The dominating presence when heading south is Maria Island. It’s just an hour run south from Edge of the Bay to the ferry terminal. From a couple of hours to a full day can be spent wondering and learning the interesting and differing history of the island. While down that way theres the Three Thumbs Lookout walk. And like everywhere in Tassie, “it’s all about the booze”. This can be a big part of your return journey back to base. While Waverley Distillery wont have a cellar door until next year, Michael will take tours and tastings on appointment. Spring Bay Distillery whisky, Gin and Vodka, there must be something for you there.

Then on the way ‘home’  there’s Boomer Creek vineyard, just up the road is Tasman Sea Salt, tours and sommelier tastings happy days! Next door is the unsigned Mayfield Estate, one of the best cites and views for a cellar door in Tasmania or anywhere for that matter; and the wine isn’t half bad either. A great way to slow down and relax and no better spot for a taste, nibble and a buy.

Kelvedon beach and boatshed is a must stop, one of the most photo’d spots in all of Tasmania is the old Kelvedon boatshed. Just up the road through Rocky Hills. 

For one last stop on the way back there’s Melshell Oysters, you’ve had a bit to eat and drink for the day and some fresh oysters and a glass would just top it off. And the oysters are good! Ian and Cassie are a second generation Freycinet family and father Don does a cracking job, please watch the tourism parody.

For those who want the full wine experience there’s the Long Lunch Tours, operates out of Bicheno, they will pick up  and return from Edge of the Bay. All the goodies without the driving. There are several vineyards between here and Swansea available to sample, Devils Corner and close by Freycinet Vineyard starts the pilgrimage. Freycinet Vineyards dedication to the process of wine has them working and overseeing all aspects, from growing and the vineyard to the winemaking art, with the vineyard producing distinctive traditional wines. Over Cherry Tree Hill you come to Cranbrook and Cragie Knowe vineyard with the oldest grapes on the coast, Gala Estate, Springvale and Milton vineyards as well. All with food options and an array of cool climate wines to sample and buy.

There are other off the beaten track growers and the best place to try them out would be The Farm Shed in Bicheno. Look for The Bend, wonderfully aged releases and Kelvedon Estate.

Wanting to get off the beaten track and adventure a bit there are a number of great little walks.

1 hour gets you to the crossroads up at Lake Leake. From there its gravel roads, turn left down McNeils Road and follow the signs to Lost Falls. From there to Lake Leake itself, a drink and a bite to eat maybe. Come back to the crossroads and turn north, and 9 kms to Meetus Falls. Bbq and picnic area and a great viewing platform. Then keep following McNeils Road, crossing the Old Coach Road and onto Hardings Falls. A great way to spend a day without a lot of tourists to contend with.