The northern Tasmanian town famous for its painted poles and enjoyable provincial pace, is just a 20-minute drive from Launceston in Northern Tasmania and is one of the state’s hidden gems.

It’s the perfect destination for couples seeking a quiet getaway with a splash of fine wine, a generous serving of good food and side of adventure.

Lilydale is nestled at the foot of majestic Mount Arthur and is surrounded by tall timbers, secret mountain creeks and lush, undulating pasture dotted with livestock and homesteads.

Accommodation options stretch from farm stays to forest retreats to eco-cabins at the foot of the mountain.

>> VOTE FOR LILYDALE IN TASSIE’S TOP TOURISM TOWN HERE

The Trig presents options for environment-conscious travellers who still prefer some luxuries: choose between the original Trig or Container; two secluded spaces with sprawling valley views, well-stocked larders, cosy reading nooks, wandering sheep by the window and outdoor baths for cheeky dips beneath the stars.

Lilydale is home to a close collection of amazing primary producers who supply leading restaurants and attend farmers’ markets across Tasmania.

Fork It Farm proudly raises piggies with love: ask about Casanova, the apple-gobbling boar.

Owners Daniel and Kim proudly present their tasty wares and assorted condiments at their farm shop, one of many in the region.

You’ll find Fork It Farm bacon sizzled to perfection alongside golden fried eggs collected down the road and sourdough baked around the corner, at Bean Barrow cafe in Lilydale’s main street.

Owners Michael and Lyn make a mean coffee, too.

The pair are just a couple of the many locals more than happy to have a chin wag and suggest what to do next, like visit the arts and craft centre up the road or longstanding general store.

With a full belly, explore the cascades of Lilydale Falls: a short walk takes you along fern fronds and giant eucalypts to the very foot of the breathtaking torrent.

If you’re seeking some more thrills, drive 10 minutes’ south to Hollybank Wilderness Adventures, a centre of fun with ziplines, ropes course and Segway tours.

If it’s history you crave, watch your step as you walk abandoned train tracks leading to the 19th century railway tunnel just a short drive from Lilydale’s centre; a seemingly incessant cavern of mystery.

The escapades will no doubt work up a thirst, so pop in to Clover Hill and enjoy an intimate tour of the label’s collection of world-class sparkling wine with antipasto and vistas of vines and Bass Strait.

Pick a palate favourite for your suitcase — or pop later back at your lodgings.

Lilydale is the gateway to so many purely Tasmanian experiences: visit even more celebrated cellar doors, chase adrenaline on a mountain bike at Derby, chip a birdie at Barnbougle or be charmed by fields of violet at Bridestowe Lavender Farm.

Book a trip to this town at the top of Tasmania and enjoy a short trip to restore the senses.

>> VOTE FOR LILYDALE IN TASSIE’S TOP TOURISM TOWN HERE

ITINERARY

Lilydale and surrounds for couples seeking a relaxed rural getaway amid natural beauty with a splash of epicurean delights and side of adventure.

Day 1

• Kick off your sojourn with a zip among the trees at Hollybank Wilderness Adventures
• Continue on to Lilydale town centre (20 mins from Launceston, 2hr 50 min from Hobart).
• Hop out of the car and breathe in the crisp, cool air as you take a short walk to Lilydale Falls.
• Get your bearings and meet the locals on the town’s main street: check out the quaint pharmacy, explore the arts and craft centre, appreciate the heritage building of the supermarket, dine at the Bean Barrow cafe. Be sure to get a close-up squiz of the painted poles, artwork the town is renowned for.
• It’s time to wind down: check in at The Trig Container, eco accommodation at the foot of Mount Arthur and hosted by Susie and Gordon, and soak up the amazing valley views.

Day 2

• Wake up at your leisure and enjoy a local breakfast hamper supplied by Susie and her chooks.
• Soak up the undulating, bucolic views as you drive to Fork It Farm at Lebrina. Peruse the pig farm’s Meatshed wares, as owners Kim and Daniel chat about their paddock to plate venture.
• Watch your step as you walk the abandoned train tracks leading to the 19th century railway tunnel just outside Lilydale’s centre; a seemingly incessant cavern of mystery.
• Drive to Clover Hill for antipasto and afternoon bubbles.
• Back to The Trig for a cheeky dip under the stars in the outdoor tub.

Day 3

• Drive north and hit the links course at Barnbougle, voted number 11 in the world.
• Check in at Lost Farm and indulge in some relaxation at the Farm’s Spa.
• Dine at the Lost Farm Restaurant and Lounge before falling asleep to the sounds of Bass Strait.

Day 4

• Depart Lost Farm and pop into Bridport for a beach play and brunch, before returning via Bridestowe Estate Lavender farm for a stroll through fields of vibrant violet.
• Head east for more adventure in Derby, mountain bike capital of Australia, or skip along the trail of vineyards renowned for sparkling: Bay of Fires, Jansz and Pipers Brook.
• Depart back to Launceston or keep exploring regional Tasmania.

>> VOTE FOR LILYDALE IN TASSIE’S TOP TOURISM TOWN HERE