Photo: Adii229 / CC BY-SA 4.0
Set in the rolling hills of northern Tasmania, Bridestowe Lavender Farm is a sensory spectacle that paints the landscape in vivid purple each summer. Established in 1921, this family-run farm is one of the world’s largest lavender producers, offering visitors a chance to wander through endless rows of fragrant blooms, learn about the distillation process, and sample lavender-infused treats. It’s an idyllic stop on any Tasmanian road trip, combining natural beauty, rural heritage, and a dash of culinary curiosity.
Highlights & What to See
- Lavender Fields in Bloom – From December to January, the farm’s 260 acres of English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) erupt into a sea of purple. Stroll the designated paths and snap photos of the iconic striped rows against a backdrop of distant mountains.
- Distillery & Factory Tour – Watch how the essential oil is extracted via steam distillation in the original copper stills. The guided tour (included with entry) explains the history and cultivation techniques that produce Bridestowe’s signature high-quality oil.
- Lavender House – The on-site shop is a treasure trove of lavender products: soaps, oils, sachets, and the famous lavender-infused ice cream and fudge. Don’t miss the limited-edition lavender honey.
- Picnic by the Dam – Pack a lunch or grab a snack from the café and settle by the ornamental dam, where the reflections of purple rows create a painterly scene.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the fields, touring the distillery, and browsing the shop. If you’re passionate about photography or want to linger over a lavender scone and a cuppa, allow up to 3 hours. The farm is best visited between late December and early February when the bloom is at its peak; arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the soft light.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Launceston – Tasmania’s second city, just 45 minutes south, offers the Cataract Gorge, a vibrant food scene, and the Tamar Valley wine region.
- Evandale – A charming historic village 30 minutes away, known for its colonial architecture and Sunday market.
- Ben Lomond National Park – For hiking and alpine views, this national park is about an hour’s drive east and offers walking trails and winter skiing.
- Pipers River Wine Region – Just 15 minutes north, this cool-climate wine area produces superb sparkling wines and Pinot Noirs; stop by for a tasting at Jansz or Pipers Brook Vineyard.
- Barnbougle Dunes – A world-class golf course set on coastal dunes, roughly 40 minutes north-east near Bridport.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.