_edited.png)
Huon Valley Top 10 Things to Do
- Wander * Explore * Discover
- Jan 7, 2022
- 4 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
The Huon Valley, with its lovely green rolling hills and picturesque countryside, is only 30-minute drive from Hobart. The Huon region starts at the Mount Wellington Range and continues down to Cockle Creek, the southernmost point in Australia.
It is a place of incredible natural beauty, with the pristine Huon River and the Far South coastline, fantastic mountain ranges, World Heritage-listed national parks, stunning forests, iconic caves and beautiful waterfalls.
The Huon Valley also has a long history of apple growing, boutique cider making and fascinating forestry heritage.
Top 10 Things to Do in the Huon Valley, Tasmania
The Tahune AirWalk is a walkway elevated 30 metres above the forest floor, and the narrow cantilever section juts out 50 metres over the Huon River. There are stunning views of the confluence of the Huon and Picton Rivers and vistas of the peaks of the World Heritage Area. You can also wander along the swinging bridges walk; this lovely 3-kilometre circuit walk through the forest has excellent views over the river.
Hastings Caves
Hastings Caves, located in southern Tasmania near the town of Geeveston, offer a fascinating glimpse into the island’s underground world. Visitors can explore the impressive dolomite caves on guided tours, marveling at stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique rock formations. The site also features the nearby warm springs, perfect for a relaxing soak after a cave tour, all set within the lush forests of the Hastings Caves State Reserve. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and a touch of Tasmania’s geological wonder.
On a guided tour, you can explore the fantastic Dolomite cave system, a labyrinth of chambers, richly decorated and cleverly lit to highlight these incredible formations. Newdegate Cave is the largest dolomite tourist cave in Australia.
Hartz Mountains National Park
Hartz Mountains National Park, in southern Tasmania, is a haven for bushwalkers and nature lovers seeking rugged alpine landscapes and pristine wilderness. The park is famous for its dramatic peaks, glacial lakes, and diverse flora, including ancient rainforests and alpine heathlands. Visitors can enjoy a range of walks, from short trails like the Lake Esperance walk to challenging hikes up Hartz Peak, all offering stunning views over the surrounding valleys and mountains. With its remote beauty and peaceful atmosphere, Hartz Mountains National Park is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience Tasmania’s wild, untouched landscapes.
The Lake Esperance walk in Hartz Mountains National Park is a short but rewarding trail through Tasmania’s alpine wilderness. Winding through button grass plains and ancient forests, the walk leads to the tranquil Lake Esperance, framed by rugged peaks and often mirrored by the still water. This 3.5-kilometre return walk is one of Tasmania's 60 Great Short Walks. The Lake is actually a tarn created by a glacier in the Alpine Highlands. Its crystal-clear waters are spectacularly beautiful.
Cockle Creek, at the southern tip of Tasmania, is the gateway to the vast and wild Southwest National Park. Known for its remote, rugged beauty, it offers visitors a peaceful harbour, windswept beaches, and access to some of Tasmania’s most pristine wilderness walks, including the start of the famous South Coast Track. With no shops or town nearby, Cockle Creek is perfect for those seeking solitude, stunning coastal views, and a true taste of Tasmania’s untamed southern landscapes.
It is one of the tallest waterfalls in Tasmania and plunges 114 metres down the rock face. The walk to the viewing platform at the base of the falls is 5.2 kilometres and takes about 3 hours. Take care as the track is rocky and slippery in places.
Nestled in the heart of Tasmania’s wilderness, the Duckhole Lake walk offers a serene escape for nature lovers and casual walkers alike. This short, easy trail winds through lush forest and around the reflective waters of Duckhole Lake, providing peaceful views, birdwatching opportunities, and a chance to immerse yourself in the island’s tranquil landscapes. Perfect for a quick outdoor adventure, it’s a walk that showcases the quiet beauty of Tasmania’s hidden gems without requiring a full day in the bush.
Huon River
Stretching for 174 kilometres, the Huon River winds its way through the lush and fertile Huon Valley before flowing into the tranquil waters of the D’Entrecasteaux Channel. Lined with orchards, forests, and charming riverside towns, the river has long been a lifeline for the region and remains one of southern Tasmania’s most scenic waterways. Visitors can experience the Huon River by jet boat, sailing boat, or kayak, gliding past peaceful landscapes and abundant birdlife. It’s also a favourite spot for swimming, fishing, and simply relaxing by the water, making it a perfect place to slow down and soak up Tasmania’s natural beauty.]
Geeveston Platypus Walk
Wander along the peaceful banks of the Kermandie River near Heritage Park in Geeveston and keep your eyes on the water in the hope of spotting a shy platypus. The gentle walking tracks, viewing platforms, and small bridges offer quiet places to pause, listen, and watch for ripples in the river that hint at their presence. Surrounded by lush greenery and birdsong, it’s a relaxing experience that invites you to slow down and appreciate one of Tasmania’s most unique native animals in its natural habitat.
Huon Valley Apples
Apples have been grown in the Huon Valley, Tasmania for more than 170 years, earning the region its long-held reputation as the state’s apple heartland. Today, several organic orchards continue this tradition, producing crisp, flavour-filled fruit and award-winning ciders. At Willie Smith’s Apple Shed, visitors can sample organic apple cider, enjoy a slice of their famous apple pie, and wander through the cellar door and small museum, which beautifully showcase the valley’s apple-growing history. It’s a delicious and nostalgic stop that perfectly captures the spirit of the Huon Valley.
Tours include Hastings Caves, Tahune Airwalk, Kayaking, Wine and Food Tours and many more...
Comments