Piper River Wine Route

Winding through the rolling green hills of northern Tasmania, the Piper River Wine Route is a scenic drive that uncovers some of the island's finest cool-climate wines. This bucolic corridor, dotted with family-run vineyards and cellar doors, offers a relaxed, intimate wine-tasting experience away from the crowds. Expect crisp sparkling wines, elegant Pinot Noirs and aromatic Rieslings, all set against a backdrop of lush pastures and distant mountain views.

Highlights & What to See

• Jansz Tasmania: The region's sparkling-wine specialist, where you can sample méthode traditionnelle bubbles that rival Champagne.
• Pipers Brook Vineyard: A pioneering estate with a striking contemporary cellar door, known for its refined Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays.
• Delamere Vineyard: A boutique producer offering a personal tasting experience and a delightful Pinot Gris.
• Bay of Fires Winery: Despite its name, this winery is based here, producing superb cool-climate wines with a modern edge.
• Scenic drive: The route itself is a highlight, with patchwork fields, hedgerows and glimpses of the Tamar River.
• Local produce: Many cellar doors offer cheese platters or have nearby farm gates selling seasonal fruit and honey.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least half a day to explore the Piper River Wine Route at a leisurely pace. Start mid-morning, visiting two to three cellar doors before lunch, then enjoy a relaxed afternoon at one or two more. If you're a dedicated oenophile or want to linger over tastings and a long lunch, a full day is ideal. The route is compact enough to allow for spontaneous stops without feeling rushed.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Cataract Gorge: A stunning natural reserve in Launceston with walking trails, a chairlift and a swimming basin, perfect for a morning or afternoon adventure.
• Launceston city: Explore the historic streets, Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery and the lively Harvest Market (Saturdays).
• Tamar Valley: Continue your wine journey along the Tamar River, with dozens of cellar doors and scenic viewpoints.
• Bridport: A coastal town with beautiful beaches and the famous Barnbougle Dunes golf course.
• Low Head: Visit the historic lighthouse and penguin colony at dusk.

Please check official sources for current details.