THE Derwent Valley can claim to be the most recognised area for autumn beauty in southern Tasmania with up to five mentioned in a top 10 seasonal tourism review.
This year’s Tassie & Beyond review lists top places to enjoy autumn such as the “magic in the air as deciduous trees transform their greenery into enchanting displays
of glowing golds, rusty reds and vibrant oranges’’.
Given the Derwent Valley is the home to the most popular autumn festival in the state, it seems only fair that the region is recognised for its beautiful contribution to the season.
Now that the Derwent Valley Autumn Festival has been revived after a lapse of three years, it seems like just praise for those who are behind the event, including media partner the Derwent Valley Gazette.
The Autumn Festival will be held on Sunday, April 23.
Tassie & Beyond, an online tourism portal, has spruiked the beauty of the region in its top 10.
“The Derwent Valley is one of the most picturesque spots in southern Tasmania, and truly comes alive with autumn enchantment. There is even a Derwent Valley
Autumn Festival! The New Norfolk Esplanade walk along the riverside is magical, with the rich autumn colours displayed by the wide variety of old oaks, elms, willows and poplars providing lots of beautiful reflections in the River Derwent. The Salmon Ponds at nearby Plenty are well worth a visit, and the drive itself is an absolute delight,’’ it enthuses.
“Mount Field National Park, Australia’s only cold climate winter- deciduous tree, the fagus, is only found in Tasmania. The annual turning of the fagus is superb, and we reckon its extra special because it only happens in our corner of the world! Visit between late
April and May to witness the spectacular range of colours, from rust red to brilliant gold. The observation area at Lake Fenton is probably the easiest place to view the fagus.
“The drive along the Heritage Highway, with its charming 19th century towns, is delightful during autumn. Be sure to stop at Kempton and enjoy the autumn vibes (the avenue of elms is incredible). You’ll definitely want a driver reviver at St Peters Pass, near Oatlands it’s absolutely stunning in autumn. Take a walk in Chauncy Vale Wildlife Sanctuary, near Bagdad, and admire the autumn tones of the bush.
“If you’re looking for an excuse to go on a cheeky winery tour, autumn is here to help you out. To miss the mesmerising rows of vines shimmering down the hillside like a river of gold would just be cruel. The good news is, you’re spoilt for choice with wineries in Southern Tasmania.’’
And at number 10 is the Cascade Brewery in South Hobart. Now while this isn’t in the Valley, we are taking credit given the brew is made from hops grown in the Derwent Valley.
“A Tassie icon. Autumn is a wonderful time to visit and enjoy the gardens (you may as well do the tour and tastings while you’re there).
For the record, the top 10 are:
1. The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
2. Parks around Hobart and beyond 3. The Derwent Valley
4. Mount Field National Park
5. The Heritage Highway
6. Richmond
7. Wineries
8. The port Arthur Historic site
9. The Huon Valley
10. Cascade Brewery (we’re claiming it).