Renowned for its picturesque landscapes and gentle pace of living, the valley is home to some of the most impressive natural features and heritage towns in the world. Whether you find yourself meandering across immaculate sandy beaches or driving past majestic towering gorges, there are plenty of opportunities to relax in the Tamar Valley.

Start your trip at the breathtaking Cataract Gorge, just a short walk from the Launceston CBD, and home to the world’s longest single-span chairlift. Here, you can literally drift away from your worries, above the lush green grasses and calming waters at the foot of the gorge. If you’re keen to keep your feet firmly on the ground, the gorge is also home to numerous walking trails and an impressive suspension bridge. Here, you can stand and watch the park’s resident peacocks wander idly around below.

Next, find some treasures in Launceston’s boutique stores, where vintage keepsakes are waiting behind the elegant facades of heritage buildings. Launceston hosts numerous markets throughout the year, including the weekly Evandale Market – where you can stock up on fresh, delicious local produce – and the Campbell Town Market – held monthly in the town hall and famous for its vintage treasures. Stroll among the stalls for an afternoon, or meander down the street to the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery for a fascinating look at the city’s history and culture.

Next, make your way to one of Launceston’s many vineyards or wineries on the Tamar Valley Wine Route. The wine route follows the majestic Tamar River through Tasmania’s premier wine-growing region, and will take you past orchards, farmlands, tree-covered hills, picturesque riverside towns, and lavender fields that stretch all the way to the horizon. Keen idlers and anglers can spend the afternoon fishing on the banks of the Tamar River, where flathead, couta, silver trevally, whiting, salmon, kingfish and snapper are just some of the fish you can expect to find.

Subscribe for more Australian travel stories and destinations.