If you’re visiting Burnie and looking for a way to savor the region’s finest culinary delights, the Tasting Trail Tour promises a well-rounded, authentic experience. This six-hour journey combines the sweet, savory, and spirited aspects of Tasmania’s food and drink scene, all packed into an organized, manageable itinerary. While the tour isn’t cheap—clocking in at around $215 per person—it provides access to some of the most iconic producers, paired with enough tasting opportunities to justify the cost.
What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its focus on local craftsmanship—from handcrafted chocolates to boutique wines—offering a taste of Tasmania’s culinary pride. The tour also balances visits to both small, family-run farms and more established producers, giving a genuine sense of the region’s diversity. However, it’s worth noting that the pace is brisk, so if you’re keen to relax and linger over each sample, you might find this tour a bit quick for your taste.
This experience is perfect for travelers who love food and drink and want a taste of Tasmania’s artisanal spirit. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy learning about local production methods and meeting passionate producers. If you’re after a leisurely, laid-back day, this might be a little intense, but if you’re eager to sample a variety of flavors in one go, it hits the mark nicely.
Key Points
- Authentic Tasmanian flavors are front and center, from chocolates to whisky.
- All tastings are included, making the price easier to justify.
- The tour offers a blend of sweet, savory, and spirited experiences, appealing to diverse palates.
- Small-group atmosphere (max 50 travelers) enhances personal interaction.
- The tour is well-paced, with manageable driving times and ample tasting opportunities.
- It’s ideal for food lovers who want to explore Tasmania’s local producers.
An Engaging Tour Through Tasmania’s Tasty Side
This Burnie Shore Excursion is designed as a culinary sampler platter—with each stop offering a distinct taste of Tasmania’s food scene. We loved the way it draws attention to small-scale producers who pour passion into what they create. Plus, the inclusion of local food and drink makes this more than just sightseeing; it’s a chance to understand and appreciate Tasmania’s artisanal spirit.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Burnie.
Starting at Anvers Chocolate Factory
The day kicks off with a 40-minute coastal drive from Burnie to Tasmania’s most iconic chocolate destination. We found it exciting to watch the chocolatiers at work, shaping Belgian-style chocolates with precision and care. The sampling here is generous, and you’ll get to indulge in some rich, handcrafted treats—perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth or just experiencing the artistry behind artisan chocolates. The admission ticket is included, so you won’t have to worry about extra costs, and the atmosphere is lively but relaxed.
Visiting The Truffledore
Next, a short 20-minute drive takes you to a charming boutique truffle farm. Here, the owners, Ina and Tino, share their passion for these earthy delicacies. Their love for truffles is contagious, and the hands-on tasting provides a sensory experience that’s both fun and educational. You’ll learn how truffles are grown and harvested, including a tasting of several varieties. Since admission is free, this stop feels like a genuine peek into small-scale farming, giving you a new appreciation for these culinary gems.
Tasting at House of Hargreaves Vineyard
A quick 5-minute drive brings you to a boutique vineyard run by a mother-daughter duo, Coral and Savannah. This smaller vineyard specializes in crafting cool-climate wines, and the tasting is complemented by a local platter. We loved the personal touch—being able to chat with the owners and learn about their winemaking process. The one-hour visit offers a relaxed environment to savor some of Tasmania’s best boutique wines, without feeling rushed.
Cider Tasting at Spreyton Cider Co
Next, a 10-minute drive takes us to Spreyton Cider, a family-run orchard established in 1908. The cider tasting here is a highlight—crisp, refreshing, and made from local apples and pears. The process of turning orchard fruits into award-winning ciders is explained, making it a great stop for those interested in how local produce gets turned into beverages. The tasting includes a non-alcoholic option, making this stop accessible for everyone, and the crisp ciders are perfect refreshers after a day of tasting.
