South Coast —Tasmania

South Coast Tasmania is the general coastal area stretching from the South West Cape to Cockle Creek.

Most of the area is covered by the Southwest National Park, the largest national park of the state. Near the southern end of this park is where the settlement of Cockle Creek is located. This settlement is the entry point for the national park. Exploring Cockle Creek will bring visitors to a whale sculpture which was made in tribute to the history of whaling in the area. A short walk leads to the South East Cape, where spectacular views of the coastline can be enjoyed.

Near Cockle Creek are the Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs. A guided tour is offered around the interiors of the caves, which boasts of beautiful stalactite and stalagmite formations. The Thermal Springs pools are located nearby, where visitors can soak their worries and tiredness away.

Another interesting destination in the South Coast is the Scented Rose garden, located along Cygnet Coast Road in Glaziers Bay. This garden features every variety of David Austin Roses in Australia. A walk through the garden is both relaxing and a feast to the senses, under tapestry hedges and arches covered with roses. The garden also offers workshops related to the cultivation of this flowering plant.

Visitors are treated to an entirely unique experience when they stop by the Tahune Forest AirWalk and Visitor Centre in Geeveston. The steell walkway is located 48 meters above ground and allows visitors to explore the reserve among the treetops. The Tahune Forest Reserve is also a popular destination for bushwalking, fishing, and four wheel driving.

Also located within the area is the Geeveston Highlands Salmon and Trout Fishery. This recreational attraction allows avid fishermen to try their luck in catching large salmons and trout in a catch and release method. For a small on the spot fee, visitors can enjoy a whole day of fishing and communing with nature.

On the other hand, visitors at the Snowy Range Trout Fishery in Judbury are allowed to cook and sample their catch. Fishing gear and baits are supplied on site and visitors will only pay for the fishes they caught. Those not wishing to indulge in fishing may follow several of the nature walks available to enjoy the surrounding scenery or go fish feeding.

When visitors stop by the Australia’s Antarctic Headquarters in Kingston, they will be greeted by a sculpture of an ice floe at its entrance. This establishment features exhibits and photographs on life in the southernmost continent of the world.
There are also several community events held in the South Coast of Tasmania. One example is the annual Focus on Franklin festival held at the foreshores of Franklin every April. Among the activities organized for this event are live music entertainment, al fresco dining, tour of historic buildings, and street markets.

In Hounville, the Great Huon Apple Race is held annually and is a popular family event every October. Participants of this race get to float an apple along the Houn River and big prizes await the first ones to arrive the finish line.