The Cradle Coast name covers a broad part of north-west Tasmania, from Bass Strait ports and farming towns to Cradle Mountain and the western ranges. It is more useful as a planning region than a single drive.
Build around two bases
Devonport suits arrivals and the Central Coast, while Burnie, Wynyard or Stanley cover the west. Cradle Mountain deserves its own accommodation or full day because mountain access, shuttle arrangements and weather consume time.
Coast and hinterland differ
Penguin, Ulverstone and Wynyard have services and short foreshore stops. Inland roads reach Gunns Plains, Sheffield, Waratah and forest country with fewer services and slower driving.
Do not compress the far north-west
Stanley, Smithton, Marrawah and Arthur River require a separate western plan. Distances look modest, but narrow roads, wildlife and worthwhile stops make hurried returns tiring.
Start with Devonport, then choose between Cradle Mountain, Stanley and takayna / Tarkine.