The 10 best things to do in Tamar Valley

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From skydiving to frolicking with the local penguin population, there’s a lot to explore in Wild Tamar with adventures for every kind of traveller.

Look beyond the wineries, and you’ll find plenty of things to do in Tamar Valley. Find the historic hamlet of George Town, a coastal treasure in Wild Tamar (and the country’s third-oldest European settlement, behind Sydney and Hobart) some 40 minutes north of Launceston.

George Town water front, things to do in Tamar Valley, Tasmania

Enjoy the beauty of George Town’s waterfront, any time of day.

Although it would be easy for George Town to pull on its looks alone, (the town features easy access to the Bass Strait, and along with it, striking sea and river views from seemingly every corner), it ultimately delivers with personality and spades of attractions for visitors to enjoy.

Need a few ideas? We’ve got you covered.

1. Enjoy a kayaking adventure

Whether you’re into gentle river paddling or strenuous ocean experiences, George Town, with its swift access to Bass Strait and a plethora of calm coves juxtaposed with rocky headlands, is a haven for lovers of watersports.

You can opt for a guided Tamar River Kayak Tour with Launceston Kayak Tours or, if you have your own, take it out along Low Head, York Cove, East Beach or Town Beach. During the summer months, these waters (with the exception of Low Head) are calm enough for SUP boarding adventures too.

Launceston Kayak Tours, George Town, things to do in Tamar Valley

Opt for a guided Tamar River Hobie Kayak Tour with Launceston Kayak Tours. (Image: Ideasbanq)

2. Tour George Town Watch House

If you’ve ever wanted to know what life on the inside is like (without the associated rap sheet), take a tour of George Town Watch House; a historic prison which features a model village demonstrating what 19th-century life was like in George Town. There’s also a display on the female convicts who were imprisoned here between 1824 and 1834.

You can even take a little break from all the seriousness by heading over to displays shining a light on the state’s finest arts and crafts.

3. Meet the Low Head penguin population

At any one time, there are between 2,000 and 4,000 penguins who call Low Head home. Come sunset, up to 200 Little Blue Penguins (also known as Fairy Penguins) waddle in from the sea to the coastal reserve.

You could read about it, but why not book a one-hour guided tour with Low Head Penguin Tours and see it for yourself instead? The tours run daily and all you have to do is pre-book, rug up in something warm (it can get chilly on the viewing platform) and wait for the magic to begin.

Low Head penguins, things to do in Tamar Valley

Join a tour to meet the Low Head penguin population.

4. Stay at Low Head Pilot Station

Of course, if you can’t get enough of the flippered critters, you can extend your stay in Wild Tamer by checking into Low Head Pilot Station; a collection of shacks and cottages suitable for couples, families and large groups.

Built by convicts in 1805 as a way to guide ships into kanamaluka/River Tamar, the property is also home to Low Head Lighthouse, the state’s second-oldest light station, a rustic Seafood Shack and the Low Head Pilot Station Maritime Museum.

Keen to fit in a leisurely walk to the lighthouse? The foghorn sounds every Sunday at noon and can be heard from over 30 kilometres away – so hearing protection is recommended.

Low Head Pilot Station, things to do in Tamar Valley, Tasmania

Stay by the water and learn some local history at Low Head Pilot Station.

5. Take a hike through George Town

While the Kanamaluka Trail mightn’t be a ‘hike’ in the traditional sense, it’s a scenic six-kilometre walk along the coastline, running from George Town to Low Head.

Whether you opt to walk, jog or cycle (you can pop in at the visitor centre to enquire about hiring a bike), the trail will introduce you to the prettiest sites of the region – from isolated beaches and nature reserves and past historic buildings and museums.

You’ll even see a range of quirky shops and cafes, including Don Marios Italian Restaurant which hosts a monthly classic car show.

