If you’re arriving in Tasmania by ferry, Devonport is where your holiday starts. And it’s highly likely your first day in Tassie will be spent doing the Devonport to Hobart drive. It’s a trip through the heart of Tassie that we take on the regular. Before you plan your own journey, check out our favourite scenic routes and authentic Tasmanian experiences at incredible stops along this drive. You can do this drive in a day, or overnight. So that’s how we attack it. We also tackle the logistics of Devonport to Hobart by bus, if you don’t have a car. And you can do this in reverse – from Hobart to Devonport too. So let’s get into it.
What’s in this post?
- The Devonport to Hobart drive
- Devonport to Hobart road trip in a day
- Devonport to Hobart overnight
- Devonport to Launceston Day 1
- Launceston to Hobart Day 2
The Devonport to Hobart drive
Before you hit the road, you’ll want to know about the drive ahead; how long it takes, the route, and driving conditions. So here’s the low down.
Devonport to Hobart direct is a 3 hour and 5 minute drive.
The best route is via the Bass Highway (National Highway 1). If you take this route direct, it bypasses Launceston, running instead via Longford. You may not want to.
The journey along this route is packed with adventure. The path you take depends on how much time you have, and what you want to see. We’ll look at a one day and an overnight trip itinerary.
Because you’re on national highway almost all of the way, the driving conditions are good. You’ll swap from single lane to double lane highway on and off. The speed limit varies from 80km to 110km and there are overtaking lanes along the way.
If time is of the essence and you’re driving direct the best place to stop for a break half way is Campbell Town. We stop here often. Check out the FAQs 👇🏽 about facilities in Campbell Town and where to find the best coffee.
Devonport to Hobart road trip in a day
If you’re doing the Devonport to Hobart drive in a day, you won’t have time to stop at all of the amazing destinations on our overnight itinerary. So we’ve picked out the best of the best.
You may opt to spend a couple of days in Devonport first. But this Devonport to Hobart road trip has you hitting the road after disembarking the Spirit of Tasmania and grabbing breakfast in Devonport. You’ll free wheel it onto the Bass Highway out of Devonport around 8:30 am.
A massive day of indulging in Tasmania’s best produce and experiences lies a head.
Here’s your Devonport to Hobart map for the day:
Stop 1 – Ashgrove Cheese Dairy Door
Drive time: 27 minutes, arrive 9am
Just a short drive from Devonport, nestled among the rolling green hills of Elizabeth Town, Ashgrove Cheese Co. stands as one of Tasmania’s most beloved dairies. It’s the perfect first pit stop, especially for the passionate turophile (cheese lover)!
Tasmania, and Ashgrove, produces some of Australia’s best cheeses.
Thanks to a recent expansion, Ashgrove is now a state-of-the-art ‘dairy door. where you can watch Ashgrove’s fascinating cheese-making process through series of large viewing windows.
The whole thing is incredible and a boon for curd nerds seeking out the secret ways of Tasmanian cheese-makers.
This upgrade has elevated Ashgrove to a must-visit attraction on the route between Devonport and Hobart. And of course, there’s a cheese shop. We always leave Ashgrove Dairy Door with an arm-full of exquisite cheeses to have at home.
But, if you prefer, you can plant yourself down at one of the outdoor picnic tables, and enjoy a cheese platter while soaking in the picturesque views of the lush pastures and rolling hills of Tasmania’s northwest.
Pro tip: Speaking of exquisite cheeses, don’t leave without trying the Ashgrove Walls of Jerusalem Wild Wasabi Cheese. It will knock your socks off!
Stop 2 – Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary
Drive time: 24 minutes, arrive 10:15am
Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary isn’t your typical zoo; it’s a dedicated animal rescue and rehabilitation centre, which is what makes it so special.
With a successful release program, Trowunna provides a safe haven for local wildlife including Tasmanian devils. Happily, many of Trowunna’s residents eventually return to the wild.
However, one of the cutest features of Trowunna is that it also runs an ‘over 55s resort’ for elderly Tasmanian Devils. Here, these charismatic little creatures can live out their grumpy golden years in tranquility, which is both heartwarming and unique.
In addition to Tasmanian Devils, the sanctuary is home to wombats, quolls, wallabies, birds, and any other wildlife that has recently been rescued.
