TasALERT real-time fire, emergency warnings | FUEL CHECK Tas

places
things to do
blog
deals
Talk to an Expert

Things to Do

Travel Ideas

Events

See all blogs

Popular Destinations

All Towns

Places to Stay

Camping
Heritage Stays
Hobart Hotels
See more...

Popular Destinations

All Towns

Latest Deals

View all deals

Wishlist

As you browse the site, add accommodation, tours, events and attractions to your personalised trip by clicking the heart icon. When you’re done, click the heart icon in the menu at the top of the website to view your wishlist.

Review your list, remove any items you no longer need, then select “View your itinerary” to see your trip on a map, or send it to a friend.

VIEW YOUR ITINERARY
EMAIL THIS WISHLIST
Close

Electric Valley Escape: Exploring the Derwent Valley by EV

  • Gordon River Road. Image Credit: Robert Jutrisa

Home » Blog » 

Electric Valley Escape: Exploring the Derwent Valley by EV
Derwent Valley

People used to joke that Tasmania was 20 years behind, but these days it feels like we had the right mix all along.

In a world of rising petrol prices and constant noise, this is your cue to slow things down, grab an EV and rediscover the simple joys. Welcome to Tasmania’s Derwent Valley, where we savour slow days, real connection, a chance to switch off, and experiences you actually remember.

This is a place to exhale, to enjoy the simple things done well, good food, warm fires, beautiful scenery and the quiet comfort of being surrounded by nature. It is not about rushing from one place to the next. It is about taking your time, breathing a little deeper, and enjoying the kind of experience we are so lucky to have on our doorstep every day.

Plenty Cider
Plenty Cider

Saturday: Ease into the valley

Leave Hobart on Saturday morning and let the day unfold slowly. Breakfast at Brewtique on Blair is a lovely way to begin, where Lynn and Rachel help set the tone with warmth, good food and that easy local welcome that makes you feel instantly at home.

From there, wander through the New Norfolk Market, where local growers, makers and producers offer a taste of the valley’s creativity and generosity.

Then stop for coffee at The Quilted Teapot, where Jeanine has created one of those places that feels instantly personal and welcoming. There is colour, creativity and warmth here, and it captures something of the valley’s character beautifully.

Pick up pastries or something sweet from the Agrarian Kitchen Kiosk, and perhaps a few local beers from Welcome Swallow Brewery to enjoy later.

If opening times align, spend the late afternoon at Plenty Cider for cider and pizza before making your way to Mt Field. Family-owned and proudly local, it is an easy place to settle in and enjoy the slower rhythm of the region. By evening, arrive at Mt Field Retreat, where Rachel and Greg have created a stay that feels both beautifully considered and deeply connected to place.

Russell Falls. Image Credit: Jason Charles Hill
Russell Falls. Image Credit: Jason Charles Hill

Sunday: Forest, falls and a glowing finish

Spend Sunday exploring Mount Field National Park, one of the most beautiful and restorative corners of southern Tasmania. Stop at Waterfalls Cafe and Gallery at the visitor centre for coffee, local food, gifts, Tasmanian spirits and boutique wines, then set out for the easy walk to Russell Falls. There is something timeless about this part of the forest, the cool air, the towering trees, the sound of water, the moss and fern at your feet. If you feel like going a little further, continue on to Tall Trees or explore more of the park’s lower walks.

As evening draws in, keep things simple with a barbecue in the park near the Tyenna River. With the river close by and wildlife beginning to stir as the light fades, it is one of those moments that feels both grounding and quietly special. Afterwards, head back to Russell Falls after dark to see the glow worms. It is a beautiful, softly electric end to the day, and one of those experiences that stays with you long after you have gone home.

