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Hollybank Forest Reserve

Natural Attractions

Hollybank Forest Reserve

Hollybank Forest Reserve is just a 20-minute drive from Launceston. This is one of Tasmania's most popular picnic areas and has a distinctly European flavour. In autumn, exotic deciduous trees are a colourful contrast to the natives. A 40-minute walk passes through examples of Tasmania's major production forest types in a demonstration forest. Interpretive signs show how each forest type is harvested and regenerated. The reserve also contains 20 kilometres of dedicated mountain bike trails descending through the forest with short and long loops suitable for beginner and advanced riders. For the more adventurous there's a ten kilometre descent called the Juggernaut that will challenge the best of riders. There is a bike map, a toilet, tap and bike wash at the trailhead.

Underwood TAS

4.3 km away

Railbugs and escort vehicle by the railbug shed. — Image credit: L&NER

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Launceston and North East Railway Railbug Rides

Ride the Northeast railway for 3 kilometres on a pedal powered railbug from the old Turners Marsh station towards Karoola turning around at Waddles Rd. The ride out is almost all downhill and, if you like, you can be pushed back up with an escort vehicle which is actually a converted ride-on lawn mower with an electric motor powered by EV batteries that we charge from solar. Some riders have posted videos that they took. You can see them on their Facebook page, Launceston & North East Railway. Additional information is available on their website.

Turners Marsh TAS

7.2 km away

Tamar Valley Wine — Image credit: Fiona Stocker

Agritourism

Tamar Valley Wine Route

The Tamar Valley Wine Route is the iconic wine touring experience in northern Tasmania's most scenic destination, the area surrounding the elegant, gastronomic, and boutique city of Launceston. For many, it is a 'gateway' to the Tasmanian wine region, with serene landscapes perfect for the production of celebrated cool climate wines, particularly pinot noir and sparkling. Some of the wines produced in the Tamar are judged to be Australia's finest and compete on the world stage. Visitors are invited to explore the region and its outstanding wineries and vineyards, which Tamar Valley Wine brings together, and to open a conversation with the landscape and people. Cellar doors are located in a journey which loops around the Tamar Valley and Launceston. Considered to be one of the world's best wine routes, there are 38 vineyards, most with cellar door tasting rooms, and many open to the visitor all year round. The Tamar Valley Wine touring region was established some 25 years ago by the founders of winemaking in Tasmania. Vineyards today include internationally acclaimed names, as well as boutique businesses. Both are often run by award-winning winemakers and viticulturists. They look forward to welcoming you and opening the conversation.

Launceston TAS

16 km away

Overlooking the 6th green, a challenging par-4.

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Mowbray Golf Club

Mowbray Golf Club’s home is in the northern suburbs of Launceston, Tasmania. The Mowbray Golf Club is a family-oriented club, has a friendly culture, a challenging course and welcomes all visitors to play the course, enjoy the clubhouse or join as a member. Its rich and diverse story began when the club was formed in 1934 as a 9-hole course. The 1960s saw the expansion of the course into the 18-hole layout you play today measuring 6000+ metres in length with two Par-5s, three Par-3s and the remaining holes being Par-4s. The club currently has over 300 members and has three main golf competitions a week (Ladies on Tuesdays, Veterans on Wednesdays and whole of club competitions on Saturdays).

Launceston TAS

16 km away

St Matthias' Anglican Church

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

St Matthias' Anglican Church

St Matthias' Anglican Church on the banks of the Tamar River, is surrounded by a beautiful, peaceful 185 year-old graveyard. It is located in the rural village of Windermere and is a heritage-listed icon in Northern Tasmania. The church was built in 1842 fulfilling a promise by Dr Matthias Gaunt to his young wife before they left England. His wife was concerned that there may not be a church in the area where they would make their home. Dr Gaunt promised that if there was not, he would build one for her. St Matthias' is one of Australia's oldest rural churches and has been in continuous use since its foundation. A Eucharist Service is held every second and fourth Sunday at 9:30 am. The church has been painted and photographed by many recognised artists. This beautiful bluestone gothic chapel with its romantic history is a popular spot for weddings, baptisms and picnics. The scenic drive around Windermere Road is an easy detour from the East Tamar Highway. A 20-minute Smartphone Audio Tour around the graveyard gives an interesting insight into the lives of the pioneer families.

