8 Hidden Tasmanian Gems for Your Motorhome Road Trip

Tasmania may be small, but it’s packed with treasures — and not all of them are on the main tourist trail. While places like Wineglass Bay and Cradle Mountain are deservedly famous, dozens of lesser-known towns and natural wonders are just as captivating.

If you’re travelling in a Cruisin’ Motorhome, you have the freedom to venture beyond the guidebooks and discover Tasmania’s quirky villages, coastal hideaways, and wild landscapes at your own pace. Here are 8 hidden destinations worth adding to your itinerary.

Image: Couple exploring Tasmania with our Cruisin’ Deluxe

1.  New Norfolk – Riverside Antiques & Charm

📍 ~47 km from our Hobart branch

Nestled on the banks of the Derwent River, just 30 minutes west of Hobart, you will encounter the charming hidden town of New Norfolk, a gem for antique lovers and history fans. With spectacular river, mountain and valley views and an array of historic houses and quirky antique stores, this riverside oasis is the perfect place for a peaceful motorhome escape. Take a scenic walk alongside the Derwent River or pay a visit to Willow Court, a former insane asylum housed in a charming old stone building.

Top 3 Activities:

• The Agrarian Kitchen - Enjoy farm-to-table meals using fresh local produce.
• Explore Willow Court – Discover the history of this former asylum housed in charming stone buildings.
• Kayaking on the Derwent River – Paddle along scenic waters and enjoy the serene riverside views.

Motorhome Tip: Visit on a Sunday to enjoy the bustling market — perfect for stocking your motorhome pantry with local produce.

Best Campsite:  New Norfolk Caravan Park – Scenic powered sites right beside the river.

Image: Kayaking on River Derwent, New Norfolk, Stu Gibson

2.  Kettering – Gateway to Bruny Island

📍 ~54 km from our Hobart branch

The secluded and picture-perfect town of Kettering is the ideal base to explore the many quirky and cultured charms of Southern Tasmania, including the breathtaking Huon Trail. The harbour-side village is perfect for encountering the reflective waters of the D’Entrecasteaux Channel and offers private charters and sailing trips. Visit beautiful Bruny Island to sample some of the best produce the state has on offer or spend the day exploring wineries and national parks.

Top 3 Activities:

• Take a Ferry to Bruny Island – Explore gourmet food, beaches, and iconic lighthouses.
• Sail or Kayak on the D’Entrecasteaux Channel – Experience peaceful waterways and wildlife.
• Cycle or Walk the Huon Trail – Scenic paths through orchards, forests, and riverside views.

Motorhome Tip: Book your Bruny Island ferry ticket in advance if you plan to take your motorhome across — spots can fill quickly in summer.

Best Campsite: Snug Beach Cabin & Caravan Tourist Park – Small, quiet park with powered sites close to the beach.

Image: Bruny Island Ferry, Jess Bonde

3.  Orford – East Coast Escape

📍 ~79 km from the Hobart branch

The east coast of Tasmania will delight all travellers with its pristine beaches, out-of-this-world seafood experiences and charming coastal walks. A laid-back seaside town with pristine beaches, Orford is perfect for those who want the East Coast beauty without the busier crowds. Relax at Spring Beach, take the ferry to Maria Island, or enjoy local wine at Darlington Vineyard.

Top 3 Activities:

• Dine at Scorchers by the River – Wood-fired pizza and local Tasmanian wines and ciders.
• Walk Spring Beach to Shelly Beach – Scenic coastal trail with rugged cliffs and beach views.
• Visit Darlington Vineyard – Sample local wines while enjoying panoramic views of Maria Island.

Motorhome Tip: Orford’s coastal walks are short but spectacular — pack your camera for the Spring Beach to Shelly Beach trail.

Best Campsite: Orford Sea Breeze Holiday Cabins – Spacious powered sites just a short walk from the beach.

Image: Darlington Vineyard, Pete Harmsen

4.  Bothwell – Whisky & History

📍 ~87 km from the Hobart branch

Known for its colonial history and whisky, Bothwell is home to Australia’s oldest golf course and grand sandstone buildings. Wander down the quiet main street and appreciate a wealth of historical buildings, including St Michael's and All Angels Churches and ‘Ratho’ and ‘Wentworth’, two 19th-century ‘gentlemen’s residences’ just outside of town. To sample world-class whisky, pay a visit to Nant Estate, located where Australia’s oldest working flour mill once existed. 

Top 3 Activities:

• Tour Nant Distillery – Sample award-winning single malt whisky and learn about the distillery’s history.
• Heritage Walk – Explore 19th-century sandstone buildings, churches, and historic “gentlemen’s residences.”
• Golf at Bothwell Golf Club – Play a round at Tasmania’s oldest golf course surrounded by picturesque scenery.

Motorhome Tip: If you’re visiting in winter, pack warm clothes — Bothwell can get frosty even in the middle of the day.

Best Campsite: Bothwell Camping Ground & Caravan Park – Quiet and affordable powered sites within walking distance to town.