Lake Pedder Sunset. Image Credit: Cam Blake
Lake Pedder Sunset. Image Credit: Cam Blake

Monday: A charge towards the wilderness edge

If you feel like venturing further, Monday is the day to point the car towards Lake Pedder and Strathgordon, where the landscape opens out into something bigger, wilder and more remote. The drive itself is part of the experience, with changing weather, vast hydro country and long stretches of wilderness that make you feel very small in the best possible way.

Plan lunch at Pedder Wilderness Lodge, which turns the outing into a relaxed day trip rather than a rushed there-and-back. It is a wonderful option for travellers who want to see another side of southern Tasmania before returning to the comfort of the valley by evening.

New Norfolk Distillery
New Norfolk Distillery

Tuesday: One last spark on the way back to Hobart

Before heading back to Hobart, ease into the day with brunch at The Possum Shed in Westerway, where Renee adds another layer of local warmth to the journey. Set by the river, it is the kind of place that encourages you to linger a little longer and enjoy one last quiet valley moment before the drive home.

From there, take your time through the Derwent Valley. Stop at The Bush Inn for a taste of local history and character, then call in to New Norfolk Distillery, where Vanessa adds another personal touch to the experience and makes it easy to connect with the story behind the spirit in your glass.

Before the final drive into Hobart, stop at Derwent Distillery, where Emma and Robbie bring warmth, passion and a strong sense of place to the tasting experience. Together, these final stops add a little history, flavour and polish to a long weekend built around local character, good produce and the quieter pleasures of southern Tasmania.

Plan your escape

The Electric Valley Escape is designed as a self-drive long weekend that links accommodation, local food and drink, and memorable Derwent Valley experiences into one easy-to-follow journey.

Drive

  • Drive Car Hire provides the electric vehicle hire for the itinerary.
  • Drive Car Hire was Tasmania’s first car rental company to adopt electric vehicles (EVs) in 2021.  Their fleet of Long Range Tesla Model 3s are perfectly geared to touring the Derwent Valley’s stunning drives. New EV drivers will be equipped with the ins and out of driving, and charging, an EV before hitting the road.

Stay

  • Special winter offer from Mt Field Retreat
  • Offer: Stay 3 nights, pay for 2
  • Includes: Free EV charging for guests

Taste

Explore

  • Mount Field National Park is the signature nature experience, with Russell Falls, Tall Trees, glow worms and easy access to the visitor centre.
  • The visitor centre area also provides a useful EV top-up point.
  • Pedder Wilderness Lodge can be added as an optional wilderness lunch stop.
Drive Car Hire
Drive Car Hire

Drive Car Hire

Drive Car Hire is a Tasmanian-owned and operated family business. They have been offering affordable car rentals throughout Tasmania for over 35 years. The team of friendly locals provide helpful service and are armed with all the tips you will need to maximise your time in Tasmania.

Drive Car Hire is the first company to offer electric vehicles (EVs) for hire in Tasmania, with a fleet of Tesla’s available in Hobart and Launceston.

Drive Car Hire
Drive Car Hire
Drive Car Hire

Derwent Valley Accommodation Guide

Looking for the perfect place to stay in the Derwent Valley?

Whether you’re planning a relaxing retreat, a family getaway, or an outdoor adventure, this stunning region of Tasmania offers a diverse range of accommodation options.

Accommodation
Fern Mt Field
Fern Mt Field

Derwent Valley Touring Map

The Derwent Valley beckons outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, offering a myriad of experiences that showcase the stunning beauty of the region. From mountain biking trails to the Gordon Dam and the pristine wilderness of Mt Field National Park, the Derwent Valley is a captivating destination that promises unforgettable encounters with nature. Download the regional Touring Map to plan your journey.

Picture of Hobart and Beyond Editorial Team

Hobart and Beyond Editorial Team

The Hobart and Beyond Editorial Team is dedicated to bringing you the best insider tips, local stories, and up-to-date guides to exploring southern Tasmania.

Article Details:

Article Created: 14 April 2026
Last Update: 15 April 2026
Author: Darren Wright
Skip to content