Driving on 99 Bends Road in Queenstown, Tasmania
A guide to Tasmania's most beautiful mountain roads; 99 Bends Road on the Lyell Highway from Queenstown. Find out how to get here, what to expect, and check out some epic sunset photos from my last visit. It's no secret that Tasmania has some of the most beautiful roads in Australia, from epic mountain passes to unparalleled coastal roads. However, there's one particular spot on the west coast that might just take the cake as Tassie's most picturesque street. The locals call them the 99 Bends, a winding, winding road with perfect asphalt that winds over the mountains above Queenstown. …
Driving on 99 Bends Road in Queenstown, Tasmania
A guide to Tasmania's most beautiful mountain roads; 99 Bends Road on the Lyell Highway from Queenstown. Find out how to get here, what to expect, and check out some epic sunset photos from my last visit.
It's no secret that Tasmania has some of the most beautiful roads in Australia, from epic mountain passes to unparalleled coastal roads. However, there's one particular spot on the west coast that might just take the cake as Tassie's most picturesque street. The locals call them the 99 Bends, a winding, winding road with perfect asphalt that winds over the mountains above Queenstown.
In this guide I will outline everything you need to know before you set out to drive the 99 Bends Road in Tasmania. I'll let you know how to get here, what to expect, and I'll throw in some great photos from my recent ride in our big van.
Video of Tasmania's most picturesque road
Below is a short film clip from my sunset drive on this incredible scenic drive in western Tasmania. I've just started making videos like this so let me know what you think and if you'd like to see more.
Where is 99 Bends Road in Tasmania?
The 99 Bends refer to a section of the Lyell Highway just outside Queenstown on the west coast. You will find the section of road you are looking for between Queenstown and Gormanstan. I've pinned the exact location of 99 Bends Street below to help you find it. This is a GPS coordinate to a large parking area where at least 4 cars can park, just before the epic winding road up the mountain.
Via 99 Bends Road
No, this road doesn't exactly have 99 curves. However, it certainly feels that way when you drive it.
The road is very well maintained and the asphalt is silky smooth. This part of Tasmania is also quite remote and you often have the road to yourself. Some people like to come here to test the limits of their cars, but remember to do so safely and legally. The road is also quite steep in some sections, and logging/mining trucks occasionally use this road, so keep that in mind as well.
99 Bends Road is also a popular location at the Targa Tasmania Rally.
We were traveling around Tasmania in our large, long wheelbase converted motorhome, so things weren't exactly quick. Still, it was an incredible experience and we were thrilled with the images we were able to capture with our drone.
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Ultimate Tasmanian travel resource
I hope you enjoy this blog post. For more Tasmania travel and adventure inspiration, don’t miss my ultimate guides below.
– 62 Epic Things to Do in Tasmania – Where to Stay in Tasmania (Best Places) – 26 Amazing Waterfalls in Tasmania – 35 Must-Do Hikes in Tasmania
ALSO NEARBY: Nelson Falls
Acid rain and the strange landscape
As you drive along 99 Bends Road you will notice the strange, almost moon-like landscape surrounding Queenstown. This is due to acid rain from the sheer amount of sulfur pollution from the Queenstown mine.
This killed all the trees in the area, but they are slowly growing back. Although this is a beautiful road, it is an eerie reminder of how much damage the mining industry causes in Tasmania.
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RELATED POST: 7 Awesome Things to Do in Strahan and the West Coast
More photos from the street
Below are some more photos that I hope will inspire you to take this scenically epic route! Also check out the Iron Blow Lookout a little further up the road.
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Where to stay in western Tasmania
The most popular accommodation in Western Tasmania is Strahan. There is just so much to see and do in this region and it is definitely worth spending at least a few days. Activities like the Gordon River Cruise and the Cog Railway are a must when traveling in Tasmania.
Below are a few of my recommended places to stay in nearby Strahan and one in Queenstown.
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Wheelhouse Apartments – StrahanUnique apartments in Strahan, all with river or lake views. These apartments are some of the top rated online apartments for Western Tasmania!
Check availability and price for your dates at Wheelhouse Apartments
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The Boat House - Strahan Another Strahan favorite, this affordable vacation rental features river views and a kitchen and living area.
Check availability and price for your dates at the boathouse
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Penghana B&B - QueenstownIf you're looking for the best accommodation in Queenstown, check out this 1898 National Trust Mansion B&B, just 2 minutes' drive from the Wilderness Railway and Heritage Tours.
Check availability and price for your travel dates at Penghana B&B
More Tasmanian travel guides and adventure inspiration
I hope this quick guide has inspired you to take on one of Tasmania's most epic mountain roads; the 99 curves in Queenstown. For more travel guides and inspiration for your trip, check out some more articles below.
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