Sometimes referred to as "the hole" by locals, Launceston is anything but. Located in northern Tasmania, this is the island state's second largest city and, in my opinion, is a place worth stopping at. It's a great launchpad for many of the great things on offer in northern Tasmania. Read on for must-do's while visiting this quaint city.
Launcestians (is that what they're called?) are spoilt for choice when it comes to nature because they have this beautiful gorge right on their doorstep! Visitors can spend the day hiking up and around the gorge (free entry), relaxing at the cafe amongst peacocks and wallabies or gliding blissfully in the air on a cable car (fee) which takes you across the gorge and offers unparalleled views.
The gorge is located about 10 - 15 minutes from the centre of town by car so it's nice and easy to get to!
The Tamar River is the main river which runs through Launceston and out to sea at Devonport. This beautiful waterway offers a variety of activities alongside it including a variety of wineries boasting some of Tasmania's finest drops and a quaint German Village called Grindelwald which feels like you've stepped straight into Switzerland. Try your luck at mini-golf or enjoy German cuisine while you're there.
Expect to drive approximately 30 minutes out of Launceston to visit a winery or Grindelwald.
No trip to Tasmania is complete without seeing some Tassie Devils and what better place to do it at than a wildlife conservation park. Trowunna Wildlife Park (fee) focusses on rehabilitating injured and endangered animals in Tasmania. There you can find all sorts of
Tasmanian creatures from Tasmanian Devils to Wombats, Wallabies, Eagles and more. Grab a bag of Kangaroo feed upon entry and get close and cuddly with these loveable animals.
The wildlife park is an easy one hour from Launceston by car.
Accommodation
"You've told us about all these amazing things to do in Launceston Georgia, but where should we stay?" I hear you and don't worry, I've got you covered. Here's my top picks for accommodation in Launceston:
Sportie's Hotel ($) is great for those on a budget. Located on top of a pub you can be sure of a good time and that you'll be well fed while there.
Mercure Launceston ($$) is a comfortable option which offers free parking among other amenities while at a modest price.
Peppers Silo Launceston ($$$) is a hotel located, yep you guessed it, inside a wheat silo. Located along the waterfront with exquisite views of the Tamar River, this is a great option for those looking for something a bit more luxe.
A special mention... while you're visiting Launceston, you cannot miss out on dining at Cataract on Paterson. A modern Australian grill restaurant owned by locals, this place offers some of the best meat in Tasmania and is worth a try. If meat isn't your thing they have a variety of dishes on offer to suit everyone.
Now that you have all this information, go forth and visit Launceston (and Tasmania in general) and check out @thedeparturedesk on socials.
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