Best farm experiences in the Coal Valley
The beautiful heritage township of Richmond has always been a tourist drawcard, famous for its sandstone architecture, historic bridge and village shopping scene. Until more recent years the surrounding farmland of the Coal River Valley has been somewhat inaccessible – picturesque but not available to visitors wanting to experience the region beyond the township.
This is all changing as agritourism businesses are giving locals and tourists alike the opportunity to get on farm, buy produce straight from the farm gate and even delve into farming operations to learn how food and fibre is produced.
At Coaldale Walnuts, we’re so proud to be a part of the Coal River Valley farming community, and as well as offering tours and events at our own farm, our family loves to visit other local farms for rural experiences. We’ve put together a list of our favourites to encourage others to plan a day out the Coal River Valley and experience everything our agritourism properties have to offer.
Tunnel Hill Mushrooms, 2 Old Coach Rd, Mt Rumney
If you’re heading to the valley from Hobart, don’t pass up the chance along your way for a truly unique experience at Tunnel Hill Mushrooms – a very different type of farm. Dean will guide you through the tunnel and explain the mushroom growing process, providing opportunities to cook and eat fresh mushrooms, and letting you get your hands dirty. Bookings essential.
Littlewood Berries and Lamb, 1192 Richmond Rd, Richmond
From around November to May, Littlewood Berries is open for pick-your-own (or pre-picked) strawberries on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Their open days are dependent on the weather and fruit availability so make sure you do what the locals do, and check out their Facebook or Instagram for the latest updates before you go. Morning tea is covered, with berry ice creams (highly recommended) or coffee and a sweet treat from the Little Bean coffee van. Hot lamb pies are also available, with meat sourced from right on the farm. Paddock to plate in action!
Lowdina Orchard, 1321 Colebrook Rd, Campania
If you venture further up the valley, past Campania, throughout the summer months, you’ll find Lowdina Orchard open to the public, serving their delicious cherry and apricot ice cream made from fruit grown on the property. Buy cherries and apricots direct from the farm, as fresh as they come. Check the Facebook page for seasonal info.
Toffeemont Alpacas, 53 Orielton Rd, Orielton
Just over the hill at Orielton, Toffeemont Alpacas gives you the chance to tour a working alpaca farm and learn about these unique and super-cute animals. You even get to feed the alpaca residents and get up close for a pat. Enjoy morning or afternoon tea whilst browsing on the many Tasmanian-made alpaca products on offer. Picnic packs are also available. Make sure you book online beforehand.
Daisy Bank, 78 Middle Tea Tree Rd, Richmond
Stay on a working sheep farm in beautifully appointed historic cottages, or in the secluded tiny home bush retreat, which has a stunning view over the valley. Explore the farm on a walk through its bushland reserve, or walk into Richmond to explore the shops and cafes.
Caledon Estate, 332 Prossers Rd, Richmond
Just across the road from our farm, Caledon Estate offers seasonal vineyard tours in the company of ‘wine dogs’ Sascha and Biscuit. Explore areas normally off limits to the public and discover Caledon’s finest growing varieties and Cab Sav secrets. Experience the panoramic views, then warm up at the cellar door beside the crackling fire, enjoying a cozy fireside wine tasting complemented by exquisite canapes curated to deliver the complete Tasmanian experience.
Coaldale Walnuts, 321 Prossers Rd, Richmond
And of course, we offer our own farm tour experience here at Coaldale Walnuts. Take a walk with Sophie to visit the walnut orchard and learn how the walnuts are grown, then take a peek inside the processing sheds to see what happens after the nuts are harvested. Taste a selection of walnut products, including our famous pickled walnuts.
We also hold an annual open farm event in early May for pick-your-own walnuts straight from the orchard.
