Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs
Discover Australia's largest dolomite cave and relax in natural thermal springs, surrounded by Tasmania's stunning Huon Valley.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Australia's largest dolomite cave and relax in natural thermal springs, surrounded by Tasmania's stunning Huon Valley.
"The caves were absolutely incredible! Photos don't do it justice. Well worth the trip."
🎯 Book Cave Tours Ahead
Popular guided cave tours fill up fast! Book online to secure your spot and avoid missing out.
🏊 Pack Swim Gear
The thermal springs are a highlight! Bring your swimsuit and towel for a refreshing dip.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Newdegate Cave
Cave entrance
Explore Australia's largest dolomite cave, a subterranean wonderland of ancient formations.
Thermal Springs Pool
Thermal Springs Area
Take a refreshing dip in the naturally heated thermal pool surrounded by lush forest.
Forest Walking Tracks
Various trails
Wander through serene forests, listen to birdsong, and keep an eye out for native wildlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Cave Tours in Advance
Thermal Springs Temperature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Cave Tours Ahead
Popular guided cave tours fill up fast! Book online to secure your spot and avoid missing out.
🏊 Pack Swim Gear
The thermal springs are a highlight! Bring your swimsuit and towel for a refreshing dip.
🍎 Bring a Picnic Lunch
Enjoy your meal amidst nature. The thermal springs area is perfect for a picnic.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be navigating cave steps and forest trails, so comfy shoes are a must.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Cave Tours Ahead
Popular guided cave tours fill up fast! Book online to secure your spot and avoid missing out.
🏊 Pack Swim Gear
The thermal springs are a highlight! Bring your swimsuit and towel for a refreshing dip.
🍎 Bring a Picnic Lunch
Enjoy your meal amidst nature. The thermal springs area is perfect for a picnic.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be navigating cave steps and forest trails, so comfy shoes are a must.
📸 Photos Don't Do Justice
The caves are truly breathtaking in person; photos can't capture their full magic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the awe-inspiring beauty of Newdegate Cave, with guides often highlighted for their knowledge and engaging tours. The thermal springs offer a pleasant, albeit tepid, dip in a natural setting, and the surrounding forest walks are a peaceful addition. Some wish for more time to explore the walking tracks or find the thermal springs warmer than expected.
"Totally amazing experience. Cave tour and hot springs swim followed by toasting marshmallows on the fire.
Another hour would have been great to do the short walking tracks to try and glimpse of a platypus.
Definitely going back to do the walks and to explore the area of Southport."
Troy & Michelle Shorley
"Tour was fantastic. Guide truly knew her stuff. Magnificent caves. Thermal pools were lovely but 28*C isn't actually as warm as you might think! Great change rooms and showers. Some lovely walks within the grounds."
Janet Newing
"The caves were absolutely incredible! It was the most fascinating and amusing tour I will be recommending it to anyone going down to Tassie. The photos don’t do it justice. Well worth the trip. Caves were magical and enormous, our guide Tate was fantastic and made learning about the caves a treat. Honestly the hot spring pool was a bit tepid but also worth a quick dip. Great facilities and a nice coffee on site too."
Siobhan meaney
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs are located in the Huon Valley, about a 90-minute drive south of Hobart, Tasmania. The drive is scenic, taking you through charming towns and beautiful landscapes. 
Yes, there is a carpark at the information center, and then a short walk to the cave entrance.
Public transport options are limited. Renting a car or joining a guided tour from Hobart is the most convenient way to reach Hastings Caves.
The drive is generally pleasant, with well-maintained roads. Consider stopping in Huonville for coffee and local treats.
Yes, the Southern Trove region offers other attractions like King Solomons Cave and Marakoopa Cave, though Hastings Caves (Newdegate Cave) is the largest dolomite cave open to the public.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary for cave tours and thermal springs access. It's best to check the official Parks Tasmania website for the most current pricing information.
It is highly recommended to book your cave tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee your entry.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. Always check the official Parks Tasmania website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours for the caves and thermal springs.
Tickets can often be purchased at the information center, but booking ahead online is advised to avoid disappointment.
Information on family passes or discounts is usually available on the official website or by contacting the park directly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The guided tour takes you through the magnificent Newdegate Cave, showcasing stunning dolomite formations. It involves a fair number of steps, but they are manageable with handrails.
The thermal springs are generally described as tepid, around 28°C, rather than hot. It's a refreshing dip rather than a hot tub experience.
Yes, there are lovely walking tracks through the surrounding forest, offering opportunities to enjoy nature and spot wildlife.
Facilities include an information center, gift shop, cafe, picnic areas, and change rooms with showers near the thermal springs.
The cave tour involves many steps, making it challenging for those with significant mobility issues. The thermal springs area and walking tracks may be more accessible.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the caves, but flash photography is often discouraged to protect the delicate formations. Always follow your guide's instructions.
The cave formations themselves are the main photographic subjects. The surrounding forest and thermal springs also offer beautiful scenic shots.
Yes, it is quite dark inside the caves, so a good camera with low-light capabilities or a tripod might be helpful for capturing detailed shots.
Expect serene shots of the pool surrounded by lush greenery, with steam rising if the temperature difference is significant.
Focus on capturing the scale and intricate details of the stalactites and stalagmites. Experiment with different angles to showcase the cave's depth.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack swimwear, towels, and perhaps a picnic to make the most of the day. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as options can be limited. The walking tracks are also great for kids to explore, offering a chance to burn off energy in a beautiful natural setting. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, which can be an exciting discovery for younger visitors.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
While the cave tour is a must-do, don't overlook the opportunity to explore the trails around the thermal springs and beyond. These walks are a perfect way to experience the tranquility of the region and potentially spot some of Tasmania's unique wildlife. They offer a different perspective on the natural beauty of the Huon Valley, complementing the subterranean wonders of Newdegate Cave.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles and consider your camera's low-light capabilities. The thermal springs area and surrounding forest provide beautiful natural light and scenic backdrops. Capture the steam rising from the tepid water or the lush greenery framing the pool.
Remember that flash photography is often restricted inside the caves, so focus on ambient light and composition. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Newdegate Cave
The tour involves navigating a significant number of steps, but handrails are provided throughout, making it manageable for most visitors. The cool, damp air and the profound silence within the cave create an otherworldly atmosphere. It's a fascinating glimpse into the subterranean world, offering a stark contrast to the lush Tasmanian landscape above.
Remember to book your tour in advance, as they are guided and popular. The experience is highly recommended for anyone visiting Tasmania, offering a unique and memorable adventure into the earth's hidden wonders.
The Thermal Springs Experience
The area is well-equipped with change rooms and showers, making it convenient for visitors to transition from cave exploration to a leisurely swim. Many visitors enjoy picnicking in the area, taking advantage of the natural beauty and peaceful ambiance. Some reviews mention the presence of wasps, so it's advisable to be mindful of your surroundings, especially when eating outdoors.
+1While the springs might not be as hot as some expect, they are still a delightful amenity that complements the overall experience at Hastings Caves. It's a chance to connect with nature in a different way, soaking in the serene environment after a day of discovery.
Forest Walks and Wildlife
Walkers can explore areas around the thermal springs or venture further into the forest. These walks are a great way to extend your visit and appreciate the natural beauty of the Huon Valley. Keep an eye out for Lyrebirds, known for their incredible mimicry, and other native creatures that call this forest home.
While some visitors wished for more time to explore these tracks, they are a valuable addition to the Hastings Caves experience, offering a peaceful retreat and a chance to connect with the natural environment.
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