How to wine and dine your way through Launceston and the Tamar Valley.
Take a stroll around Cataract Gorge
There's no better way to kick off a Launceston day than with a walk around the impressive Cataract Gorge. A little slice of wilderness just 15 minutes walk from the city centre, the gorge incorporates walking trails, manicured gardens, a suspension bridge, a chairlift and a spectacular swimming pool, making it the perfect place to breathe in some fresh air and prepare for the day ahead.
Fill up big at Sweet Brew Espresso
Having soaked up the morning's serenity quota, it's time to dive into the hustle and bustle of Sweet Brew Espresso, one of our favourite Launceston breakfast spots. With citrus crepes, egg butties, smashed avo, baked chilli eggs and more, you're sure to find something that hits the spot every single time. The coffee, too, is of the highest quality, so don't be afraid to grab a takeaway once you've eaten to ensure your designated driver is fueled for the drive out to the wineries.
Taste wine like a royal at Clover Hill Wines
Now that you're buzzing with coffee and baked goods, your first wine tasting awaits at Clover Hill, a 40-minute drive northeast of Launceston in Tassie's sparkling heartland. Clover Hill was established in the mid-1980s with the single-minded goal of producing premium sparkling wines and it's safe to say they've succeeded. The wines have been served to the Queen herself, and at the wedding of Princess Mary, so you're in excellent company here. The cellar door is stunning – as is typical of Tasmanian wineries – while the grazing platters make for the perfect sparkling accompaniment.
Put your taste buds to the test at Tamar Ridge
Take in the scenic Tasmanian countryside as you head west to Tamar Ridge, a winery particularly well known for their pinot noir and the Pirie range of sparkling cuvées. The cellar door boasts unforgettable views of the river, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a few of Tasmania's favourite wines. Discover the range with one of their guided tastings led by the friendly cellar door staff ‒ for the pinot fans among you, the Expression of Pinot tasting is not to be missed and includes a selection of their premium single block and reserve wines.
Shake things up with a visit to the Turner Stillhouse
Conveniently located next door to Tamar Ridge, you’ll find the Turner Stillhouse Distillery. Here, you can try a number of multi-award-winning, small-batch gins, including some rested in pinot noir and chardonnay barrels. A must-try is the Three Cuts Distiller’s Release, a bespoke gin that captures the unique flavours and aromas of Tasmania. Visitors can either book in for a tour of the distillery, or simply pop in to cleanse the palate with a tasting (minus the gin for your driver).
