Visit this artistic hub in Tasmania’s fertile Huon Valley to appreciate fine woodcrafting, take an “airwalk”, spot the elusive platypus and taste juicy apples and delicious salmon.
Nestled in an apple-growing region of the Huon Valley, Geeveston is a quaint, historic town with a thriving arts community, all set amid picturesque hills and mountains. This town of just under 1,500 inhabitants is famed for its hand-carved furniture and national park surrounds.
Geeveston's legacy began with the building of a post office here in 1876. From then, it flourished as an administrative centre for the Huon Valley's apple and timber industries. Learn about the town’s journey at the Forest and Heritage Centre, which displays photos of old Geeveston along with information boards.
Stroll by the Timber Street Sculptures to see some of Geeveston's most important characters. The hand-carved statues depict the town's pioneering founders.
Delve into the charming artistic side of Geeveston at the Makers on Church Street, where artisans produce unique jewellery, woodcraft, clothing and more. See more results of hand-working skills at the Southern Design Centre, a great place to buy furniture and gifts carved from Tasmanian timber.
Bring a picnic to Heritage Park and spend a peaceful afternoon surrounded by families and green vistas. The park is where you can take the Platypus Walk. Wait quietly at the viewing platform for the chance to snap a photo of the cute mammal.
As you explore the town, look out for The Big Log, a Geeveston icon. This gargantuan trunk was logged in the Arve Valley in 1971.
Drive to the Hartz Mountains National Park and trek into one of Tasmania's best bushwalking destinations. Spot echidnas and wallabies as you hike scenic mountain paths. Be sure to stop by the Tahune Airwalk, a lookout built onto the dramatic slopes of the Huon Valley. Follow the river to Port Huon, where you can enjoy a meal of salmon with a view of the ocean or watch the sun set from the marina.
Geeveston is a 62-kilometre (39-mile) drive southwest of Hobart. A daily bus service runs between Hobart and Geeveston, though a rented car is a more practical way to see all that this beautiful region has to offer.