Low Head, George Town Tasmania

Take a leisurely coastal walk, jog or cycle from George Town to Low Head. (Image: Rob Burnett)

6. Tackle Tasmania’s best mountain bike trails

With 70 kilometres of riding to be done across two trail networks, George Town is fast earning a reputation as the top place to go mountain biking in Tasmania. From easy gradients and smooth surfaces to physically demanding routes suitable for those who love a challenge, the George Town mountain bike trails cover all.

What’s more, shuttle bus options are available. You can look at trail maps, read trail descriptions and plan your route through George Town Mountain Bike Trails.

Bike trails around George Town

Hit the bike trails around George Town. (Image: Flow Mountain Bike)

7. Skydive over George Town for a different view

There’s no better place to admire the region’s spectacular coastal landscape than as you freefall some 10,000 feet from a plane.

Tasmania Skydivers (Tasmania’s only all-inclusive Tandem Skydive) will fly you over George Town, River Tamar and the historic Low Head Lighthouse before ‘dropping you off’ mid-air. You’ll even receive over 100 photos, plus a video edit with music to capture your bravery.

Skydive over George Town, things to do in Tamar Valley

Skydive over George Town for an adrenaline rush.

8. Find the best diving spots in Tasmania

Provided you’re okay with bracing cold water (this isn’t the Mediterranean after all), the Wild Tamar area near George Town is celebrated for having some of the best diving in Tasmania.

From diving the wreckage of The Avon – a tugboat that sank after it was abandoned – to observing the colourful sponge gardens and marine life (everything from seahorses to octopuses) at The Monument, plus the wonders of Kelso and the Farewell Beach off the river mouth, the sites are super-accessible. Schedule a dive trip through Tasmanian Divers (or learn how to scuba dive).

colourful sponge gardens and seahorses at The Monument dive spot, George Town,things to do in Tamar Valley

Find colourful sponge gardens and seahorses at The Monument dive spot.

9. Go fishing, visit underwater worlds and more

Whether you’re into fishing (this area is noted for its bream, flathead and snapper) with a local charter, visiting the local seahorses at Seahorse World, or prefer the company of the ever-elusive platypus at Platypus House, George Town offers a multitude of things to do all in kinds of weather.

 

fishing in George Town, things to do in Tamar Valley

The Wild Tamar offers anglers the opportunity to chase a plethora of salt and freshwater species.

10. Visit a winery

Don’t forget to leave some time to tour the wineries of the Tamar Valley region. There’s a winery everyone. Sparkling lovers will be taken by a bubbly glass of Jansz at their cellar door. Or, explore the diverse offerings at Josef Chromy, where you can sample everything from a delicate rosé to a refreshing riesling.

the lush vineyards in Josef Chromy Wines, Tamar Valley

Josef Chromy Wines is a wine lover’s paradise in the Tamar Valley. (Image: Andrew Wilson)

Dilvin Yasa is a freelance journalist, author and TV presenter whose travels have taken her from the iceberg graveyards of Antarctica to the roaring rapids of Uganda. Always on the lookout for that next unforgettable meal, wildlife moment or 80s-themed nightclub, she is inexplicably drawn to polar destinations despite detesting the cold.
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Sip, dine, sleep: the essential Tamar Valley wineries guide

    By Liz Whitehead
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    Visit Tasmania’s oldest wine-growing area and discover why the region has made a name for itself as one of the world’s best cool-climate wine producers.

    Located a stone’s throw from Launceston, The Tamar Valley is a wine lover’s paradise. The region is steeped in abundance, blessed with astounding natural beauty and fertile soils that yield some of the world’s finest cool-climate wines.

    Vineyards of Ridge North Lilydale Launceston

    The Tamar Valley is home to the world’s finest cool-climate wines. (Image: The Ridge North Lilydale/Tourism Australia)

     

    The majestic Tamar River/Kanamaluka runs through the heart of the valley, with more than thirty picturesque vineyards nestled on either side. Here, we’ve recapped the best wineries in the Tamar Valley, as well as a few tips for dining, touring and getting around.

    Top Tamar Valley wineries

    Take an excursion to some of the Tamar Valley’s best wineries to soak up the stunning scenery, sip on something delicious and discover why the region’s wines are world-renowned.