Wrapping Up at Hellyers Road Distillery
Returning to Burnie, a 40-minute drive brings you to Hellyers Road Distillery, renowned for its boutique spirits. Here, you’ll sample a premium whisky flight while learning about distillation processes from passionate staff. The whisky tasting is a fitting finale, providing a deeper insight into Tasmania’s reputation for quality spirits. The distillery’s atmosphere is professional but welcoming, and the tasting is both educational and satisfying.
How Is the Day Structured?
The itinerary is thoughtfully planned to balance driving with tasting, with most stops around 20 to 40 minutes apart. This allows enough time to explore, sample, and learn without feeling overwhelmed. The transportation is via a mobile ticket, and the group size is capped at 50, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.
While the tour features all tastings included in the price, it moves at a brisk pace—so if you prefer to linger longer at each stop, you might feel rushed. The organized nature makes it ideal for visitors who want a structured but comprehensive tasting experience without worrying about logistics.
What’s the Value?
At around $215, this tour isn’t cheap, but it covers a broad spectrum of Tasmania’s food and drink scene. The inclusion of all tastings and some snacks means you’re paying for access and guidance through a curated experience rather than just transportation. You’ll also get to meet passionate local producers, which adds an authentic touch that self-guided visits often lack.
Practical Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking at each stop.
- Bring a small bag if you’d like to carry home any purchased products.
- The tour is suitable for most travelers, but be mindful of driving times—if you’re prone to car sickness, sit near the front.
- The experience is family-friendly, with options for non-alcoholic drinks at the cider stop, but check with the provider for specific age restrictions.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tasting trail is ideal for food and drink enthusiasts eager to explore Tasmania’s local flavors. It’s perfect if you enjoy learning about artisanal processes and chatting with passionate producers. The small-group format makes it suitable for travelers who prefer more personal interactions, and the variety of stops offers something for most palates—whether sweet or spirited.
However, if you’re after a relaxed, leisurely day, this tour might feel a bit fast-paced. It’s best suited for active travelers who want a structured, engaging, and flavorful overview of Tasmania’s best small producers.
Final Thoughts
The Burnie Shore Excursion: Tasting Trail Tour provides a comprehensive sampler of Tasmania’s culinary scene, blending chocolates, truffles, wines, ciders, and whisky into one tasty package. It’s a great way to support local artisans and learn how some of Tasmania’s most beloved products are made, all while enjoying beautiful coastal scenery.
While the price may seem steep, the all-inclusive tastings, personalized approach, and variety of experiences make it worthwhile for those eager to indulge. It’s especially suited for food lovers and those curious about Tasmania’s small-scale food production.
If you’re visiting Burnie and want a full-flavor, authentic slice of Tasmania, this tour will satisfy your appetite—literally and figuratively. Just be ready to sample and explore, because this experience packs a lot into a manageable day.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Yes, the cider tasting includes a non-alcoholic option, making it accessible for kids and those avoiding alcohol. The experience is primarily focused on tasting and learning, so children can enjoy the farm visits and chocolates as well.
How long are the driving segments?
Most drives are between 5 and 40 minutes, which helps keep the day balanced between travel and tasting. It’s not a long bus ride, but a series of manageable hops.
Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, all tastings—chocolates, truffles, wine, cider, and whisky—are included, making the experience transparent and straightforward.
What is the maximum group size?
Up to 50 travelers, which is small enough for a personal feel but large enough to keep the group lively.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if your plans change.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially at farms and vineyards. Bring a jacket if the weather is cool, as some stops are outdoors.
Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
While not explicitly specified, most tastings are food and beverage-based, and you might find suitable options at each stop. It’s best to check with the provider beforehand.
How much time is spent at each stop?
Most visits last between 20 to 60 minutes, providing enough time to taste and learn without feeling rushed.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 13 Wilmot St, Burnie, and finishes back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.
This tasting trail offers a well-organized, flavorful look into Tasmania’s culinary pride, making it a rewarding choice for those eager to sample local craftsmanship with a dash of scenic charm.