posted on January 11, 2024
The Strahan to Hobart drive is a popular road trip in Tasmania, taking you through the state’s atmospheric towns on the west coast, all the way to the populous capital city of Hobart. Along the way, you’ll find yourself driving through picturesque national parks, quaint villages, and heritage museums. Make the most of your road trip with our drive guide below.
An overview of the Strahan to Hobart road trip
- Strahan to Hobart driving time: 4hr 18min
- Distance from Strahan to Hobart: 301km
- Recommendation road trip length: 1-2 days
- Top stops along the way: Russell Fall, Derwent River, Salmon Ponds
The drive from Strahan to Hobart offers a scenic journey through the beautiful landscapes of Tasmania. Explore nature at local national parks and immerse yourself in the rural atmosphere during your Hobart and Strahan road trip.
Expert tips for the best Strahan to Hobart drive experience
- Plan your route and work out your pit stops: Choose your route based on your preferences and available time. Consider taking the Lyell Highway for a more direct route or explore alternative routes to see additional sights.
- Check road conditions: Before setting out, check for any road closures, maintenance, or adverse weather conditions that might affect your journey. Tasmania’s weather can be variable, so staying informed is crucial to staying safe.
- Pack essentials: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the journey. Pack essentials such as water, snacks, a first aid kit, and a map. Mobile phone reception can be limited in some areas, so having a map or satellite navigation system is advisable.
- Dress for the weather: Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and be prepared for changes in temperature and possible rain.
- Check if you need to purchase a national park pass: Some national parks, such as Mt Fields National Park, require a National Park Pass to access. You can purchase a National Park Pass before your trip from the Tasmania Parks & Wildlife Service.
What you need to know before driving from Strahan to Hobart
There are a few important things you need to know before driving from Strahan to Hobart, including the basic road trip essentials and the safety precautions you should take while driving.
Strahan to Hobart road trip essentials
- Maps or GPS: Have a reliable map or use a GPS for navigation during your travels. Familiarise yourself with the route in advance, although you’ll mostly be driving through Lyell Hwy/A10 and the National Highway 1 during the majority of your trip.
- Sun Protection: Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to protect against the harsh Australian sun.
- Emergency Kit: Include a first aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, tire repair kit, and any necessary medications. Due to the road trip pit stops consisting of mostly rural national parks and small towns, it’s important to bring your daily medications in case you can’t find them while on the road.
- Camera: Capture the scenic views and memorable moments along your drive from Strahan to Hobart. From Russell Falls to Salmon Ponds, there are many amazing photo opportunities during your drive.
Petrol stations and EV chargers along the way
Need to refuel along the drive? The most popular petrol stations include:
- Ampol Queenstown located on 5-7 Cutten St, Queenstown TAS 7467, open 6am to 6pm on weekdays (7am to 5pm on Saturday, closed on Sunday)
- Ampol located on 15488 Lyell Hwy, Derwent Bridge TAS 7140, open 9am to 4:30pm seven days a week
- Shell located on 27 Hamilton Rd, Kyell Hwy, New Norfolk TAS 7140, open 5am to 9pm (6am to 9pm on weekends)
Look out for EV charging stations at Derwent Bridge as well as throughout the CBD streets of Hobart.
Staying safe during your road trip
Safety always comes first, so make sure you’re travelling safely and securely during your road trip. Be sure to be extra careful when driving at night or during hazardous weather conditions (such as snow during the winter months of June to August), and pay attention to the road at all times. Wild animals may jump out onto the road so be cautious when driving through national parks and take note of any wilderness signage and avoid driving at dusk, dawn and after dark.
Also ensure that your vehicle is in good condition before your trip by checking the brakes, tires, fluid levels, lights and battery. Carrying a spare tire also means you’re prepared for any unfortunate breakdowns during your road trip.
Strahan to Hobart self drive itinerary
Enjoy a self-drive itinerary and explore Tasmania’s west coast and south coast to their fullest during your Strahan to Hobart road trip. From picturesque quaint towns such as Ouse to iconic landmarks like Russell Falls, there are many great pit stops you can make to ensure your driving experience between Strahan and Hobart is a fun and memorable one.
