If you haven’t yet had the chance to explore the Apple Isle, or you’ve had a taste and are keen to see more, here are five must-visit places to add to your Tasmanian travel itinerary. It might be a small state, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in scenery. From the Hazard Mountains in Freycinet National Park to the picturesque Huon Valley – the east coast of the Tasmania is one of the most beautiful coastal drives you can do in Australia. Here are a few places you should stop along the way…

1. Bay of Fires

The beauty of the Bay of Fires has to be seen to be believed – trust us, the photos don’t do it justice. The area gets its name from the bright orange lichen that grows on the rocks in the region. It’s the perfect place for a beach break with white sand and crystal clear (yet chilly) water. If you don’t have time to get all the way up to Binalong Bay (2.5hrs from Launceston and 3.5hrs from Hobart), you can see the orange lichen further south in Freycinet National Park.

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2. Freycinet National Park

Freycinet is the home of Wineglass Bay, which you can reach via a steep, yet rewarding walk over the stunning Hazard Mountain range. There are a range of day and overnight walks available. You can find out more information from the National Park website. While you’re there, be sure to visit Cape Tourville Lighthouse and don’t forget to explore the smaller beaches and bays scattered throughout the area. Hot tip: Sandy Bay is definitely worth checking out! As far as views go, it doesn’t get much better than looking up at the imposing Hazard Mountains from the sea. You can book a kayaking adventure in Freycinet National Park through RedBalloon here.

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3. Bruny Island

If you like cheese, whisky and oysters – you’ll love Bruny Island. In fact, it’s probably best if you don’t pack your lunch for this day trip (just a 40min drive from Hobart) as you’ll want to make the most of your visit to Bruny’s House of Whisky and the Bruny Island Beer and Cheese Co. Once you’ve done some serious damage to a cheese platter or two, walk it off in the South Bruny National Park with an afternoon stroll up to Bruny Island Lighthouse. Alternatively, you can hit the high seas with a cruise around the island.

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4. Huon Valley

If you’re a fan of quaint country towns you’ll fall in love with the Huon Valley. The further south you drive towards Dover and Southport the more dramatic the scenery gets. While you can easily explore the area as a day trip from Hobart, it’s worth taking your time and staying in one of the many charming pubs or bed and breakfasts along the Huon Trail. If you’re chasing the Aurora Australis on your travels in Tassie there are some great vantage points throughout the Huon Valley. The Tahune AirWalk in Geeveston is well worth a visit to get a taste of the Tasmanian wilderness.

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5. Hobart

If you’re in Hobart on the weekend, keep Saturday morning free to explore the Salamanca Markets. Then take a walk up the hill and explore the streets of historic Battery Point. If you have time, allocate a whole day for a trip to MONA – it’s worth taking the ferry for the short trip up the Derwent. Be sure to drive up Mt Wellington for stunning views over the city – but remember to take a jumper, as it’s pretty chilly at the top.

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