Tasmanian Trail: Devonport to Dover

Devonport to Dover, central Tasmania · Australia

Challenging8 daysOceania~£700 est.

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Overview

The Tasmanian Trail runs 480km down the middle of the island from the ferry ramp at Devonport to the fishing port of Dover in the far south — a multi-use route of forestry roads, fire trails and quiet farm lanes that most Tasmanians have never heard of — precisely its appeal. You ride under Mount Roland's dolerite ramparts near Sheffield, climb onto the Central Plateau's lake country, cross the Derwent at New Norfolk, and finish among Huon Valley apple orchards with the D'Entrecasteaux Channel ahead. This is self-reliant touring rather than groomed trail: navigation apps are essential, some sections cross private land with gates to leave as found, and resupply towns are a day apart. The variable that catches people out is Tasmanian weather doing all four seasons in an afternoon — the plateau can snow in January. The Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Geelong delivers you and your bike to the start. Eight days at around 60km/day suits a loaded gravel bike or hardtail. Camp at designated sites and showgrounds, with pub beds in Bothwell and New Norfolk breaking it up. Buy the Tasmanian Trail guidebook — sales fund the route. Budget around £700 all in.