Stop 1: Strahan to Queenstown
- Driving time: 45min
- Driving distance: 40.8km
- Must-see attractions: Bonnet Island, Reece Dam, Mount Heemskirk Regional Reserve
Only a 45-minute drive with a wealth of attractions to visit along the way, Queenstown is one of the most popular stops between Strahan and Hobart. Queenstown itself is known to be the home of adventure, housing the world’s first and most famous bungy jump (the Kawarau Bridge Bungy) as well as the extreme water rafting at the Shotover River.
From Strahan to Queenstown is also Bonnet Island, a low island located at the entrance to Macquarie Harbour in Western Tasmania, Australia. It’s best known for its immersive guided tours through the island’s thriving fairy penguin colony. Reece Dam is also a popular tourist attraction along the way as one of the most photogenic natural spots on Tasmania’s western coast. Mount Heemskirk Regional Reserve is another place to stop if you’re a fan of walking trails and exploring the Tasmanian wilderness.
Stop 2: Queenstown to Ouse
- Driving time: 2hr 23min
- Driving distance: 172km
- Must-see attractions: Derwent Bridge, Lake St Clair
Driving to Ouse takes almost two and a half hours, but the trip is certainly worth your while. While making your way further inland, you’ll come across a few must-see attractions like the Derwent Bridge and Lake St Clair. Derwent Bridge is a picturesque town in Tasmania, known for the Lyell Highway which splits the Wild Rivers National Park and the stunning views around Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. Lake St Clair is another iconic spot to visit along your drive, featuring the uniquely shaped lake itself as well as The Wall and Narcissus Hut.
Ouse is a small town in the rural Central Highlands with famous landmarks such as the Lawrenny Estate Distillery and Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. You can also pick and enjoy some delicious fresh cherries while in town, especially during the summer months when the small fruits are in season.
Stop 3: Ouse to Russell Falls via Hamilton
- Driving time: 35min
- Driving distance: 38.2km
- Must-see attractions: Mt Field National Park, Horseshoe Falls, Hamilton
Russell Falls is a must-see stop if you’re tackling the drive from Strahan to Hobart, and along the way, you can pay a quick visit to Mount Field National Park and Horseshoe Falls. The driving time from Ouse to Russell Falls is a quick 35 minutes along Ellendale Rd. Russell Falls is an iconic national park in Tasmania with one of the state’s easiest yet scenic walking trails. Taking only 25 minutes to complete the walk, it takes you through towering mountain ash trees where you can encounter native cool-temperate rainforest animals.
Along the way, you may want to check out Mount Field National Park which is one of Tasmania’s oldest and most diverse national parks. Horseshoe Falls is also well worth a visit while at Mount Field National Park, as well as the challenging Tall Trees Walk. Remember that you’ll need a national park pass to visit Mount Field National Park.
Stop 4: Russell Falls to Salmon Ponds
- Driving time: 29min
- Driving distance: 30.3km
- Must-see attractions: Westerway, Bushy Park, Kinvarra Estate
The fourth stop along your Strahan to Hobart road trip is undoubtedly Salmon Ponds, the oldest trout hatchery not only in Australia but the entire southern hemisphere. A heritage hatchery characterised by original 19th-century English architecture and surrounding natural ponds, Salmon Ponds is a magnificent location to see and visit. It’s home to a number of attractions, including the Museum of Trout Fishing and Angling Hall of Fame, the Pancakes by the Ponds cafe, as well as a local gift shop filled with unique items you can’t find anywhere else.
If you have time to spare during your drive to Salmon Ponds, you may also want to stop by the small towns of Westerway and Bush Park, and do a sight-seeing at Kinvarra Estate vinery. All three locations are conveniently along the way from Russell Falls to Salmon Ponds. After visiting Salmon Ponds, you may also want to stay at an accommodation at New Norfolk (10 minutes’ drive away) for some much-needed rest.
Stop 5: New Norfolk to Hobart
- Driving time: 37min
- Driving distance: 35.3km
- Must-see attractions: Sorell Creek, Stefano Lubiana Wines
The final section of your road trip takes only 37 minutes, where you’ll pass by Sorell Creek and the Stefano Lubiana Winery. Sorell Creek makes for beautiful photo opportunities and Stefano Lubiana Winery sells some of the most premium wines in the state.
