Base yourself in Burnie for a north‑west circuit
Burnie sits on the north‑west coast and is often suggested as a convenient starting point for a Lap of Tasmania. From there you can plan short coastal drives, food and gallery stops, or head inland to alpine country. Arrivals commonly use the Spirit of Tasmania into Devonport or fly and hire a car, then drive west or south along coastal and inland routes.
Coastal towns and easy day stops
Follow the coastal route through towns such as Penguin, Ulverstone and Latrobe for short walks, local produce and small museums. Along the way you will find chocolate and dairy producers, berry farms and riverfront parks suitable for easy stops. Devonport serves as the ferry terminal and offers riverfront walking. Small towns on the route provide tidy breaks between longer driving legs and are suitable for families or travellers after gentle walks and local tasting stops.
Cradle Mountain and alpine highlights
Cradle Mountain is a key interior stop often included on 4–5 night circuits from Burnie. Short walks around Dove Lake and nearby alpine trails deliver classic mountain scenery and native wildlife sightings. Prepare for changeable conditions by packing a rain jacket, sun protection, hat and water. If you plan to visit the Cradle Mountain area, allow time to buy the required park pass and, where relevant, shuttle bus tickets at the visitor centre before beginning longer walks.
West coast wilderness and Strahan
For a contrasting experience, the west coast and Strahan offer rainforest, rivers and wilderness cruises. Guided boat trips on the Gordon River and other west‑coast excursions are commonly included on extended circuits that begin in the north. These trips and some remote accommodation options can fill quickly in peak times, so check availability and book in advance where your itinerary depends on a specific cruise or lodge.
Heritage towns, galleries and food trails
The north‑west route also links heritage towns and regional food producers. Burnie itself highlights maritime and art deco architecture, galleries and a small‑scale waterfront culture. Tasting trails and craft food producers are common stops on the drive south toward Launceston and Hobart, and some specialist experiences such as distilleries, cheese makers and chocolate factories are suited to short visits or tastings en route.
Practical checks before you travel
Plan for seasonality and variable weather. The region experiences four distinct seasons and mountain areas can be significantly cooler and wetter than the coast. Check for any required national park passes, book transport or guided experiences that have limited capacity, and make reservations for accommodation or popular activities in peak periods. Keep wildlife wild by observing animals at a respectful distance and avoid feeding them; this applies across national parks and town fringes.
What to expect on routes and itineraries
Suggested short itineraries often group Burnie with Cradle Mountain, Launceston and Hobart for a mixed programme of coast, alpine walks and cultural stops. Longer circuits extend to Stanley, the rugged west coast and east coast highlights. Expect each segment to change in character from seaside promenades and gallery towns to high country trails and river cruises. Allow extra time for road conditions and weather changes when planning daily legs.
Suitability and who this works for
These routes suit travellers who want a mix of accessible coastal towns and reachable wilderness without committing to very long hikes. Families, couples and independent drivers can use Burnie as a base for short day trips or multi‑night circuits. If you aim to include alpine walks or west‑coast cruises, check fitness requirements for particular trails and make bookings for limited‑capacity activities.
Simple safety and reservation tips
Buy any required park passes at visitor centres before starting key walks. Book special experiences and some accommodation in advance, especially in summer and school holidays. Pack layered clothing and sun protection for alpine and coastal days, and observe wildlife from a distance to keep animals wild. If your plan includes golf at well known coastal courses or specific guided cruises, consider booking tee times and cruise seats early to avoid disappointment.