Great Eastern Drive - Hobart to Orford

Follow the Tasman Highway through the hills between Sorell and Orford, pulling in at the Tasmanian Bushland Garden, a 20-hectare botanic garden planted entirely with native and endemic plants from the state's south-east, with several short walks. Buckland's convict-built Church of St John the Baptist has a fascinating historic tale beyond its sandstone and mortar. Legend has it that the church's stained-glass window was taken from the famous Battle Abbey in East Sussex and brought to Buckland by the church's rector in the mid-19th century. Hit the coast in Orford and head to Shelly Beach, where an easy 2km walking trail winds around Quarry Point to Spring Beach. Sandstone was once hand-cut from Quarry Point and used to construct buildings in Hobart and Melbourne, including the Melbourne General Post Office. Synchronise to coastal time with a wine tasting at Darlington Vineyard, or a whisky and gin tasting and tour at Spring Bay Distillery. Stay overnight by the ocean. Options include Eastcoaster Tasmania, with dinner on-site at Spring Bay Restaurant and Cafe, or head back towards Buckland where farm-stay options at Twamley Farm include a converted 1840s stable and a glamping bell tent.