Explore Tasmania's Great Eastern Drive Offer expired Explore Tasmania's Great Eastern Drive Considering a Tassie getaway in a campervan? Well, you can’t go wrong with the Great Eastern Drive! This road trip itinerary strings together surf-washed bays, wildlife-rich national parks and vineyard-speckled valleys as it winds its way from Hobart to Launceston. After you pick up your wheels at the Apollo Hobart branch next to the airport, you’ll cruise north-east towards the historic village of Richmond, then hug the coast all the way to Launceston, where you can easily jump back on the highway to Hobart to return your camper at the Apollo Hobart depot. The best part? Over the course of this relaxed seven-day loop, you’ll have the chance to see some of Tassie’s most stunning coastlines, linger on beaches, and check out some of Tassie’s best attractions, so there is never a dull moment! Day 1: Hobart to Orford Distance: 78 km Travel time: ≈ 1 hour After picking up your camper from Apollo’s Hobart branch, point your campervan towards the inland route on the Tasman Highway. Within 25 minutes, you’ll cross the sandstone arches of Richmond Bridge and be treated to an afternoon of stretching your legs along the village’s convict-era streets, sample old-school lollies from Sweets & Treats, or simply soak up the sights as you feed the resident ducks under the bridge’s arches, before making your way to Orford. Where to stop between Hobart and Orford Richmond Historic Village – Snap that mandatory Richmond Bridge photo (as Australia’s oldest bridge, it deserves the recognition). Coal River Valley wineries – Ten minutes north, pull into boutique Puddleduck Vineyard for a “reverse BYO” lunch. Their rule is you bring the picnic, they supply the wine. Designated driver? Grab a takeaway bottle for camp instead. The valley’s compact cellar-door trail makes it an easy first taste of Tasmanian cool-climate wine culture. Where to stay in Orford Park up at Orford Beachside Holiday Park. With powered sites right opposite Raspins Beach, you can rinse sandy feet under the camp shower and wander 500 metres to the village bakery for morning coffee. Pro Tip: For other kid-approved stays around the island, bookmark Apollo’s round-up of family-friendly campsites and holiday parks. Image: Tourism Tasmania Day 2: Orford to Triabunna (Maria Island) Distance: 6 km Drive time: ≈ 10 minutes Today’s behind-the-wheel stint is a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it hop to the fishing port of Triabunna. Park the camper in the long-stay bays by the marina, pack day-packs and board the 30-minute ferry to Maria Island National Park—no cars, just wombats on the lawn and turquoise coves all to yourself. Where to stop between Orford and Triabunna Maria Island National Park – Once ashore, hire bikes or hoof it to the Painted Cliffs, where wave-sculpted sandstone shows off marbled orange and white bands. Fossil Cliffs reveal 300-million-year-old shell imprints, and the convict-built Darlington settlement offers a fascinating contrast to the island’s present-day serenity. Pro Tip: Ferries run year-round, but be sure to book ahead in summer peak. For more details on planning your trip, see Apollo’s guide to the best time to visit Tasmania. Where to stay in Triabunna Back on the mainland, Triabunna Cabin & Caravan Park sits metres from the marina, and the fish-and-chips kiosk dishing up freshly netted flathead. The park’s leafy powered sites come with a communal firepit for toasting marshmallows while you plan tomorrow’s leg north along Tasmania’s Great Eastern Drive. Day 3: Triabunna to Swansea Distance: 62 km Travel time: ≈ 45 minutes Ease into your morning with a relaxed breakfast by the Triabunna marina, then hit the road north. The next stretch of your Tasmania road trip traces the coastline, offering glimpses of the glistening Tasman Sea and native bushland rolling towards the beach. There’s no need to rush—this part of the Great Eastern Drive, Tasmania, is all about slowing down and soaking it in. Where to stop between Triabunna and Swansea Explore seaside Swansea – This sleepy east coast Tasmania village has some of the best coastal views in the state. Park up and grab a picnic with views across Great Oyster Bay to the Hazards mountain range of