Image: Bothwell Hotel of the Highlands, Darren Wright

5.  Tarraleah – Highlands Hideaway

📍 ~125 km from the Hobart branch

Unheard of to most of the Tasmanian population, Tarraleah is home to quirky Highland cows and is a great place to get off the beaten tourist track. Get up close with  Tassie’s unique wildlife, including the iconic Tasmanian Devil. The town also has a vast range of dining options on offer for anyone looking for a hearty paddock-to-plate experience.

Top 3 Activities:

• Moonlight Monster Tour – A night-time adventure spotting Tasmania’s unique wildlife.
• Guided Walks and Cycling Tours – Explore the surrounding highlands, lakes, and forests.
• Visit Local Wildlife – See Highland cows and Tasmanian devils up close at nearby wildlife spots.

Motorhome Tip: The highlands can get cool even in summer — your motorhome’s heating will be your best friend at night.

Best Campsite: Tarraleah Estate Caravan Park – Powered sites with mountain views and easy access to nature walks.

Image: Highland Cows - Tarraleah Estate, Natalie Mendham

6.  Dover – The Far South’s Hidden Haven

📍 ~130 km from the Hobart branch

Nestled in the far south of Tasmania on the idyllic D’Entrecasteaux Channel, you will find the quaint village of Dover surrounded by secluded bays, tranquil mountains and charming farm gates. Dover is a peaceful base to explore Hastings Caves and the Thermal Springs. Enjoy freshly caught seafood, wander along the foreshore, and take in the far-south tranquillity.

Top 3 Activities:

• Hastings Caves & Thermal Springs – Explore dolomite caves and relax in the warm thermal pools.
• Walk the Dover Foreshore – Scenic paths along the water with peaceful mountain views.
• Fresh Seafood Tasting – Sample locally caught fish, oysters, and other Tasmanian delicacies at nearby eateries.

Motorhome Tip: Bring swimwear for the thermal pool at Hastings — it’s open year-round and perfect after exploring the caves.

Best Campsite: Southport Hotel & Caravan Park – Powered sites and easy access to Australia’s most southern pub.

Image: Newdegate Cave, Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs, Lauren Bath

7.  Penguin – North West Coast Charm

📍 ~315 km from our Hobart branch

With its seaside setting, colourful main street, and (yes) a giant penguin statue, this coastal town is as charming as it sounds. Stroll along the foreshore, browse the weekend markets for handmade Tasmanian crafts, and enjoy a pastry from the local bakery. If you’re visiting between September and March, you might even spot little penguins returning to shore at dusk.

Top 3 Activities:

• Hug the Giant Penguin Statue – The town’s most famous photo spot.
• Visit Penguin Undercover Markets – Held every Sunday with local crafts, produce, and live music.
• Kayaking Along the Foreshore – Paddle the calm waters and enjoy scenic coastal views.

Motorhome Tip: Stop at Devonport’s supermarkets to stock up on fresh supplies before continuing to Penguin — you’ll have plenty of options for scenic beachside dinners from your motorhome kitchen.

Best Campsite: Penguin Caravan Park – Right on the beach, with powered sites overlooking Bass Strait. Perfect for a sunset view straight from your motorhome door.

Image: The Big Penguin, Stu Gibson

8.  Arthur River – The Edge of the World

📍 ~469 km from the Hobart branch

Remote and wild, Arthur River offers windswept beaches, lighthouse views, and river cruises through the Tarkine rainforest. The village is home to just 25-40 (local) residents and will give you a true taste of what life is like on the untamed and wild west coast of Tasmania. This oasis at the end of the world is home to untouched beaches ideal for sunset walks, a brilliant lighthouse at Bluff Hill Point and an abundance of crayfish and abalone.

Top 3 Activities:

• Arthur River Cruise – Explore the Tarkine Wilderness and spot platypus, azure kingfishers, and other wildlife.
• Bluff Hill Point Lighthouse – Visit this iconic lighthouse for dramatic coastal views and sunsets.
• Beach Walks – Stroll along untouched beaches and enjoy the solitude of Tasmania’s west coast.

Motorhome Tip: Stock up on fuel and groceries before you leave Smithton — services are limited here.

Best Campsite: Arthur River Cabin Park & Camp Ground – Powered sites surrounded by bushland and just minutes from the beach.

Image: Arthur River Cruises, Tourism Australia

Start Planning Your Tasmanian Trip!

Ready to uncover Tasmania’s hidden side? With a Cruisin’ Motorhome, you’ll have everything you need on board — from a fully equipped kitchen to your own shower and cosy bed — giving you the freedom to explore these off-the-beaten-path gems at your own pace.

🌿 Ready To Hit The Road?

Hire a self-contained motorhome from Cruisin’ Motorhomes and turn your Tassie exploration into the ultimate road trip.

Call our friendly reservations team on 1300 664 485 or check out our website to see the motorhomes we have available at our branches!

Check out our itineraries page for more travel inspiration!

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