Motorcycling in Tasmania

With its well-maintained roads, low traffic and spectacular natural scenery, Tasmania is a motorcyclist’s dream. The island’s compact size means that it’s easy to cover a diverse array of terrain on two wheels, from rugged mountains to wildlife-packed grasslands and rushing rivers. 

 Tasmania’s coastal routes are among its most popular, with stunning ocean views and World Heritage-listed rainforests to discover. But there are equally enticing short jaunts from the major centres, taking you to history-drenched towns with welcoming pubs where you can refuel. 

 The East Coast 

 The Great Eastern Drive winds from Hobart to St. Helens and on to the breathtakingly beautiful Bay of Fires. You can ride the ferry to Maria Island to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Darlington convict settlement, then stop to taste at one of the many cellar doors that dot the vineyard-swathed surrounds. A detour will take you to the pink-hued peaks and stunning beaches of Freycinet National Park, which offers everything from rustic campsites to award-winning luxury stays. Before arriving in St. Helens, you can take the narrow route known as Elephant Pass to St. Marys, with a pancake lunch all part of the riding experience. 

The North Coast

 If you’re arriving into Devonport on the Spirit of Tasmania, be sure to hit the Bass Highway, which hugs the island’s north coast en route to Marrawah. Aside from being incredibly scenic, it takes you through the endearing town of Penguin and the old port of Burnie, which has reinvented itself as an artistic hub. Continue through the wildflower-filled Rocky Cape National Park and climb to the top of The Nut, the volcanic plug that dominates Stanley. Along the way, you’ll be breathing in some of the freshest air in the world while the Roaring Forties remind you that you’re alive. 

The West Coast

 Often referred to as the “Wild West”, this rugged part of Tasmania lives up to its reputation with jaw-dropping scenery and long stretches of road between civilisations. Head out of Hobart towards Derwent Bridge (the gateway to Lake St. Clair) or opt for a detour along the winding Gordon River Road to explore Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. The Lyell Highway descends into Queenstown with an epic 99 bends, surrounded by a mining-generated moonscape. Make a stop here to ride the West Coast Wilderness Railway while hearing about the characters who fought for riches in this remote part of the world. The route continues west to lovely Strahan, the gateway to Macquarie Harbour and giant dunes. 

The South

 From Hobart, there are plenty of exhilarating day trips for bikers to choose from, with the suburban sprawl ending almost as soon as it begins. You can ride through the orchards of the Huon Valley and past the wooden boat-building town of Franklin to Geeveston and Hartz Mountains National Park. Alternatively, follow the route that hugs the D'Entrecasteaux Channel to the fishing village of Kettering, from where a vehicular ferry connects to Bruny Island. This biker’s heaven boasts towering sea cliffs, little penguin colonies and foodie experiences that range from gourmet cheese to freshly shucked oysters. 

 If you ride southeast from Hobart, you’ll be greeted by the rugged coastal landscapes of the Tasman Peninsula, home to the former convict settlement of Port Arthur. Soak up the sweeping views as you descend to Eaglehawk Neck and see the quirky shack signs of Doo Town before discovering the Tessellated Pavement and the aptly named Devil’s Kitchen. 

Top image credit. Pete Harmsen