Huon Valley

Just a 30-minute drive from Hobart, the Huon Valley unfurls as a lush, green escape of apple orchards, cool-climate vineyards, and pristine waterways. This is Tasmania at its most bucolic—a place where the air smells of woodsmoke and cider, and the pace of life slows to a gentle drift along the Huon River. Whether you're here for the food, the history, or the quiet beauty of the landscape, the valley rewards those who linger.

Highlights & What to See

• Huon Valley Apple & Heritage Museum – Dive into the region’s orchard history with antique cider presses and tastings of heirloom apples.
• Hartz Mountains National Park – A dramatic alpine plateau with short walks to waterfalls and panoramic views over the valley.
• Huon River Cruises – Glide past forested banks and historic salmon farms on a scenic boat trip from Huonville.
• Willie Smith’s Apple Shed – A must for cider lovers: sample small-batch ciders and perries in a converted apple-packing shed.
• Tahune AirWalk – Walk among the treetops on a suspended walkway above the Huon River, with views of the distant Southern Ranges.
• Cycling the Huon Trail – Follow the newly developed trail network through orchards and villages, with plenty of cellar doors and farm gates en route.

Suggested Time to Spend

To properly savour the Huon Valley, plan for a full day (8–10 hours) by car. This allows time for a morning walk in Hartz Mountains, a leisurely lunch at a vineyard, and an afternoon cruise or AirWalk. If you’re short on time, a half-day focused on Huonville and the Apple Shed is still rewarding, but you’ll miss the wilder edges. For a deeper immersion, consider an overnight stay in Cygnet or Geeveston.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mona (Museum of Old and New Art) – On the way back to Hobart, detour to this provocative museum on the Derwent River.
• Salamanca Market – Hobart’s iconic Saturday market is perfect for artisan souvenirs after your valley explorations.
• Mount Wellington – Cap off your trip with sunset views from the summit, just a short drive from the city.
• Bruny Island – A ferry ride from Kettering (southern Huon Valley) offers rugged coastlines, cheese, and whisky.
• Port Arthur – An hour east, the historic penal settlement combines well with a longer Tasman Peninsula loop.

Please check official sources for current details.