A Winter Escape to Tasmania's Huon Valley: Maybe see the Southern Lights Aurora

Winter is a great time to enjoy the spectacular southern night skies, away from city lights. The Huon Valley is a short drive south from Hobart, allowing plenty of time to explore the waterways, wilderness, wildlife and wine as you travel south for a night or three away.

Take the quick route on the Huon Highway or the road less travelled via kunanyi Mt Wellington.  Near Huonville lunch stops include fine dining at Home Hill Winery or the apple focused café/museum/cider works at Willie Smiths Apple Shed.
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Overnight choices include eco accommodation at Huon Bush Retreats, modern conveniences at Huon Country Cottage, or the southernmost accommodation in Australia at Buttongrass Retreat.

Huon Bush Retreats Starscape and Labyrinth by Jose Maroto

Just outside of Huonville is Huon Bush Retreats: Self contained cabins, glamping tipees and camping. Right onsite, is wildlife without cages and the 3 hour return walk to Mount Misery. Marvell at old growth forest, where the 350 year old trees are 60 metres tall. The feature of the evening is a long soak in the outdoor bath, under a natural sky and surrounding forest. If you want the absolutely best views to the south, book Clifftop Cabin and maybe view the Southern Aurora from the comfort of your living room.

If you want a relaxed rural experience, Huon Country Cottage is a great place for a romantic short break or a base for a family holiday.  Cosy wood fired heater, books and big screen TV make the living area a relaxing escape from city stresses. Complete with full kitchen, WiFi, TV, laundry etc, this cottage is a great base for a few days to explore activities like a river cruise,  Wooden Boat School or Hartz Mountains National Park. Across the road is a great photo spot of the Huon River and the sometimes snow capped Wellington Range.

Night sky at Buttongrass Retreat by Kelli Miller

The furthest south accommodation is Buttongrass Retreat at Ida Bay. Here you really feel that you are at the end of Tasmania. The mountain views in 2 directions are often snow capped and if you get lucky, the night sky might be lit by the Southern Lights. A good base for Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs, Cockle Creek or an almost flat walk to the deserted beach at Southport Lagoon. Two bedrooms and a huge living/kitchen area, make this a nice retreat for a couple, 2 singles or a small family.