Windermere TAS

18 km away

Bridestowe Lavender Estate

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Bridestowe Lavender Estate

Bridestowe Lavender Estate is one of Tasmania's premier tourist destinations, located a 50-minute drive from Launceston in Tasmania's scenic North East. Bridestowe Lavender Estate is the largest lavender farm in the Southern Hemisphere, famous for the spectacular view of the lavender in bloom in December and January. Visitors are welcomed to the Estate all year round to see the seasons of Tasmania beautifully reflected in the ornamental gardens, manicured fields and native bushland set against the striking backdrop of Mount Arthur. The visitor centre is stocked with unique products containing Bridestowe's famous lavender oil and dried flower. An extensive range of fragrant Australian-made gifts created for the bath, body and home and, of course, the world-famous Bobbie the Bear. The Woodcroft Cafe offers a delicious range of lavender inspired delicacies including our signature range of lavender ice-creams and light seasonal meals. You can take home the experience with a purchase from Bridestowe's gourmet range, which includes seasonal lavender flower honey, artisan jams, gourmet loose leaf teas and culinary lavender, which is used in many of foods available in the cafe.

Nabowla TAS

18 km away

Palette Exhibition & Wine dinner at Evenfall Estate — Image credit: John Wren Art

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Palette - Art Exhibition by John Wren Art

Set within the heart of the working Evenfall winery, Palette invites guests to experience art and winemaking in perfect harmony. More than forty of John Wren's artworks are suspended among oak barrels, transforming the cellar door into a vivid, sensory gallery. As you wander through, enjoy a guided tasting of Bellebonne, Wellington & Wolfe, and Evenfall wines, discovering the shared artistry that binds paint to palate. The exhibition continues into the restaurant, where guests are encouraged to linger over lunch and savour a menu celebrating the best of Tasmanian produce a true feast for the senses.

Legana TAS

18 km away

Tamar Island Wetlands Reserve Visitor Centre — Image credit: Tourism Tasmania and Joe Shemesh

Natural Attractions

Tamar Island Wetlands Centre and Reserve

The Tamar Island Wetlands is a unique urban wetlands reserve just a ten-minute drive from Launceston. A short (500 metre) walk from the interpretation centre takes you to a bird hide with seating where you can observe wetland birds on the lagoon and enjoy a restful break. An outstanding interpretation centre offers visitors the opportunity to learn more about the value of the wetlands. The interpretation centre and the boardwalk to the island have easy wheelchair access and both have disabled toilet facilities. The Tamar Island Wetlands Centre offers a range of activities for both adults and children. Volunteers present talks and activities on topics such as wetlands ecology, macro-invertebrates and the pest fish species Gambusia.

Launceston TAS

18 km away

Turner Stillhouse Distillery Tour

Agritourism

Turner Stillhouse Distillery Tour

Turner Stillhouse is Northern Tasmania's premier craft distillery, located in the iconic Tamar Valley Wine Route with views over the Tamar River. Get behind the scenes of Turner Stillhouse and join them for a guided tour of the Distillery and learn firsthand how they produce their multi-award winning Three Cuts Gin, Vodka and Rosevears Whisky, followed by a guided tasting of all their signature spirits.

Rosevears TAS

19 km away

Pipers River — Image credit: East Tamar Landcare

Natural Attractions

Pipers River Board Walk

East Tamar Landcare decided to give something more to the community with the development of the Reg Yates Memorial Interpretation Centre and a 180-metre boardwalk along with a unique patch of old remnant riparian vegetation. The boardwalk allows visitors to immerse themselves in the natural habitat, which is home to many rare plants and perhaps see a platypus or trout.

