North West Tasmania destinations
Wild coastline, farmland and ancient rainforest sit side by side in North West Tasmania. Start anywhere along the coast and keep heading west.
Follow the coast road, taste your way along Tasting Trail Tasmania and stop at national parks, nature reserves and small towns along the way.
North West Tasmania is a self-drive destination, with short walks, local food and good places to stop. Start as you drive off the Spirit of Tasmania in Devonport, or choose a base in the region and work outwards from there.
Extend your journey to the West Coast, or plan a separate trip to King Island.
Choose a destination below for things to do, places to stay and practical advice for your visit.
North West Tasmania by destination
Towns and places
Frequently asked questions
Where is North West Tasmania?
North West Tasmania runs west from Devonport, where the Spirit of Tasmania arrives, to the edge of the Tarkine, then inland to Cradle Mountain. The West Coast and King Island sit beside it.
What is there to do in North West Tasmania?
Follow the coast road, walk in national parks and nature reserves, stop in small towns and taste your way along Tasting Trail Tasmania, from cheese, cider and whisky to berries and chocolate.
How many days should I spend in North West Tasmania?
Allow several days. The Tarkine Drive takes a full day, the Dial Range and Leven Valley suit two or more, and the West Coast and King Island each need their own trip.
Do I need a car in North West Tasmania?
Yes. North West Tasmania is a self-drive destination, and services are limited in the far west. Fuel up and buy food and water in Smithton before heading into the Tarkine.
Where should I stay in North West Tasmania?
Choose a base and work outwards from there. Penguin and Ulverstone suit the central coast, Smithton and Stanley suit the Far North West, and there are lodges, cottages, farmstays and caravan and camping sites across the region.
Can I start in North West Tasmania when I arrive on the Spirit of Tasmania?
Yes. The Spirit of Tasmania docks in Devonport, on the North West coast, so you can start driving west as soon as you arrive. Fill up and stock up in town, then choose a base along the coast.
Can I visit the West Coast or King Island from North West Tasmania?
Yes. The West Coast can be added to a longer road trip. King Island is a separate island trip, reached by air from Melbourne, Burnie-Wynyard or Launceston, so book flights, accommodation and car hire first.
Find your way
One easy coastal drive
The North West unfolds along a single ribbon of coast - west from Devonport's ferry terminal to the edge of the Tarkine, then inland to Cradle Mountain. Tap a town on the map to start exploring.
Rest easy
Find your base in the North West
From off-grid lodges with outdoor baths to cottages and farmstays - settle in somewhere with a view, then let the season come to you.
Tasting Trail Tasmania
Follow your tastebuds across the region
Cheese, cider, whisky, berries and chocolate - straight from the makers. Plot your own self-drive food trail through the North West.
Explore the Tasting Trail