The direct Midland Highway journey between Hobart and Launceston is about 200 kilometres and 2 hours 20 minutes, according to Discover Tasmania. If you have a little time to spare, choose one Midlands stop. Ross suits a short walk and coffee. Oatlands works well for a longer wander or a pre-booked distillery visit.
Ross for a short walk and a coffee
Start with Ross Bridge, then stroll back through the village for coffee or a bakery stop. As a planning allowance, give yourself roughly 30–45 minutes in town for a quick break. Allow longer if you want lunch or time to explore the Ross Female Factory Historic Site area.
Oatlands for sandstone streets and Callington Mill
Oatlands is a good choice when you have time to walk along the main street and see the sandstone buildings and the old windmill at Callington Mill. Budget roughly 45–60 minutes for a walk and a coffee. If you want a sit-down lunch, tasting or distillery experience, check opening hours, book ahead if needed and allow extra time for the visit.
Can you stop in both?
Yes, if you’re treating the drive as part of the day. From Hobart, Oatlands comes before Ross. From Launceston, reverse the order. Pick one stop for lunch or an activity and keep the other flexible. Add detours, parking and time in each town to the direct driving estimate.
When it makes sense to go straight through
If you have a flight, a firm hotel check-in deadline or a booked event, plan the direct journey first. Work back from the time you need to be there and allow for airport check-in, luggage and road conditions. A stop is easier to enjoy when your schedule has enough room for it.
Taking a private transfer?
Tell us where you’re starting and finishing, what time you need to arrive and whether you’d like to stop in Ross or Oatlands. We can quote the airport-to-hotel or door-to-door journey and confirm planned stops and waiting time in advance.
See Hobart–Launceston private transfers →
If you’re planning a longer trip, our four-day Tasmania food and wine itinerary shows how Ross can fit into a day between Hobart and northern Tasmania.