Top things to see and do between Strahan and Hobart
Ready to discover the best things to see and do between Strahan and Hobart? This epic road trip is peppered with incredible national parks, walking trails and lookouts ready for you to explore.
Mount Wellington
The iconic summit of the Wellington Range, Mount Wellington offers wonderful views of Hobart and is accessible via the Wellington Park reserve. You can drive up the mountain through Pinnacle Road or even hike up the mountain if you’re a confident explorer. Mount Wellington rises to 1,271m above sea level and is one of the tallest mountains you can see and explore in Tasmania.
New Norfolk
New Norfolk is known as Tasmania’s third-oldest settlement and is surrounded by beautiful landmarks such as Russell Falls and Curringa Farms. It’s part of the Greater Hobart area and has many interesting activities to try, including joining a Willow Court Asylum Tour or discovering the Derwent Valley Railway.
Tip from the author: New Norfolk has one of the oldest pubs in Australia, named The Bush Inn, known for its delicious and affordable meals as well as friendly local staff.
Salmon Ponds at Plenty
Salmon Ponds is one of the most iconic attractions in all of history, housing a unique blend of English architecture and Australia’s unique bushland scenery. It’s home to wild Platypuses and is also the oldest trout hatchery to still run in the Southern Hemisphere, operating since 1861.
Mount Field National Park
Did you know that Mount Field National Park is ranked among Tasmania’s oldest national parks? With something to see all year round, explore everything glacial landscapes to the epic Russell Falls (one of the most impressive waterfalls in Tasmania).
Lake St Clair
Situated in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Lake St Clair is Australia’s deepest freshwater lake. Surrounded by stunning scenery, the lake offers access to one of the most iconic multi-day hikes in the area (the Overland Track). Beware: this track takes six days to complete and is best for experienced adventurers.
Franklin River Nature Trail
The Franklin River Nature Trail takes visitors through the historically significant Franklin River, most famous for its conversation campaign during the 1980s, which garnered international attention. It’s near Franklin Dam and flows through the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park in southwestern Tasmania.
Nelson Falls Walk
The Nelson Falls Walk is a popular short walking trail located in the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. It is located between Lake Bunbury and Derwent Bridge and is considered one of Tasmanian’s 60 great short walks. The highlight of Nelson Falls Walk is its scenery, which includes beautiful forestry and stunning waterfall sights.
Iron Blow Lookout
Dating back to 1883, Iron Blow Lookout on the earliest major mining site at Mount Lyell. Just an 11-minute drive from Queenstown, make sure to rug up as temperatures are low and the weather is cold and winder all year round at this lookout.
Queenstown
As the largest town on the West Coast of Tasmania, Queenstown offers dramatic landscapes and a rich mining history. Once home to the ABT Railway (responsible for transporting copper to Strahan), you can now venture along these same tracks aboard the West Coast Wilderness Railway.
Best food stops between Strahan and Hobart
Feeling peckish? Refuel and grab a bite to eat at these top spots to dine between Strahan and Hobart:
- The Wall in the Wilderness (15352 Lyell Hwy, Derwent Bridge TAS 7140): While not a traditional food stop, The Wall in the Wilderness in Derby is an incredible art installation depicting the history of the region. There is a cafe on-site where you can grab a coffee or a light snack.
- Pitstop Cafe (134 Main St, Zeehan TAS 7469): As the name suggests Pitstop Cafe is a great it stop location if you’re passing through, famous for its homemade scones with jam and cream and aromatic coffees.
- Lansdowne Crescent Cafe (68 Lansdowne Cres, West Hobart TAS 7000): Lansdowne Crescent Cafe is a good place to stop for breakfast or lunch. They serve a range of meals, including burgers and sourdough sandwiches.
- Tavern Bar & Bistro (4038 Cradle Mountain Rd, Cradle Mountain TAS 7306): If you’re taking a detour to Cradle Mountain, there are dining options in the area that serve delicious meals. The Tavern Bar & Bistro provides a warm and casual atmosphere with a log fire, pool table and cable television.
