Huon Valley

The Huon Valley runs south from Hobart along the Huon River, and for much of the twentieth century it grew the apples that made Tasmania the Apple Isle, exporting to Britain until European trade arrangements ended the market in the 1970s. Orchards remain, along with cider makers, and the Huon Valley Mid-Winter Fest each July revives wassailing traditions with fire and cider. The valley also gave its name to huon pine, a slow-growing timber prized for boatbuilding, worked at the Wooden Boat Centre in Franklin where traditional boats are still built. Towns include Huonville, Cygnet with an arts scene, and Geeveston at the forest edge.

What you actually see

• The orchards and cider - apple growing and cider makers through the valley.
• The Wooden Boat Centre - traditional boatbuilding in huon pine at Franklin.
• The Mid-Winter Fest - the July wassailing and cider festival.
• The river towns - Huonville, Franklin, Cygnet and Geeveston.

When to go

October to April for the warmest weather, with apple harvest in autumn; the Mid-Winter Fest in July is the valley's biggest event and books out accommodation. Winter is cold and wet but atmospheric.

Honest expectations

The valley is spread out and needs a car. Many producers open only on weekends or in season. The apple industry is much reduced from its peak, and some visitors expect more orchards than remain.

Nearby

Hobart lies north; Hastings Caves and the far south are further down the highway.