Freycinet, Tasmania. Milton Vineyard – Located just outside town, Milton Vineyard is a gem in Tasmania’s cooler micro-climate, specialising in pinot noir and riesling. Pull in for a tasting while the kids enjoy a snack in the vineyard gardens. Kate's Berry Farm – Kate’s is a must-stop for families. Think fresh berry ice creams, handmade chocolates, and shelves of jams and dessert sauces—ideal for stocking the camper pantry with sweet treats. Where to stay in Swansea Rest up at Swansea Holiday Park, where powered sites face out over Schouten Island and the Freycinet Peninsula. It's an ideal sunset spot, just steps from the beach and close to town if you feel like skipping campervan cooking duties for the night. Day 4: Swansea to Freycinet National Park (Coles Bay) Distance: 50 km Travel time: ≈ 45 minutes From Swansea, the drive to Coles Bay is short but seriously scenic. This is one of the most memorable sections of the Great Eastern Drive, as it hugs the coastline then dips into rugged bushland with the dramatic granite peaks of the Freycinet Peninsula looming up ahead. It’s a good day to start early—there’s a lot to explore once you arrive. Where to stop between Swansea and Freycinet Freycinet National Park – One of Tasmania’s crown jewels, Freycinet is home to secluded beaches, pink granite mountains and rich wildlife. Start your visit at the visitor centre for maps and info. Wineglass Bay Lookout Walk – This 2.6km return walk is steep but family-friendly with rest points along the way (but you will want to make sure everyone has grippy shoes!). Your reward? One of Australia’s most iconic views: the white arc of Wineglass Bay against teal-blue water. Cape Tourville Lighthouse Walk – Need something a little more low-key? This walk is an easy, pram-accessible loop on a raised boardwalk. You’ll get panoramic views of the coastline and possibly even a dolphin or whale sighting, depending on the season. Where to stay in Freycinet Book a site at BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet in Coles Bay. Opposite Muirs Beach and walking distance to the national park entrance, it’s one of the best-located stays on your campervan journey along the Tasmania Great Eastern Drive. On-site BBQS, a general store, and a playground also tick off the family essentials. Day 5: Freycinet to Bicheno Distance: 38 km Travel time: ≈ 30 minutes Today’s leg is light on driving but heavy on charm. Cruise north from Coles Bay as the road hugs the coastline, winding through beachside bushland and offering plenty of excuses to stop. Whether you detour to a quiet cove or just soak up the sea air, this is easily one of the most scenic parts of Tasmania. Where to stop between Freycinet and Bicheno Bicheno Blowhole – Nature puts on a show at this natural blowhole, where the ocean surges through rock crevices to spray metres into the air. Kids will love guessing when the next burst comes. Bicheno Penguin Tours – A highlight for many families, Bicheno Penguin Tours lets you spot little penguins waddling ashore just after dusk. It’s a guided tour with red-light torches to protect the birds—perfect for a night-time nature experience. East Coast Natureworld – Just north of town, Natureworld gives a closer look at Tasmania’s wildlife, from kangaroos and wombats to the elusive Tasmanian Devil. The sanctuary setting offers up-close encounters and feeding times the kids won’t forget. Where to stay in Bicheno Settle in at Bicheno East Coast Holiday Park, a central spot opposite the beach and within walking distance to shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s ideal for young families, with grassy powered sites and plenty of space for the kids to roam after a day of sightseeing. Day 6: Bicheno to St Helens Distance: 110 km Travel time: ≈ 1.5 hours This part of your Tasmania road trip takes you from the sunny seaside charm of Bicheno to the relaxed, outdoorsy vibe of St Helens, winding through thick forests and past hidden beaches and sleepy inland hamlets. It’s a slightly longer drive than previous days, so take your time and break it up with nature stops along the way. Where to stop between Bicheno and St. Helens Douglas-Apsley National Park – Just 10 minutes inland from Bicheno, Douglas-Apsley is one of those places travellers often miss—but shouldn’t. The