Launceston and north
A vibrant food scene, plenty of cool-climate wine and adventure in bucketloads – the north is where memories are made.
An abundance of farm-fresh produce, vineyards, distilleries, cooking schools and dining experiences makes Tasmania’s north an irresistible draw for lovers of good food and distinctive drinks.
Fuel up for an adventure. Take a hike in a dramatic gorge, ride beneath towering ferns, sled a river or fly between tall trees. Northern Tasmania is for the wild at heart.
Things to do
Shred mountain-bike trails, slip into a sauna, then plunge into a lake. Picnic in Cataract Gorge, a rare slice of wilderness in a city. Wander through a convict site. Or toast good fortune with a glass of pinot noir. You choose.
Best of the north
The food
Discover why Launceston was recently named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy and delve deeper into the connection between food, culture and people in the north. From a city harvest market and DIY berry picking at local farms to artisanal cooking schools and cool cafes, there’s constant grazing in the north.
The wine
Follow the wine trail through the bucolic scenery of the Tamar Valley to more than 30 cellar doors. This is Tasmania’s oldest winegrowing area. The river’s east bank has ideal growing conditions for sparkling wine – raise a glass surrounded by rolling hills of vines. Take your time meandering between vineyards on the west bank and indulge in another tasting or two of cool-climate pinot noir over a platter or lunch.
The adventure
Feel the flow of Blue Derby, the exceptional network of mountain-bike trails around the former tin-mining town of Derby. Swing high through the trees on a zipline. Tee off into Bass Strait from the sand dunes. See the north with a bird’s-eye view floating above the countryside. Or get wet on a wild river adventure.
The history
On a heritage walk in Launceston, look up at a remarkably intact streetscape spanning a full timeline of architectural styles. Visit the charming historical village of Evandale. Bask in the authentic colonial settings of Brickendon and Woolmers Estate, which are neighbouring World Heritage-listed convict sites. Discover the history of Australia’s oldest pilot station at the maritime museum at Low Head.
Places to visit in Launceston and the north
Things to do in Launceston FAQs
Cataract Gorge is a standout attraction with walking trails, gardens, wildlife and panoramic views just minutes from the city centre. City Park is nice to walk around, with a conservatory and leafy paths. Cultural attractions include Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG), Design Tasmania and the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania. The Kanamaluka / River Tamar provides scenic walking and cycling paths, as well as opportunities to explore by cruise or pedal kayak. Beer lovers can tour James Boag Brewery, while history buffs will enjoy walking by heritage buildings like Albert Hall and the Town Hall.
Launceston is an ideal base for day trips in every direction. To the north-east, go zip-lining at Treetops Adventure Hollybank, then continue to Derby for world-class mountain biking and a soak at the Floating Sauna on Lake Derby. Also north-east is the historic Low Head Pilot Station and Low Head Lighthouse, with a detour through the Pipers River wine region for sparkling wine. Head west to Deloraine for galleries and cafes, walk the Kooparoona Niara Cultural Trail, explore glow-worm caves at Mole Creek, and visit Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary. Wine lovers can follow the Tamar Valley Wine Trail, while history buffs can head south to Evandale, Longford and Ross, towns rich in colonial and convict history. For more, see our Launceston day trips guide.
Rainy days are a great excuse to explore Launceston’s museums and galleries, including QVMAG, the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania and Design Tasmania. You can also tour James Boag Brewery, settle into a cafe or restaurant, or catch a performance at the Princess Theatre.
Winter in Launceston is a cosy time. Enjoy atmospheric walks in Cataract Gorge, sample cool-climate wines in the Tamar Valley, or warm up with whisky at Launceston Distillery. Watch the Tamar Valley’s quintessential landscapes glide by in comfort with Tamar River Cruises. Escape indoors to QVMAG or catch a play at Princess Theatre. Further afield, visit the snowy and dramatic landscapes of Cradle Mountain, a 1hr 45min drive from Launceston.
Families will find plenty to do in Launceston. Cataract Gorge has easy walks and a fun chairlift, while neighbouring Penny Royal Adventures has boat rides, zip lines and cliff walks. Kids will enjoy QVMAG’s interactive displays and shows at the Princess Theatre. Animal lovers can visit Tasmania Zoo or Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary near Mole Creek (a 50min drive west). Just north of the city, Grindelwald’s Swiss-style village has mini golf, a lolly shop and ice creamery.