Launceston is Tasmania’s second major city and a vibrant hub for food and wine, culture and nature. One of Australia’s oldest cities, Launceston has one of the best-preserved early cityscapes in Australia with its elegant Colonial and Victorian architecture and century-old parks.

Just a short walk from the city downtown area, Cataract Gorge is a slice of wilderness right in the heart of town and Launceston’s star natural attraction. The Gorge has walking tacks, swimming pool, the world’s longest single span chairlift, a restaurant, cafe, a suspension bridge and panoramic lookouts with spectacular views. Peacocks and native wildlife add to the experience.

From Launceston, self-drive visitors can follow the Tamar River north through Tasmania’s premium wine-growing region, past forested hills and farmland, lavender fields, vineyards, orchards and pretty riverside towns.

For those interested in wildlife, nearby Narawntapu National Park provides many opportunities to see Australia’s unique animals. The park boasts a rich array of easily observed animals that come out in the evening to graze on the grasslands, including Forester Kangaroos, Bennetts Wallabies and wombats. Listen for the growls and screeches of Tasmanian devils.