key and Go

With its short distances, superb campsites and unforgettable parks, Tasmania is one of the easiest and most rewarding places to try van life. Start in Hobart for markets and museums, climb into the cool air and ancient forests of Cradle Mountain, then follow the Great Eastern Drive to Freycinet for beaches and wine. Add a day or two for Bay of Fires or Maria Island if you can, then roll back into Hobart with a camera full of granite peaks, wombats, lighthouses and turquoise bays.

Your loop is ready. Secure your van, grab a parks pass, and set your map to Hobart, Cradle Mountain and Freycinet. Nights under southern stars are waiting.