Tasmania is a region of Australia like no other. Every part of Tasmania provides us with a fresh different picturesque landscape but a warming sense of raw brilliance. Launceston, as locals call it ‘Lonnie’, is Tasmania’s second major city and a vibrant hub for food, wine, culture and nature.
To Do & See
Cataract Gorge
It’s definitely one to go to given its location’s convenience and wondrous view. It is located in the heart of Launceston. Definitely use the chair lift and soak in the greatness of the basin and gorge.
Don’t forget to do the short walk to the bridge to view the gorge at its best.
Bridestowe Lavender Farm
A visit during flower season (December to January) will be an amazing experience with its blanket of violet-fragranced-lavender. The shop and café here is open all year around and we recommend sitting inside near their large window showing their wonderfully quaint lavender farm.
Do not forget to grab some lavender ice cream while you’re there! It’s worth it!
Bay of Fires – Binalong Bay
This is the ‘secret edge’ of Tasmania and truly is a bay on fire! Wonderfully situated near St. Helen with an amazing look out that shows its shimmering rocks with mysterious red blushes. Any pictures snapped here are almost a guaranteed winner.
Cradle Mountain
One of the main tourist attractions in Tasmania it is an absolute ancient wonder. You will need to stop off at the information centre to get car entry or take a bus ride right into the heart of the National Park.
Once in, stop by at the marvellous Dove Lake and the majestic Cradle Mountain. Feel free to do the walk but do not forget to register at the booth for safety!
Launceston City Park
Looks just like Central Park in Manhattan, all in the heart of Launceston. It houses a wonderful family of Japanese Hot Spring Monkeys with bright red bottoms! This is a relaxing walk about, especially after a long day out.
Stay
Peppers Seaport Hotel
One of the most beautiful hotels in Launceston is the Peppers Seaport Hotel and it is located in the heart of the city, all with water view’s. We recommend visiting their Mud Bar restaurant and ordering one of their succulent steaks.
Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge
Lonely Planet names Cradle Mountain Lodge the one of the Top 10 “ Extraordinary Places To Stay”. It’s located at the entrance to the spectacular world heritage listed Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park. The lodge offers various types of contemporary Cabins and Suites.
Eat
Stillwater
One of Tasmania’s most awarded restaurants, this place rests in a beautifully restored 1830s flour mill beside the beautiful Tamar River in Launceston. It’s open for breakfast and dinner and the food here is exceptional with a strong focus on Tasmanian local produce. Try their Black Cow Bistro if you’re a big fan of Tasmanian grass-fed steak.
Tinnies Pies
It appears to be the only place in Launceston that serves the famous Tasmanian scallop pies. They promise that each pie will be served with a heap of scallops and you have the choice of Curry or their newly introduced Mornay sauce. This is one of our recommended eats and you can even pre-order frozen packs if you wish to bring some back to your home state
Contributed by Josh
