Truffle Lodge

BEST INDEPENDENTLY RATED TASMANIAN TOUR 2018, 2020, 2022 "This experience goes down as one of the best experiences of my life." - Rosie Rees - Australian Entrepreneur Why not swap the steering wheel for a paddle for a few hours and jump on board Tassie Bound’s multi-award-winning kayak adventure? Explore a little deeper below the surface of the Derwent Valley’s idyllic countryside and you might find yourself catching a glimpse of our not-so-shy but still very wild local resident; the platypus. With “the bill of a duck, the body of an otter, and the tail of a beaver”, this evolutionary relic has a long history of confounding humans and puzzling scientists. Unlike other iconic Tasmanian species like the pesky possum or the ever-present wallaby, platypuses are becoming increasingly difficult to spot. Active at sunset and living much of their lives underwater or within the comfort of their hidden riverside burrows, their habits are the opposite of their human observers. Here on the edge of Tasmania’s Western Wilds is a stretch of protected river environment where; if we travel quietly and respectfully, we have an exceptionally good chance of spotting platypus.

A central hub of the Bushy Park community, the now 110 year old hall offers a hops museum, country market and tourist information. The goods and produce for sale are either by donation or entrusted to us to sell on consignment by members of the community. The profit is then used for the upkeep of the lovely hall. We have a great range of products from baked goods, fresh fruit and veg to artisan crafts, bric-a-brac, souvenirs, furniture, clothing, homewares, tools, garden and plants and an unimaginable array of treasures.

The River Derwent Rapid kayaking tour is a multi-award-winning adventure experience located within an hour’s drive from Hobart’s CBD. This half-day adventure can be best described as receiving a VIP backstage pass to our local region; combining breathtaking Tasmanian scenery, local guides, world-class produce with a little excitement! Commencing at the historic Hawthorn Lodge in Bushy Park the trip begins with a short scenic drive through the Upper Derwent Valley, offering views of Mount Field National Park, surrounding lush farmlands and iconic hop fields. Paddle downstream on the mighty River Derwent, take in sweeping views of the iconic Wellington Range, pass under historic railway bridges and perhaps even see a platypus, an active sea eagle breeding area or some acrobatic trout before stopping for a fresh gourmet riverside lunch by a local waterfall. An adventure that has it all; a relaxing start to build confidence, epic lunch spot, supportive and informative local guides and finishes with a few Grade 2 rapids which will get your adrenaline running. This tour Includes morning tea and lunch prepared by a fully qualified chef, picked full of world-famous Tasmanian seasonal produce. All participants must be able to swim to participate.