Located about 25 minutes from the capital city of Hobart, Huon Valley is a beautiful region in Tasmania. The area is home to a wide variety of natural landscapes, including parks, vineyards, waterways, orchards and forests. If you’re spending your vacation in Huon Valley, you can explore everything from the region’s white beaches and dark rivers to the rugged outback reserves. Escape to serenity and peace in the Australian wilderness with these top eight Huon Valley attractions.
1. Walk Among the Trees at Tahune Airwalk
Extending over the Picton River and the Tahune State Forest, the Tahune Airwalk is an incredible walkway that stands 48 metres above the ground. Visitors feel like they are walking through the treetops as they travel down the Tahune Airwalk path. During your walk, you’ll see rare trees such as blackwoods and Celery Top pines.
2. Explore Australian History at Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs
The Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs site is one of the most incredible locations in Tasmania. Workers discovered the amazing dolomite caves in 1917, and scientists believe that the caves were formed more than 40 million years ago. Explore the deep, well-lit caverns and check out the amazing rock and mineral formations.
3. Enjoy a Spectacular View at the Shot Tower
The Shot Tower was built in 1870 to produce shot balls. Located on the banks of the River Derwent, the tower is 48 metres tall and made from sandstone. Visitors can explore the Shot Tower Museum at the bottom of the tower or climb 259 steps to reach the top. The tower’s height offers a spectacular view of Tasmania.
4. Take a Ride on the Huon River with Huon Jet
Huon Jet offers visitors the chance to take an incredible ride along the Huon River. You’ll travel along 12 kilometres in 35 minutes and experience the excitement of white water rapids. During peaceful stretches, you can relax and watch the beautiful views that pass you by as the boat drifts along.
5. See Wildlife and the Coast with Bruny Island Cruises
Bruny Island Cruises offers one of the area’s most popular attractions. The cruise includes a three hour tour of the Bruny Island coastline, surrounding scenery and coastal wildlife. Learn about Tasmania’s natural ecosystem and spot seals, whales, albatross, dolphins and seabirds. Boats designed with manoeuvrability in mind make it easy for visitors to see Bruny Island’s incredible rock formations, cliffs and sea caves up close.
6. Learn about the History of Boats at the Wooden Boat Centre
The Wooden Boat Centre includes an educational visitor’s centre and a school that are intended to teach people about the historic craft of boat building. See the ancient tools used to create reliable wooden boats and view partially-finished boats from all stages of the building process. After touring the centre, enjoy a picnic on the Huon River shore and imagine a life at sea.
7. View Beautiful Pieces by Local Artisans at the Southern Design Centre
You can also learn about incredible craftsmanship and dedicated artistry at the Southern Design Centre. Artisans build gorgeous Tasmanian timber furniture at the site, and visitors can also explore the centre’s showrooms full of giftware, clothing and crafts. This incredible free attraction is the perfect way to spend your afternoon in Huon Valley.
8. Tour the Apple and Heritage Museum
Located in a former packing shed, the Apple and Heritage Museum offers visitors a chance to see what life was like in historic Tasmania. Learn more about the early settlers in Huon Valley during a guided tour and explore restored blacksmith shops, kitchens and machines.