Derwent Valley & Central Highlands Travel Guide

Located to Hobart's northwest, the Derwent Valley is a rugged area home to quaint villages, hop fields and sprawling fruit orchards. Known as 'The Rivers Run', the Lyell Highway follows the Derwent River along its course, through forests of willows and poplars, heading to the wilderness and mountains of Tasmania. Despite its beauty, this part of the country can be harsh and the explorers, farmers and bushmen who settled this area and made a living from the land are highly regarded. There are plenty of stunning attractions in this part of Tasmania and most are conveniently located just 30 to 40 minutes from Hobart.

Things To Do in the Derwent Valley

New Norfolk is a historic town home to fine heritage buildings, stunning national park and riverside walks, the oldest Anglican church in Australia and a unique toll bridge.
Go fishing, canoeing, rafting or jet boating on the Derwent River.
Enjoy a picnic at Salmon Ponds and visit the Museum of Trout Fishing.
Explore the waterfalls, nature walks and even cross-country skiing (late winter/early spring) of Mt Field National Park.
Take on the Creepy Crawly Nature Trail of Scotts Peak Road, Strathgordon if you dare.
Tour Strathgordon's underground power station and mighty Gordon Dam.
Visit the museums, antiques and art galleries of historic Hamilton.
Fish for trout, ride a ferry or enjoy a short nature walk at Lake Clair National Park.
Marvel at the hardwood forests of The Styx Valley, the world's tallest located south of Maydena.
Enjoy a stunning rainforest walk to Liffey Falls where the northwest farmlands meet the Lake Highway on the Central Plateau.
Practise your swing at Ratho, the southern hemisphere's oldest golf course, located in Bothwell and home to the Australasian Golf Museum.