Tassie Tips: Tasmania's Great Eastern Drive

Stretching from Orford in the south with St Helens in the north. This scenic journey spans around 220 kilometres, making it perfect for a weekend escape, a leisurely week-long adventure, or even longer if you truly want to immerse yourself in the region’s beauty. Some may complete it in just 4 hours, but with so much to explore, why not stretch it out to 4 days—or even 4 weeks? The more time you take, the more hidden gems you’ll uncover—so slow down, stop often, and explore at your own pace.

Starting from either St Helens or Orford, the drive will take you through charming beach towns, lush forests, rolling farmland, and beautiful coastal landscapes. Along the way, stop at award-winning beaches, visit cellar doors to sample the finest cool-climate wines, savour fresh local seafood and produce, and wander through renowned national parks. Venture inland to discover valleys, waterfalls, and mountains, and enjoy the endless ocean views that make this drive unforgettable.

If you're arriving into Hobart

Begin your journey in Hobart, Tasmania’s charming capital. Before hitting the road, wander through Salamanca Market (Saturday morning), indulge in the city’s bustling café scene, or visit the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) for a touch of the avant-garde. Stock up on local treats for the road, and prepare to be mesmerized as you leave the city behind, diving into the East Coast’s untouched beauty.

The Must-See Stops Along the Way

1. Orford and Maria Island

Just an hour from Hobart, the coastal village of Orford greets you with its relaxed charm and sweeping views. Start your day with coffee and a bite at Gateway Cafe or Scorchers by the River, where you can enjoy a riverfront meal. A must-do from Orford is a ferry trip to Maria Island. Here, spend the day hiking among scenic cliffs, watching for Tasmanian devils and wombats, and exploring fascinating convict ruins. The Painted Cliffs, with their natural patterns, are a photographer's dream.

2. Triabunna and the Great Oyster Bay

Triabunna is known as the gateway to Maria Island, but it’s also a perfect spot to enjoy local seafood with a view. The Fish Van is a must-stop for fish and chips right on the water. For a unique experience, book a Great Oyster Bay boat tour to see the area from the water and learn about the local aquaculture industry. Or visit the Spring Bay Seafood and Wine Bar for fresh oysters and other local specialties. Triabunna also has several art galleries showcasing local crafts and artwork inspired by the coast.

3. Swansea and Kate’s Berry Farm

Further along the coast, make a stop at Swansea for some history and indulgence. This charming town offers beautiful views over Great Oyster Bay and access to historic sites like Schouten House and Spiky Bridge. Don’t miss a visit to Kate’s Berry Farm, just outside of Swansea, for handmade berry jams, ice cream, and chocolate treats with views across the bay. You can also try local wine at Milton Vineyard or Spring Vale Vineyard, both offering cellar door tastings and vineyard tours.

4. Devils Corner Vineyard

One of the most memorable stops along the drive, Devils Corner Vineyard is not just a winery—it’s an experience. Located between Swansea and Freycinet, this spot combines sweeping views of Moulting Lagoon and The Hazards mountain range with delicious food and wine. Sample their renowned cool-climate wines at the cellar door, then enjoy wood-fired pizzas from Tombolo Cafe or fresh seafood from The Fishers. Climb the lookout tower for panoramic views across the vineyards, coastline, and mountains—a perfect photo op. Devils Corner is the ideal place to slow down and soak in the East Coast vibe.

5. Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay

Freycinet National Park is one of Tasmania's most iconic destinations. Beyond the famous Wineglass Bay Lookout, explore the Hazards Beach Circuit for a quieter, equally stunning coastal walk. Freycinet Marine Farm is a popular stop on the way to the park where you can enjoy fresh oysters and mussels right from the farm. Another unique experience in this area is a scenic cruise, where you might spot dolphins or even a whale. Afterwards, relax with a meal at Freycinet Lodge, which offers beautiful views over Great Oyster Bay.

Stay at BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet Holiday Park.

