One of the best aspects of a holiday in Tasmania is the ease and convenience by which you can take a fantastic variety of daytrips from the island’s cities and towns.

While Hobart, Launceston and Devonport are interesting tourist destinations in their own right, visitors often point to the fact that so many worthwhile places or attractions are just a short drive away.

A perfect example of this is Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs, which is situated about 90 minutes south of Hobart.

After about 40 million years of existence the dolomite caves were discovered by timber workers in 1917 and now offer people the chance to view spectacular stalactites, stalagmites and the more unusual helictites.

Parks and wildlife guides run 45-minute tours of the large cavern beginning at 10:00 daily from September through to April.

The thermal springs pool lies just five minutes from the cave entrance. Here you can take a relaxing swim in the 28 degrees Celsius water while looking up at the surrounding forest.

To enjoy everything this majestic setting has to offer – including a guided tour, entry to the springs and access to the large picnic, barbecue and walking area – purchase The Hastings Experience ticket, which is $24 for adults, $19.20 for concessions and $12 for children.

Hastings Cave © by daecon