Check out our road trip itinerary below.

Following the Derwent

If you’re setting out from Hobart, travel north whilst taking in the beauty of the changing scenery, travelling alongside the Derwent Hydropower Scheme. Once you’ve grabbed a coffee at New Norfolk or Hamilton, we arrive at our first stop – Meadowbank Lake!

Meadowbank Lake is a quiet spot that is perfect for fishing, launching your boat, or some paddling. Whether you are keen to drop a line and explore the water, Meadowbank Lake is a perfect place to stretch your legs as you start your adventure!

Drop a line on Meadowbank Lake

Travelling through Tarraleah

Continuing our journey north we pass through the historic town of Ouse and make our way to Tarraleah, just under 2 hours from Hobart!

Tarraleah Estate is a must-stop for lunch. Located off the Lyell Highway, Tarraleah was the home to ‘the Hydro’ workers and their families during the development of the nearby hydropower scheme. Enjoy a stroll around the village, and don’t miss the lookout above Tarraleah Power Station!  Looking down at the penstocks that move water to the power station, you can see the impressive engineering that was built over 90 years ago!

Aerial views of Tarraleah Estate

Or, if you’re more interested in cooking up your own BBQ storm, continue on the Lyell Highway to the intersection on the Nive River. Nestled between Tarraleah and Tungatinah Power Stations sits a peaceful day-use area. With toilet and BBQ facilities on site, it’s an idyllic spot to soak in the essence of Tasmania’s hydropower history.

Overnight at the lakes

Just fifteen minutes up the road is your perfect overnight stay: Bradys Lake! With multiple boat ramps and three campgrounds, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Whitewater Point Campground is also fully accessible for those who use a wheelchair or mobility aid.

No better spot to relax lakeside than Bradys

Offering the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, whether you’re fishing, kayaking or simply enjoying the tranquillity. Many of the sites in the area are also dog-friendly, making them the perfect location for the entire family, including your four-legged companions!  

Check out our interactive site map at www.hydro.com.au/things-to-do check out amenities at each site

Getting up close and personal with a hydropower station

Next up is the Waddamana Power Station Heritage Site, where Hydro Tasmania’s journey began. Once fully operational, it’s now a historic site showcasing the origins of hydroelectric power in Tasmania, where the family can get up close to the station’s mighty peloton turbines.

Take a guided tour and explore treasures that tell the story of Hydro Tasmania’s evolution. The outdoor BBQ areas are perfect for a leisurely lunch, all while soaking in the crisp Tasmanian air and the sheer scale of the old penstocks towering above.

 Our first hydropower station, now a heritage site, Waddamana  

It’s great up at the lake

After soaking in all the history of Waddamana, it’s time to hit the water and enjoy the beauty of the mighty Great Lake. Bring your boat or kayak and spend the day exploring, and when night falls, set-up for night two at the nearby Arthurs Lake campground! There are many campgrounds available at Arthurs Lake with different amenity levels, so be sure to check out the Hydro Tasmania website by clicking here to find one that suits your needs.

This road trip only scratches the surface of what Hydro Tasmania’s recreation sites offer. Ready to plan your own adventure? Check out more information and getaway ideas here.