The Tamar Valley is Tasmania���s oldest and largest wine growing region renowned for cool climate wines most notably pinot and riesling varieties. The region is also home to the premier gourmet food and wine trail the Tamar Valley Touring Route which follows the majestic Tamar Valley 58 kilometres through the high-yielding vineyard country, orchards, scenic pastures and forests from Launceston to Bass Strait.

Many grape varieties do well in the Tamar Valley region because the river provides protection against frost. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc are notable, while varieties such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon ripen with consistency.

The Tamar Valley produces about 40% of Tasmania���s wine.

As you head south toward the Batman Bridge, linking the western and eastern banks of the Tamar River, you will pass the Lavender House at Rowella where more than 100 varieties of lavender grow and flower between August and May. Here you can browse the showroom, peaceful gardens and fragrant fields or just sit and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the tearooms.

Once across the Batman Bridge follow the partly sealed road on the right which will lead you to the picturesque hamlet of Hillwood. At Hillwood Strawberry Farm you can indulge in freshly picked strawberries topped with dollops of cream or in summer you can pick your own and taste some of their locally made fruit wines.

From Hillwood it is an easy drive to the historic town George Town, Australia���s third oldest town settled in 1804. Further along the Tamar River at Low Head you can visit Australia���s oldest continuously operated pilot station and a maritime museum.