Scottsdale

Scottsdale is a charming rural town in northeast Tasmania, surrounded by rolling farmland and forests. Known as the 'Tulip Town of Tasmania,' it bursts with colour each spring when the tulips bloom. The town offers a genuine taste of Tasmanian country life, with a relaxed pace, friendly locals, and easy access to the wild landscapes of the northeast.

Highlights & What to See

• Tulip Festival – If you visit in October, don’t miss the Scottsdale Tulip Festival, where fields of tulips create a stunning patchwork of colour against the backdrop of Mount Arthur.
• Winery Trail – The surrounding area is home to several boutique wineries, particularly known for cool-climate wines like Pinot Noir and sparkling varieties. Many offer cellar-door tastings.
• Scottsdale Historic Walk – A self-guided walk past well-preserved 19th-century buildings, including the former bank and the old post office, revealing the town’s gold-rush heritage.
• Barnbougle Dunes – Just a short drive away, this world-class links golf course is consistently ranked among the best in Australia, with dramatic coastal scenery.
• Bridestowe Lavender Estate – A scenic 20-minute drive brings you to Australia’s largest lavender farm, famous for its rows of purple blooms and lavender-infused products.
• Mount Arthur – A challenging day-walk to the summit rewards with panoramic views over the Tamar Valley and Bass Strait.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers find one full day in Scottsdale sufficient to explore the town centre and visit a couple of nearby attractions. If you plan to play a round of golf at Barnbougle or hike Mount Arthur, allow two days. The area works well as a stopover en route between Launceston and the Bay of Fires.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Launceston – Tasmania’s second city, with its stunning Cataract Gorge, vibrant food scene, and historic architecture, is about 50 minutes south.
• Bay of Fires – Famous for its white-sand beaches and orange-lichen-covered boulders, this coastal paradise is an hour’s drive northeast.
• Bridport – A laid-back coastal village with beautiful beaches and the Barnbougle golf courses, ideal for a relaxed seaside afternoon.
• Derby – A mountain-biking mecca with world-class trails through lush forest, about 30 minutes east of Scottsdale.
• Liffey Falls – A spectacular waterfall in a cool temperate rainforest, reachable via a scenic drive and short walk, about 45 minutes south-west.

Please check official sources for current details.