There’s a devil talk and a wombat talk daily. A fantastic chance to get up close and personal with some of Tasmania’s most iconic animals.
Stop 3 – Bush Inn Brewery, Deloraine
Drive time: 20 minutes, arrive 12pm
We recommend swinging by Bush Inn Brewhouse for lunch.
Hidden in a heritage building in the charming town of Deloraine, this cool new Brewhouse is swiftly becoming a go-to spot for beer lovers in Tasmania’s northwest.
Ok, it’s me, I’m beer lovers in north west Tasmania 🙋🏼♀️
With its sleek industrial vibe, cozy dining area, and inviting fireplace, the Bush Inn is a authentically Tasmanian setting to enjoy a locally crafted beer. And when the sun is shining, the beer garden out back becomes the ideal spot to relax and sip on a cold brew.
Beyond its impressive beer selection, the Bush Inn Brewhouse also offers an awesome menu. My favourite is the Korean pizza, which has a spicy kick and a delightful homemade base crafted from their very own dough starter.
Stop 4 – Wander the heritage town of Ross
Drive time: 1 hour 13 minutes, arrive 2pm
Ross Bakery
A stop at Ross Bakery is like taking a culinary step back in time. Located in the heart of the quaint village of Ross, this iconic bakery is known for its wood-fired oven that has been baking bread and pastries since the 19th century.
It’s not just the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked goods that draws you in; it’s the charm of yet another authentic (and delicious) Tasmanian experience.
Top of the menu for most visitors is their famous scallop pies. But if you’re arriving mid afternoon on this itinerary, a sweet treat like the buttery, flaky pastries might be in store.
We recommend enjoying your goodies on the outdoor tables, surrounded by the picturesque sandstone buildings of this historic town.
Ross Bridge and Historic Military Stables
A visit to Ross isn’t complete without stopping at the Ross Bridge and the Historic Military Stables.
The Ross Bridge, built in 1836, is more than just a crossing over the Macquarie River—it’s one of Australia’s most beautiful convict-built structures. With intricate carvings of Celtic motifs and faces of political figures from the past (look closely a the arches), each step across the bridge feels like walking through a living history book. Pretty cool.
Just a short stroll away, you’ll find the Historic Military Stables. This building tells a different story of Ross’s past. Built to house the horses and military equipment of the 1830s, it’s just another glimpse into Tasmania’s colonial era.
While you are in Ross, make sure to take a stroll about town and discover it’s surprising role in the way Tasmania’s was settled and colonized.
Here’s a hint, and more info about visiting the town of Ross.
Stop 5 – Discover Oatlands convict history
Drive time: 23 minutes, arrive 3:15pm
Walking through Oatlands is like stepping into a recreation of the Georgian sandstone building lined streets of Tasmania’s colonial era.
It’s famous for it’s convict history, but there’s so much more here to explore.
Oatlands Mill and Callington Mill Distillery
Tucked away next to the Oatlands Mill, the Callington Mill Distillery is a hidden gem that combines Tasmania’s rich heritage with its contemporary flair for producing world-class spirits.
The beautifully restored 19th-century Oatlands mill is a picturesque backdrop for a truly unique single malt whisky experience. As you step inside, you’re greeted by the smell of freshly distilled spirits and the sight of gleaming copper stills.
It’s here that the magic happens — where traditional craftsmanship meets Tasmania’s most innovative distillery techniques to produce some of Tasmania’s finest whiskies.
A visit to Callington Mill isn’t just about sampling their exceptional range of single malts; it’s about soaking in the history of the Oatlands Mill. From its original construction in the 1830s and ties to an illegal distillery side business, to its revival as a premier (legal!) distillery today.
You will need to stop in here first as the distillery closes at 4pm.
Oatlands Military Precinct
The Oatlands Military Precinct and Oatlands Gaol are the heart Oatlands’ convict history. As you wander through the precinct, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful old sandstone structures that tell stories of soldiers, convicts, hangmen and early settlers.
The cobblestone streets and quaint shopfronts add to the charm, creating a picturesque scene that feels at once miles away but also quintessentially Tasmania.
Each building has its own tale, from the old courthouse to the stables. And it’s easy to lose yourself in the rich tapestry of stories that grew this under-explored episode of Tasmania’s colonial history. So take wander around town, and read the fascinating stories of Oatland’s past.
