From the bustling charm of Hobart to the tranquil beauty of Tasmania’s Huon Valley, Natalie Bannister shares a collection of experiences designed for couples craving both adventure and romance. This stunning pocket of Tasmania, known for its sweeping landscapes and gourmet delights, offers moments of pure indulgence and quiet charm.
Day 1 -2
Exploring Hobart
A city steeped in rich history and buzzing with a creative vibe, Hobart offers a wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered. Stroll through the historic streets lined with sandstone buildings, visit vibrant markets brimming with local crafts, and indulge in the diverse flavours of its renowned dining scene, where each meal is a celebration of Tasmania’s bountiful produce and culinary innovation.
We begin our first morning with breakfast at Jackman & Ross in Battery Point, enjoying a tasty meal and coffee, surrounded by the aroma of their famous freshly baked breads and pastries. Afterward, we take a walk around the nearby neighbourhood. Battery Point is often considered Hobart’s most charming suburb, and we enjoy admiring the many quaint cottages that line the streets. We wander through the picturesque Arthur Circus, with its tiny historic worker’s cottages that look like they could have come straight from the English countryside, before heading towards the Sculpture Trail that winds along the waterfront.
Descend the historic Kelly’s Steps, built by whaler James Kelly in 1840, and you’ll find yourself in the heart of Hobart’s lifestyle scene at Salamanca Place, where the old sandstone warehouses have been turned into galleries, bars, and restaurants (if it’s Saturday morning, a visit to the famous Salamanca Market is a must!).
An afternoon at Cascades Brewery is time well spent. Nestled in the foothills of South Hobart beneath the impressive Mt. Wellington, Australia’s oldest operating brewery has been a source of Tasmanian pride and a key part of Hobart’s culture since 1824. Tasting the freshly brewed beer right at its source is a highlight, so we grab a table in the garden to soak up the sunshine and order a tasting paddle at the Cascade Brewery Bar.
Hobart has become the centre of Tasmania’s culinary scene, attracting food lovers with its wide range of restaurants that showcase the region’s abundant ingredients and creativity. That evening, we head out for cocktails and delicious modern Asian fusion cuisine at Susie Luck’s, a stylish dining spot in Salamanca Place. For a romantic fine dining experience, check out Hobart’s top restaurants like Dier Makr, Aloft, Fico, or Pippina for a memorable meal.
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Day two is dedicated to art. Hobart’s renowned underground art gallery, MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), has redefined the traditional museum experience, and we’ve planned to spend the entire afternoon there. We take the MONA Roma ferry from Brooke Street Pier (treat yourself to the Posh Pit: a private lounge and deck with free drinks, small bites, and, in true MONA style, “inflated egos”), before heading underground to explore MONA’s quirky, diverse, and sometimes mind-blowing collection of modern and old art.
For lunch, grab a burger at Dubsy’s on the gallery lawns, mingling with the resident chickens, or do as we did and dine in style at The Source restaurant. The Source seamlessly blends art, imagination, and gourmet dining, with a menu that changes with the seasons and highlights the island’s rich offerings.
Days 3-4
In the lush heartland of southern Tasmania, just a 40-minute drive from downtown Hobart, lies the Huon Valley, a region celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and thriving agricultural scene. Orchards brimming with apples, cherries, and berries dot the landscape, where innovative purveyors and passionate artisans have cultivated a vibrant culinary community. From award-winning cider makers to boutique vineyards and charming farm-to-table eateries, the valley offers a delectable journey through Tasmania’s rich agricultural heritage.
The Huon Valley helped earn Tasmania the moniker “the Apple Isle,” with its apple cultivation roots tracing back to the 19th century when settlers first recognised its perfect climate and fertile soils. Pioneering orchardist William Smith planted the valley’s inaugural apple trees in 1888, a legacy proudly upheld by generations of the Smith family. Today, their certified organic farm is renowned for producing some of Australia’s finest ciders. A visit to Willie Smith’s Apple Shed in Grove is a must, where we relish a schooner of their finest ciders, immersing ourselves in the valley’s apple-growing tradition before continuing towards Huonville.
Our journey includes a late lunch reservation at The Kiln, a renowned dining spot nestled just outside Huonville in Ranelagh. Housed in a beautifully transformed 1862 barn with a distinctive 1911 oast house tower, The Kiln offers a unique culinary experience centred around shared plates infused with global influences. It’s the perfect setting to indulge in a diverse array of flavours amidst warm, rustic surroundings.
