Adventure brief
Farm Tunnel & Fungi Experience
Step inside a historic Tasmanian railway tunnel to witness mushrooms cultivated in a truly unique setting. Taste gourmet dishes and learn the craft at Tunnel Hill Mushrooms’ Farm Tunnel & Fungi Experience.
Set in the foothills of Mount Rumney, Tasmania, Tunnel Hill Mushrooms offers a distinctive journey that blends history, science, and culinary craft in a former railway tunnel. This is no ordinary sightseeing trip — here, visitors step into a working mushroom farm housed within repurposed railway infrastructure, unlocking a uniquely atmospheric environment where cool, humid conditions mimic the ideal natural settings for fungi to thrive. The Farm Tunnel & Fungi Experience takes guests through the entire process of mushroom cultivation—from the sterile lab stages to harvesting in the tunnels.
Guides share detailed insights on the biology and techniques behind farming gourmet mushrooms, including shiitake and other prized varieties. The historic railway tunnel, once a vital transport route, now serves as the perfect microclimate for growing fungi, preserving both the heritage and the environment. Visitors don't just witness the growth cycle; they taste it as well.
The tour features gourmet mushroom tastings, including a savory mushroom pie and a bold shiitake-infused vodka, spotlighting the versatility and flavor depth of these forest staples. Alongside these, freshly grilled mushrooms served from a custom 'Train BBQ' bring farm-to-table freshness to life. Tunnel Hill Mushrooms stands out in Tasmania’s vibrant food and agritourism scene by transforming industrial relics into an edible adventure.
Its educational and sensory offerings provide a refreshing alternative to traditional hiking or wildlife tours, inviting anyone curious about sustainable cultivation or offbeat food experiences. It’s a showcase of innovation and respect for natural resources, making it a must-visit for travelers looking to connect with Tasmania’s natural bounty through a hands-on, edible lens.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Comfortable Footwear Recommendedinfo
The tour includes walking through the tunnel and farm areas where floors may be uneven or damp.
- 02Be Ready for Cool, Humid Conditionsinfo
The tunnel’s climate is intentionally kept cool and moist to favor mushroom growth, so bring a light jacket.
- 03Advance Booking Requiredessential
Spaces for this popular guided tasting and cultivation experience fill up quickly; book ahead.
- 04All Ages Welcomeinfo
This is a family-friendly tour suitable for visitors of all ages interested in food and nature.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Support stable footing through tunnels and farm paths.
EssentialLight Jacket or Sweater
Tunnels remain cool and can feel damp regardless of season.
allEssentialWater Bottle
Stay hydrated when traveling to/from the location during warmer months.
summerCamera or Smartphone
Capture the unusual setting of historic railways and mushrooms.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
The historic railway structures surrounding the farm, providing a glimpse into Tasmania’s transport past, Nearby native bushland trails around Mount Rumney offering quiet nature walks
Local fauna
Tasmanian pademelons often spotted in nearby woodlands, Varied bird species including forest honeyeaters
Historic heritage
The railway tunnel repurposed by Tunnel Hill Mushrooms was once part of Tasmania’s early 20th-century rail network, now reinvented as a sustainable cultivation space.
Mindful exploration
Tunnel Hill Mushrooms practices sustainable farming methods that reduce chemical use and repurpose heritage infrastructure, supporting Tasmania’s environmental and cultural goals.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Entrance of the railway tunnel, Mushroom cultivation beds inside the tunnel, Outdoor Train BBQ area
- Subjects
- Historic railway architecture, Close-up mushroom clusters, Gourmet mushroom dishes
- Best times
- Golden hour, Mid-morning light, Soft overcast days
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
How long is the Farm Tunnel & Fungi Experience?
The experience lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, including guided tours and tastings.
Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and welcomes visitors of all ages.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, advance booking is required to secure your spot for this popular activity.
Are there food and drink tastings included?
Yes, guests sample gourmet mushroom dishes such as mushroom pie and shiitake vodka.
Is the tunnel environment safe and accessible?
The tunnels are safe to walk through but may be damp and cool; comfortable footwear is recommended.
Can I purchase mushrooms to take home?
Yes, fresh mushrooms and other products are available for purchase at the farm.