Bridestowe Lavender Estate - Visiting Tasmania's Iconic Lavender Farm

Bridestowe Lavender Estate – Visiting Tasmania’s Iconic Lavender Farm

By Travel Textbook - Lucy

Admittedly, I had not heard much about Bridestowe Lavender Estate while growing up in Tasmania. But as Instagram took off, I could rarely open my app without seeing these iconic violet rows and often found myself thinking: what have I missed out on? Embarrassingly it took until 2021 until I was finally able to make it to the Estate.

Just a short 45 minute drive from Launceston, the visit formed part of a longer trip around the North-East of Tasmania for us, but would be an easy day trip from Launceston. After fuelling up with a quick breakfast at Bread & Butter, we piled into the car and drove towards Bridestowe.

In our enthusiasm, we ended up arriving at Bridestowe Lavender Estate slightly earlier than opening time. The lovely team let us in early and we ended up having the place to ourselves for the first 45 minutes which was an unforgettable experience!

BASIC INFORMATION

Opening Hours: 10:00 – 16:00 Monday – Sunday (open every day except Christmas)

Cost: free for Tasmanians, $20 for non-Tasmanians

Season: flowering in December and January

Website: Bridestowe Lavender Estate

THINGS TO DO AT BRIDESTOWE

WANDER THROUGH THE LAVENDER FIELDS

There is no question here — the number one thing to do at Bridestowe Lavender Estate is to wander through the perfect rows of lavender. The fields are extensive and are set beneath the beautiful rolling hills of the Tasmanian countryside. Allocate some time to just wander and get lost through the sensational plantation. Every season is different at Bridestowe and there is always something to learn about the Estate, but during the bloom in January/February has to be the most jaw-dropping time to drop by.

TAKE A GUIDED TOUR

Paid tickets include a guided tour through the lavender fields which usually leave every hour. If your visit lines up with a guided tour time then it is definitely worthwhile doing. Tours will help you learn about the behind-the-scenes processes involved in running the fantastic Bridestowe Lavender Estate.

ENJOY THE SHOP AND CAFE

It would feel wrong to visit a lavender farm and not come away with every lavender item you can find in the gift shop. Bridestowe makes its own soaps, lavender oil and even Bobbi bears (which are extremely popular – there is even a giant one in the gift shop for photo ops), so there is plenty to choose from.

The on-site café has plenty of lavender-inspired dishes to try while you visit the estate. One of the most popular things to eat at Bridestowe is the lavender icecream which transports you straight to Provence!

GETTING TO BRIDESTOWE LAVENDER ESTATE

Bridestowe Lavender Estate is located in the north of Tasmania. The closest airport is Launceston Airport which is well-connected to Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. Alternatively, many visitors to Tasmania choose to take their car on the Spirit of Tasmania boat from Melbourne to Devonport.

Bridestowe is a quick 45 minute drive from Launceston on the B81 highway. The drive is scenic and relaxing, winding through beautiful Tasmanian farmland. There is plenty of parking available at the Estate.

The alternative is to take a tour and there are several that operate out of Launceston. Tours range from private and guided tours, to coach transport to-and-from the Estate but you are able to venture at your own pace.

RESOURCES FOR YOUR TASSIE TRIP

Tasmania is a truly unique travel destination brimming with hidden gems, so make sure you get all the adventure advice from a local!

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WELCOME ABOARD!

My name’s Lucy and I’m the junior doctor and travel writer behind the blog. If you’re a fan of scratching beneath the surface of travel, visiting interesting destinations, and exploring ethically, then you’re in the right place. Focusing on purposeful budget and solo travel, Travel Textbook hopes to inspire more young people to seek meaningful adventure.