If you’re visiting Tassie and have a couple of days in Launceston, you’re in the perfect spot to appreciate the incredible wine scene of the Tamar Valley and Pipers River.

You’ll find plenty of winery itineraries online, but we thought we’d share one that showcases some of our personal favourites in this two-day itinerary for food and wine enthusiasts. This trail will take you to some of the best wineries in Tasmania’s North-East, with cellar door and dining experiences that area equally incredible. So, feel free to use this as a guide to get you started on your foray around these world-renowned wine hubs.

Before you start your journey, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of public charging locations in and around Launceston to choose from, you can view the location of these here. Ideally though you’ll be able to charge your Evry Drive rental vehicle overnight so that you’re ready to go the next morning. A full battery will easily get you to all our suggested destinations for day one.

Friday: A taste of the Tamar Valley

Start your day with quality caffeine at Frankie’s Coffee House, positioned in the heart of Launceston.

Today, we’re visiting four vineyards, so once you’ve fuelled up, it’s time to hit the road. Punch ‘Holm Oak Vinyards’ into the navigation system of your Evry Drive hire car which will lead you up the East Tamar Highway alongside the Tamar Estuary, taking in the rolling hills just minutes from the city. About 30kms from Launceston, the navigation system will lead you to the Batman Bridge, where you’ll cross the Tamar Estuary.

To get the most out of your ‘Taste of the Tamar Valley’, we recommend aiming for a 10 am arrival at Holm Oak Vineyards. If it’s warm out, try out the alfresco area so you can best appreciate the surrounding gardens.
Tip: Over the summertime, Holm Oak hosts their Sensory Garden Tasting, involving a premium tasting and self-guided meander through the garden.

When you’re ready, head on to Westella Wines, just 5 minutes away. Note that their doors open at 11am, so there’s no need to rush from Holm Oak. At the serene Westella Wines, you can order a Pruner’s or Cheese Plate to follow up your wine tasting. Be sure to try the sparkling Vintage Rosé!

Carry on to Small Wonder Wines, tucked into native bushland just a few minutes from Westella. If you’ve developed an appetite by now, check out their menu of small bites. If you’re thinking you’ll stay for lunch, you can also enjoy the 2:30pm session of Small Wonder’s daily Winery Tour, which includes a complimentary tasting. Just make sure you book ahead for the tour.

Next, we’re heading 27km south to Tamar Ridge Cellar Door, where you can choose between a tasting of 4 or 5 wines, or simply experience the best of Tamar Ridge’s pinot. As is the standard for Tamar Valley vineyards, here you’ll be able to soak up the incredible surroundings while finding a new favourite.

Conclude your day with a drive back down the West Tamar towards your Launceston accommodation. If you’re thinking dinner, wine bar Havilah will be a lush finish to a wine-filled day, otherwise The Royal Oak is ideal for bistro-style dining.

Saturday: Pop a bottle in Pipers River

Your wine adventures continue. Today, we’re heading back up the eastern banks of the Tamar River, headed for the Pipers River wineries.
Before leaving town, grab breakfast at the Harvest Market on Cimitiere Street, just across the road from the Grand Chancellor Hotel. If you can, try to get here around 8:30am to avoid the masses and enjoy time and space to chat with the friendly vendors.

When you’re ready to hit the road, punch ‘Delamere Wines’ into the navigation system of your Evry Drive rental vehicle which will lead you up the East Tamar Highway towards Mount Direction, where you’ll be directed to turn off and head towards Pipers River. At Delamere Wines you can sample delicious chardonnay, pinot noir and sparkling wines. And at around 45 minutes from Launceston, and a cellar door which opens at 10:30 am, this is the perfect spot to kick off day 2 of your tour.

Just next door is Sinapius. A boutique, family-operated winery, you can enjoy an intimate tasting of some lesser-known varietals, such as gewürztraminer and gamay, as well as the classic chardonnay and pinot noir.

Your final stop today is Clover Hill. Start with a tasting in the beautiful lounge area, before moving across the room to enjoy a late lunch. Clover Hill solely makes sparkling wine and offer a delicious seasonal menu to accompany their wines.

If you’re making the most of the food scene on this trip, conclude your day in Launceston at the award-winning Stillwater. Or if you’d rather something more casual, enjoy nibbles or shared plates, and the effervescent atmosphere of Reggie.

Please note - while we’ve created this itinerary based on all the current information regarding opening times of the various businesses listed, it’s worthwhile double-checking they’ll be open on the day you visit. And where you can, book ahead to avoid any disappointment.