Take in many of Launceston's major sights and attractions on foot

With a population of only 68,000, Launceston is just big enough to be Tasmania's second biggest city and just sufficiently small to have a great, uncrowded feel to it. A fascinating mixture of natural beauty, old world charm and new world lifestyle, a visit to Launceston will be an experience you always remember.

Launceston's history dates back to 1806, when it replaced Port Dalrymple as Tasmania's northern military base. An inland harbor, it was also an important center for trade. Over the years, it became one of Tasmania's most affluent cities and still has many impressive mansions and other impressive historical buildings.

Launceston Tasmania is not a big town and it is simple to find your way around the town, even on foot. While you discover the town, you'll be able to visit elegant historical spots, go shopping or dining in the center of the town or at Launceston Seaport. Then you might take the boardwalk that connects Seaport with Inveresk, where you will find the Queen Victoria Museum, one of the best regional galleries in Australia. Your boardwalk excursion will also take you past the popular Ritchies Mill and even more wonderful restaurants and galleries.

After all of this, your experience in Launceston has still barely begun. The winding boardwalk trail takes you to Cataract Gorge. This world famous gorge is a haven for rockclimbers who travel there to test their abilities on the sheer vertical cliffs that leave all tourists in a state of awe. If rock climbing does not tempt you, don't worry. You can see everything in style from the comfort of a chairlift. Cataract Gorge is one of Launcetons best attractions and should not be missed.

So far, you've seen a great deal and you have just been discovering Launceston on foot. Jump into your car or take a tour of the area and you are in for even more pleasant surprises. For example, from Launceston you can easily reach the cool-climate vineyards found in the Tamar Valley. Just take the Tamar Valley Wine Route and you're there. If you favor sightseeing to wine tasting, you can take a river cruise and explore the Tamar River and adjoining wetlands area.

Also within easy access of Launceston are a few historical villages like Evandale and Longford. Longford, like Launceston, has a long history. Located in the middle of the region's farming district, Longford boasts old world farming estates still run by descendents of their first settlers who initially began farming them in the early decades in the Nineteenth Century.

Launceston isn't a large city, but it is big on hospitality. You will be warmly welcomed by the proprietors of your Launceston accommodation, whether they run a B&B from a 19th century home which has been restored and modernized to include 21st century amenities or perhaps a newly built spa resort. Whatever you want, you can find it in Launceston Tasmania.


Take a few days off, find accommodation launceston, things to do and other travel related information about the area on bookitnow.com.au. Or visit our Australia blog for more Australian holiday ideas.