Launceston Travel Guide
Tasmania's Second City
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Launceston, at the junction of the North and South Esk rivers, is Tasmania's second largest city and a major gateway to the island. From here, the broad Tamar River valley opens north to Bass Strait, 58 kilometres (36 miles) away.
Elegant Edwardian and Victorian streetscapes and century-old parks and gardens sit beside revitalised areas such as Launceston Seaport, with its restaurants and cafes. A boardwalk links the Seaport to the cultural precinct of Inveresk, where you can visit one of Australia's best regional galleries, the Queen Victoria Museum. With a population of 68,000, the city has a strong sense of identity.
The city was established in 1806 at the mouth of the Tamar. It was the Island's trading centre for wheat and wool farmers. Over time, as their wealth grew, the city developed its grand vision.
Activities in Launceston
You can take the boardwalk skirting Royal Park and Kings Park, passing Ritchies Mill, with its gallery and restaurant, before zig-zagging into Cataract Gorge, a place of mystical beauty. Its steep, rugged cliffs and wild areas attract climbers.
Launceston is a good base for visiting the cool-climate vineyards of the Tamar Valley. You can also explore national parks such as Narawntapu known for wildlife-spotting, or the historic villages of Evandale and Longford, with their grand old farms and mansions Woolmers, Brickendon, Panshangar and Clarendon.
Relaxing
Take your pick from a variety of fine restaurants and coffee shops, or find a quiet spot on the boardwalk.
Getting Around
Public transport is reliable and easy-to-use if you don't have your own car.
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