The perfect day trip from Hobart
The Huon Valley has it all – great food, stunning scenery, excellent places to drink and exciting places to explore – and better yet, it’s only a short drive from Hobart, making it the perfect day trip if you want to get out of the capital and slow things down just a little.
Start your day by driving far into the Huon Valley. Hartz Mountains National Park has 3 easy walks of varying time and distance, depending on how much exercise you want to do! Chase waterfalls, climb Hartz Peak or go for a stroll around Lake Esperance in some of the most breathtaking (and underrated) scenery in Tassie.
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Make sure you bring some snacks, because it isn’t food time yet. If you’ve done one of the shorter walks, drive down the tree lined windy roads to Hastings Caves and Hot Springs. Formed millions of years ago, these dolomite caves are full of interesting shaped stalactites, stalagmites and columns. Tour guides are there to fill you in on the fascinating story of these caves.
Your ticket into the cave also grants you access to the hot springs, so don’t forget to bring your bathers and spend some time relaxing in the warm pools.
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Head to Cygnet and grab lunch at the Cygnet Woodfired Bakery. Their flaky croissants melt in your mouth and their pies are packed full of flavour. Plus everything – including their home made jam – is made in their woodfire oven, built by the chef himself. Enjoy your lunch on one of the benches outside the bakery or head to the park across the road and feast in the sunshine.
Your next stop is Huonville, a quaint town in the heart of Huon Valley. Walk the charming heritage lined streets, ducking in and out of cafes, vintage stores and businesses featuring local delectable produce. If you’re feeling up for a bigger walk, take a stroll along the Huon River or just plonk yourself on a bench at the Huonville Foreshore and enjoy the serenity.
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Jump back in the car and head to the final stop on your Huon Valley adventure – Willie Smith’s Apple Shed. Large, spacious and rustic, this is a cider lover’s heaven. Get yourself a tasting paddle for an extravaganza of flavour, or settle down on one of their couches in the sun with a cup of their warm spiced cider – perfect on a cold blustery day.
You’ll pass by Mount Wellington on the way back to Hobart, so if you’re feeling up to it, cruise the road up to the top for stunning views out over Hobart, Bruny Island and the Huon Valley. Sunset is absolutely magical up here and an experience not to be missed, so if you’re too tired, pencil in time another day.
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Base yourself at Hobart Central YHA – it’s in the perfect location if you’re planning on doing a day trip to the Huon Valley. With multiple car rental locations and a massive cark park both within walking distance of the hostel, plus a variety of room types for you to stay in after a long day of road tripping, what more do you need?
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