    Marion’s Vineyard

    Go for: The great variety of hard-to-find Tasmanian reds including Syrah, Tempranillo and Cabernet.

    You’ll find Marion’s Vineyard midway up the Tamar Valley, surrounded by the luscious backdrop of a redwood forest. Red wine aficionados can enjoy the region’s famous pinot noir, as well as other red varieties uniquely made the Tassie way.

    Marion’s Vineyard is one of the few Tamar Valley wineries to attempt traditionally warm-climate wines such as tempranillo, making for an eclectic range of offerings that will pique the interest of connoisseurs.

    The Taverna Delicatessen at the cellar door offers customisable platters to pair, giving visitors the perfect excuse to stay for a picnic while admiring the wonderful view over the water.

    Josef Chromy Wines

    Go for: Exquisite wine, great dining and a beautiful atmosphere a stone’s throw from Launceston.

    The vineyards at Josef Chromy

    The vineyards at Josef Chromy are as pretty as a picture. (Image: Andrew Wilson/ Tourism Tasmania)

    You hardly have to leave Launceston to feel an entire world away. Just outside of the city, you can find yourself blanketed by the blissful surroundings of Josef Chromy vineyards, making this a particularly good choice if you’re short on time.

    Josef Chromy Wine Tasting

    A tasting at Josef Chromy is an exquisite experience that engages all the senses. (Image: Osborne Images/Tourism Tasmania)

    A visit to one of Launceston’s wineries is a perfect way to unwind, but Josef Chromy takes relaxation one step further with yoga lessons among the vines. Stretch out in serenity before heading to the cellar door where you can swap your yoga flow for flowing wine.

    Josef Chromy Wines - Ride the Vines tour

    Join a Ride the Vines tour at Josef Chromy. (Image: Osborne Images/Tourism Tasmania)

    If you’d prefer to simply enjoy a tasting, you can visit the cellar door (located in a romantic 1880s homestead!) every day until 4 pm. Bookings are recommended.

    View of Josef Chromy Tasmania

    Get the lay of the land during a tasting at Josef Chromy. (Image: Osborne Images/Tourism Tasmania)

    Swinging Gate Vineyard

    Go for: Rustic vibes, family-owned friendliness, and a great selection of wines.

    If you stop by Swinging Gate’s cellar door, you’ll likely be greeted by Nellie, the vineyard dog. Family is at the heart of this winery, situated on a verdant plot of land on the west side of the Tamar River.

    Swinging Gate makes the most of Tasmanian produce with minimal-intervention vine techniques as well as wholesome house-made apple cider. The cellar door is open for all-day tastings, where you can sample some of Swinging Gate’s imaginative and expertly crafted wines while admiring the gorgeous landscape.

    If you’d like to add an extra dash of decadence to your visit, there’s a day spa onsite that overlooks the vineyard. Here, your spa therapist will pamper you with hand-made products made with Australian botanicals for a truly blissful experience.

    Jansz Vineyards

    Go for: A visit to the specialists in all things sparkling.

    Jansz Tasmania

    A tasting at Jansz Tasmania is an essential stop on your itinerary. (Image: Adam Gibson/ Tourism Tasmania)

    If you’re looking for a Tamar Valley winery that specialises in sparkling, then head to Jansz Vineyards, where you can swap your wine glass for a champagne flute. Tucked away in the northeastern corner of the Tamar Valley, Jansz specialises in creating elegant and aromatic sparkling wines inspired by Tasmania’s pristine wilderness.

    Jansz Tasmania Tasting

    Jansz specialises in creating elegant and aromatic sparkling wines. (Image: Adam Gibson/ Tourism Tasmania)

    At the cellar door, you can sample various sparkling varieties and indulge in beautifully arranged platters of local produce. Jansz has truly put the Apple Isle on the map as one of the world’s best sparkling regions— head down to their cellar door to find out why!