Pipers River TAS

19 km away

Tamar Island - Great Short Walk — Image credit: PWS copyright

Natural Attractions

Tamar Island - Great Short Walk

Tamar Island is one of Tasmania's 60 Great Short Walks. The 60 Great Short Walks offer the best of Tasmania's day walking opportunities. 1.5 hours return, 4 kilometre return. Grade 1. Suitable for wheelchair users who have someone to assist them. An access friendly boardwalk—suitable for strollers and wheelchairs—allows for a comfortable one and a half hour return trip to the 7 hectare Tamar Island. From the visitor centre, you can take a short side track to the bird hide on the way. There you can quietly observe many different birds on the lagoon. It's worth bringing binoculars and a camera. Back track to the main boardwalk to continue on to Tamar Island. The boardwalk takes you right through the wetland. On either side you're likely to see numerous different species of water birds. In the shallows look for remains of dredging machinery— once used to improve navigation for ships. Please refer to the Parks and Wildlife Service Tasmania website for up-to-date information about this walk, alerts, closures, safe walking guidelines, leave no trace principles and National Park entry fees where applicable.

Launceston TAS

19 km away

The opening hole at Riverside

Sports and Recreation Facilities

The Riverside Golf Club

The Riverside Golf Club is more than just a golf course. It is a fantastic facility that provides Riverside with 110 acres of beautifully maintained park-like grounds situated in the centre of dense residential developments. It is located just four kilometres north of Launceston CBD and is a par 72 5984 metre layout providing a challenge for golfers of all levels. They have a well-stocked Pro Shop and excellent practice areas. They have the very first and only FootGolf course in Tasmania which is open to all skill levels and ages and now have Croquet as a third sport at our Club. Furthermore, we offer a very broad, diverse range of services including the Friday Dining Experience, which is open to the public, and specialise in weddings, parties, seminars and corporate events. They encourage clients to engage in menu planning for their specific event to allow them the opportunity to embrace ownership of the final product. Sensitivity is shown to the economic climate in which we live by way of offering more than competitive rates. They look forward to seeing you at Riverside Golf Club soon.

Launceston TAS

19 km away

Pink and Blue bird on pink foliage — Image credit: mousehammer

Landmarks and Buildings

Japhy on the Jetty

The public toilets and other shelters on Jetty Road have been adorned with art, colourfully illuminated with scenes of Tasmanian wildlife designed by street artist Japhy (Thomas Chandler), and painted by him and some enthusiastic helpers from the community. Apart from the wonderful art and the obvious convenience that conveniences provide, you may also enjoy the grand vista of the Kanamaluka/Tamar River, launch a boat from the jetty or have a picnic. Hillwood has it all!

Hillwood TAS

19 km away

Waverley Mill

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Waverley Mills - Australia's Last Woollen Mill

Just five minutes from the heart of Launceston, Waverley Mills is Australia's oldest working woollen mill and the last of its kind still spinning, weaving and finishing onsite. Founded in 1874 on the banks of Distillery Creek, the mill continues to craft premium Tasmanian-made blankets, throws and scarves using traditional techniques and sustainable practices. Mill Store is open Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm Visit the onsite Mill Store for an ever-changing selection of exclusive mill seconds, samples, before-launch products and craft supplies. Many items are available only at the mill, making it a must-visit for lovers of Tasmanian design, textiles, wool and locally made gifts. Behind-the-Scenes Mill Tours Go beyond the shop floor with a private tour offering rare insight into Australia's textile heritage. Tours run at 10:30am Monday and Wednesday, with other times available by request. Groups of 1–20 people $50pp for 1–2 guests (enquire for group pricing) Allow at least 60 minutes Bookings essential with 48 hours' notice No children under 12 Bookings can be made online or by calling 03 6310 8484 (select Retail). Discover living Tasmanian craftsmanship at Waverley Mills.

Launceston TAS

19 km away

Under the full-dome screen of the Launceston Planetarium. — Image credit: QVMAG

Observatories and Planetariums

Launceston Planetarium

Gaze in wonder at the stars and learn about space at the Launceston Planetarium at Inveresk. Explore the universe from your seat at the Planetarium. The facility offers a great environment where viewers can learn about the night sky and astronomy - and much more! With a range of films that are regularly updated, the Planetarium is an important and inspirational educational way to get people, especially young people, excited and involved in science. The facility is located within the Queen Victoria Museum at Inveresk, and is one of the few in Australia which are regularly open to the public. Each film is displayed on the Planetarium's 8-metre-diameter dome, providing an immersive experience from the comfort of cinema-style seats. The Planetarium uses a Zeiss ZKP3 star projector with a full-dome digital system. Each show is followed by a live tour of the current night sky. The projector is capable of displaying the stars visible to the unaided eye from anywhere in the world and simulates the apparent motion of the stars as the Earth rotates. The effect is so realistic, it is like being out under the stars! The Launceston Planetarium is open from Tuesday to Sunday every week, and Mondays during school holidays. The Planetarium is closed on public holidays.

