| American Perspective Travelogue |
2000 |
On Friday, we made a stop at the Bridestowe Lavender Farm. Since we arrived during the harvest time, we were able to take a tour thru the distillery shed where we saw lavender being processed into oils. Harvest season lasts for only about six weeks. We watched as harvested lavender was pressed and refined into the fragrance oil that is used for various products. This was a beautiful tour and the fields were all in bloom. It was beautiful and smelled even better. We noted that Tasmanian lavender does have a different fragrance from that grown near our home in Sequim, WA. Ours has more of a camphor scent.
We spent an afternoon looking around the sleepy little town of Georgetown. Being a Saturday afternoon, many of the stores were closed so we took a stroll around town and at the waterfront looking at the beautiful boats and seagulls. The buildings were full of history and the atmosphere was warm and friendly although many of the local businesses were closed in Tassie fashion. We have noticed so many times that the family unit is strong and those folks that were milling around were families. We took a room at The Pier Hotel Motel. This is a part of the Flag Chain. Our room was situated beside the Tamar River and was quite luxurious. We had a great dinner right there at the hotel and the staff was wonderful; warm, friendly and very accommodating to our needs. They even had pokies! Yes, I played and no, I didn't win, BUT, I did have fun that's all that counts, right??
On Sunday, we arrived at Launceston and stumbled on Penny Royal World. For $19.95 (aus) per person we toured the gunpowder mills, walked thru the town 
visited a really old fashioned "Lolly Shop" (candy shop) and visited the Cataract Gorge via a river cruise on the Tamar River, very relaxing and it was wonderful to hear commentary and see the area from a great vantage point. Cataract Gorge is beautiful .. the flowers literally were growing out of rocks and the ability of the boat to turn around in the narrow area was worth the trip. This was a great way to spend an afternoon.
We traveled back from Launceston toward Hobart and made a stop at Oatlands at Casaveen Fine Wool Wear. There is a factory on premise, although I don't think they offer tours. As we walked in, we were fascinated by the bright, beautiful colors and variety of styles. I bought a cardigan sweater or, as an Aussie would say, a jumper. I quickly noticed that the sweaters were much softer than so many I had felt and soon learned that Tasmania's cooler climate is ideal for the sheep and their wool. Woolgrowers have worked on technology and breeding techniques in ensuring this very special fleece and because of the farms and procedures, Tasmanian wool is exceptionally clean. It was truly a noticeable difference.
