Tamar & North Tasmania

Sometimes it seems as if you could throw a stick in any direction in Australia and hit a winery. Yet you might be surprised to know that the most highly awarded wine region isn’t on Australia’s mainland…

Australia’s renowned Tamar Valley Wine Route takes you to 30 wineries, spread over 170km (approx). The Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are amongst the finest wines anywhere in the world. You can plan your visit here.

Other things to do in Tamar and north Tasmania

The Tamar River flows from Launceston to the Bass Strait. Getting here is easy. Flights are direct from Melbourne and Sydney, and from other major centres within Tasmania itself. If you’re looking for accommodation, Launceston is the perfect base from which to explore the Tamar Valley and its attractions.

Tamar Triple Pass
There’s more to the area than Beaconsfield Mine & Heritage Centre, Platypus House and Seahorse World, but these are three of the best things to do in Tamar – and the Tamar Triple Pass gets you in at discounted rates.

Beaconsfield Mine & Heritage Centre: Hands-on exhibits and displays take you through the history of the Tamar Valley.
Platypus House: Get up close with the improbable platypus and its relative the echidna.
Seahorse World: Learn about the seahorse and the efforts to conserve it, or just marvel at it.

Brady’s Lookout (off the West Tamar Highway (A7) between Legana and Exeter)
Named after bushranger Mathew Brady, the lookout is a cracking spot for views down the Tamar Valley. There are picnic facilities, toilets, and sheltered BBQs here, so you can grab lunch while enjoying the view.

Notley Fern Gorge State Reserve
A forest of eucalyptus trees and fern, half an hour out of Launceston.

The Tamar Island Wetlands and the Tamar Wetlands Important Bird Area
These earnestly named Tamar attractions are separate entities, but close enough to visit together. Inspiring walks and a large range of wildlife – especially birds (as you’ve probably gathered).

Tasmania Zoo
Just ten minutes out of Launceston. Particularly worthwhile if you’re travelling with children.

Tamar Valley Trail
This 6km trail is great for cycling or walking and takes in many of the valley’s highlights.

Book accommodation in Launceston for exploring Tamar

Tasmania

Platynonplussed?

The first platypus arrived in Britain from Australia just over 200 years ago. Initial examination suggested the creature was a hoax, stitched together from bits of other animals.

200 years later, you can still find websites debating whether the platypus is real. If you’re still in any doubt, Tasmania’s Platypus House will put you right.