East coast Tassie is known far and wide as some of the prettiest coastal real estate in the country, and the Bay of Fires is absolutely no exception. The Bay of Fires Conservation area protects a 50km swathe of coastline between Eddystone Point and Binnalong Bay.

Whether you’re a Tassie local or interstate blow-in, a weekend jaunt up the coast to the Bay of Fires is a seriously good time.

Of course, you’re looking at driving past a whole stack of famously good-looking spots like the Freycinet National Park and Bicheno on your way north, but why not make a roadtrip of it and give yourself a couple of days to explore the coastline on your way back south?

The Bay is home to a handful of idyllic campsites where you can take your pick of aquatic pastimes. Remember to pack a good quality wetsuit as it’s absolutely worth braving the chilly waters for a chance to snorkel the protected reefs within the marine conservation area, or even have a surf at one of the fun local beach breaks.

STUFF TO DO

4WDING unfortunately isn’t a major drawcard in these parts, but it’s worth jumping behind the wheel to explore the Great Eastern Drive on a Tassie east coast roadtrip.

SNORKELLING amongst the secluded coves in the area can be incredibly rewarding, with crays, abalone and loads of different fish species in attendance year round. Do pack your wetsuit though, as the water’s almost always chilly.

IMPORTANT INFO

LOCATION: 275km north of Hobart, access is via National Highway 1 and the Esk Highway.

CAMPING is available at Grants Lagoon, Swimcart Beach and Cosy Corner, as well as several smaller campgrounds without facilities. The main campgrounds offer large grassy sites and basic pit toilets.

FUEL is available at St Helens.

MORE INFO is available at www.parks.tas.gov.au