A three day self-drive through Tasmania’s Whiskey Midlands

There’s a quiet kind of magic that lingers in Tasmania’s Southern Midlands — a place where rolling hills are dotted with English-style villages, Georgian sandstone buildings, and age-old bridges built by convict hands. But there’s also something decidedly modern brewing: the Tasmanian whisky trail is putting this region back on the map for reasons far beyond history.

This three-day self-drive from Launceston to Kempton blends tradition and tipples. It’s a perfect blend for those who appreciate heritage with a bit of a kick — fine spirits, local produce, evocative architecture, and peaceful roads.

Day one – Launceston to Ross via Campbell Town

Start your journey in Launceston and make your way south along the Midlands Highway toward the village of Campbell Town. Your first stop is Adams Distillery in Perth, a family-run operation crafting award-winning Tasmanian whisky.

In Campbell Town, walk across the 1838 Red Bridge, built with over 1.5 million bricks. Visit Coco Blue for homewares and café delights, and browse The Book Cellar inside an 1830s coaching inn. Don’t miss the Campbell Town Museum for colonial and wool industry insights.

Head south to Ross, a stunning Georgian village. Explore the Ross Bridge, carved by convicts in 1836, and visit the Ross Female Factory – one of Australia’s most complete convict women’s sites. Then visit the Tasmanian Wool Centre to discover local merino wool history.

Overnight in Ross:

Day two – Ross to Oatlands

Begin your morning wandering Ross and lifting the handset on the red phone boxes to hear historical stories.

Drive to Oatlands and explore the Callington Mill Distillery, a beautifully restored flour mill turned whisky destination. Join a tasting session or enjoy a meal on-site.

Stretch your legs around Lake Dulverton, home to many bird species and the quirky Cows in the Lake sculpture.

Shop for chocolates and preserves at Tidbit and Morsel, browse handmade textiles at The Weaver’s Cottage Studio, and admire antiques at The Jardin Room & Provincial Interiors. Grab a hearty dinner at the Kentish Hotel.

Overnight in Oatlands:

Day three – Oatlands to Kempton via Pontville

Depart Oatlands and stop in Pontville to visit Lark Distillery Pontville Estate. Explore its historic grounds, cellar door and whisky bar.

Your final destination is Old Kempton Distillery in Kempton. Set in the grand 1842 Dysart House, it’s a fitting conclusion with guided tastings, quality spirits and a top-tier café.

Optional overnight in or near Kempton:

Practical information

  • Best time to visit: March to May for crisp air and autumn colours. August is ideal for Tasmanian Whisky Week events across the state.
  • Opening hours: Most distilleries and galleries are open 10am–4pm. Always check ahead for seasonal hours or tour bookings.
  • Dress code: Casual and layered — even in summer, evenings can be chilly. Closed shoes recommended for distillery tours and outdoor walks.
  • Safety tips: Distances are short, but rural roads may have wildlife. Avoid dusk or night driving where possible. Book tastings responsibly.
  • Navigation: Mobile coverage is generally reliable on the highway, but keep a printed map or offline GPS for back roads and small towns.

More information

Summary itinerary

Day Route Key Stops & Activities Accommodation Distance Est. Drive Time
1 Launceston → Ross via Campbell Town Adams Distillery, Red Bridge, Coco Blue, Book Cellar, Ross Bridge, Ross Female Factory, Wool Centre Shepherds Story 80 km 1:00
2 Ross → Oatlands Callington Mill, Lake Dulverton, Tidbit & Morsel, Weaver’s Cottage, Kentish Hotel Raffah House 36 km 0:30
3 Oatlands → Kempton via Pontville Lark Distillery, Old Kempton Distillery Optional – near Kempton 35 km 0:35