The Gorge House

Launceston's Gorge Scenic Chairlift lets you view the magnificent Cataract Gorge from above, located in Northern Tasmania. Take in the spectacular features of Cataract Gorge from this single-span chairlift. View the South Esk River in a serene or turbulent mood after a flood as well as tree rhododendrons and fern glades. It takes about ten minutes to take the ride across Cataract Gorge and First Basin. Top speed is a sedate one metre per second, but usually, the chairlift runs slower than that to afford passengers a longer ride. It is about 457 metres (1462 feet) from station to station, with a central span between two pylons of 308 metres (985 feet), believed to be the longest single span of any chairlift in the world. Since its opening in 1972, the chairlift has established a 100 per cent safety record. Be sure to also wander the grounds below the chairlift, where you can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, tearooms and the delightful peacocks who inhabit the area. Launceston's Gorge Scenic Chairlift is around a 15-minute walk from Launceston's central business district.

The Cataract Gorge Reserve on the South Esk River is a unique natural formation just minutes from central Launceston. The Gorge has walking tracks, a 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. On the southern side of the river is First Basin, featuring a swimming pool and an open area surrounded by bushland. This part of the Gorge is popular with locals for picnics and barbecues. On the shady northern side, known as the Cliff Grounds, is a Victorian garden with ferns and exotic plants. Relax on the rolling lawns, take shade under the rotunda and enjoy lunch with a view from the restaurant. There's also a kiosk and tearooms where you can enjoy a cup of tea and scones. Wander across the footbridge that links the two areas or take a chairlift ride across the expansive Gorge. Further upstream is the historic Duck Reach Power Station, now an interpretation centre and well worth the short walk. Spend an hour or spend a day: the Gorge has something for everyone.

Located right next to the iconic Cataract Gorge, Penny Royal Adventures aimed to re-create 19 century's Van Diemen's Land. It provides a village experience for everyone from history-themed boat rides to ultimate cliff adventures such as cliff jump, zip lines and cliff walk. With its picturesque site and privileged location, Penny Royal Adventures has quickly gained the popularity within its local community and has become a 'must visit ' destination for visitors travelling interstate and internationally. * Free entry for all ages