Ace Rental Cars Blog

For an unforgettable road trip, Tasmania is an ideal destination. The perfect place to expand your horizons and adventure among the wilderness, we’ve listed the best spots to experience living like a local, as well as admiring the state’s unique natural beauty.

• Cradle Mountain
• Tamar Valley
• Bay of Fires
• Port Arthur

Cradle Mountain

• Walks and hikes
• Devils @ Cradle
• Lake St Clair
• Launceston

First on the list of must-see spots while on a road trip around Tasmania is the iconic Cradle Mountain. Surrounded by wilderness in the centre of a UNESCO World Heritage-listed National Park, Cradle Mountain is one of the state’s most visited landmarks. Boasting natural beauty and a serene atmosphere, there are walks and treks to suit every adventurer, with the Dove Lake Circuit among the most popular. A 6km loop around the lake, this trail offers moments of solitude amongst stunning scenery. Experienced hikers can tackle the challenging Cradle Summit. A full-day hike, this walk passes through lookout points, up rocky terrain and leads to the 1,545-metre-high peak, offering panoramic views of the National Park. If you’re up for a challenge, this trail is an unforgettable feat that’ll leave you feeling inspired and energised, ready for your next Tasmanian adventure. Looking for something other than a hike? You’ll find the Devils @ Cradle Wildlife Park here, alongside the country’s deepest lake - Lake St Clair. Cradle Mountain is a nature lover’s paradise, offering plenty to do amongst beautiful scenery.

Tamar Valley

• Josef Chromy Wines
• Cabin Coffee
• The Ducks Bar and Restaurant
• Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre

Discover Tasmania through taste with a drive through the Tamar Valley Wine Region. Just a 30-minute drive from Launceston in your Ace rental car, the Tamar Valley boasts over 30 wineries and vineyards, with cool-climate varieties being the area’s specialty. If you’re looking to indulge in a tour or a tasting, head to Josef Chromy Wines in Relbia. With tastings for $15 per person, you can sample four of the winery’s finest wines amongst stunning greenery for an affordable price. Or tuck in for a meal at The Ducks Bar and Restaurant in Rosevears for delicious food and wine pairings. Remember to always assign a designated driver when drinking alcohol on your road trip. If wine isn’t your thing, settle in for a delicious brunch experience at Cabin Coffee in Exeter, or discover history at the Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre. A visit to the centre offers a deep dive into local mining history, as well as a gold panning experience and hands-on exhibits. However you explore the Tamar Valley region, an exciting experience amongst rolling hills and scenic countryside awaits.

Bay of Fires

• Hikes and walks
• Mainly Maritime Museum
• Local cuisine

Escape to the rugged shores of Tasmania’s coast with a road trip to the Bay of Fires. Known for its stunning white sands and beautiful blue waters, a visit to the Bay in your Ace rental car is well worth it. Elevate your adventure by watching the sunrise in Binalong Bay, breathe in the fresh coastal air and reminisce on your road trip so far. Set off on foot with a hike to Jeanneret via Swimcart Beach. This is a moderate hike, ideal for sightseeing, and the perfect place to treat yourself to a dip in the refreshing waters. The Gardens to Break Yoke Creek walk is a longer trail along the coastline, showcasing the best of the Bay. If you’re interested in naval history, visit the Mainly Maritime Warship and Marine Corps Museum nearby in St Helens. Here, you’ll see artefacts and displays of the region’s rich naval, maritime and space history across twelve exhibition rooms. After, dig into a taste of coastal cuisine with a meal at a local restaurant. The Lifebuoy Cafe offers brunch classics in a nautical-themed dining room, while Skippers Fish Shop serves up takeaway fish and chips for an authentically Tasmanian meal.

Port Arthur

• UNESCO World Heritage Listed Site
• Salamanca Market
• Nutgrove Beach

For the last stop on your road trip through Tasmania, delve into the island state’s complex history with a visit to the Port Arthur Historic Site. Here, you’ll have access to over 30 historic buildings, each showcasing an important piece of the area’s past. Stroll through the manicured Government Gardens, take a look at the ruins of the Convict Church, and visit the Separate Prison to see what life was like as a prisoner in the 1800s. There are many ways to explore the site - if you’re interested in the paranormal, check out the after-dark ghost tour or discover even more on exclusive tours like the Isle of the Dead cemetery tour which also includes a harbour cruise. With restaurants, bars, and cafes on-site, you’ll be able to spend the whole day admiring the scenic beauty and intriguing history of Port Arthur. After visiting some of the state’s best attractions, end your journey in Hobart - the state’s capital. If you’re in Hobart on a Saturday, discover over 300 stalls at the iconic Salamanca Market, or unwind by basking in the sun on the shores of Nutgrove Beach.

From historic buildings to coastal hikes, a road trip through Tasmania offers the perfect blend of culture, exploration, and natural beauty.