Photo: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen / CC BY-SA 3.0
On the Tasman Peninsula, a short drive from the historic Port Arthur site, Port Arthur Lavender Farm offers a sensory escape into fragrant rows of purple blooms. This family-run farm captures the essence of Tasmanian lavender country, with sweeping views over Norfolk Bay and the distant ranges. Whether you visit during the December–January flowering peak or come for the year-round farm-gate shop, it’s a serene stop that blends agricultural heritage with artisan produce.
Highlights & What to See
- Lavender Fields in Bloom: From late November to late January, the farm’s rows of lavender (mainly ‘Grosso’ and ‘Lavandin’) are a photographer’s dream. Walk among the plants and breathe in the calming scent – the bees are busy, so keep your ears open for their gentle hum.
- Farm-Gate Shop & Tastings: Inside the rustic shed, sample lavender-infused honey, jams, and the famous lavender shortbread. Don’t miss the lavender ice cream – a creamy, floral treat on a warm day. Pick up pure lavender oil, dried bunches, or handmade soaps as souvenirs.
- Lavender-Flavoured Fudge & Chocolate: The farm produces small-batch fudge and chocolate with local ingredients. The lavender and white chocolate combination is a standout – rich, not overly perfumed.
- Self-Guided Walk Around the Property: A short loop leads past the lavender rows, with interpretive signs about the growing and distilling process. Benches invite you to sit and take in the bay views – keep an eye out for sea eagles soaring overhead.
- Working Distillery (Seasonal): If you visit during harvest (January–February), you might see the steam distillation in action. The farm produces pure essential oil and lavender water, both available in the shop.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors spend 45 minutes to 1.5 hours here – enough to wander the fields, browse the shop, and enjoy a scoop of ice cream. If you’re a keen photographer or lavender enthusiast, allow 2 hours to fully soak up the atmosphere. The farm is a perfect pitstop on a day trip from Hobart (about 1.5 hours’ drive) or as part of a longer stay on the Tasman Peninsula. Combine it with a morning at the Port Arthur Historic Site (10 minutes away) for a balanced day of history and nature.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Port Arthur Historic Site: Tasmania’s most famous convict settlement, with well-preserved buildings, harbour cruises, and the moving memorial garden. Allow at least 3 hours.
- Tasman National Park: Dramatic sea cliffs, the Tessellated Pavement, and the Blowhole. Great for short walks and coastal views – just 15 minutes from the farm.
- Eaglehawk Neck: The narrow isthmus with the infamous Dog Line, plus the natural arch of the Tasman Arch and Devil’s Kitchen. A quick 10-minute stop.
- Remarkable Cave: A striking sea cave near Port Arthur, accessible via a short boardwalk. Check tide times for the best light.
- Hobart & the Huon Valley: On your way to or from the Tasman Peninsula, explore Hobart’s Salamanca Market and MONA, or detour into the Huon Valley for orchards and cideries.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Port Arthur Historic Site — Martybugs at en.wikipedia / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Tasman National Park — JJ Harrison ( https://www.jjharrison.com.au/ ) / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Eaglehawk Neck — Pn57 at English Wikipedia / Public domain
- Remarkable Cave — Karora / Public domain
- Hobart — File:Franklin Wharf 2015.jpg : Michael fromholtz derivative work: Georgfotoart / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Huon Valley — jacobharrisau / CC BY-SA 2.0