The Great Eastern Drive is probably one of the best road trips you will find in Australia. The drive will explore some incredible beaches, award-winning wineries and magical national parks.

Where is the Great Eastern Drive?

Located in Tasmania, Australia, the Great Eastern Drive Orford in the south, right up to St Helens in the North. You will most likely start your drive from Hobart and make your way to Orford and go from there.

What’s the distance and how long will it take?

The road trip is around 176km with plenty of stops along the way. You can quite easily enjoy the trip in a weekend but at the same time very easily extend it to a week or longer – it all just depends on how much time you want to spend at each location. The more time you spend in Tassie, the longer you want to stay.

Where to stop along the way?

As you follow the winding road along the east coast, you will find yourself wanting to stop in at the gorgeous beach towns, farmland and national parks. Click here to take a look at a really good self-drive itinerary from Hobart.

Orford & Maria Island

We didn’t have enough time to get to Maria island which we regret. We would recommend you find the time to make the day trip as it looks fantastic! Orford has plenty of beautiful walks and beaches so there is no doubt that you will be able to fill your day here.

The most popular walks include the Convict Trail along the Prosser River as well as the coastal clifftop walk between East Shelly Beach and Spring Beach. And, who doesn’t love a good lookout? Head to Thumbs Lookout located at Wielangta Forest and you won’t be disappointed with the view over the area.

Swansea & Freycinet National Park

Leaving Maria Island for Swansea which is on the way to the incredible Freycinet National Park. Swansea is home to the famous Kate’s Berry Farm. We loved this stop and sampled some delicious jams! I’d recommend continuing to Freycinet National Park and spending some time here. We stayed at Freycinet Lodge and had the best time. From here we were able to explore Wineglass Bay, Sleepy Bay & Little Gravelly Beach,

We would definitely recommend a scenic flight over the region, Honeymoon Bay, Cape Tourville and Friendly Beaches as this was spectacular even though it was quite overcast.

Bicheno

On our way up to the Bay of Fires Region, we stopped in at Bicheno Blowhole! It was fun and the perfect pit stop, even if Jenna did get saturated from the blowhole!

Bay of Fires

Probably one of the most memorable spots on our Tasmania road trip. The Bay of Fires was simply stunning and we had the best few days exploring what the coast has to offer. Click here to read all about the Bay of Fires and recommendations on where to stay, stop and watch the sunrise!

What to pack for Tasmania

Click here for your ultimate Tasmania packing guide. You always need to remember to pack for all seasons! You never know what you will get here.

Exploring the rest of Tasmania?

Take a look at our Tasmania page for tips and recommendations on where else to visit!

Do you have travel insurance?

Before travelling, make sure you get a travel insurance policy – you never know when you might need it! Click here for information on travel insurance, what company we recommend and a link to get an instant quote.

Alternative accommodation

If you’re looking for alternative accommodation to either save some money or share with friends or family, click here for information on Air B&B ($50 discount on your first booking), hotel price comparison websites etc.

The use of traveling is to regulate imagination with reality, and instead of thinking of how things may be, see them as they are.” – Samuel Johnson