Stop 6 – Hobart
Drive time: 1 hour 10 minutes, arrive 6:15pm
You’ll drive straight through from Oatlands to Hobart, having
- supped on Tassie’s best cheeses,
- slurped it’s finest ales,
- sipped it’s innovative single malts,
- traversed it’s colonial and convict history and
- made friends the devil (the Tasmanian kind!) along the way.
And that’s what we call a cracking adventure.
Devonport to Hobart road trip overnight
Ahh, a more relaxed pace means more adventures at incredible stops along the way! This itinerary has you travelling on Day 1 from Devonport to Launceston.
After spending the night in Launceston, Day 2 will cover the Launceston to Hobart Drive.
Devonport to Launceston – Day 1
Day 1 takes the day trip itinerary above and tops it, in many ways. There’s wombats and wineries, ice cream and classic colonial scenes.
Instead of 3 stops from Devonport to Launceston, you’ll have the choice of 10 stops on this full day trip!
The driving route on Day 1 takes in additional stops at a chocolate maker, a winery, Tasmania’s best ice cream, a raspberry farm, and a honey producer.
Indulgent, we know. But that’s not all!
It wouldn’t be an authentic Tassie road trip without calling into Westbury on the way and if you have time, capping off an unforgettable day at the Clarendon Arms Pub after a wander through historic Evandale.
Your choice of stops along the way include:
- Anvers Chocolate
- Eastford Creek Winery
- Ashgrove Dairy Door
- Van Diemens Land Creamery
- Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary
- Mole Creek Caves
- Melita Honey,
- Bush Inn Brewery
- Westbury Village Green
- Evandale & Clarendon Arms Hotel
The most scenic stretches along this route are from Ashgrove Dairy Door to Elizabeth Town, Deloraine to Mole Creek, and Mole Creek to Westbury.
In these areas expect gorgeous, green rural landscapes framed by impressive distant mountains and dotted with contented cows and docile sheep.
To read all about each of these wonderful stops along your epic Day 1 journey, check out “Devonport to Launceston – 10 best stops, scenic route and transport options’.
Where to stay in Launceston
We often nick over to Launceston for a long weekend (of mainly eating) and like to stay in accommodation central to the action in the centre of the city. We like accommodation with a Tasmanian twist. These are far and away our favourite places to stay:
- The Green Room $$ – retro glam interior is super fun, quirky and carefully curated, excellent CBD location and unbeatable price for the quality of stay, we love it all
- Alices Cottages $$$ – 7 charming historic cottages beautifully restored, think clawfoot bath tubs, old timber floors, wood fires, colonial vibes. The Scottish Cottage is our fave.
- The Old Federal Coffee Palace $$$ – retro industrial chic apartment, spacious and super central perfect for a family stay
- Henry’s on Balfour $$$$$ – posh, lush, grand, exceptionally styled and central, Henry’s on Balfour all the adjectives and if aesthetic matter this is THE place for you
Launceston to Hobart – Day 2
Day 2 starts out in Launceston, where you have the early morning to visit Cataract George or wander Launceston’s historic CBD.
Day 2 of your journey covers the same destinations of Ross and Oatlands, but there’s more.
With some extra time up your sleeve you will also call into Kempton, between Oatlands and Hobart, to visit historic Old Kempton Distillery.
Here’s your itinerary for the Launceston to Hobart drive:
- Launceston to Ross for morning tea at the historic Ross Bakery and explore the old town.
- Lunch and a tasting (or a distillery tour) at Callington Mill Distillery 👆🏼, with more time to wander the heritage lined streets of Oatlands.
- An afternoon cheese platter and whiskey tasting at Old Kempton Distillery 👇🏽
Old Kempton Distillery
Housed in a stunning 1840s colonial mansion, the Old Kempton distillery is a blend of old-world charm and modern craft. And a unique whisky experience.
As you pull up to the property, you’re immediately captivated by the Georgian architecture and the meticulously manicured gardens . Inside, the distillery exudes warmth, with rustic wooden beams and an inviting atmosphere. This all sets the stage of course for a memorable tasting experience.
The distillery produces whiskies, gins, and liqueurs, with Tasmanian barley and pristine water the star of the show.