Launceston TAS

19 km away

Museum at Inveresk — Image credit: QVMAG

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Queen Victoria Museum at Inveresk

The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG) is Northern Tasmania's home of art, history, and natural science. The QVMAG collection shares stories of local Aboriginal cultures, colonial history, and modern diversity, alongside extensive history archives and natural science research. Located across two sites, you can experience the QVMAG collection through the 1890's heritage Art Gallery at Royal Park (2 Wellington Street, Launceston) and the Museum at Inveresk (2 Invermay Road, Invermay), set within 1870s-era industrial railway workshops. The Museum at Inveresk is home to natural sciences displays, transport and railway memorabilia, blacksmith workshops, and the iconic Launceston Planetarium. See dinosaurs, trains, animal species (including the Tasmanian thylacine), artefacts from Australia's oldest merchant shipwreck, Sydney Cove. The Museum also showcases local and touring exhibitions. Over at the Art Gallery at Royal Park, you'll explore the history and culture of the Tasmanian Aboriginal people through the long-term exhibition First Tasmanians: Our Story, experience history collections such as the Guan Di Temple and uncover galleries showcasing the QVMAG art collection; which bring the histories, identities and stories of Northern Tasmania into a fresh and contemporary context. Two locations with free entry and open daily. Please visit our website for further details.

Launceston TAS

19 km away

Brady's Lookout — Image credit: Brand Tasmania

Natural Attractions

Brady's Lookout

A unique attraction in the Tamar Valley, Brady's Lookout was once the hideout for bushranger Mathew Brady. Ample parking, BBQ, toilets, all access ramps and viewing platforms, this is a great spot for a selfie or a picnic lunch. Views up and down the Tamar River with the vista extending over 120 kilometres to Ben Lomond massif in the south and almost all the way to the coast and the Bass Strait to the north. The viewing platforms are set right on the cliff edge with the escarpment falling away to the river 140 metres below. There is also interpretation signage in regards to Mathew Brady telling the story of a bushranger who irritated the government in his exploits while winning the hearts of the female colonists. When finally captured, Brady was showered with gifts while incarcerated and had the crowd wailing at his hanging."

Rosevears TAS

20 km away

Launceston Tramway Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Launceston Tramway Museum

Launceston Tramway Museum is about a local Tasmanian community and the trams they used. The Museum evolved out of a restoration society in the 1990s that restored Launceston's only surviving double bogie tram. Located in the historic Inveresk Precinct, within walking distance of the CBD, the Museum features a workshop, a large modern display gallery and access to a rail track running through the precinct. You can recapture Launceston's tramway past with a ride on our restored tram. Inside the museum, you can enjoy Launceston's oldest surviving movie footage and experience how the City changed with the introduction of the trams. You may wish to view the ultimate DIY project, the rebuilding of Launceston's very first tram, or discover whatever happened to the trams when you encounter one that had become a chook house. The Museum is adjacent to good parking, cafes and the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery. Open with tram rides on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays Subject to weather and volunteer availability.

Launceston TAS

20 km away

The Pirate ship playground at Kid's Paradise — Image credit: Kid's Paradise

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Kid's Paradise

Kid's Paradise is an indoor children's playground located in Riverside, Launceston. With two floors of playground, interactive play rooms and an onsite cafe, the whole family will have a blast at Kid's Paradise. Kids of all ages will love visiting Kid's Paradise. With activities to suit babies, toddlers and primary aged kids. Adults will love getting barista coffee from the onsite cafe which also provides breakfast and lunch meals, pizzas and hot chips. Kid's Paradise has a range of party packages that make celebrating kid birthdays easy and is available for exclusive hire. Kid's Paradise is only a five minute drive from the Launceston CBD and has a free-onsite carpark. Kid's Paradise is located inside the Tailrace Centre building. No bookings required for general admission. No time-slots, stay as long as you like during operating hours.

