Grindelwald is a lovely town just 15k north of Launceston in the Tamar Valley. It was developed in the style of a Swiss village and was the vision of a Dutch immigrant to Tasmania named Roelf Vos. After selling his "Roelf Vos" supermarket chain to Woolworths, he traveled to Tasmania and made his vision come true.
The town’s construction began in 1980 around an artificial lake. It is truly a unique residential development, with houses built in Swiss style and creating a dreamlike ambiance throughout the entire village. Houses have the authentic features of true Swiss chalets and visitors feel as though they are transported to Switzerland! The settlement is surrounded by glassy lakes and views of the Tamar Valley.
On the edge of the town is the 40 hectare Tamar Valley Resort, which opened in 1989 and shares the Swiss architectural style.
Options in the area include self-contained family chalets and several hotels. Tamar Valley Resort is at the heart of it all and includes a range of accommodation.
Grindelwald is a beautiful place for a vacation with many activities available to delight the entire family. Adults and children alike can entertain themselves in the gorgeous surroundings. There is even the world’s longest bouncing pillow available for children!
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the 18-hole, par 54 mini-golf course, or play a round on the ten-hole public golf course. Other popular activities include tennis, aqua bike hire, mountain bikes, canoeing on the lake, and peddle go karting, among others. In addition to the bouncing pillows, children can frolick on the playground or visit the pirate ship. Image thanks to: Tourism Tasmania & Rob Burnett.
A myriad of options exist for shopping and meals right in the heart of the village. There is a shopping arcade, boutique shops, general store, craft shops, golf pro shop, bakery, cafe, clothing store, day spa, chocolatier, ice cream shop, newsagent, and hairdresser. Consider having a genuine Swiss meal at one of the many restaurants or simply enjoy a Apfeltaschen (similar to an apple strudel) at the bakery! The lakeside Alpenrose Lakeside Bistro and lounge bar is a popular option for those wishing to dine lakeside with a wonderful view of the golf course.