A Guide To Tasmania's Tamar Valley

Many of us are currently cooped up at home, dreaming of going somewhere new, meeting interesting people and discovering places we never knew existed.  Whether you’re fantasizing over the future, or ready for an immediate trip – we have the perfect addition to your Tasmanian road trip bucket list.

That’s why our holiday recommendation this week is the gorgeous Tamar Valley. Around 3 hours’ drive out of Hobart CBD, you'll find yourself surrounded by the best wine, divine food, and endless adventures! There are countless places to visit while in the Tamar Valley and its surrounds, so we've compiled our top 10 absolute must-dos.

For those who have the privilege to do so, now is the perfect time to get out and explore the fresh air and incredible things Tasmania has to offer.

Aside from the freedom, flexibility, and luxury of it, what's the best part of holidaying via a motorhome or campervan?

You are sure to be supporting an array of deserving local businesses along the way!

10 THINGS YOU MUST DO IN THE TAMAR VALLEY

1. Enjoy wine tasting at Swinging Gate Vineyard

Photo Credit : Swinging Gate Vineyard and Cellar Door

Tamar Valley has become renowned for its wide array of vineyards. If you can only fit a few on your itinerary, swinging Gate Vinyard is one that should not be missed.  Get a wealth of knowledge at this beautiful cellar door, as the humble makers themselves take you through their unique processes. It’s an unpretentious experience, from people who are genuinely excited over their wine. You’ll more than likely end up buying half a dozen bottles. So be sure to have some fridge or drawer space ready!

Make sure to say hello to their gorgeous dog Nellie or book in with a relaxing massage with Corrie, who runs a day spa there. If you want an ultra-glamourous experience, park your campervan, and book a 1-night stay in their extraordinary dome cabin, smack bang in the centre of the vineyard.

2. Explore the historic wonders of Beaconsfield

There are so many things to do in Tasmania. Beaconsfield is one of them; it is a fascinating town with charm and important history.

Visiting the gold-mining town is an absolute must when making a Tamar Valley itinerary. Walk through the Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre, learning about the town’s extraordinary local stories, including the shocking 2006 mining disaster. There are hands-on exhibits and the gripping artefacts that will take you on a fascinating historic journey.

When you’re done, head next door and share your thoughts over a cold beer at Miners Gold Brewery.

3. Go berry picking

  Photo Credit : Hillwood Berry Farm

A wonderful experience for all ages, Hillwood Berries is a locally owned, family run business that lets you pick your own delicious berries. Depending on the season, you can fill your punnet with Strawberries, Raspberries, Blackberries and/or Blueberries. It is the perfect fresh addition for your fridge - after no doubt filling it with wine and cheeses. The shop also sells coffee and cakes, fruit wines, jams, honey beer, balsamic and much more.

4.  Take a cruise under the Batman Bridge

The iconic bridge is a must see while exploring the Tamar, however the very best way to experience it is on a cruise.  Most cruise options will take you across the region, to or from Launceston’s equally beautiful cataract Gorge.  Learn its history, admire its surrounding bushland beauty and if you’re lucky, spot a seal or a white-bellied eagle.

5. Make a stop at Cabin Coffee Exeter

A hip café in the heart of a small town, Cabin Coffee in Exeter stands out for all the right reasons. Stop here for what must be the best coffee and breakfast in the region.

From the classic Eggs Benedict to their life-changing Haloumi & Mango Tacos. Stopping here is the ideal way to start your day before sightseeing or filling up before a big drive. You might even find the perfect souvenir; they have an array locally made gifts including candles and soap.

If it's a pleasant day, don't miss the opportunity to dine in their side garden, especially if you want the kids entertained while you enjoy your coffee. There is the sweetest little 'cabin' cubby house out there, perfect for the little ones to play!

6. Gawk at the fascinating creatures

Enjoy a unique encounter with some of our cutest mammals. You’ll get to meet Tasmanian Platypus and Australian short-beaked echidnas at Platypus House. There are short-films, sensory play, echidna feedings and a huge pool and a variety of tanks that you’ll want to spend hours next too, thanks to a clear and picturesque view of the platypus.

Next door is Seahorse world – it’s worth getting a double pass and experiencing both at a cheaper price. Seahorse World is a one-of-a-kind encounter. Enter via a stunning cave, watch the working seahorse farm, and even hold one in your hand! The kids and the kids at heart, will stay intrigued long after the adventure is over

7.  Visit Marion’s Vineyard

  Photo Credit : Marion’s Vinyard

You might recognise this vineyard if you’re a lover of reality television. It was featured on Channel 7’s Farmer Wants a Wife a few years back. It is even more stunning in real life. See if you can spot farmer Nick, have a chat with his eccentric sister or be lucky enough to meet Marion herself.

If you're a wine lover, this is an absolute must-stop vineyard. The view is to die for, so it’s worth taking a seat, getting a cheese board, and embracing your surrounds with a glass of pinot or two.

8. Picnic at Brady’s Lookout

Stop and enjoy some of the delicious treats you’ve found along the way with a picnic in front of one of the best views in the region.  There is an interesting historic tale, great parking and BBQ facilities, toilets, and safe viewing platforms. Surrounded by natural green beauty and the array of vineyards, it’s the perfect rest stop.

9. Experience the Narawntapu National Park

Make sure you fit in a short trip up to the very top end of Tassie; or even better, camp there! It’s roughly a 50-minute drive from the wine region. This national park and its surrounds are one that should be added on to everyone’s bucket list.

Whether it’s a beachside stroll or a bushy 2.5 hr hike, you’re surrounded by scenic coastal environments. You’ll be hard pressed not to spot a range of epic native wildlife. Surround yourself with some of the country’s most beautiful birds, pademelons, kangaroos and wallabies. Stay overnight and watch the friendly creatures come out to explore your campsite!

When it comes to things to do in Tasmania while on a campervan holiday, this is an absolute must. You’ll need a national park pass, so make sure you register.

10. Wander the lavender fields

Photo Credit : Bridestowe Lavender

Don’t forget your camera for this one. Epic Instagram images await. The lavender fields at Bridestowe are sprawled over 260 acres, making it the largest privately owned lavender farm in the world. While summer is the ideal time to visit due to the lavender being in full bloom, each season has its own unique qualities.

Have a rest on one of their outside picnic benches and you might be lucky enough to get smooched by the local cat!

Stop at the café and try their famous lavender ice cream or take a lavender fudge home for the road. Keep the kids happy with the purchase of a Bobby The Bear – which thanks to a hugely popular social-media influencer, once caught so much international attention, that Bridestowe were selling hundreds of thousands of them in a few short days.

WHERE TO STAY

Camping in Tasmania is an incredible way to holiday! Tamar Valley and surrounds have a beautiful array of campsites, from national parks to holiday parks. The best thing to do is research and book ahead of time, especially in busier periods. If you’re more of the spontaneous type, remember to travel to the camp site early for the safety of yourself and our wildlife. Make sure it’s still light to have best visibility possible and stick to sealed roads.

If you plan on wine tasting all day, arrange appropriate transport to and from your motorhome or assign a designated driver.

RECOMMENDED POWERED CAMPING SITES: 

Holiday parks:

Beauty Point Tourist Park, Beauty Point

Green Beach Caravan & Holiday Park

National parks:

Narawntapu Camping have 2 motorhome friendly, powered campsites.

Springlawn and Bakers Point

For further information and other exciting options visit:

Download the Caravanning Tasmania guide to get a full list of all holiday parks and caravan parks in Tasmania:

The Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service maintains some of the most secluded and beautiful campsites and campgrounds in Tasmania. 

We've curated a list of some of the best campsites and camping grounds in Tasmania. Take a look at our user friendly map and find the best camping site for your next Tasmanian motorhome holiday: