Have you ever watched a movie – probably a period romance or nostalgic film – and thought to yourself, “Places like this don’t really exist!”? You know – where everything seems utterly perfect…lovely rolling hills, calm waters, flowers and trees everywhere, and a sense that the locals are truly content. It’s not possible, right? A place where there is no hustle or bustle, where people take the time to laugh together, to savour good food and wine, and locals practice fly fishing, not caring too much if the fish choose to bite. The good news is – such a place really does still exist, and it’s in the southern part of Tasmania.
 
When you arrive in the region, which is home to the Huon Valley and the famous d’Entrecasteaux Channel, you will probably feel as though all your troubles have been lifted off your shoulders. Maybe it’s the air, or maybe the whole region is simply a spa for your soul. 

Chomp on a fresh apple from the local orchards as you explore the vineyards, watch boats being built in Franklin, or enjoy the view from the verandah of your cottage. This area is famous for its berries, salmon, apples and wines – and your taste buds will be forever grateful you visited.

Several lovely towns are located in the Huon Valley. Be sure to drive into each one, and visit the galleries, restaurants, and stroll through the gardens. Create some picnics using the delicious local fruits and cheeses, and enjoy the views of the water while you’re eating.  

The d’Entrecasteaux Channel was discovered by French navigator, Bruni d’Entrecasteaux, who has been immortalised with his names on both the channel and Bruny Island. 

Things to do when you don’t want to relax:
Not everyone wants to spend their days basking in tranquility – some people actually come to the region looking for adventure! And there’s plenty of that to go around as well.

Walk on air: The Tahune Air Walk gives visitors a chance to walk among the canopies of Huon pines, 20 metres above the ground, with a 48 metre cantilever above the river. This is an easy and spectacular walk (well - easy if you are not afraid of heights!).  If you’re after some extreme adventure, you can also arrange a cable hang gliding experience from one of the platforms…

Cruising, rafting, and kayaking: The best way to experience the d’Entrecasteaux Channel is on it, and depending on how fast you like to move, you’ll find an option you’ll love. From gentle cruising for those who want to maintain the romantic vibe, to jet boating followed by an exciting 4WD tour, there are plenty of options available from each of the towns. One cruise well worth taking is an eco-cruise to Bruny Island, where you can ride beneath Australia’s highest sea cliffs, enter deep sea caves, and photograph the island’s wildlife. 
 
Hastings Caves: Look at some mighty stalactites and stalagmites in these huge underground dolomite caves. The caves feature dramatic lighting and a relaxing natural thermal pool nearby to enjoy after your walk.

Bruny Island: A visit to this island is a must, with its nature reserves and wildlife. The coastline offers rock formations, penguins and sometimes dolphins to photograph. You can get to Bruny Island by a 15-minute ferry, or ride around it on a cruise.

When to go
Summer is an excellent time to visit the southern part of Tasmania, as the temperature is quite a bit cooler than the mainland, while warm enough to enjoy the beaches.

Spring brings plenty of pretty flowers, while autumn offers colourful leaves.

Winter in the south of Tassie can get pretty cold by Australian standards, but can mean a blanket of snow offers a whole new dimension to the beauty.

How to get there
If you plan to visit only the south of Tasmania during your visit, your best bet is to fly into Hobart and rent a car. It will take you around 40 minutes to drive to the Huon Valley. 

If you are planning on including a trip to the south as part of a larger trip around Tasmania, consider bringing your car on the ferry, and enjoy a scenic drive to the south of the state.

A car is ideal for seeing the area, as there are plenty of charming towns and beautiful scenery to explore.

Accommodation
Stretch out in a tranquil driftwood cottage on a quiet beach in Dover, bask in the hospitality of a quaint bed and breakfast on Bruny Island, or sleep in a comfy organic farm in Huonville. There are many fascinating accommodation choices as well as plenty of traditional options available in Take A Break’s Huon Valley / d’Entrecasteaux listings.

Ideal length of visit
Consider spending at least a few days in the south while travelling around Tasmania, or take a longer holiday and really explore, relax, and rejuvenate in this amazing region.

Further information
The Huon Trail website offers plenty of excellent tips for developing an itinerary to visit each of the towns and attractions in the region.

About the Author
Kylie-Jane Degeling is freelance writer who has lived in Adelaide,Yulara (Uluru), Alice Springs and Canberra, as well as five different countries throughout the world. After backpacking around Australia, she worked as a tour guide in Central Australia, before training for her Commercial Pilot License and working as a flight instructor, scenic flight and charter pilot. She later worked as a travelling IT trainer for the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, which involved spending time in each of their 16 District Offices around the country on a frequent rotating basis.

Having experienced Australia as a backpacker, tour guide, pilot and business traveler, Kylie now enjoys family holidays with her husband Alex and children Jezzy and Jordan. She says, “I have been lucky to see Australia from a variety of perspectives, and as a travel writer can use this experience to inspire others to find holidays they would enjoy.”

Kylie currently works as a travel writer in addition to being a government writer and columnist for two parenting magazines.