Grab a sampling flight of their finely crafted spirits, with a gourmet platter that showcases Tassie’s great local produce. Or if you like me, head straight for the Ice Whiskey. I can highly recommend!
Devonport to Hobart bus options
If you don’t have a car, there is a Devonport to Hobart bus route, run by Redline intercity service.
The good news is, there are stops along the way in some of our favourite destinations, which means you don’t miss out entirely on the fun! Just know that if you’re getting on an off, there’s limited services daily. Also, you need to book ahead if getting on and off at smaller locations.
So how does the bus thing work?
You actually need to take 2 buses to travel from Devonport to Hobart.
Route 705 departs 3 times daily from Monday to Friday from the Rooke St interchange in Devonport. The 705 bus departs twice daily on weekends.
The 705 bus goes from Devonport to the Launceston interchange, where you need to transfer to the route 702 bus.
Route 702 goes from Launceston to the Hobart interchange.
The whole process takes between 4 and 5 hours, which includes stops along the way and a half hour wait at the interchange in Launceston.
Check out the FAQs below for more information about the Devonport to Hobart bus price and timetable. 👇🏽
What next?
- If you’re planning on travelling to Tasmania by ferry, check out what you’ll pay to bring your car or a caravan and how to save money on the Spirit of Tasmania
- Planning to stay in Devonport a night or two? Here’s what to see and do in Devonport.
- Hitting Hobart for the first time? Get some inspiration for your Hobart trip right here.
FAQs
What is the Devonport to Hobart drive like?
It’s a 3 hour drive along single and double lane highway for most of the drive from Devonport to Launceston. It’s an easy drive, spanning speed limits from 80km to 110km an hour. Parts of the route, around Elizabeth Town, Deloraine offer sweeping views of very picturesque country scenery.
How much time does it take to go from Devonport to Hobart by car
It takes 3 hours and 5 minutes to travel non-stop from Devonport to Hobart by car.
Is there a Devonport to Hobart bus?
Yes, there is an intercity bus service that runs from Devonport to Hobart. The same service runs in reverse; from Hobart to Devonport.
From Devonport to Hobart: The 705 bus departs from the Rooke St bus interchange in Devonport heading to the Launceston interchange where you will need to transfer to the 702 bus, continuing on to Hobart.
There are a number of stops en-route, with the entire journey from Devonport to Hobart taking just under 5 hours.
What is the Devonport to Hobart bus price?
In 2024, the Devonport to Hobart bus price for an Adult ticket one way is $26.40
The ticket price for the Devonport to Hobart bus for a senior or pensioner is $13.20 (one way).
Where can I find the Devonport to Hobart bus timetable?
Intercity buses run between Devonport and Hobart three times a day from Monday to Friday and twice a day on the weekends.
You can find the timetable for this bus route on the Tasmanian Transport Services page.
Where should you stop between Devonport and Hobart?
If you’re driving through from Devonport to Hobart, the best place for bathroom break and a coffee along the way is at Campbell Town.
Pull up at the park on the left as you travel through town along the main road. You’ll see the bathroom facilities in the park.
There’s also an EV charging station in Campbell Town next to the bathrooms. The best coffee in Campbell Town is at Sweet Brew opposite the park.
How long does it take to travel from Hobart to Devonport?
It takes 3 hours non stop by car to travel from Hobart to Devonport.
The Hobart to Devonport bus takes 4 hours and 50 minutes, with several stops along the way.
Is there a Devonport to Hobart ferry?
There is no ferry from Devonport to Hobart.
How to get from Launceston to Hobart?
The easiest way to get from Launceston to Hobart is by car. The most direct route to take is National Highway 1 (the Bass Highway) which goes through Campbell Town and past Ross, Oatlands and Kempton. While this is the most direct and quickest route, these 4 towns are also great places to stop along the way, to see more of Tasmania. Check out what’s at these stopovers in this article 👆🏼.
You can also go from Launceston to Hobart by bus. The route 702 intercity bus runs from Launceston to Hobart 4 times a day on week days, and twice a day on weekends.
How far is Launceston from Hobart?
Launceston is 202km from Hobart. The drive takes 2 hours and 15 minutes via National Highway 1 through the midlands. It’s not the only route you can take. If you have more time, you may wish to travel east from Launceston along the coastal route to Hobart. But this will take longer.
