Positioned along the shores of Kanamaluka/The Tamar River, Launceston is celebrated for its lively culinary offerings, finest wines, and flourishing arts and culture.
Launceston blends countryside allure with metropolitan innovation, leading to a city that showcases an array of cultural experiences underscored by captivating historic buildings and breathtaking natural backdrops.
Launceston presents a mix of pursuits, such as delving into the regional culinary delights, appreciating the natural landscapes, and diving deep into the city’s arts and cultural ambience. Although sometimes bypassed by certain visitors in Tasmania, Launceston is brimming with delightful discoveries and many sites to see. Here are some suggested activities to enrich your visit to Launceston.
Hop between wineries in Tamar Valley
Tamar Valley is a favoured spot for wine enthusiasts. The valley boasts over thirty wineries, each possessing its unique style of cool-climate viticulture. Guests can dedicate a day to exploring various vineyards, savouring the scenery and sampling some of Tasmania’s finest vinos. Numerous vineyards also provide delicious local food platters, granting visitors an ideal bite as they relish their wine.
Tamar Valley caters to all tastes. Tamar Ridge Cellar Door is renowned for its Pinot Noir. Iron Pot Bay Vineyard presents a selection of white wines for appreciation. Jansz Vineyards stands out for its effervescent wines. Many tour agencies are ready to ferry you among the vineyards if required.
You can go for a swim in Cataract Gorge
Witness the splendour of Tasmania’s captivating woodland as you stroll under the lofty boughs of grand slate-grey gums framing the Cataract Gorge Reserve. Venture into the wild and find a tranquil waterside nook to unwind in the cool shade.
Cataract Gorge is a frequented spot in Launceston where you can bathe in its crisp, emerald-green waters.
Travellers can also behold picturesque vistas of the water cascading from the highlands via the Gorge Scenic Chairlift or the suspension bridge, offering sweeping outlooks. Revel in the serene atmosphere by settling beside the rippling water, attuned to the whispers of foliage and the harmonious chirping of avians resonating among the trees.
Stop by Harvest Market
Heading to Launceston’s Harvest Market on a Saturday morning offers a varied ambience, with a mix of individuals, including those sporting dreadlocks, elderly gentlemen donning berets, middle-aged ladies with coiffed hair, and young lasses with woven braids.
Come breakfast time, it’s common to spot local Launnie residents with their rolling carts brimming with responsibly raised meats and artisanal sourdough loaves from APC.
Launceston prides itself on its laid-back vibe, and this market embodies it. While the Harvest Market claims the title of most frequented in Launceston, alternative options are available.
Launceston’s culinary landscape is recognised for its bustling markets; hence, if Saturday eludes you, numerous other markets await your discovery throughout the week and the calendar year.
Dive into the cafe culture
One of the best ways to acquaint yourself with Launceston is by stepping into its chic cafes, dining establishments, and breakfast nooks.
Bread & Butter cafe stands out as a favoured brunch location in Launceston. It’s renowned for its delicious baked treats and premium butter courtesy of The Tasmanian Butter Co.
The spacious warehouse setting features a transparent bakery and kitchen zone, letting patrons witness the crafting of croissants, bread and cinnamon rolls. Getting there early on weekends is advisable to enjoy a more comprehensive array of baked delights.
Those passionate about coffee frequently flock to Amelia Coffee Co. for its outstanding concoctions and well-versed baristas. They’re adept at crafting any coffee beverage you fancy. Moreover, there are many other commendable cafes and dining spots to explore.
Consider taking a day trip to a more distant location
Launceston is located near a variety of day trip experiences in the region. One such experience is visiting Low Head to see the smallest penguin species, commonly called “Fairy Penguins.”
Low Head Penguin Tours offers the opportunity to observe penguins returning to their burrows in the evening. It is a delightful way to end your day, and if needed, transfer companies can provide transportation from your accommodation.
Visit the Bridestowe Lavender Estate for a day among the lavender fields. The fields bloom during summer, creating a beautiful purple landscape. Enjoy lavender-infused ice cream and other treats at the cafe. Explore the gift shop for handmade lavender products. It’s a dreamlike experience.
Dine out in style
Launceston has been designated as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, and a visit to its renowned restaurants will show you why.
