Cockle Creek, Tasmania
Australia
From Hobart to the southernmost road in Australia, via Sandy Bay, the Shot Tower at Taroona, Kettering, Woodbridge, Cygnet, the Huon Valley, Hastings Caves, and Recherche Bay. The next stop south from Cockle Creek is Antarctica.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Hobart
Tasmania's capital on the Derwent estuary, backed by kunanyi/Mount Wellington. Head south on Sandy Bay Road to begin the long run to the continent's end.
- Shot Tower, Taroona
A 58m dolerite column completed in 1870, Australia's only surviving shot tower. Molten lead was dropped from the summit to form perfect spherical pellets in the water below.
- Kettering
A small harbour on the D'Entrecasteaux Channel where the Bruny Island ferry departs. Good coffee stop before the road swings south through Woodbridge toward Cygnet.
- Cygnet
A laid-back Huon Valley town of apple orchards, farmers markets and artists. Channel views and slow pace make it a natural break before the valley deepens south.
- Huonville
The Huon Valley's main town straddles the Huon River, surrounded by orchards famous for Huon apples. The last sizeable fuel and supplies stop before the deep south.
- Hastings Caves
A dolomite cave system 25 km from the road's end, featuring the Southern Hemisphere's largest dolomite chamber. A thermal pool outside holds a constant 28°C year-round.
- Recherche Bay
A pristine wilderness bay where French explorer Bruni d'Entrecasteaux anchored in 1792. Wild beaches backed by ancient Huon pine forest line this final stretch before Cockle Creek.
- Cockle Creek
The southernmost point reachable by car in Australia, where Recherche Bay's wild beach meets the Southern Ocean. The next landmass due south is Antarctica.
Where to Eat
- The Tower TearoomsCafé
Enjoy Devonshire tea and light meals in a historic setting at the base of the Shot Tower.
- The Red Velvet LoungeModern Australian
Savor locally sourced dishes in a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Cygnet.
- Franklin Woodfired OvenPizza
Delight in artisanal wood-fired pizzas made with fresh, local ingredients in Franklin.
Things to Do
- Hastings Caves and Thermal SpringsNature Reserve
Explore ancient limestone caves and relax in warm thermal pools surrounded by lush forest.
- Tahune AirWalkScenic Walk
Walk among the treetops on a suspended bridge offering panoramic views of the Huon Valley.
- Bruny Island CruiseBoat Tour
Experience dramatic sea cliffs and marine wildlife on an exhilarating cruise around Bruny Island.