Cradle Mountain Itinerary
The Cradle Mountain Road Trip is an amazing Australian experience, starting in the city of Queenstown and ending in Launceston. It takes approximately two days to complete this 202 mile journey, with the best time to visit being during the Australian summer months when the weather is mild and the landscape is at its most beautiful.
This road trip will take you through the towns of Zeehan and Tullah, two great places to stop on the way and explore the local attractions. The roads are generally in good condition, although some sections are narrow and winding, so be sure to take care when driving.
This road trip is perfect for anyone, from the experienced driver to the novice. The scenery and experiences along the way provide memories that will last a lifetime, although it should be noted that this is a trip that requires a high budget.
Whether you are a seasoned traveller or an adventurer looking for a new experience, the Cradle Mountain Road Trip is one that you should definitely consider.
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number of days
324 km
route length
high
budget
family
good for
on the left
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Queenstown
Distance 324 km
Driving time 4.9 h
Pace: fast
97.3 kWh
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Queenstown is a small coastal town located in the heart of Australia's south-east coast, making it an ideal starting point for the "Cradle Mountain Road Trip". The town has a variety of attractions to offer, including galleries, museums, and an array of outdoor activities.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, Queenstown is a great place to explore. There are plenty of beaches to relax on, as well as nearby walking and cycling trails. You can also visit the nearby Otway National Park, which offers a range of wildlife and scenery to explore.
If you're looking for some culture, Queenstown is home to a number of galleries and museums, including the Queenstown Art Gallery and the Queenstown Historical Museum. These offer a unique insight into the history of the area, as well as a range of artworks and artefacts.
The closest international airport to Queenstown is Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL), where you can easily hire a car and begin your road trip. There are a variety of car rental companies at the airport, so you'll have no problem finding the perfect car for your journey.
Queenstown is the perfect starting point for the "Cradle Mountain Road Trip", offering plenty of activities and attractions to explore. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach holiday or a cultural experience, Queenstown will not disappoint. So why not start your road trip here, and enjoy all that this beautiful town has to offer.
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Queenstown
- Zeehan
Distance 84 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: fast
25.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a road trip that starts in Queenstown and will take you to Strahan and Zeehan! This route will take you through some of the most stunning scenery in Australia, and you can expect to see spectacular views of the sea, mountains, and forests along the way. The total distance of this trip is 52 mi and it should take you under 2 hours.
As you drive, make sure you keep an eye out for the historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. You'll also come across some steep ramps and winding roads, so make sure you stay alert and take your time.
Once you arrive in Strahan, you'll have the chance to explore the town's rich maritime history and take in the beauty of the harbor. Then, you'll make your way to Zeehan, where you can enjoy the views of the lush valley and visit the nearby mining sites.
For more information about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Zeehan - Australia - Oceania - Scenic Drive - Discover Tasmania
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2
Zeehan
- Rosebery
Distance 28 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: fast
8.3 kWh
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Itinerary
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Get ready for an amazing road trip from Zeehan to Rosebery! This 17 mile route is filled with interesting places to explore and will take you less than an hour to complete. Enjoy the scenic views as you drive through narrow sections of the road and be sure to keep your eyes peeled for local attractions. Discover the historic mining town of Zeehan and explore the ruins of the old Gaiety Theatre. Then, take a walk around the Rosebery Heritage Trail, a picturesque trail that follows the old mine railway line. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, you can consult the Itinerary of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start your road trip adventure!
Rosebery - Australia - Oceania - Scenic Drive - Pixabay
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3
Rosebery
- Tullah
Distance 14 km
Driving time 0.2 h
Pace: fast
4.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on your journey from Rosebery to Tullah and discover the best of these two towns! This 9mi drive will take less than an hour and you'll be able to appreciate the beautiful nature by the narrow winding road. Don't forget to keep an eye out for scenic views! Once you arrive to Rosebery, make sure to visit the Rosebery Mine Museum, which showcases the history of the area. Then, head to Tullah and explore the beautiful Denison Canal. Make sure to spend some time at the Tullah Visitor Information Centre to get all the information about the area. Lastly, the Tullah Lakeside Lodge is a great spot to relax and take in the stunning views of the nearby lake. With all these attractions, you'll have plenty to do on your road trip from Rosebery to Tullah! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage.
