Mount Field And The Derwent Tasting Trail

If you’re planning to visit Tasmania and want a day that balances breathtaking landscapes with a touch of local flavor and culture, this tour offers an engaging way to see some of the island’s highlights.

It combines spectacular natural beauty—think giant trees, waterfalls, and rainforests—with visits to unique food and drink artisans, topped off with a visit to the famous MONA Museum. The experience is designed for travelers who appreciate both outdoor adventures and quirky art.

What makes this tour especially appealing? First, it’s led by knowledgeable guides who seem genuinely enthusiastic about sharing Tasmania’s hidden gems. Second, the stops at local farms and distilleries allow you to taste Tasmania’s craft products firsthand—raspberry ice cream, fresh cider, and Tasmanian rum—giving you a real sense of place.

On the flip side, the tour’s 8-hour length and some walking involved might be a long day for those with limited stamina or tight schedules.

This experience suits nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a well-rounded taste of Tasmania—literally and figuratively. It’s especially good for travelers who prefer guided tours that handle logistics and offer authentic local experiences without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of nature exploration and cultural experiences
• Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding and enjoyment
• Taste local products like cider, raspberry ice cream, and Tasmanian rum
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles
• Flexible stops with free or low-cost entry, but some optional paid experiences
• Ideal for a full day of sightseeing with a manageable group size

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transport

The tour begins at 9:30 am with pickup options, which means you won’t need to worry about organizing transport. The group size is limited to a maximum of 22 travelers, creating a more intimate and engaging atmosphere. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort while traveling between stops, which is especially appreciated when Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable.

Mount Field National Park: A Natural Marvel

The first stop is Mount Field National Park, one of Australia’s oldest and most diverse parks. Here, you’ll spend roughly two hours exploring the lush forests, giant eucalyptus trees, and waterfalls. The highlight for many visitors is the walk to Russell Falls—a cascade with enough grandeur to satisfy your camera’s memory card. Reviews praise the “stunning scenery” and the opportunity to see local wildlife.

You’ll step inside a part of the Tasmanian World Heritage Area, which means you’re walking through a landscape protected for its natural significance. The walk is accessible, and the guide (like Mark in reviews) often provides fun facts and insights, making the experience not just scenic but educational.

Westerway Raspberry Farm: Sweet Local Bites

Next, the tour hits the Westerway Raspberry Farm—a seasonal stop (November to June). Here, you have the chance to hand-pick berries or indulge in some raspberry ice cream. For many, this is a delightful break that combines fun with tasting some of Tasmania’s best produce. The free admission makes it an easy, low-cost stop that adds a personal touch to your day.

Salmon Ponds Heritage Hatchery: A Trout’s Birthplace

Moving on, you visit Salmon Ponds, renowned as the birthplace of trout in Australia. The ponds are charming and historically significant. Here, you can explore the gardens, learn about the hatchery, and enjoy lunch (not included in the tour, but the venue is known for its famous pancakes, a popular treat). Reviews reflect fond memories of the scenery and the chance to see a platypus, which adds a fun wildlife encounter.

Plenty Cider: Crafting Tasmania’s Signature Drinks

The next stop is Plenty Cider, a family-run operation where you can sample craft ciders. The setting is relaxed, and you can enjoy a grazing platter—a simple but tasty way to savor local flavors. Many reviews highlight the enjoyment of tasting authentic Tasmanian artisanal drinks, and the friendly family vibe adds to the charm.

New Norfolk Distillery (May-August)

From May to August, if Plenty Cider is closed, the tour shifts to New Norfolk Distillery, Tasmania’s first rum distillery, set in a historic building that used to be an asylum. Here, you can indulge in guided tastings or paddle. It’s an interesting contrast: a historic site turned into a modern craft production space, giving you insight into Tasmania’s emerging spirits scene.

End of Day and Optional Extras

The tour wraps up with a return journey into Hobart, often including a ferry ride into the city—a scenic and fun way to conclude the day, especially if you’re heading to MONA Museum afterward.

The Art and Culture Highlight: MONA Museum

While the tour’s main itinerary doesn’t include MONA, many travelers choose to extend their visit. The museum is Australia’s largest privately owned art collection, famous for its quirky, interactive exhibits. It provides a perfect counterpoint to the natural landscapes, appealing especially to those who enjoy modern and contemporary art. If you’re visiting on your own, a visit here is highly recommended after the tour.

Tour Value and Pricing

At $129, this tour offers a lot, especially considering the entrance fees on your own—like the Salmon Ponds (~$10) and park pass (~$22.35)—are extra. Many reviewers note the excellent guide (like Mark), who enhances the experience with fun facts and local knowledge that make the day more engaging. The included transportation and small group size add to the overall value, making logistics smooth and enjoyable.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with one saying Mark was “probably the most knowledgeable of our whole trip,” and another noting how Mark’s humor made the day extra fun. The stunning scenery at Mount Field and Russell Falls is described as “breathtaking,” and many appreciate the delicious local food stops, like raspberry ice cream and cider tastings. The combination of nature, food, and art creates a well-rounded experience that appeals to a broad audience.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you want a comprehensive one-day introduction to Tasmania’s natural beauty and local artisan scene. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate guided insights, want to avoid the hassle of planning multiple stops, and enjoy tasting local food and drink. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy light walking and want to see some of Tasmania’s best waterfalls and forests without the tough hikes.

Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find value here, especially if they’re curious about Tasmanian wildlife and culture. The tour’s pace and group size make it friendly for most ages, and the variety of stops keeps it lively.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In short, this tour offers a rich slice of Tasmania—from ancient rainforests and towering trees to handcrafted cider and the striking art at MONA. The expert guides elevate the experience, mixing fun stories with useful information, while the stops at local farms provide authentic tastes of the island’s produce.

The price reflects good value for what you get: a full day of sightseeing, tasting, and cultural exploration. The limited group size and comfortable transportation mean you’ll have a relaxed, personalized experience. Keep in mind, it’s a long day, so it’s best suited for travelers who want to maximize their time and aren’t daunted by a full schedule.

For nature lovers, art enthusiasts, or simply curious travelers eager to see Tasmania’s highlights without the stress of planning, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s a balanced, engaging, and memorable way to spend a day on this beautiful island.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation, with pickup options available. You won’t need to worry about organizing your own transport.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending in the late afternoon, making it a full-day experience.

Are entrance fees included?
Certain stops like Mount Field are free, but the Salmon Ponds have an entry fee (~$10), and a national park pass (up to $22.35) is required. These are not included in the ticket price.

What stops are included?
Stops include Mount Field National Park, Westerway Raspberry Farm, Salmon Ponds Heritage Hatchery, Plenty Cider, and possibly New Norfolk Distillery (May-August).

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable, especially since it involves light walking and engaging sights. However, it’s best for those who can handle a full day and some outdoor activity.

Can I visit MONA after the tour?
Yes, many guests choose to visit MONA afterward, as it’s close to Hobart. The tour itself doesn’t include MONA, but it’s a popular extension.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead guarantees your spot, especially during peak seasons. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure.

In all, the Mount Field and Derwent Tasting Trail offers a well-rounded taste of Tasmania’s natural and cultural highlights in a single, thoughtfully organized day. Whether you’re here for the landscapes, the food, or the art, it’s a journey well worth considering.