7-day self-driving tour in Tasmania: a perfect journey to explore nature and culture

A seven-day self-driving trip in Tasmania is a deep dialogue with nature and culture. This island at the southern tip of Australia attracts travelers with its pristine scenery, rich wildlife and leisurely pace. The following is my travel notes to record this surprising journey. Day 1: First Exploration of Hobart After arriving in Hobart, I rented a four-wheel drive and prepared to embark on an adventure. On the first day, I strolled through Salamanca Place, where the Saturday market was bustling, with vendors selling fresh produce and handicrafts. In the evening, I climbed Mount Wellington and overlooked the entire city and the Tasman Sea in the distance. The cool mountain breeze refreshed me. Day 2: Freycinet Peninsula Departing from Hobart, it took two hours to drive to Freycinet Peninsula. After checking into a local cabin, I couldn't wait to go to Wineglass Bay. After hiking for about an hour, I finally saw this arc-shaped beach, which is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The blue water and white sand are in harmony. In the evening, I also participated in the night wildlife tour to observe Tasmanian devils and kangaroos up close. Day 3: Cradle Mountain In the morning, I drove to Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. The scenery along the way changed from the coastline to the dense temperate rainforest. After arriving, I chose the lake trail. Between the lake and the mountains, Dove Lake and Cradle Mountain are set off, like a postcard. At night, stargazing at the camp, the sky is dotted with stars, which is refreshing. Day 4: Launceston and Tamar Valley Go to Launceston, a small town full of British style. Cataract Gorge is a must-visit place. The peacocks and gurgling streams beside the trail are heart-warming. Afterwards, I drove to Tamar Valley, visited several wineries, and tasted the local Pinot Noir, which was rich and memorable. Day 5: Devonport and Penguin Observation We headed to Devonport along the north coast, passing through the small town of Sheffield, where the murals were fascinating. In the evening, we observed the little blue penguins returning to their nests on the beach in Devonport. They looked so cute when they were wobbling. Local volunteers also shared a lot of knowledge about penguins, making this night particularly memorable. Day 6: Port Arthur Historical Tour On the way back to Hobart, I visited Port Arthur, a 19th-century prison site that tells the vicissitudes of Australia's exile history. The tour guide vividly told the stories of the prisoners, which made people feel deeply moved. Back to Hobart at night, we enjoyed fresh oysters at a seaside restaurant and ended a fulfilling day. Day 7: Farewell to Tasmania On the last day, I enjoyed a leisurely breakfast in downtown Hobart, and then went to the MONA Art Gallery to experience the shock of this avant-garde art palace. Before leaving, I strolled along the pier again to feel the tranquility and beauty of this land. This self-driving tour in Tasmania, whether it is the magnificent natural scenery or the rich cultural history, made me linger. If you also love freedom and exploration, this place is definitely worth a visit!