The city offers a variety of activities, including the Tasmanian Devils Football Club, first rate vineyards and a collection of authentic Victorian architecture. Outside of the city are more attractions as the Northern side of Tasmania is known for its seasonal, yet mild weather and beautiful scenery.
Wilderness and Wildlife
Only five minutes from the city is the Cataract Gorge. It is a large gorge with a suspended chairlift available for dramatic views of the natural wonder. The southern side of the Gorge offers a swimming pool and open area. The northern side is shaded and contains a Victorian garden complete with ferns, lawns, and wallabies.
Also outside of Launceston is Ben Lomond National Park. The park is home to the only downhill ski area in Tasmania and offers a glimpse of native alpine wildlife. With glacial aspects, Ben Lomond is some of the most unique wilderness in all of Tasmania.
Within Launceston are a number of local hotspots and award winning restaurants. Artistic culture is rich at the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery and the J.Boag & Son brewery offer some of world’s best known beers. Outside of the city in the Tamar Valley, vineyards are plentiful.
Also in Tamar Valley is the historic George Town. One of the oldest settlements in Australia, George Town offers a collection of museums and relics from ship wrecks and sailing vessels. If you’d rather sample the Tamar valley at a more leisurely pace, take a ride on the Tamar River Cruises. The luxury catamaran offers comfortable seating and chilled local wines while you learn about local history and view the sites.
Two other sites outside of Launceston worth seeing in Northern Tasmania are the Penny Royal World and Gunpowder Mill and the lighthouse at Low Head. The Mill has underground tours of its recreated processing facilities from the Nineteenth Century. Low Head is now a popular resort in the Tamar Valley, but also houses Australia’s oldest continually used pilot station.
If you’re interested in a less leisurely activity, consider stopping by Aurora Stadium, or York Park, to watch the Tasmanian Devils in action. After the football game, relax in Launceston’s City Park and visit the Macaque monkeys. The monkeys were a gift to Launceston from its sister city in Japan. Also, don’t miss the York Town Square Market in Launceston if you’re interested in fresh produce and the more artistic aspects of the area.
Travel
To arrive in Launceston, you may drive from other areas within Tasmania or fly directly from Sydney or Melbourne into Launceston. Once inside the city, there are busses that operate on a semi-structured schedule as well as the standard taxis, shuttles and limousines. You may also rent a car for exploration outside of the city or for your own convenience.
Accommodations
As a major city in Tasmania, Launceston has many options in accommodations. Historic and new hotels are available as well as comfortable Bed and Breakfasts. In both the city and Tamar Valley, hotels, inns and more quaint establishments abound.