Tullah - Australia - Oceania - Scenic Drive - Pixabay
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4
Tullah
- Deloraine
Distance 148 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: fast
44.3 kWh
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Itinerary
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Begin your text with: "Take the wheel and get ready for an unforgettable road trip! Starting in Tullah, Australia, you will be driving for 92 miles and fewer than 3 hours to reach Deloraine. On the way, you will enjoy the picturesque landscapes and scenic views of Cradle Mountain-Lake St.Clair National Park. The road is winding in some sections and narrow in others, so make sure to pay attention to the road signs. You will also be able to visit some of the most interesting places in these locations, such as Cradle Mountain, Dove Lake, and Lake St. Clair. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please visit the Itinerary of this stage."
Deloraine - Australia - Oceania - Scenic Drive - Travelsewhere
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5
Deloraine
- Launceston
Distance 52 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: fast
15.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to Tasmania! Your next stage of the road trip is a 32 mi drive from Deloraine to Launceston. Along the way, you will enjoy breathtaking views and discover some of the most interesting places in the area. The journey will take you less than 1 hour, so you will be able to make the most of each stop.
First, you will pass through the quaint town of Westbury, where you can admire the historic buildings and find a unique souvenir from the local shops. Then, you will reach the peaceful villages of Chudleigh and Exton. Here you can take a break to explore the charming countryside and have a picnic in the valley.
Next, you will pass through the town of Nile, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the nearby mountains. Then, you will arrive in the city of Launceston. Here, you can explore the historic sites, such as the Cataract Gorge, and visit the local galleries and shops.
Finally, you will reach the end of the stage, Launceston. Here you can enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city and visit the many attractions, such as the Boags Brewery and the Queen Victoria Museum.
To make the most of your trip, remember to take in the stunning views, stop at the interesting places along the way, and enjoy the local culture. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Launceston - Australia - Oceania - Scenic Drive - UTAS Blogs - University of Tasmania
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Launceston
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Launceston is a charming city situated in the north of Tasmania, Australia. As the second largest city in the state, Launceston is the perfect ending point for the Cradle Mountain Road Trip. This spectacular journey takes in the island's incredible natural beauty, from ancient rainforests to picturesque waterfalls.
Car travelers will find that Launceston is the ideal place to end their road trip. Once there, visitors can explore the city's many attractions, from the Cataract Gorge with its spectacular cliff-top views to the stunning Tamar Valley. The city is also home to the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, which houses one of the country's largest collections of fine art.
The city of Launceston also offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from rafting and kayaking on the Tamar River to mountain biking in the nearby Cataract Gorge. And for those seeking a more relaxed experience, the city offers a number of excellent restaurants and cafes.
For travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport is Launceston Airport (LST). From there, it's a short drive to the city center and the start of the Cradle Mountain Road Trip.
Launceston is a great place to end a road trip, offering a vibrant and exciting city experience, as well as plenty of opportunities to explore the region's stunning natural beauty. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Launceston has something for everyone.
Cradle Mountain at a glance
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Start:
Queenstown
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End:
Launceston
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Distance:
324 km
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Stay:
2 days
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When to drive:
January, February, March, April, May, September, October, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the captivating Cradle Mountain Road Trip, a 202-mile excursion from the historic mining town of Queenstown to the picturesque city of Launceston in Tasmania, Australia. This illustrious journey, typically spanning two days, allows adventurers to immerse themselves in the diverse Australian landscapes, from rugged mountains to tranquil lakes.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
The route meanders through the quaint heritage towns of Zeehan, known for its pioneering mining history, and Tullah, a serene lakeside village. The pièce de résistance is the majestic Cradle Mountain, set within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who can revel in the stunning vistas of Dove Lake, tackle the world-famous Overland Track, and possibly spot the elusive Tasmanian Devil amidst the park's unique temperate rainforests and alpine heaths.
Best Time to Go:
The Australian summer months, from December to February, are ideal for the Cradle Mountain Road Trip, offering favorable weather conditions that enhance the region's flora and fauna, providing a kaleidoscope of colors and experiences.
Potential Risks:
The route features narrow and serpentine roads that may present challenges, particularly for those unaccustomed to such terrain or navigating in inclement weather. It's important to drive cautiously and be mindful of changing conditions.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
The Cradle Mountain Road Trip is accessible to all, from seasoned road explorers to first-timers, and is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes. Budget accordingly, as this trip entails various expenses from accommodations to park fees. Notably, the region is home to unique wildlife, including wombats, echidnas, and the Tasmanian wedge-tailed eagle, adding an element of surprise to your journey.
A good choice for:
Ideal for nature lovers and those drawn to the allure of the wild, the Cradle Mountain Road Trip is an essential Australian experience. The journey offers a profound connection with nature and a treasure trove of sights that embody the untamed spirit of Tasmania.