The best motorcycle roads in northern and western Tasmania

Tasmania is small on the map and long on the road. Beyond Hobart the best riding is spread across the island, and the roads are quieter and more remote than almost anywhere on the mainland.

The north-east: Weldborough Pass

The Tasman Highway between Scottsdale and the east coast climbs through forest to Weldborough Pass, with a good run of bends at the top. It is a main route, so trucks and caravans are part of the ride. Fog and rain sit on the pass, so allow extra time. Elephant Pass, near St Marys, is the other classic on the east side.

The Central Plateau: Highland Lakes Road

The Highland Lakes Road climbs from Poatina onto the Central Plateau, with bends through forest and then open, exposed country. It is high and cold, and snow and ice can close it outside summer. There is little fuel on the plateau, so fill up first.

The West Coast: Queenstown

The Lyell Highway at Queenstown is a dramatic descent through treeless hills, with big views and a long run of bends. Trucks and tourists share it, and the West Coast gets a lot of rain, so take it steadily. Queenstown has fuel and food.

What to know before you go

• Weather. Conditions on the plateau and the West Coast change fast. Carry layers and waterproofs.
• Fuel. Fill up before the plateau and the West Coast.
• Wildlife. Dawn and dusk are risky everywhere on the island.
• Season. November to April.

Plan it

Drop pins in the app, choose curvy routing, and it builds a loop along the twistiest roads it can find. Download the offline map pack before you leave: coverage is patchy across the plateau and the West Coast.