Together, the Tamar, Tavy and Lynher form the Tamar Valley, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty covers around 195 km2 around the lower Tamar (below Launceston) and its tributaries the Tavy and the Lynher.

It was first proposed in 1963, but was not designated until 1995. The highest point in the AONB is Kit Hill, 334 metres above sea level.