Your Guide to the Perfect Huon Valley Weekend
The beautiful Elsewhere Sauna,
The Perfect Huon Valley Weekend
South of Hobart, at the edge of Tasmania’s wild beauty, the Huon Valley is where apple orchards roll down to misty rivers, tiny farm gates hide the best produce you’ll ever taste, and every turn in the road reveals another reason to slow down. Whether you’re in search of good food, a touch of adventure, or a simply weekend of exploring picturesque country roads, here’s our guide to the perfect Huon Valley escape.
Friday Evening: Ease Into It
Arriving in the Huon Valley is like exhaling after a long breath. Check into The Bowmont, drop your bags, and pour yourself a glass of something local (a crisp cider or a pinot noir, perhaps?). If you’re up for a short drive to Huonville, the Lost Captain, or Jin’s Kitchen are our picks for a relaxed dinner where seasonal ingredients shine. Or, if the idea of staying in sounds more tempting, pick or pick up ready-made pasta and sauce from Bottega Crippa for a simple yet indulgent meal at home.
Saturday: Slow Mornings & Big Adventures
Start your day with a short walk to Cinnamon and Cherry, a Turkish inspired café and bakery for a lazy Saturday breakfast while watching the Huon River shimmer in the morning light.
If you love the idea of messing about in boats, stop by The Wooden Boat Centre in Franklin to admire the craftsmanship of hand-built timber boats and soak in a little maritime history.
For a mid-morning wander, grab pastries from Summer Kitchen Bakery in Ranelagh before heading to Willie Smith’s Apple Shed. This is more than just a cider house; it’s a deep dive into the Valley’s apple-growing heritage. After a cheeky cider tasting, browse the farm shop and the weekly artisan market for local goodies.
For those craving adventure, make your way to Hartz Mountains National Park. A short hike to Lake Esperance rewards you with pristine alpine views, or if you’re feeling bold, tackle the summit walk for a breathtaking panorama of the southwest wilderness.
For lunch, consider the world’s best sushi from Masaaki’s in Geeveston, the place to find some of the best sushi in Tasmania, where local produce is showcased with traditional Japanese elegance. The small shop front is often crowded with locals and tourist alike, and often sells out - you can order ahead online.
As the afternoon rolls on, swing past Harvest and Light in Geeveston for a pickled, fermented, and foraged feast served in the art-filled space, or stock up on cheese plate essentials and a bottle of something special to enjoy later.
Sunday: Markets, Saunas & Fish and Chips
If it’s the fourth Sunday of the month, it’s a short walk to the Palais Theatre Market, an essential stop for fresh local produce, food, plants and crafts from the Huon Valley, you can pick up breakfast and great coffee too. Otherwise, take a slow drive to Cygnet, a charming town full of makers, ceramicists, and excellent food, our picks are Cuckoo celebrating local craft and design and Trove for vintage treasures. Brunch at our favourite bakery Poolish & Co or there’s plenty of heartier lunch options at the Cygnet Old Bank, The Red Velvet Lounge or Port Hole Café. There’s also another great market on the first and third Sunday of the month.
Before heading home, book a session at Elsewhere Sauna at Drip Beach for a restorative steam with a view of the water. The mix of hot sauna and bracing ocean dip is the ultimate way to reset before re-entering the world beyond the Huon.
For a final bite, grab fish and chips from Aqua Grill and eat them by the river, watching the boats drift by.
Leaving, But Not Really
The Huon Valley has a way of settling into your bones. It’s the kind of place that lingers, in the best way. Whether you’ve hiked through misty forests, lingered over long lunches, or simply sat still by the river, you’ll leave feeling like a small part of you never really left.
And of course, The Bowmont will be here waiting, ready to welcome you back.
