Where to Eat and Stay: Tasmania's Great Eastern Drive

The open road calls, and for the discerning driver, the journey is as much about the experiences along the way as it is the thrill of the drive itself. Tasmania's Great Eastern Drive, a breathtaking ribbon of asphalt hugging the island's pristine coastline, offers a symphony of natural beauty and sophisticated indulgence. This route, stretching from Hobart to the Bay of Fires, is not merely a drive; it's an immersion into a landscape where rugged wilderness meets gourmet delights and world-class hospitality.

For those who appreciate the finer things in life – a perfectly executed corner, the roar of a well-tuned engine, and the exquisite pleasure of exceptional food and luxurious rest – the dining and accommodation choices along Tasmania's Great Eastern Drive are paramount. We've curated a selection of establishments that not only offer unparalleled quality but also cater to the unique needs and desires of the luxury driving enthusiast, ensuring every stop is as memorable as the drive itself. Prepare to discover where to refuel your body and soul on this iconic Australian adventure.

Where to Eat

Freycinet Marine Farm

Nestled in Coles Bay, Freycinet Marine Farm offers an authentic taste of Tasmania's marine bounty. As an Oyster Farm, it's a pilgrimage site for seafood aficionados. Fresh oysters, mussels, and crayfish served at outdoor tables overlooking Great Oyster Bay. Utterly simple, utterly perfect. The setting, often overlooking the serene waters of Great Oyster Bay, provides a picturesque backdrop to your culinary experience.

When visiting, you simply must not miss: A dozen freshly shucked Pacific oysters with a glass of Tasmanian sparkling wine.. This embodies the fresh, unpretentious quality that defines the region's produce. For drivers, parking is generally small gravel car park on-site.. No reservations — walk in. Open daily in season.

Tombolo Freycinet

Nestled in Coles Bay, Tombolo Freycinet offers an authentic taste of Tasmania's marine bounty. As an Fine Dining, it's a pilgrimage site for seafood aficionados. Contemporary Tasmanian cuisine in a stunning coastal setting. Showcases the best of East Coast produce. The setting, often overlooking the serene waters of Great Oyster Bay, provides a picturesque backdrop to your culinary experience.

When visiting, you simply must not miss: The tasting menu featuring local abalone, wallaby, and seasonal vegetables.. This embodies the fresh, unpretentious quality that defines the region's produce. For drivers, parking is generally parking at the freycinet lodge complex.. Essential — book well in advance, especially in summer.

The Farm Gate Market

Nestled in Hobart, The Farm Gate Market offers an authentic taste of Tasmania's marine bounty. As an Market, it's a pilgrimage site for seafood aficionados. Hobart's premier Sunday market showcasing Tasmania's extraordinary produce. Artisan bread, cheese, charcuterie, and seasonal fruit. The setting, often overlooking the serene waters of Great Oyster Bay, provides a picturesque backdrop to your culinary experience.

When visiting, you simply must not miss: The sourdough from Pigeon Whole Bakers and any seasonal stone fruit.. This embodies the fresh, unpretentious quality that defines the region's produce. For drivers, parking is generally nearby public parking in hobart cbd.. Sundays only, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Arrive early for the best selection.

Where to Stay

Saffire Freycinet

Located in Coles Bay, Saffire Freycinet is a Ultra-Luxury Lodge that redefines luxury and comfort. Australia's most awarded luxury lodge. Suites with floor-to-ceiling views of the Hazards and Great Oyster Bay. All-inclusive with guided experiences. Its strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders, including the iconic Freycinet National Park, after a exhilarating day on the road.

This property is particularly suited for drivers due to its luxury offering and amenities. Parking is complimentary parking.. Whether you're seeking unparalleled views, guided experiences, or simply a tranquil retreat, Saffire Freycinet delivers an exceptional stay that complements the high-octane adventure of the Great Eastern Drive.

Freycinet Lodge

Located in Coles Bay, Freycinet Lodge is a Lodge that redefines luxury and comfort. Comfortable cabins set in the bush at the edge of Freycinet National Park. Walking distance to the Wineglass Bay track. Its strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders, including the iconic Freycinet National Park, after a exhilarating day on the road.

This property is particularly suited for drivers due to its mid-range offering and amenities. Parking is free on-site parking.. Whether you're seeking unparalleled views, guided experiences, or simply a tranquil retreat, Freycinet Lodge delivers an exceptional stay that complements the high-octane adventure of the Great Eastern Drive.

Bay of Fires Lodge

Located in Bay of Fires, Bay of Fires Lodge is a Eco-Lodge that redefines luxury and comfort. Award-winning eco-lodge accessible only on foot. A guided walking experience with gourmet meals. Its strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders, including the iconic Freycinet National Park, after a exhilarating day on the road.

This property is particularly suited for drivers due to its luxury offering and amenities. Parking is park at the trailhead; the lodge is walk-in only.. Whether you're seeking unparalleled views, guided experiences, or simply a tranquil retreat, Bay of Fires Lodge delivers an exceptional stay that complements the high-octane adventure of the Great Eastern Drive.

Diamond Island Resort

Located in Bicheno, Diamond Island Resort is a Resort that redefines luxury and comfort. Waterfront resort with self-contained apartments and penguin viewing from the property. Its strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders, including the iconic Freycinet National Park, after a exhilarating day on the road.

This property is particularly suited for drivers due to its mid-range offering and amenities. Parking is free on-site parking.. Whether you're seeking unparalleled views, guided experiences, or simply a tranquil retreat, Diamond Island Resort delivers an exceptional stay that complements the high-octane adventure of the Great Eastern Drive.

The Stable's Take

For a truly unforgettable 2-3 night sojourn along Tasmania's Great Eastern Drive, we recommend anchoring your experience in Coles Bay. Begin with the unparalleled luxury of Saffire Freycinet, allowing two nights to fully immerse yourself in its all-inclusive opulence and guided excursions. This provides a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, with secure parking for your prized vehicle.

Culinary adventures should include the rustic charm and exquisite freshness of Freycinet Marine Farm for lunch, followed by an evening of contemporary Tasmanian fine dining at Tombolo Freycinet. This combination ensures both casual indulgence and sophisticated gastronomy, perfectly complementing the scenic drives and luxurious stays. Remember to book Tombolo well in advance!

Practical Notes

Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for premium accommodation like Saffire Freycinet and fine dining establishments such as Tombolo Freycinet, particularly during the peak season (October to April). While many places offer on-site parking, always confirm arrangements for larger or performance vehicles. Secure parking is often available at higher-tier accommodations. For electric vehicle owners, charging infrastructure is growing but still sparse in some remote areas; plan your charging stops accordingly.

The Great Eastern Drive is best enjoyed during Tasmania's warmer months, from October to April, when the weather is ideal for coastal cruising and outdoor activities. Always check local conditions and opening hours, as some smaller establishments may have seasonal closures. Embrace the opportunity to explore local markets like The Farm Gate Market in Hobart for unique regional produce.