Hastings Caves

Hastings, Huon Valley, Far South Tasmania

Explore an ancient dolomite cave and relax in the natural thermal pools

One of the most enchanting and fascinating natural wonders in Tasmania is Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs, located in the gorgeous Huon Valley. Here you can explore Newdegate Cave, Australia’s largest dolomite tourist cave, formed more than 40 million years ago.

Hastings Caves State Reserve, a 90-minute drive from Hobart in Tasmania’s Wilderness World Heritage Area, offers guided cave tours, a visitor centre with souvenirs, a café, and short walks through stunning natural forest and lush fern surrounds.

Take a walk through the forest, explore the labyrinth of cave chambers, enjoy a picnic, and take a relaxing dip in the naturally-heated spring water swimming pool.

Bookings are required for guided cave tours, and include complimentary thermal pool and amenities access. You will begin your adventure at the Hastings Visitor Centre. It is recommended you arrive 45 minutes before your allocated cave tour time, to ensure you have enough time to check-in and collect your ticket, enjoy a coffee or snack, and make the short walk over to the caves.

The guided cave tours are led by experienced and knowledgeable Parks and Wildlife Service guides, and take approximately 45 minutes. Those afraid of tight spaces can rest easy, the Newdegate Cave is spacious and has no narrow passages. Be fascinated and enchanted upon entering one of the world’s great dolomite caves. There are many magical subterranean formations to explore and examine. Marvel at the flowstone, stalagmites and helictites that make up the mystery beneath the Tasmanian landscape.

Having completed your spectacular journey through Hastings Caves, you can relax in the thermal springs swimming pool, which keeps a temperature of 28-degrees Celsius year-round.

Facilities in the reserve include barbeque and picnic areas, public toilets, a gift shop and carpark. There are also two easy walking trails for you to explore the gorgeous forest surrounds further. You may even be lucky enough to spot some of the native wildlife who inhabit the forest, including platypus, pademelons, and quolls. Many areas of the reserve, including the visitor centre and café, as well as the 5-10 minute Platypus trail through the forest, are accessible for wheelchair users.

After a full day of adventure, relax at one of our stunning properties in Southport (a 13-minute drive from the caves) or Dover (approximately 30 minutes away).

754 Hastings Caves Road, Hastings 7109, Tasmania

For more information and to make bookings, visit Parks and Wildlife Service Tasmania