Continuing our journey along the Huon Highway, we reach the charming village of Franklin, nestled peacefully alongside the tranquil Huon River. Franklin is renowned for its rich tradition of wooden boat building, where skilled artisans meticulously craft elegant vessels from locally sourced timber. A visit to the Wooden Boat Centre provides a captivating glimpse into this cherished aspect of the Huon Valley’s maritime heritage.
Our overnight stay brings us to The Bowmont, a century-old establishment in the heart of Franklin. Once the Commercial Bank of Tasmania, it has been lovingly restored by owners Michelle Crawford and her husband. Michelle, a talented stylist and photographer, has curated a stunning two-bedroom holiday apartment that blends vintage charm with modern comforts. Complete with a well-equipped kitchen and luxurious bathroom featuring a gorgeous clawfoot bathtub, it’s the perfect retreat.
In the afternoon, we pick up some delicious mezze from Cinnamon and Cherry, a cosy local Turkish café, and head back to our apartment to unwind with our delicious food, a glass of local wine and a game of vintage backgammon
Days 5-7
We rise early, eager to begin the next leg of our Huon Valley journey, driving from Franklin to Cygnet, a quaint town known for its vibrant arts community. The scenic route takes around 40 minutes, passing through the picturesque landscapes of Huon Valley, with orchards and wineries dotting the landscape, and glimpses of serene river views along the way.
Nestled between rolling hills and serene waterways, Cygnet is a hub for artists and food lovers, offering quaint cafés (do try Red Velvet Lounge or Cygnet Old Bank for a tasty lunch stop!), lots of great galleries, and a popular weekend market on the first and third Sundays of the month showcasing handmade crafts, local delicacies, live music and fresh, locally grown produce.
We stop by the community-run Lovett Gallery, which showcases works from local artists, featuring paintings, photography, textiles, and woodcrafts. And no visit to Cygnet would be complete without paying a visit to Pheonix Creations, the studio of locally renowned artisan David Rauenbusch and his wife, Michelle, who craft beautiful wooden spoons and other items using ethically sourced, vintage and recycled green timbers. The couple also offers regular workshops where you can along and learn how to make a spoon of your own.
Cygnet has long been a hub of the region’s rich fruit-growing heritage. Today, the rolling hills are still adorned with orchards, now sharing space with thriving vineyards, like Two Bud Spur Vineyard, Sailor Seeks Horse, and Hartzview Vineyard (the latter offers tastings of their excellent estate grown hand-picked Pinot Noir, Sauvignon blanc and chardonnays). Pagan Cider, on the other hand, continues to celebrate the valley’s traditional fruits, producing delightful apple, pear, and cherry ciders that keep the region’s fruity legacy alive and well.
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With our car well stocked with locally made gourmet delights, we continue our drive to our night’s accommodation, Coast House. Nestled on the serene shores where the Huon River meets the D’Entrecasteaux Channel and Port Cygnet, this exceptional holiday home designed by architect Andy Lehmanthe pays homage to the region’s iconic apple sheds with a contemporary twist. Ample windows frame views of the Huon River and Bruny Island, while we enjoy the comfort of our private living room with a fireplace, expansive outdoor terrace, and modern kitchen. It’s our home-away-from-home for the night, perfect for cooking, relaxing, and soaking up the stunning views and peaceful seclusion.
We’ve saved the best for our final 24 hours in the Huon Valley, heading the next day to The Voyager in Strathblane, via the charming town of Geeveston, which is known for its timber industry and as a gateway to the Hartz Mountains National Park, a popular destination for breathtaking hiking trails and pristine wilderness.
We feel lucky to have secured a stay at such an incredible holiday home. Nestled right on the water’s edge where the Esperance River meets the Tasman Sea, in Strathblane – a serene corner of the Far South in Huon Valley – The Voyager was the highlight of our road trip through this stunning region. A few nights here just aren’t enough – it’s the kind of place that invites you to unwind and make it your own private sanctuary.
The Voyager boasts four spacious bedrooms (we promise ourselves a return trip, next time bringing friends or family!), but we, of course, opt for the master bedroom upstairs, which offers a luxurious retreat with its king-sized bed beside a floor-to-ceiling window, setting the scene for leisurely mornings with coffee and relaxing afternoons with a good book.
