Three rivers converge where Launceston sits, elegant and historical in its natural haven. While its fascinating past is a major drawcard, the compact city compels visitors with food, wine, shopping, art and outdoor adventure. From Georgian streetscapes to the lush Tamar Valley, here’s what to do in Launceston.
What to do in Launceston: City Adventures
Cataract Gorge
The world’s longest single span chairlift at Cataract Gorge
Fun things to do in Launceston are a mere 15 minute walk from the CBD. Cataract Gorge is home to an atmospheric suspension bridge, gardens, wildlife and, best of all, the world’s longest single span chairlift. Take happy snaps with the resident peacocks and swim in the pool – known as Launceston’s beach – before relaxing on the rolling lawns. You’ll also discover history at the Interpretation Centre, food at the restaurant or Basin Café and hiking trails to stretch your legs.
National Automobile Museum of Tasmania
Rev-heads are in for an historical treat at the Automobile Museum
You don’t have to have a car fetish to enjoy the history, at the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania. However, if you are a rev-head, the impressive collection of Rolls Royce, Bentley, Aston Martin and Jaguar might be the highlight your Launceston holiday. Rotating displays throughout the year means there’s always something new to see and the Mezzanine floor is a motorcyclist’s dream.
Hollybank Treetops Adventure
Take to the treetops at Hollybank
Give your adrenalin a boost and zip through towering trees, at Hollybank Treetops Adventure. Just a 20 minute drive out of the CBD, you’ll take to the air on a series of zip lines, flying from tree to tree and landing on platforms, called Cloud Stations. Once there, guides will let you know where to spot wildlife and give you the rundown on ecology and ecofriendly practices. Not enough fun for you? Book a Segway tour along forest trails or test your skills on wobbly bridges and crawling nets with a ropes course.
Tamar River Cruise
Launceston views from the water, on a river cruise
For adventure without the fright-factor, jump on board a Tamar River cruise to explore Launceston’s lifeblood. Cruises are a fantastic way to learn about the history of the region, as you meander by churches, fields, bridges and man-made landmarks with expert commentary from the skipper. Choose a morning or afternoon journey, sail all the way into Cataract Gorge or opt a luncheon cruise, to sample local cheeses, fruits, wines and beers.
Launceston City Parks
The Launceston CBD is filled with green spaces to explore
When you’re looking for things to do in Launceston with kids, you’ll find over 200 gorgeous parks. Just outside the CBD, City Park is the favourite, with Japanese Macaques, ducks and train rides among giant oak trees. Princes Square offers respite in the heart of the city, with a gruelling history of public hangings and military drills. Royal Park and Kings Park rest on the river’s edge, with a skate park, boat ramp, playground and barbeques. Close by, you’ll also find access to the Queen Victoria Museum and intact early streetscapes of Georgian and Victorian splendour. To stay within walking distance and also find things to do in Launceston at night, check out rooms at the Mercure Hotel. Nearby, there’s the historic Princess Theatre, bars, pubs and restaurants.
What to do in Launceston: Day Trips
Bridestowe Lavender Farm
Lavender ice cream, anyone? Get yours at Bridestowe Lavender Park
Purple lavender rows stretch to the crisp horizon, at the world’s largest privately-owned lavender farm. If you wanted to, you could lose yourself in their scented depths for days. Bridestowe Lavender Farm is a perfect day trip destination, as you’ll get there in under an hour by car, from the city.
The estate runs over 260 acres, with about 650,000 plants. When harvested, the flowers are used for a range of premium products, including moisturising creams, teas, soaps, ice creams and even pancakes. If you need more time among the purple prettiness, stay close by in Scottsdale, at the quaint Beulah Heritage B&B.
Wineglass Bay
Check out one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, Wineglass Bay
With its perfect arch, pink granite mountains and dazzling white sand, Wineglass Bay is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. To get there, book an organised tour or self-drive from Launceston, through historic farming regions, townships and wine country, to the Freycinet Peninsula.
If you fish, sail, hike, rock-climb and love fresh seafood, you might think this region is heaven on earth. Walking trails, panoramic lookouts and wildlife spotting only just scratch the surface. Make the most of the natural wonders of Freycinet National Park, with a stay at Freycinet Lodge, near Coles Bay.
Cradle Mountain
Tasmania’s iconic Cradle Mountain is only a day trip away
Tasmania’s favourite natural icon is within day trip distance and a ‘must’ on your what to do in Launceston list. Named after its resemblance to a gold mining cradle, Cradle Mountain sits in the World Heritage listed Lake St Clair National Park, among rainforests, alpine heathland, waterfalls and jagged peaks.
For keen hikers, it’s here that you’ll find the epic six day Overland Track journey through true wilderness. If you don’t fancy the drive back to Launceston in the same day, find luxury in the wilderness at Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge.
Tamar Valley Wine Route
Drop into Swinging Gate on Launceston’s wine route
Launceston’s reputation as a food and wine hub stems from its spectacular location, at the tip of the Tamar Valley. Exploring Tasmania’s oldest wine-growing region is a sensory feast of cellar doors, farmers’ markets, picturesque orchards, pastures and forests. Vineyards here are famous for aromatic whites, sparkling wine, chardonnays and pinot noir, with the cool climate and nourishing rivers feeding the fertile valley. Pop into Swinging Gate Vineyard and relax at the day spa after tastings, visit the resident Pinot d’Pig at Holm Oak Vineyard or experience a slice of Tuscan heritage at Brook Eden. If you’d rather leave the car at home, reside in nature at Relbia Lodge, right next door to the renowned Josef Chromy Vineyard.
Find a room at Relbia Lodge
Flights to Launceston
