Launceston

Launceston nestles in the Tamar River valley in Northern Tasmania where the North Esk and South Esk rivers come together. While it is Tasmania's second largest city after the capital of Hobart, Launceston manages to retain the charm and feel of a much smaller town. One of Australia's most beautiful cities, Launceston is surrounded by forested hills and farmlands and characterized by the charming Victorian and Georgian architecture that fortunately hasn't given way too much to the unsightly modern architecture of so many other cities.

Launceston enjoys a temperate climate, with mild winters and summers that are not too balmy, and there are plenty of activities in the region to attract visitors the year round, from backpacking and hiking in the nearby northern Tasmanian mountains, to a number of prime surfing beaches along the coast just a short drive away. But there are plenty of activities and attractions right in town to keep any visitor busy. The breathtaking Cataract Gorge Reserve is just a short walk from the city centre and sightseeing cruises along the Tamar River are very popular, as are various self-guided walking tours of the downtown area to learn about the history and heritage of Launceston.

Launceston also boasts a vibrant cultural scene and is home to the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, the largest, oldest and most-renowned museum outside of a State capital in Australia, with collections that range from Fine Art to History to Zoology, the Physical Sciences and Geology. The Design Centre, dedicated to sustaining the wood design industry of Tasmania, is also a must-see with numerous and always-changing exhibits and interesting displays. Also located in the city centre is City Park, a heritage reserve created from the original grounds of the Governor's 19th century Northern residence, containing a Conservatory, a Rose Garden, a Children's Train, numerous sculptures and memorials, as well as many rare botanical specimens.

Launceston's Tamar Valley is also a premier wine-producing area, with many wineries perfecting Australia's fast-maturing viticulture. Nor is Launceston short on many world-class restaurants that take advantage of Northern Tasmania's abundant agricultural produce and access to fresh seafood. Accommodations are also numerous, ranging from posh hotels to quaint Bed & Breakfasts to youth hostels that cater to the backpacking set.

Launceston is just a quick flight from Melbourne or Sydney on Virgin Blue or Qantas, or a few hours by car from the State capital of Hobart through some of Tasmania's most scenic and spectacular landscapes.