    Vineyards at Jansz

    The Apple Isle is renowned as a world-class sparkling region thanks to Jansz. (Image: Adam Gibson/ Tourism Tasmania)

     

    Grey Sands Vineyard

    Go for: Intense wines and a small, family-run winery experience.

    Grey Sands Vineyard is offers sweeping views of the Tamar Valley and embodies the philosophy of quality over quantity. The family-run farm still hand prunes and hand picks their produce to ensure wines that result in bold, rich flavours. Their approach to produce is mirrored in the cellar door experience, too, which is friendly, intimate and by-appointment-only.

    Moores Hill Estate

    Go for: An eco-tourism experience with premium quality wines.

    Western Tamar Valley Winery Moores Hill is a 100% off-grid boutique vineyard that harnesses solar power to create an elegant range of cool-climate wines. The wines at Moore’s Hill are every bit as exquisite as they are eco-friendly, with varieties such as riesling, chardonnay, pinot noir and cabernet merlot.

    Located on one of the coolest sites in the Tamar Valley, the slow-ripening grapes translate into fragrant, intensely flavoured wines. You can opt to pair your tasting with a share plate— seafood, cheeses or meats— and graze away as you look over the rolling hills and distant mountains.

    Iron Pot Bay Vineyard

    Go for: A wonderful array of cool-climate white wine, including dessert wine.

    The Iron Pot Bay Cellar Door is a charming Tamar Valley winery located in a picturesque historic cottage surrounded by vineyards and lofty acorn trees. White wine appreciators will enjoy a visit here— the main variety is chardonnay, but the vineyard also produces semillon, sauvignon blanc, pinot gris, gewürztraminer, pinot meunier and dessert wine. Add a sumptuous local cheese platter to complete your tasting experience and sit outside in the sunshine to enjoy.

    Holm Oak Vineyards

    Go for: cosy vibes, friendly service, and adorable vineyard pigs.

    Holm Oak Vineyards Tasting

    Sip Holm Oak’s award-winning wines in the sun among the vines. (Image: Adam Gibson/Tourism Tasmania)

    Holm Oak resides at the far end of the Tamar Valley wine trail and offers a range of award-winning wines for tasting at their cellar door. Holm Oak specialises in pinot noir and chardonnay but also has a great range that includes hard-to-find Tasmanian Arneis and cabernet franc.

    Holm Oak Vineyard Tamar Valley

    The picturesque Holm Oak Vineyard. (Image: Adam Gibson/Tourism Tasmania)

    There are lavish cheese plates to enjoy as you sit and sip in the sun among the vines. After you’ve filled up on wine and snacks, visit Holm Oak’s resident pigs and feed them a few apples!

    Meet pigs at Holm Oak Vineyards

    Meet the resident pigs at Holm Oak Vineyards. (Image: Tourism Tasmania/ Rob Burnett)

    The Ridge North Lilydale

    Go for: Truly magnificent views and the ultimate small-vineyard experience.

    The Ridge North Lilydale

    The Ridge North Lilydale offers the ultimate small-vineyard experience. (Image: Tourism Australia)

    This Tamar Valley winery is a little further afield, but definitely worth the visit. Tucked away at the foothills of Mount Arthur, The Ridge North Lilydale’s motto is “we turn mountain air into wine”.

    The Ridge North Lilydale from above

    The Ridge is tucked away at the foothills of Mount Arthur. (Image: Supplied)

    You can sample their wines at the cellar door or opt to take a guided walk & tasting tour. Sip on sparkling, pinot noir, chardonnay and more while you walk among the vines in view of the majestic Mount Arthur. On a clear day, you’ll also catch glimpses into the Cradle Mountain range and Bass Straight. A visit to the Ridge perfectly combines the best of Tasmania— exquisite natural beauty and wonderful wine.

    The Ridge North Lilydale Tasting

    Sip on sparkling, pinot noir, chardonnay and more at The Ridge. (Image: Tourism Australia)

    Loira Vines

    Go for: Classic cool climate wines, plus some unique and fragrant varieties.