6. Bicheno – Coastal Charm and Penguin Encounters

Bicheno is a charming seaside town known for its nightly penguin tours, where you can get up close with adorable little penguins as they return to shore. Explore the famous Bicheno Blowhole, which shoots seawater into the air with every wave, and take a stroll along its stunning beaches. For a unique dining experience, head to The Lobster Shack for fresh Tasmanian lobster, or try Pasini’s Cafe for Italian cuisine and wood-fired pizzas. Finish off with a visit to Bicheno’s Little Blue Shed, a local chocolatier with handcrafted treats.

7. St Marys – Art and Adventure

A slight detour inland brings you to St Marys, a town known for its artsy community and scenic views. Check out the Gone Rustic Studio and Gallery for local art and crafts, or stop by the historic St Marys Hotel for a hearty meal. Hike the Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall trail for some serene forest scenery, or visit Elephant Pass for a scenic drive and a visit to the Pancake Barn for unique sweet and savory pancakes.

8. St Helens – East Coast Charm and Gateway to Adventure

As you reach the northern end of the Great Eastern Drive, St Helens welcomes you with its relaxed, coastal charm and scenic beauty. This bustling fishing town is the largest on Tasmania’s East Coast and offers a variety of experiences, from exploring local shops and cafes to embarking on unforgettable day trips. St Helens is renowned for its incredible seafood, especially fresh-caught oysters and abalone, which you can enjoy at spots like The Wharf Bar & Kitchen.

Bay of Fires – Iconic Beaches and Crystal Waters - One of the must-do experiences when visiting St Helens is a day trip to the Bay of Fires, just a short drive away. Famous for its striking orange-streaked granite boulders, pristine white sandy beaches, and impossibly clear turquoise waters, the Bay of Fires is a paradise for beach lovers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts. Take your time exploring the coast, with plenty of places to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe. For a truly immersive experience, consider a Bay of Fires eco-tour to learn about the area’s history and ecosystems, or simply pack a picnic and wander along the unspoiled shoreline.

Pyengana – A Taste of Tassie’s Dairy Country - Head inland from St Helens for a scenic drive through lush farmland to Pyengana, a small town celebrated for its dairy products, particularly cheese. Visit the famous Pyengana Dairy Company, where you can sample award-winning cheeses, enjoy a ploughman’s lunch, or indulge in their decadent cheese platters paired with Tasmanian wines. Afterward, take a short walk to nearby St Columba Falls, one of Tasmania’s highest waterfalls. The forested trail to the falls is a beautiful experience in itself, and the view of the cascading water is well worth the visit. For a quirky detour, stop by the historic Pub in the Paddock, one of Tasmania’s oldest pubs, where you can meet Priscilla the beer-drinking pig—a memorable stop on any Pyengana trip!

More to Explore in St Helens - Back in St Helens, there’s plenty to fill your time. Stroll along the Georges Bay foreshore, where you’ll see fishing boats bringing in the day’s catch, or visit The Social for a relaxed brunch or specialty coffee. The St Helens History Room offers insight into the town’s fishing and mining past, while local shops like The Tasmania Shop showcase local crafts and artwork. For those with a taste for adventure, St Helens is also a hub for mountain biking, with world-class trails at the St Helens Mountain Bike Trails offering rides for all levels through breathtaking landscapes.

St Helens is the perfect finale to the Great Eastern Drive, blending East Coast beauty, Tasmanian history, and outdoor adventure. Whether you're exploring the iconic Bay of Fires, savoring award-winning cheeses in Pyengana, or relaxing by Georges Bay, you’ll find endless reasons to linger in this beautiful corner of Tasmania.

With stunning wineries, breathtaking national parks, fresh local seafood, and charming towns to explore, the Great Eastern Drive offers an incredible variety of experiences. Whether you have a weekend or a full week, take your time to savor the unique flavors, sights, and adventures along Tasmania’s spectacular East Coast.