Plan your trip

It’s the North West coast of Tasmania, running west from Devonport Tasmania through Ulverstone, Penguin, Burnie and Wynyard to Stanley, Smithton and Arthur River. Cradle Mountain sits inland to the south.

Two to three days covers Devonport Tasmania, Cradle Mountain and the coast out to Stanley without rushing. Four or five gives you room to add takayna / Tarkine and the far west. Itineraries & Ideas has day-by-day plans to start from.

Summer is the warmest and busiest, so book early. Autumn and spring are quieter on the roads and in town. Winter is cold, so pack for it. Whatever the month, bring layers, because the weather changes quickly.

The Spirit of Tasmania and hire cars, especially for summer, school holidays and long weekends. Beds are fewer and the gaps between towns longer out towards Arthur River, so book those early as well.

If you’re off the ferry, Devonport Tasmania makes sense. There are motels, hotels and holiday houses close to the terminal, and you can head west the next morning. Where to Stay has the full list by town.

Visitor information centres run across the region, including Devonport Tasmania, Sheffield, Stanley and Cradle Mountain. Staff can help with maps, bookings and what’s open that day. Check opening hours before making a special trip.