Untouched natural landscapes, fresh produce and quaint towns await in Tasmania’s stunning Huon Valley.

Less than an hour south of Hobart is the Huon Valley, a place full of natural beauty. Along with spectacular scenery of rolling hills and orchards, there are also many other unforgettable experiences that await you in this stunning part of Australia.

Huonville

Huonville is situated on the banks of the Huon River, and is about a 30-minute drive south-west of Hobart. Pop into The Apple Shed, home of the award-winning Willie Smith’s Apple Cider and Australia’s first certified organic cidery. Have a wander through the museum to learn more about the history of apple growing in the region, and check out some of the apple production and processing equipment. Be sure to enjoy a cider while you’re here, keeping in mind that the apples are grown, harvested, juiced and fermented all on site (there’s a reason it tastes so good!).

Cygnet

Take a walk down Cygnet’s main street and you’ll find an abundance of galleries, cafes and craft shops perfect for perusing with a coffee in hand. Cygnet is a popular hub for creatives, and is often home to various art markets and festivals.

On the first and third Sunday of each month, Cygnet hosts a vibrant and dynamic community market that captures the spirit and culture of the town. You will find a variety of tempting options, including fresh, locally grown produce, sweet and savoury delights, and even an array of health foods. The market stalls are always changing, and showcase a range of items – from jewellery to woodwork, preloved clothing, and even kitchen and garden appliances.

Geeveston

Geeveston, a small township at the southern end of the Huon Valley, has a rich forestry heritage, as it is a gateway to the surrounding forests and alpine peaks of Hartz Mountains National Park. A short 25-minute drive from the heart of Geeveston, this national park is especially popular with bushwalkers, as it offers stunning views of Tasmania’s southern coast and the rugged wilderness of the state’s South West.

Geeveston has been described as the Huon Valley’s food capital, so you’re sure to find many gourmet treats here, including at The Old Bank of Geeveston. The building has been lovingly transformed into a rustic bistro and specialises in serving fresh handmade pasta daily.­

To read about more adventures in the Huon Valley, grab a copy of the Winter 2023 edition of Caravanning Australia.

_{Pictured: Huon Valley. Image courtesy of Emilie Ristevski}