- Hungry Wombat Café (15488 Lyell Hwy, Derwent Bridge TAS 7140): Located near Lake St Clair, Hungry Wombat Café is a popular stop for passing travellers. They offer a wide selection of home-cooked grub, including sandwiches, pies, and coffee.
- The Possum Shed Café (1654 Gordon River Rd, Westerway TAS 7140): As you approach Hobart, consider stopping at the Possum Shed Café in Westerway. They specialise in serving seasonal fresh food, with all cakes and scones made on the premises.
- The Roost (15 High St, New Norfolk TAS 7140): If you’re passing through New Norfolk and want some simple chips and roasted chicken to go, The Roost is the perfect place to visit.
- The Agrarian Kitchen (11a The Avenue, New Norfolk, TAS 7140): Located in the spectacular Derwent Valley, don’t miss a trip to the foodie hotspot of The Agrarian Kitchen. Book a table at the restaurant or swing by for a quick takeaway bite from their Kiosk.
- The Drunken Admiral (17/19 Hunter St, Hobart TAS 7000): This family-run restaurant sits right along the foreshore of Hobart’s Old Wharf. Expect fresh Tasmanian seafood and a nostaglic maritime dining atmosphere.
Top stop: Located in Derwent Park in Hobart, Spotty Dog Brewery and Taphouse boasts a beautiful setting overlooking the Prince of Wales Bay, as well as a reputation for some of the best beers in Hobart. Enjoy a great selection of expertly crafted brews alongside food from their on-site Chicken Shop, which features some of Tassie’s best fried chicken and a seasonal menu crafted from local produce. The unique combination of remarkable beers, delicious food and a picturesque setting makes Spotty Dog a must-visit destination if you’re in Hobart.
Best places to stay between Strahan and Hobart
- Derwent Bridge Wilderness Hotel: conveniently located near the A10 highway with a built-in restaurant and comfortable accommodation.
- Tarraleah Estate: located in Tasmania’s highlands and easily accessible from both Hobart and Lake St Clair, Tarraleah Estate is a great accommodation complete with art deco cottages.
- West Coaster Motel: a family-owned motel situated in Queenstown with 3.5-star rated comfort.
- Gold Rush Inn: a spacious accommodation with a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere in Queenstown, located at 6 Campbell St.
Strahan to Hobart drive: frequently asked questions
Can you complete the Strahan to Hobart drive in reverse?
Yes you can. The drive from Hobart to Strahan takes the same amount of time and you can make the same stops suggested above, but in reverse.
How long is the Strahan to Hobart drive?
The drive from Strahan to Hobart takes around four hours, but this can be longer depending on how many spots you make and whether you want to stay overnight at a passing accommodation.
Are there flights from Strahan to Hobart?
Yes, but most require a stop-over in Melbourne, causing the flight to be a round-about journey. Flights can take anywhere between 3 hours and 40 minutes to 16 hours depending on the layover time.
Do bus services operate between Strahan and Hobart?
No, there are no direct buses between Strahan and Hobart. However, the West Coast wilderness railway is a public transport alternative
Is it worth driving from Strahan to Hobart?
Yes, the drive from Strahan to Hobart is an adventurous scenic one, with many iconic attractions and stops to make along the way. From Australia’s deepest lake to beautiful national parks in the central highlands region, there’s much to see and do along the drive from Strahan to Hobart.
Final advice for the Strahan to Hobart drive of a lifetime
Strahan to Hobart is one of the best and most fun drives you can make. Enjoy the drive of a lifetime with this attraction-filled itinerary and ensure your road trip ticks all your boxes by securing your dream ride from a local Turo host.
Keep your road trip going with our complete guide to the Hobart to Cradle Mountain drive.
Lucinda Starr
Lucinda is a Sydney-based content specialist and avid road tripper. Having travelled across Asia, North America and the South Pacific, she's experienced everything from glamping in a Yurt in -30 degrees in The Yukon, snorkelling in the open seas of Vanuatu and hiking the rocky alps of Kamikochi in Japan. She's currently planning her next overseas adventure, a toss-up between a classic #EuroSummer or a multi-day trek through Nepal.