park’s gorges and waterfalls are perfect for a midday break, with short walks leading to refreshing swimming holes, shaded picnic spots and wildlife-rich trails. Explore charming St Helens – Known as the game fishing capital of Tasmania, St Helens is more than a gateway to the Bay of Fires—it’s a relaxed town packed with options for kayaking, bushwalking and beach-hopping. Wander the foreshore, grab a coffee in the town centre, or stop at one of the local seafood shacks for fresh-caught fish and chips. St Helens History Room – Tucked inside the visitor centre, the History Room is a small museum with surprisingly rich exhibits. It covers Indigenous heritage, European settlement, and the area’s mining and maritime past—great for curious kids or a rainy-day fallback. Where to stay in St. Helens BIG4 St Helens Holiday Park is a standout for families travelling by camper. Just a short walk to the waterfront and local shops, it offers powered sites, a playground, and even bike hire to explore nearby trails. It’s a handy base to prepare for your next adventure into the Bay of Fires, and a great spot to meet fellow campervan travellers over a BBQ dinner. Day 7: St Helens to Launceston (via Bay of Fires) St Helens to Bay of Fires: 10–20 km / ≈ 20 minutes Bay of Fires to Launceston: 170 km / ≈ 2.5 hours It’s your final day on the Great Eastern Drive, Tasmania, but you’re ending on a high. Start your morning exploring the world-famous Bay of Fires, known for its bright orange lichen-covered boulders, dazzling white sand, and crystal-clear water. After that, it’s a scenic inland drive back to Launceston, where you can head south to return your camper or continue your Tasmania travel itinerary inland. Where to stop between St. Helens and Launceston Binalong Bay – A short drive north of town, Binalong Bay is the perfect place to kick off your day. Go for a beach stroll or just take in the view of red-rock meets azure blue sea. The Gardens – Head further up the coast to The Gardens, a stretch of coastline once named by Lady Jane Franklin thanks to the explosion of native wildflowers. It’s an excellent spot to wander or find a quiet beach cove to enjoy breakfast with a view. Bay of Fires beaches – Whether you're travelling with kids or just need one more swim before heading inland, the Bay of Fires offers endless beach options. The clean sand and sheltered coves make this stretch an unmissable finale to your campervan hire journey. Scenic drive to Launceston – The final leg takes you west through forested hills and farmland, with rolling countryside giving way to the charming riverside city of Launceston. As Tasmania’s second-largest city, it’s packed with great cafes, leafy parks, and nearby wine regions to explore if you’ve got a few days to spare. Where to stay in Launceston Located just 10 km outside the city, Launceston Holiday Park Legana offers a peaceful setting on eight acres of leafy grounds. This is perfect if you want to relax before your flight or extend your Tasmania road trip (for ideas, check out our 10-day Tassie road trip). It’s also perfectly placed for exploring the Tamar Valley wine region if you’re continuing your Tassie road trip. Pro Tip: If you’re planning to return your Apollo camper to Hobart instead, allow around 2.5 hours to drive back along National Highway 1. Ready to hit the Great Eastern Drive? The Tasmania Great Eastern Drive is hands-down one of the best ways to experience the state, especially if you’re travelling by campervan or motorhome. With short driving distances, heaps of natural beauty, and a good mix of beach, forest and friendly towns, it’s perfect for outdoorsy families who want to take it slow and enjoy the ride. To make the most of your time here, check out Apollo's blog for other helpful tips, including: Top family-friendly things to do in Tasmania Best family-friendly campsites in Tassie Where to see snow in Tasmania Where to see the Southern Lights in Tasmania Then, when you’re ready, you can easily book your Apollo camper online and pick it up from your closest Apollo branch before hitting the road. Whether you start in Hobart or kick off from Melbourne and take the Spirit of Tasmania ferry, this 7-day Great Eastern Drive Tasmania itinerary is one you’ll be talking about for years to come.