    Loira Vines is one of the only wineries in the Tamar Valley that produces the aromatic fragola and red frontignac varieties. There’s also house-made pink lady cider if you’re craving something sweet and refreshing.

    To top it off, Loira offers colourful lunch platters that are almost as picturesque as the view. Take a stroll after a tipple, and if you’re in luck, you might spot the resident platypus that lives in the vineyard’s pond.

    Tamar Ridge Cellar Door

    Go for: The unique and impressive range of pinot noir.

    The expert winemakers at Tamar Ridge are passionate about all things pinot noir. The brand applies its philosophy of ’50% art, 50% science’ to its craft to create an imaginative range of Pinot and other cool climate wines that are studded with domestic and international awards. Head down to the cellar door to discover some of Tamar Ridge’s signature wines and find your perfect drop.

    If you’re after a Tamar Valley Winery where you can kick back and enjoy some vineyard dining, friends of the vineyards Hubert & Dan take care of lunch each weekend, serving up a delicious menu that pairs perfectly with Pinot.

    Dining experiences

    Tamar Valley’s premium wines go hand in hand with great dining experiences. And thanks to outstanding local produce and a bustling farmer’s market scene, the food in the region is truly outstanding. If you’re after a meal to complete the perfect pairing, a few of Tamar Valley’s wineries have restaurant offerings that are sure to serve up a match made in heaven. Here are a few of our favourites.

    Josef Chromy Wines

    The oft-awarded and  hatted Josef Chromy restaurant is headed up by renowned chef, Nick Raitt.

    In Nick’s food philosophy, it’s important to know the origin and source of every ingredient on the menu. This means you’ll be guaranteed the highest quality local produce, tied together with exquisite culinary craftsmanship to pair perfectly with cool-climate wines.

    The restaurant is open seven days for lunch, with the option of two or three courses. Make a booking in advance to make sure you don’t miss out!

    Velo Wines + Timbre Kitchen

    This Launceston winery and kitchen are located just 15 minutes from the city. Timbre Kitchen is every bit as warm as the name suggests, with a magnificent view overlooking the vineyard and a motley of different timber textures furnishing the room.

    Inside dining space at Timbre Kitchen

    Timbre Kitchen is a warm and inviting space to dine while visiting the vineyard. (Image: Kelly Slater/ Tourism Tasmania)

    Fresh, seasonal ingredients are central to a menu that offers up hearty dishes with a fine-dining twist. Wholesome, unpretentious and with food that you can’t fault, Timbre Kitchen is a beloved spot for wining and dining in the west Tamar Valley.

    Food at Timbre Kitchen

    Timbre Kitchen plates up wholesome, unpretentious food as tasty as it looks. (Image: Kelly Slater/ Tourism Tasmania)

    To top it all off, you’ll have a great selection of classic French varietal wines courtesy of Velo Wines.

    Velo Wines served at Timbre Kitchen

    Order from the range of Velo Wines to complement your meal. (Image: Kelly Slater/ Tourism Tasmania)

    Top Tamar Valley wine tours

    If you don’t have access to transport, or simply feel that you could benefit from a designated driver– opt for a Tamar valley wine tour. Kick back as your guide takes you to a range of Tamar Valley wineries, sharing stories and imparting fascinating local knowledge and history as you pass through the picturesque scenery of Tamar Valley. There are plenty of options for full-day and half-day tours, so you can book something that suits your schedule. Below are a few suggestions based on our favourite Tamar Valley wine tours.

    Pipers Traditional Trio Wine tour

    Pipers Traditional Trio Wine tour is a great option if you appreciate off-the-beaten-path experiences. This tour will take you to the lesser-explored Eastern side of the valley to visit three family-run wine farms at Pipers Brook. Let your guide use their local ties to connect you with the winemakers, who will give you a personal insight into life on a family-run vineyard.

    Unique Charter’s Vineyard Trifecta

    If you’re looking for something extra special, take to the skies with Unique Charter’s Vineyard Trifecta where you’ll travel between vineyards in utmost style.