Stillwater is a fine-dining restaurant located in an old flour mill. It offers modern Tasmanian dishes and provides beautiful views of the river. The restaurant often hosts internationally recognised chefs and specialists, making it a sought-after dining experience. It is advisable to make a reservation, particularly on weekends, and requesting a window seat is recommended.
You should check out Kosaten, a new addition to the restaurant scene. It combines Tasmanian seafood with Tokyo-inspired pop styling. Whether you want a quick sushi snack or a full meal, this Japanese restaurant covers you. You can order dish by dish using an iPad at your table. It’s perfect if you need more time, just as hungry as you are. And don’t worry, no one will judge you if you order extra fried chicken!
Explore the galleries and museums
The most prominent regional museums – The Queen Victoria Museum at Inveresk and Launceston Art Gallery at Royal Park, are popular destinations for art, history, and natural sciences in northern Tasmania. At the same time, MONA in Hobart offers a unique and disorienting experience.
The QVMAG is located on the ancestral lands of the Tyerrenotepanner, Leterremairrener, and Panninher clans. The First Tasmanians: Our Story is a permanent exhibition honouring their customs and culture. Additionally, visitors can experience a feature presentation of the night sky in the planetarium, where they can sit in former aircraft seats and observe the celestial bodies.
The Launceston Tramway Museum allows visitors to experience a journey back in time. It was established by the local community in 1990 and showcased Launceston’s sole remaining double bogie tram. The National Car Museum also presents a vast collection of vintage vehicles, motorcycles, and related items, making it a must-visit for car enthusiasts.
You can have a drink at a fashionable bar
At Red Brick Road Cider, located west of Launceston in Deloraine on the Apple Isle, you can enjoy handcrafted and pear ciders made using traditional techniques. Visit the cider house cellar door, where you can purchase Red Brick Road Scrumpy and browse through their collection of vintage vinyl while sipping on your cider.
Beer enthusiasts can also explore an ale trail that includes the newly refurbished James Boag Brewery, Tandy’s Alehouse, and St John Craft Beer Bar, which offers a selection of 14 different beers on tap. St John’s is a cozy bar showcasing popular local brews and lesser-known guest beers. The establishment was founded by Tim Jarosz, Luke Dempsey, and Ryan Campling, who are knowledgeable about beer and can offer expert recommendations on what to try.
At the Kingsway Bar in Launnie, you can try small-batch drinks like Abel Gin and Poltergeist Gin while blending in with the locals by wearing a colourful knit.
If you cannot visit any of the wineries in the Tamar Valley, you can still try local wine at Havilah, Bar Two and Geronimo Aperitivo Bar & Restaurant. These establishments offer a cozy atmosphere and various snack options to enjoy while you have a drink.
Explore the antiques
Launceston has a lot of vintage, second-hand and antique goods. You can explore the past by visiting antique stores. Red Fox Antiques on Tamar Street is a great place to find a unique souvenir. They have silverware, jewellery, furniture, homeware, textiles, and a vintage fashion collection. The small shop is both a museum and a store with a stylish atmosphere.
Tulloch’s Antique House offers an extensive showroom that resembles a museum. They have vintage cars, fine art, jewellery, and more. If interested, you can participate in their online or in-room auctions.
Stay in a historic hotel
Launceston has a variety of hotels for all types of travellers. The Florance guest house is a budget-friendly option with a rich history. It combines Victorian architecture with modern design and is conveniently located near the city centre. The guest house features beautiful stained glass, luxurious fabrics, and a bright conservatory. The hosts are friendly and knowledgeable about the local area, providing recommendations for attractions and activities in Launceston.
There are many great options for Airbnbs in Launceston. One is FLAX at Duck Reach, a heritage-listed cottage built in 1895 for the Duck Reach power station workers.
FAQ
What is Launceston famous for?
Can you swim at Cataract Gorge?
What day trips can you take from Launceston?
When is the best time to visit Launceston?
Is Apollo Bay family-friendly?
Yes! Apollo Bay has plenty of activities for kids, safe swimming beaches, Apollo Bay Surf Lifesaving Club and adventure parks like Otway Fly Treetop Adventures.
