Discover the Tamar Valley... rolling hills, river views, and coastal charm — all just beyond the city. Just a short drive from Launceston, the Tamar Valley offers a relaxed, scenic escape filled with rolling vistas and local charm. Named one of Lonely Planet’s Top 10 Regions to Visit in 2025, it’s easy to see why this part of Northern Tasmania captures hearts. Begin your day with a peaceful walk along the Tamar Island Wetlands, where boardwalks wind through reeds out to Tamar Island, and birdlife abounds. Not far away, the quirky Swiss-style village of Grindelwald is a fun spot to stretch your legs, browse boutique shops, or enjoy mini-golf and paddle boating. Animal lovers will enjoy meeting native wildlife just 20 minutes from town at Tasmania Zoo, home to Tassie devils, quolls, and a variety of exotic species. For something truly unique, head to Beauty Point where Seahorse World and Platypus House offer rare close-up encounters with these delightful creatures. Cross the striking Batman Bridge to reach the eastern side of the valley, through to George Town and Lowe Head. Here, you can visit the Low Head Maritime Museum, historic lighthouse, and stay after sunset for a guided penguin tour — a gentle, unforgettable end to your Tamar Valley day out. |
along the east of the Tamar River
Tamar Island wetlands
(10 min drive) Call into the volunteer run interpretation centre for some great information then follow the board walks all the way out to Tamar island and enjoy the many bird species (a small visitor fee applies). W Tamar Hwy, Riverside National Parks website - Tamar Island Wetlands |
Tasmania Zoo
(20 min drive) Home to Tassie's largest collection of exotic and native animals, enjoy a wander through and listen to keeper presentations, or book in an unforgettable up-close encounter. 1166 Ecclestone Rd, Riverside tasmaniazoo.com.au |
Swiss Village at Grindelwald
(20 min drive) The sweet little Swiss village is a great spot to checkout – whether for golfing, paddle-boating, putt-putt or splash golf, to wander the sweet little shoppes or enjoying a bite to eat. 7 Waldhorn Drive, Grindelwald tamarvalleyresort.com.au |
Platypus House
(45 min drive) Enjoy the magic of monotremes with this incredible opportunity to enjoy platypus and echidna's up close with a guided tour. 200 Flinders St, Beauty Point platypushouse.com.au |
Beaconsfield Mine | Heritage Centre
(40 min drive) Immerse in the history of the Tamar Valley and it's gold-mining past, enjoy the interactive displays or take a tours to discover more. West St, Beaconsfield beaconsfieldheritage.com.au |
Seahorse World
(45 min drive) Hold the mysteries of the ocean in the palm of your hand and enjoy a guided tour of this completely unique aquarium facility. 200 Flinders St, Beauty Point seahorseworld.com.au |
along the westside of the tamar river
Hillwood Berry Farm
(25 min drive) *Opens seasonally* this berry farm offers the opportunity to pick-your-own berries and enjoy a lovely bight to eat at the cafe. 105 Hillwood Rd, Hillwood hillwoodberries.com.au |
Low Head Penguin Tours
(45 min drive) Passionate tour guides share their expertise about these delightful little locals in their natural habitat, as they emerge by sunset. 485 Low Head Rd, Low Head penguintourstasmania.com.au |
Low Head Pilot Station | Maritime Museum
(45 min drive) Discover more about the history and operations, as well as the local marine environment in one of the oldest maritime pilot stations in Australia. 411 Low Head Road, Pilots' Row, Low Head museum.lowhead.com |