Burnie is located on the north coast of Tasmania, a 30-minute drive from Devonport and a 1.5-hour drive from Launceston. Tasmania’s roads make for great road trips; there is nature everywhere, and you can cover many destinations quickly. The drive from Burnie on the north coast to Hobart down the bottom is just over 4 hours, with many stops along the way. Due to its location, Burnie was once a thriving port town, which is evident in its current layout and much of the architecture. However, the town has since reinvented itself, as have many other towns on Tasmania’s coast. What once were ports and paper mill towns are now tourism destinations and artisanal hubs. Burnie, Penguin, Ulverstone, Devonport, and other coastal towns have transformed from shipping and paper mill towns to centres for art, museums, galleries, natural getaways, restaurants, and more. 

From the north end of Tasmania, you can take many day trips or weekend drives to stunning locations. Just a two-hour drive south in your rental car can see you in one of the most stunning and remote areas of Tasmania, the Walls of Jerusalem National Park. This alpine national park is home to mountains, lakes, pine forests, trickling streams and deep valleys carved by ancient icebergs. This place is a true wilderness and is recommended for those with some hiking and camping experience. It can take 3 to 4 days to hike the full track around the park. There are many stunning locations close to the car park, making it an excellent stop for an afternoon or a few nights.

One of Tasmania’s most famous regions and enjoyable attractions is just an hour and a half drive east of Burnie, the spectacular Tamar Valley. Regarded as one of Tasmania’s most visually stunning regions. It also has new and up to date roads, making it a pleasure to drive through. Tour the wineries and vineyards in the region, with many offering accommodation and cellar door access. Tamar Valley produces many local foods and drinks, from cheese, cherries, cider, truffles, walnuts and more. Enjoy these rich farmlands and delectable produce while travelling through Tasmania.

See The Sights in Burnie with a Car Hire

Spend an hour or two at the Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden. It’s home to 22,000 rhododendrons, with lakes, bridges, walking trails, unique wildlife and more. It is a peaceful break from everything going on in the world and just a 15-minute drive outside Burnie. This garden, entirely managed by volunteers, produced a dazzling display of colour during spring and summer.

Good things come in little packages. This is certainly true for the little penguin. The little penguin is the smallest species of penguin on earth, growing to a maximum height of just 13 inches. These penguins make their home on Burnie’s foreshore. So, park the car, head out from the CBD, and learn about these tiny birds from the Friends of Burnie Penguins; they provide visitors a free guide and experience from the penguin viewing platform. The best time to visit is from October to the end of March, with the penguins being more active, present and the guides being there nightly.

Take in Some Culture With Your Rental Car

Take in some of the cultural sites in Burnie. With ample parking around town, start your tour of Burnie with the Burnie Regional Museum. The museum covers Burnie’s 200-year history and displays documents, artefacts and objects showcasing the history of the region. The display is the third largest collection of artefacts in Tasmania.

The cultural hub of Burnie is the Makers’ Workshop. It triples as an art gallery, museum, and boutique paper mill. Perhaps try making some paper yourself! One or more local artists may be on site during your visit. The Makers’ Workshop also acts as a visitors centre, and the helpful staff will show you everything that’s on in Burnie during your stay, including the farmers market, local distillery, art and museum events, fishing spots and more.