It’s taken a week ~ but finally today…

I’ve had such a full and amazing first week in Tasmania ~ but until today no vineyards! But not til later… Love those autumn vine colours! 

I have to confess, my first impressions of Launceston last night weren’t fantastic, but only because I arrived ‘late’ (6pm) and so was left a room key in a safe box, and then ended up with takeaway, so didn’t feel very warm towards the place.

This morning, however, in daylight, I met a real person as I checked out, who recommended a cafe for coffee and I realised Launceston has some lovely buildings ~ this is the Albert Hall…

Right in the city centre, there is convergence of the impressive Tamar River and the North and South Esk Rivers. The South flows into the city through the impressive Cataract Gorge, so that’s where I headed after my coffee.

I enjoyed the loop walk about the first basin, which crosses a couple of cataracts, and a little suspension bridge, oh and goes under a chair lift, It was very pretty and nice to get some autumn fresh air and sunshine… in fact, it was beautiful sunshine all day.

I spent much of the day meandering up the west shore of the Tamar River, and later the east too. The river is huge, with a large flood plain, banked with rolling hills, and vineyards… but first, I stopped at Brady’s Lookout to enjoy the stunning vistas over the river.

And then, it was which vineyard to choose as there are many. The choice was reduced by the fact it’s a Sunday and it’s the winter season, but there were still a good number of options. I plumped for Marion’s Vineyard and was not disappointed… 

I was served by Marion herself, who founded the vineyard with her husband, Mark, in 1979. They are fully organic and biodiverse, and they opened the first cellar door in Tasmania. The vineyard is located quite low down, right near the river, with their own jetty, and is stunning. I tried some of their very lovely wines ~ not much else I can say really, you’d have to be there!

Obviously couldn’t try lots as I was driving ~ and I headed on up towards the estuary having booked a tour at the Platypus House. It said booking was essential, but there were just 3 of us, which was very special. This sanctuary, run by the Parks and Wildlife Service, has rescued platypuses (platypi? / platypus?!) and echidna. It was delightful to watch theses amazing creatures, when it came to the echidna, they just wandered around the space, right at our feet! Our guide was great, and shared a lot of information.

 

A fascinating visit, and then a stunning drive along the river, crossing over the Batman Bridge (nothing to do with the comic!) and up the east bank right to the river mouth, via George Town, to Low Head and the lighthouse. Stunning views and very, very windy!

From there, I headed inland and east, through beautiful countryside, past many vineyards, and other terrains, to the town of Scottsdale, where I’m staying tonight.

A fab day, but again, this evening, feels a bit odd. Being Sunday and out of season, not many dining options, so take-away again; and pre-arranged self-check-in, and I think I might be the only person staying here tonight. That’s fine, except there was a fella wandered in, apparently looking for someone. He was ok and left, but hung around the outside for a while, and it just made me aware of being alone and not knowing anyone or where I am really in the pitch dark evening. But all ok!!