A Slow‑Travel Escape: 4 Days Discovering Devonport

Devonport City Council
Devonport is a place where coastlines meet culture, and where slowing down reveals the true richness of Tasmania’s North‑West. With everything close at hand; beaches, bushland, food, art and history, it’s easy to settle in and explore without rushing.
This four‑day itinerary invites you to experience Devonport through gentle journeys, local stories and unforgettable coastal scenery. Whether arriving by sea or air, Devonport makes a perfect base to explore the region at your own pace.

Day 1: Savour and Slow Down

Ease into Devonport life with a morning visit to Hill Street Grocer, stocking up on local produce before stopping for a coffee at Leaping Goat Coffee, a much‑loved local roastery.
From here, venture just beyond the city to the Tasmanian Arboretum, a 66‑hectare haven of temperate‑zone trees and tranquil walking trails. Settle in beside Founders Lake for a picnic and keep an eye out for platypus, often spotted gliding through the water.
The afternoon offers tempting detours — sample cider at Spreyton Cider, enjoy wine and music at Prickly Mo, or explore one of several nearby cellar doors and farm experiences. Return to Devonport for an evening of bold flavours at Taste by Bold Cuisine, where the degustation menu celebrates seasonal Tasmanian produce.

Day 2: Coastlines, Trails and Wildlife

Devonport’s extensive network of shared walking and cycling paths makes exploring the foreshore effortless. Start the day with breakfast overlooking the Mersey River at Harbour Master Café, then wander through Haines Park, a striking waterfront precinct.
Follow the coastal trail to The Bluff, home to calm swimming waters and Devonport’s iconic candy‑striped lighthouse. Fish and chips from Drift Café are best enjoyed with sea air and wide-open views.
Continue north through Coles Beach and Don Heads before entering Don Reserve, where riverside trails wind past native bushland and historic rail lines. In the evening, enjoy dinner overlooking Bass Strait atMrs. Jones Restaurant, then head to Lillico Beach to witness little penguins returning to their burrows at dusk — a truly memorable Devonport experience.

Day 3: Stories, Sea Breezes and Maritime Heritage

Begin the day with a sunrise sauna at Savu Sauna at Mersey Bluff, followed by a visit to Tiagarra Cultural Centre, one of Australia’s oldest Aboriginal‑operated cultural centres. Here, the continuing stories and cultural practices of Tasmania’s Aboriginal people are shared through exhibitions and the surrounding landscape.
At midday, step into Devonport’s maritime past at the Bass Strait Maritime Museum, where stories of shipwrecks, seafarers and coastal life come alive. Interactive exhibits and the popular ship simulator make this a highlight for all ages.
Lunch is served on the deck at Marion Storm Café, located within the museum precinct. The afternoon offers flexible options — sailing aboard the historic Julie Burgess tall ship, coastal exploration, or, on clear nights, seeking out dark skies to glimpse the Aurora Australis.
As evening falls, enjoy local gin at Southern Wild Distillery, followed by dinner at Mr Good Guyat Novotel Devonport. End the day with From Sky to Sea, Devonport’s free sound and light show that tells the region’s story through music, imagery and Palawa creation narratives.

Day 4: Creative Trails and Tastes

Devonport’s creative side shines through its galleries, laneways and makers. After breakfast at Laneway Café, wander the city’s growing street art precincts before spending time at the Devonport Regional Gallery, home to contemporary Tasmanian art and an active exhibition program.
Lunch at Anvers Chocolate Factory pairs beautifully with a visit to the tasting room, while the afternoon leads to boutique producers in nearby Spreyton, including La Villa Winery and Simon Martin Whips & Leather Craft, where traditional Tasmanian craftsmanship is still practised today.
As your time in Devonport draws to a close, the Spirit of Tasmania departs directly from the city — a fitting farewell after days spent immersed in coast, culture and connection.

Download the Full Itinerary

For a detailed, day‑by‑day guide including distances, accommodation and loads of additional suggestions, download the complete Devonport Itinerary 2026

For more inspiration…

Press play and experience Devonport — where coastlines, culture and creativity come together on Tasmania’s North‑West: