Tamar Valley

Just 30 minutes north of Launceston is the beautiful Tamar Valley. Out of Launceston, the surrounding green fields and country lanes are lined with 150 year old hawthorn, poplar and elm trees, while in the rich farmland of the Tamar Valley can be found lavender plantations, vineyards, strawberry farms and orchards.

George Town, on the banks of the Tamar River, is Australia's third-oldest settlement after Sydney and Hobart and has a rich maritime past and industrial present. Surrounded by vineyards, orchards, berry and lavender farms, George Town has a rich maritime history and many stories to tell. You can explore the town's history at the Old Watch House Museum, the former local lockup that's now an information centre and craft shop. While there, pick up a copy of the George Town Heritage Trail for a self-guided walk around the town's historic sites. Hire a bicycle for a longer tour to Low Head Pilot Station, about a 40-minute ride away, via a scenic coastal path. Built by convicts in 1805, the station has the oldest group of pilot buildings in Australia and like the Pilot Station lighthouse, still operates today. Nearby, Low Head Coastal Reserve is a popular spot to watch the world's smallest penguins waddle in from the sea each night.