About Hastings & Hastings Caves State Reserve
Hastings Caves State Reserve protects a rugged pocket of southern Tasmania where limestone cliffs, thermal springs, and cool temperate rainforest converge. The area is defined by its underground wonders—cave systems carved through dolomite rock—and a network of walking tracks that range from short forest strolls to challenging peak ascents.
Walks & Trails
The reserve itself offers three accessible walks starting from the visitor centre: Hastings Pool Access Track, Hastings Platypus Track, and Hot Springs Nature Trail. For longer adventures, Duckhole Lake is an easy 4.2km hike 6km away, while Newdegate Cave Main Access Track leads to another significant cave system. Experienced walkers can tackle Adamsons Peak Track or the rougher Creekton Falls Track for elevated views and waterfall sightings.
Attractions & Things to See
Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs is the centrepiece—a 11km drive reveals underground chambers and geothermally heated pools. Adamsons Falls and Adamsons Peak reward hikers with cascades and panoramic ridgeline views. Further afield, Hartz Mountains National Park offers subalpine terrain, while Bruny Island and Adventure Bay Beach provide coastal contrast.
Camping
The closest caravan park is Cockle Creek Campground, 19km away. For more options, Jetty Beach Campground is 28km south, while Cygnet Caravan Park and Franklin Camping Ground offer bases 45–46km away in the Huon Valley.
Wineries & Cellar Doors
The Huon Valley's cool-climate vineyard belt begins south of Hastings. Visit St Imre Vineyard (23km), or venture further to Bruny Island Premium Wines, Elsewhere Vineyard, No Regrets Vineyard, and Chatto (all around 36–41km).
Pubs & Dining
Southport Tavern is the closest pub, just 9km away. In the broader region, Kermandie Hotel (35km) and Commercial Hotel Cygnet (44km) provide local hospitality and meal options.