Launceston is the nation`s third oldest city having been founded in 1805, one year after Hobart.
It is a treasure trove of history and delights, complete with beautifully maintained and restored historic buildings that give it an old world charm and make it unique in Australia.
The city is at the junction of two rivers and stands at the source of the beautiful 64-kilometre Tamar River Valley region that is becoming increasingly famous for its very fine wines.
Right at the city's doorstep is the Cataract Gorge, a spectacular ravine that has been gouged from the basalt hillsides over countless thousands of years.
In summer it is a favourite for locals and visitors alike and provides a natural amphitheatre for open air concerts.
Launceston has a great reputation for its first-class restaurants, some specialising in Tasmania`s renowned seafood, game and produce.
The experience of eating out can also be extended to the great outdoors with picturesque picnic spots within easy walking or driving distance from the city.
Whatever your interest, river cruises, scenic flights, white water rafting, rock climbing and abseiling, bush walks, wilderness tours, colonial home and garden tours, all can be arranged very easily from Launceston.
Launceston is Tasmania’s second major city and a vibrant hub for food and wine, culture and nature. In fact, the whole region is jam-packed with city and country charm, gorgeous old towns, excellent food and wine and beautiful scenic highlights.
One of Australia’s oldest cities, Launceston has one of the best-preserved early cityscapes in Australia with its elegant Colonial and Victorian architecture and century-old parks.
Just a short walk from the city centre, Cataract Gorge is a slice of wilderness right in the heart of town and Launceston’s star natural attraction.
There’s also plenty of culture on offer at art galleries, museums and local designer stores, not to mention the famous cool climate wines, local brews and fine dining that are the essence of the Launceston experience.
From Launceston, you can follow the Tamar River Valley north through Tasmania’s premium wine-growing region, past forested hills and farmland, lavender fields, vineyards, orchards and pretty riverside towns. Historic villages are found around every corner, from Longford on the outskirts of Launceston to Evandale, Ross and Campbell Town along the Heritage Highway south.
Local highlights:
• Explore the majestic Cataract Gorge Reserve and take a river cruise, an ideal way to explore the Tamar River and wetland area
• Visit the Queen Victoria Museum, one of Australia’s best regional galleries.
• Take a tour of historic Boag’s Brewery, founded in 1883.
• Visit a winery and sample some of the best cool climate wines in the world.
• Hollybank Treetops and Segway Adventures for adventure and excitement just 15 minutes out of Launceston.
• Just an hour from Launceston are Barnbougle Dunes and Barnbougle Lost Farm world renowned golf courses.