We encourage everyone to “Holiday Here This Year” and support operators across Australia after this devastating bushfire season (Reg and Jen plan a 3 month driving holiday this winter across VIC, SA, NSW and southern Qld to do their bit). Tasmania also has communities still affected from last summer’s fires.
The Huon Valley in southern Tasmania was impacted directly by fires for over two months last year. While few structures were lost and little evidence of the fires can be seen from the road, Tahune Airwalk, the largest tourism attraction in the area, was closed for over 12 months due to damage to the forests. Tahune is re-opening on the 29th February 2020 providing even more reason to visit this region.
The Huon Valley is a place of mountains, valleys, rivers and small villages.
It’s a vibrant place that offers an abundance of experiences so why not add it to your Tasmania to-do list? Here’s some tips to get you started.
Travel route: take the road south from Hobart for 30 minutes to reach the Huon – a valley of green with slow rivers, small towns, mountain ranges and more, all set off with a stunning palette of colours.
Pace of travel: like kayaking, a relaxed pace allows you to take in the environment and engage with local life.
Sustenance: comes in a glorious variety. The dairy kind can come from cows (Bruny Island Cheese and Cygneture Chocolates) or sheep (Grandvewe Cheese). It can also come from renowned Gourmet Farmer at Fat Pig Farm and from inside a delicious Slice of Pie.
Hydration: always important, comes in the form of refreshing cider from Willie Smith’s or Frank’s, both apple families for generations or, turn Pagan. Wines thrive in the cool climate and for an interesting spirited drop, try sheep whey vodka!
On water exploration: can be done old-style aboard the beautifully restored Yukon, gliding along the Huon River with its mesmerising reflections and fresh air or, if you crave a paddle through rainforest and perhaps some white-water action, try the Picton River.
On land exploration: options abound with walks from 15 minutes to stretch your legs, half day walks for a taste of Tasmania’s wilderness or longer day walks in the Hartz Mountains National Park.
Head way south: Cockle Creek, the southernmost point of Australia accessible by car, and the historic Recherche Bay are on the edge of the wilderness and a slice of paradise.
Warming up: can be done with a dip in the thermal pools at Hastings Caves or a hike through the Hartz Mountains.
On water tradition: admire an age-old ship-building heritage being kept alive and well at the Wooden Boat Centre.
Amongst the trees: following the devastating fires last year, the re-opening of the iconic Tahune and Swnging Bridge Airwalks on the 29th February is exciting for the region. Try their Twin River Adventure for a short rafting adventure. (Note at time of writing the Huon Pine Walk and the Hang Glider were still being rebuilt).
For more information check out the Huon Trail Guide and Map (with walks).
February 2020