Mount Field And The Derwent Tasting Trail

A Down-to-Earth Look at Mount Field and the Derwent Tasting Trail Tour

If you’re considering a day trip around Tasmania, the Mount Field and Derwent Tasting Trail promises a blend of stunning landscapes and intriguing art scenes. We’ve heard from travelers that this tour offers a well-rounded experience, especially for those who love a mix of nature and culture without spending days on the road.

What we really like about this tour is how it manages to pack so much into just over eight hours. You get to walk among some of the tallest trees in the Southern Hemisphere at Mount Field, and then switch gears to explore Tasmania’s cutting-edge art at MONA. Also, the stops at local farms and distilleries make for a taste of regional flavors that add a bit of extra fun.

One potential thing to keep in mind is that this tour does involve some walking and outdoor exposure—so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a bit of nature. Plus, while the price is quite reasonable given the variety of stops, you should budget for additional costs like park passes and meals.

This tour is perfect if you’re after a day that combines scenic natural sights with some quirky cultural highlights. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who appreciate good stories from knowledgeable guides and enjoy exploring Tasmania’s local produce.

Key Points

• Diverse Experience: Combines nature, food, and art all in one day.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Great Value: At $129, you get multiple stops and transportation included.
• Flexible Stops: Offers options like raspberry picking, tasting, and walking.
• Inclusions & Extras: No meals included, but plenty of tasting opportunities.
• Convenient: Pickup included, making the day seamless.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Mount Field National Park: Nature’s Grandeur

The day kicks off with a visit to Mount Field National Park, one of Australia’s oldest parks and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you’ll be immersed in lush rainforests, giant eucalyptus trees, and some of the tallest trees in the Southern Hemisphere. The highlight for many is the walk to Russell Falls, a true crowd-pleaser—and for good reason. The scenery is breathtaking, with cascading waterfalls and a peaceful ambiance that makes you want to pause and take photos.

According to reviews, the walk through these ancient woods is “breathtaking” and offers opportunities for wildlife sightings. One traveler mentioned, “The walk through the giant old trees was breathtaking,” which echoes the sentiment many share about Mount Field’s natural beauty. The two-hour stop allows plenty of time for photos, short walks, and simply soaking in the atmosphere.

Westerway Raspberry Farm: A Sweet Detour

Next, the tour heads to the Westerway Raspberry Farm (seasonal from November to June). It’s a delightful stop for anyone with a sweet tooth or a curiosity for local produce. The farm offers hand-picking your own berries or sampling their famous raspberry ice cream.

This stop is just 30 minutes but packs a punch for freshness and flavor. It’s a simple yet memorable experience that adds a rural charm to the day. Travelers have appreciated this relaxed moment, with one review calling it a “fun and tasty” break.

Salmon Ponds Heritage Hatchery and Gardens: Fish and Food

Continuing the journey, you arrive at Salmon Ponds, famed as the birthplace of Trout in Australia. It’s not just about the fish—many enjoy the famous pancakes served here, which are a local highlight. You get about an hour here, which includes exploring the hatchery and gardens, as well as grabbing lunch.

Note that admission to Salmon Ponds isn’t included in the tour, and costs up to $10 AUD, which adds to your meal or snack options. Reviewers have mentioned the possibility of seeing a platypus here, making it an exciting wildlife spot despite the additional charge.

Plenty Cider: A Taste of Tasmania

After a nice lunch or snack, you’ll visit Plenty Cider, a family-run cider house. Here, you can try their craft ciders and perhaps enjoy a grazing platter. This stop lasts about an hour and is a relaxed way to experience Tasmania’s local cider scene.

Many visitors have found this stop a highlight for its friendly vibe and quality drinks. It’s a great chance to unwind, chat with the staff, and savor some regional flavors.

Optional: New Norfolk Distillery

If Plenty Cider is closed (it’s seasonal from May to August), a backup plan is a visit to the New Norfolk Distillery instead. Here, you’ll have a guided tasting of Tasmania’s first rum distillery, housed in a fascinating former asylum.

This stop is about 30 minutes, giving you a taste of Tasmania’s brewing ingenuity. It’s especially interesting for those curious about spirits and local craftsmanship.

Wrap-Up & Returning to Hobart

After a full day of exploring, tasting, and walking, the tour concludes with a return to Hobart. The route takes you back via the ferry, offering a relaxing end to a busy day. You’re in good hands with a knowledgeable guide who manages timing smoothly, ensuring you get the most out of each stop.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the expert guides, with comments like “Mark was very friendly, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable,” which makes a big difference when visiting unfamiliar places. The scenery at Mount Field is often called “stunning,” and the combination of nature and art at MONA gets glowing reviews. People love the value for money, especially given the variety of experiences packed into one day.

Some have noted that the tour is well-organized, providing ample time at each stop, which helps avoid feeling rushed. Others have enjoyed the quirky art scene at MONA, a nice cultural touch after a day of outdoor adventures.

Practical Tips

• The price of $129 offers good value considering the stops included, but remember that additional expenses like park passes (up to $22.35 per adult) and Salmon Ponds admission (up to $10) are extra.
• The tour starts at 9:30 am and lasts about 8 hours, so plan to arrive on time and wear comfortable shoes.
• Bring a water bottle, layers for variable weather, and your camera for all those photo-worthy moments.
• Food isn’t included, so packing snacks or being prepared to buy at stops is a good idea.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a balance of outdoor beauty and cultural experiences, this tour fits the bill nicely. It’s perfect for nature lovers who want to see Tasmania’s forests and waterfalls but also enjoy some local culinary delights and art. Those who appreciate guided tours with knowledgeable hosts will find this especially enjoyable, as reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and expertise.

Keep in mind, if you’re not keen on walking or outdoor activities, this might be a bit tiring. Also, for travelers on a tight budget, consider the extra costs for park passes and entry fees, but overall, the tour offers good bang for your buck.

FAQs

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch isn’t included, but many stops like Salmon Ponds offer good options. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy at the stops, especially for the salmon pancakes or local produce.

What is the main focus of this tour?
It offers a mix of Tasmania’s natural beauty at Mount Field, along with local food, cider, and spirits, plus a visit to the MONA Museum for art.

How long do we spend at each stop?
You get about 2 hours at Mount Field, 30 minutes at Westerway Raspberry Farm, 1 hour at Salmon Ponds, 1 hour at Plenty Cider, and 30 minutes at the distillery if visiting.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is included, and the tour has a maximum of 22 travelers, making for a comfortable and intimate group.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a water bottle, and camera. Remember, some entry fees are extra, so carry cash or cards accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if needed.

To sum it up, the Mount Field and Derwent Tasting Trail tour offers a thoughtfully curated day for travelers who want to see Tasmania’s natural and cultural highlights without fuss. The combination of forests, waterfalls, farm tastings, and art makes for a well-rounded experience. It’s especially great for those who enjoy a guided day with friendly hosts and aren’t afraid to walk a little. If this sounds like your kind of day trip, you’re likely to come away with plenty of photos, stories, and tasty memories.