    Unique Charter's Vineyard Trifect

    Unique Charter’s Vineyard Trifecta will deliver you to the Tamar Valley wineries in style. (Image: Tourism Australia)

    Sip the day away at three different Tamar Valley wineries of your choosing and experience a breathtaking birds-eye view of the scenery as you transit between each.

    Clover Hill Unique Charters

    Sip the day away at three different Tamar Valley wineries of your choosing. (Image: Tourism Australia)

    If you’re not sure which wineries to choose, just ask for recommendations. With beautiful scenery, premium wine, and stylish transport, this is certainly a wine tour you won’t forget!

    Tamar Valley accommodation

    Launceston is a hub for great accommodation, unique hotels and charming Airbnb stays. But if you want to immerse yourself in winery life at Tamar Valley (we don’t blame you), why not opt for accommodation among the vines? With a mix of rustic charm, modern luxury, and great wine to boot – a stay in the Tamar Valley wine region is sure to leave you feeling refreshed. We’ve rounded up a few of our favourite accommodation options below.

    Domescapes at Swinging Gate Vineyard

    Experience glamping at its very finest with a stay in one of Domescape’s bespoke domes situated on the edge of Swinging Gate Vineyard. Here, you can enjoy a private and immersive experience in nature in the comfort of modern luxury.

    There’s a (coverable) sky window – perfect for stargazing or simply admiring the beauty of your surroundings. Curl up with one of Swinging Gate’s premium wines as you witness the majesty of the night sky and wake up to breathtaking scenery illuminated by the morning sun. All domes are ensuite, and stylishly appointed with the help of local designers.

    For something extra special, head to the on-site day spa if you’d like to unwind among the vines. You can also opt for the Amarone or Sauvignon Domes if you’d like to have access to a private outdoor bathtub. A soak in an outdoor tub with a glass of wine in hand? Say yes!

    The Trig

    Tucked in the foothills of Mt Arthur, the Trig is a fantastic place to base yourself on the eastern side of the Tamar Valley. The Trig has two self-contained studio offerings: Trig Studio and The Container. Both studios are converted shipping containers, renovated to a luxurious standard, and appointed with elegant Tasmanian-designed furniture.

    Quirky, chic and cosy, The Trig highlights the very best of Tasmanian creativity. The studios provide guests with plenty of things to do: art supplies, a record player and records, a guitar and other percussion instruments. Dabble in some wholesome activities or simply be still and enjoy the peaceful view from your window.

    Both properties contain an outdoor bathtub and complimentary Aesop toiletries to help you unwind. You’ll be close to plenty of Tamar Valley’s great wineries – the nearest is The Ridge North Lilydale, located just 12 minutes away.

    Beauty Point Cottages

    Beauty Point Cottages are just as picturesque as they sound. With gorgeous views across the Tamar River, this classic B&B accommodation is perfect if you’re seeking a serene self-contained stay.

    The highlight of the property is the enchanting garden, framed by colourful flowers and trees draped with cherry blossoms. This is the perfect spot to relax with a bottle of wine that you’ve acquired from one of the nearby wineries. The cottages are quaint, comfortable, and well-appointed, showcasing countryside living at its very cosiest.

    How to get to Tamar Valley

    The easiest way to get to Tamar Valley is to start from Launceston. Using Launceston as a hub, you’ll be within a 15-50 minute drive of any Tamar Valley winery that you want to visit. If you don’t have access to a car, you can book with a tour company that will take care of transport for you – we’ve made a few suggestions above.

    Holms Oak Vineyard

    The wineries await just outside Launceston. (Image: Tourism Tasmania & Rob Burnett)

    There is a public bus service into the Tamar Valley, although keep in mind that the services are infrequent and don’t stop directly in front of the wineries. If you’d prefer to create your own itinerary, then it’s best to opt for a private tour.

    Read our ultimate travel guide to Launceston for more tips, guides and itineraries.