The real allure of The Voyager lies in its connection to nature. Set along the picturesque Esperance River, it provides countless breathtaking moments for us to indulge and unwind throughout the day, from the open-air double bathtub, where we sip wine while listening to wildlife and the gentle tide, to the inbuilt hammock on the deck, the perfect perch for basking in the afternoon sun. As evening descends, we gather around the inviting outdoor firepit and cosy up together under the stars.
If you manage to pry yourself away from The Voyager, a short drive down the gravel driveway leads to the nearby River Run Lodge. Here, a charming tavern awaits with a menu of tapas-style small plates and daily specials showcasing the freshest local ingredients. Settle in by the crackling fire and enjoy simple but delicious dishes paired perfectly with Tasmanian artisan gin or whisky.
The laid-back charm of the Huon Valley lingers with us well after we’ve returned home. We found ourselves amidst misty vineyards and serene riverside spots, soaking in Tasmania’s wild beauty and indulging in its renowned gourmet treats (more than a few of which made it back in our suitcase!). This multi-faceted valley beckons us to return, promising more discoveries and relaxed moments to savour.
Huon Valley Highlights
With such a diverse range of breathtaking natural landscapes and exciting adventures, the Huon Valley will leave a lasting impression. Whether it’s adventures on the water, walks through giant rainforests, or unique experiences that connect you with nature, the area promises an unforgettable immersion into the heart of Tasmania’s natural wonders.
Kayak the Huon River
Embark on an adventure with Esperance Adventures along the Huon River’s dark, tannin-filled waters. Starting at from the waterfront in Franklin, you’ll explore North and South Egg Islands, before heading back to dry land to enjoy a visit to Franks Cider Bar and Café for soup and a cider-tasting experience.
Go Underground at Hastings Cave
Explore the mesmerising dolomite cave system at Hastings Caves on a guided tour, descending deep into the depths of the Earth to witness breathtaking formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, and intricate calcite adornments.
Elevate Your Adventures at Tahune AirWalk
This iconic destination offers an amazing experience as you walk on a raised path 30 meters above the forest. The last part of the path goes even higher, reaching 50 meters above the Huon River. Here, you get stunning views of the Huon and Picton rivers coming together and the grand peaks of the World Heritage Area. Thrill seekers should try the Eagle Hang Gliding adventure, feeling the wind as you glide through tall trees and over the Huon River.
Explore the End of the Road
Tucked away on the picturesque Recherche Bay, situated on the outskirts of the Tasmanian Wilderness, Cockle Creek embodies the ultimate frontier (it’s the southernmost accessible point in Australia — beyond this point lie only vast stretches of ocean, extending all the way to Antarctica!). The area is ideal for hiking enthusiasts, offering a range of trails that vary in difficulty, taking you through breathtaking sandy beaches and captivating temperate rainforests. Raw, windswept, and untamed, it perfectly encapsulates Tasmania’s unruly beauty.
Sweat it Out
Pull up by the shores of beautiful Randalls Bay to immerse yourself in a unique wellness adventure on wheels at Elsewhere Sauna. Created by artist Selena de Carvalho, this incredible mobile sauna experience pays homage to sweat-bathing traditions while adding a distinctly Tasmanian touch. Locally made scrubs and herbal teas enhance the experience, and you’re encouraged to jump into the freezing Tassie waters after the sauna — the stark contrast between the scorching heat and the icy chill provides an extraordinary sensory journey if you dare to embrace it!
Lavender Daydreams
In the Huon Valley, you’ll find unique lifestyle experiences shaped by nature’s beauty. At Lavender Goat Farm in Petcheys Bay, Ellen and Mark Thompson have created a charming lavender farm, inspired by their travels to Provence, France. Since 2020, Ellen has been offering distillation workshops where you can pick fresh lavender blossoms and learn to extract essential oils, taking home your own bottle of lavender hydrosol.
Annual Festivals The valley comes alive with vibrant celebrations like the annual Taste of Huon festival, showcasing local food, wine, and culture, and the Huon Valley Mid Winter Fest, a lively event that embraces local folklore, music, and merriment. These festivals reflect the community’s rich traditions and joyous spirit, offering a deeper connection to the valley’s cultural heart.