Launceston TAS

20 km away

My Tasmanian Home is such a delightful shopping experience of so many lovely gifts. — Image credit: My Tasmanian Hone

Shopping and Markets

My Tasmanian Home

My Tasmanian Home is a gorgeous gift, florist, hamper and homeware store stocking Tasmanian merchandise. Nestled right on the beachfront at Gravelly Beach in an old shop that used to be the local butcher, then pizza shop but now houses a beautiful Tasmanian homewares store filled with so many eclectic treasures and gifts. This store is a must-destination on your Tamar Valley road trip. My Tasmanian Home is delightful, and you will find that perfect gift for that special person. They stock a wide range of Tasmanian jams, relishes, and some lovely Tasmanian gifts also. The store is amazing visually, and the displays are amazing. It is well worth a visit.

Gravelly Beach TAS

20 km away

X-Golf Launceston Lounge Area

Entertainment Venues

X-Golf Launceston

Welcome to X-Golf Launceston, your local indoor golf and sports bar in Tasmania! Join them for casual rounds, tournaments, coaching sessions, or private hire. They've paired a relaxed atmosphere with a full bar and a curated menu, making it the perfect spot to catch the game or relax with friends. Their premium simulators provide accurate ball data and access to world-renowned international courses. From casual group bundles to tailored event packages, they offer flexible options for different occasions.

Launceston TAS

20 km away

Sawtooth ARI Gallery — Image credit: Sawtooth ARI

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Sawtooth ARI Gallery

Sawtooth ARI is an artist-run initiative based near the banks of kanamaluka, lutruwita (Launceston, Tasmania). They are committed to servicing the community through the provision of a quality exhibition program. They showcase contemporary and experimental art by local, interstate and international artists at various stages of their professional career. At Sawtooth, they have four galleries. In 2022, the front gallery at Sawtooth has been transformed into a First Nations specific exhibiting space. 'First Space' is an ongoing place for First Nations peoples to share art, experiences, creations and their stories. They want to continually generate real change and support for the community, and to create further diversification within our exhibitions, to centre conversations through a First Nations lens. 'Inner Space' and 'Back Space' is dedicated to showcasing emerging/experimental practice. The fourth gallery is 'The Space,' dedicated to the community.

Launceston TAS

20 km away

Tamar Valley Resort — Image credit: Tamar Valley Resort

Landmarks and Buildings

Grindelwald Swiss Village

Grindelwald is a 15-minute drive north of Launceston (15 kilometres) in the Tamar Valley. The Swiss-themed Tamar Valley Resort at Grindelwald includes a range of activities including, a Swiss Shopping Arcade, home to a gift store, women's clothing and accessories store, bakery cafe, lolly shop and ice creamery. Visit the Resort's Activity Centre to undertake in one of the Tamar Valley Resort's many activities! Test your skill at the 18-hole mini-golf course, or play a round on the ten-hole public golf course, paddle boat hire and canoeing on the lake, and take a swing at Tamar Valley Resorts newest and most exciting activity SPLASH GOLF. Splash Golf is a variation of traditional golf played, involves hitting golf balls into our lake Serene. The golf balls used are specifically designed to float on water. Players tee off from one of our 16 tee-bays, using our custom clubs, aiming their shots toward floating targets placed in the water. The challenge lies in hitting these targets accurately, testing players' precision and skill as the balls skip or float across the water's surface. If you are feeling hungry you can go for a meal or snack at the lakeside Alpenrose Bistro.

Grindelwald TAS

20 km away

Putt It Mini Golf

Amusement and Theme Parks

Putt It Mini Golf

Putt It's 18 Hole Course is a family experience sure to leave everyone with a smile! Explore the stunning scenery of Grindelwald while playing on our world-class mini golf course! The Tamar Valley Resort is located in the Swiss-style village of Grindelwald, Northern Tasmania. The village of Grindelwald was established in the 1980s as a unique residential development. All houses in Grindelwald have been built in Swiss style, with wide eaves, flower boxes, window shutters and balconies. The settlement is fringed with glassy lakes and views of the Tamar Valley. Grindelwald is a 15-minute drive north of Launceston (15 kilometres) in the Tamar Valley.

Grindelwald TAS

20 km away

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