The insiders’ guide to the Tamar Valley, Tasmamia

MASTER of wine Rob Geddes takes us around the Tamar Valley, in northern Tasmania.

Rob Geddes.

MASTER of wine Rob Geddes takes us around the Tamar Valley, in northern Tasmania.

STAY: Beauty Point Cottages

My favourite of the accommodation choices at this tranquil retreat in the village of Beauty Point in northeast Tasmania is Bay Cottage. The English garden setting makes me feel a little Alice
in Wonderland and I love the water views; beautypointcottages.com.au.

SHOP: Stillwater Mill Providore, Launceston

In this excellent store above Stillwater restaurant on the banks of the Tamar in Launceston you can find a great range of Tasmanian produce, from marmalades and honey to biscuits or olive oils. There’s also an interesting art gallery. If you have some time to linger, the restaurant has a focused service, interesting dishes and breaks the generalisation that dining spots with views often don’t try hard. The wine list keeps me up to date with developments in Tasmania and always has the better new varietals and styles; millprovidore.com.au; stillwater.com.au.

DRINK: Dickens Cider House, Launceston

Tasmania is known as the Apple Isle and this is the place to try the creations of emerging Tasmanian craft cider makers. The venue, about to be renamed Red Brick Road Cider House, features quirky furniture made from recycled apple bins and an apple theme throughout its decor. There is a variety of ciders on tap, plus assorted Tamar Valley wines by the glass and a small snacks menu; redbrickroadcider.com.au.

EAT: The River Cafe, Beauty Point

The waters of the Tamar set a typically eucalypt-fringed Australian scene and this riverside dining spot is the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat. It sources as much of its produce as possible locally and service is excellent. Try the fish or one of the excellent pizzas, or just stop by for a coffee and a cake; facebook.com/therivercafebp.

SNACK: Amelia Espresso, Launceston

This a classic locals’ hang-out and I come here to catch up on what is on and who is in town. There’s a buzzy atmosphere and great coffee, plus free WiFi; ameliaespresso.com.au.

ESCAPE: Notley Fern Gorge

I love exploring the wild and ancient tree ferns of the gorge, especially after rain — real Tasmanian splendour. The opportunity to do a bit of exercise in the fresh air is also a great counterpoint to all the wine tasting and eating in town; touringtasmania.info.

Master of Wine recipient Rob Geddes is the author of Australian Wine Vintages, 32nd edition ($34.95). More: thegoldbook.com.au.