Launnie, a charming getaway destination in Tasmania’s north, is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The northern city of Tasmania, located just 2.5 hours from Hobart, is a vibrant center for food, wine, culture, and nature. Launceston has everything you need for a relaxing getaway, including all the Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs that you want to drink.
Launnie has a lot to offer, whether it is a hike up Cradle Mount or an afternoon spent exploring the Tamar Valley food and wine trails. We’ve compiled a list of all the fun things to do in Launceston and its surrounding areas. Add your favorites to the itinerary.
Cruise the Cataract Gorge
We’re certain that if you ask people what the best thing to see and do in Launceston is, they’ll tell you to go to Cataract Gorge. The scenic river in Launceston is the main attraction. It features hiking trails, cruises, and chairlifts, as well as a riverside pool. In the middle of Launnie’s wilderness, you’ll find a suspension bridge as well as some charming picnic and cafe spots.
What is the best thing about the Gorge? It’s not necessary to travel far to enjoy some fresh air. You’re only 15 minutes from the city center! You can also visit the City Park in Launceston to see live performances and amazing art exhibits.
Hollybank Treetops Adventure Zipline
Get ready for an adventure! Hollybank Wilderness Adventures is the perfect place to combine breathtaking scenery with thrill-seeking experiences. Glide across the evergreens of Launnie from 50 meters above the ground to enjoy spectacular views of Bluegum Forest, Piper River, and the Bluegum Forest.
This outdoor adventure park, located only 15 minutes from Launceston’s center, is home to Tasmania’s safest and longest zipline. It runs for almost 1 kilometer, which is nearly as long as San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge. The zipline is a great experience for teens, children, and even the young at heart. There’s an off-road Segway Tour and high rope obstacle course that you can race with your entire group.
Explore Cradle Mountain National Park
For those who stopped in Launceston on a quick visit, Cradle Mount is Tasmania’s premier World Heritage Site and the fifth-highest mountain in the area. Discover the rugged terrains and stroll through the Enchanted Forest. You may even see wombats! This Cradle Mountain Day Tour will appeal to anyone who enjoys a good hike.
Enjoy the excitement of the trails “Pencil-Pine Falls” and “Rainforest City,” and relax on the stunning shores of Dove Lake. Before the day is over, treat yourself to a plate of premium cheese at Waldheim Chalet. What a way to spend a day in Launceston.
Join a beer tour and a cycling tour
Want to see more of the local area? Enjoy a fun-filled biking tour to get around the city. Learn about Launceston’s history and culture as you pedal through its backstreets. Then, fill your belly with Boag’s famous ale at the James Boag Brewery. The tour will also take you to Harvest Market, where you can sample Tasmania’s fresh produce from stall to stall.
Sip fine wine at Josef Chromy Winery
Probably one of the best things to do in Launceston is to go on this wine tour of Josef Chromy Winery! On this 3-hour tour, you’ll go behind the scenes and uncover the secrets of the region’s premier winemaking company. Learn all about the art of making wine, from grape to glass.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a proper wine tour without sampling the goods. Capping off the trip is a mouthwatering two-course lunch and a bottle of sparkling wine against the stunning backdrop of Tamar Valley and acres of vineyards.
Meet the penguins of Low Head Coastal Reserve
Did you know that the colony of Little Blue Penguins is found on Bass Strait’s pristine shores? That’s less than an hour away from central Launceston. Watch these adorable birds swim and waddle to the Low Head Coastal Reserve, where you can meet them up close and personal. As many as 200 penguins come ashore at night, flipping their flippers!
For more wildlife adventures, hop on over to Tamar Island Wetlands, a 50-minute drive from the coastal reserve. Marvel at the blue lagoon teeming with the green and gold frogs, reptiles, birds, and other animals!
Bike around Tamar Valley
Launnie isn’t short of stunning landscapes, and Tamar Valley’s winding roads and still river waters are definitely a can’t-miss!
Stretching 60 kilometers north of Launceston to the Bass Strait, Tamar Valley is one of Tasmania’s prettiest regions and oldest wine destinations. This quaint town has over 32 vineyards and 170 kilometers of local food showcases. Restaurants offer delicious plates of Tasmanian specialties and produce, such as local honey, truffles, abalone, and many more.
Of course, cycling is the best way to enjoy the valley views. Join this relaxing bike tour of the North Esk and Tamar Rivers and get to know Launnie like a true local!
Book the North Esk and Tamar River Bike Tour – Get the best travel deals from Klook!
Dine (or stay) at Stillwater Restaurant
If you’re feeling a bit lazy, feel free to take your brunch at Stillwater Restaurant, Launceston’s popular fine-dining spot. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this charming restaurant offers the best local produce (Cape Grim beef, anyone? ), premium Tasmanian wine, as well as magnificent sights of the Tamar River. The old flour mill-now-turned-restaurant sits atop the right riverbank, giving the place a relaxing ambiance.
And if you’ve got time to spare, stay the night at Seven Rooms, Stillwater’s swanky staycation spot. This way, you can check out more terrific things to do near Launceston or head out on the ultimate Tasmanian road trip.
Experience soap making at Bridestowe Lavender Estate
You’ve seen the sights and sampled the finest wines, and you’re ready to take it easy in Launceston. Drop by Bridestowe Lavender Estate, the largest lavender farm in the Southern Hemisphere and among Tasmania’s premier tourist destinations. From December to January, visitors flock to the estate to see the spectacular rows of lavender blooms, manicured gardens, and native bushland set against the backdrop of Mount Arthur.
Unique finds also fill this magnificent place. Get your stock of Bridestowe Lavender Estate’s signature lavender oil or taste the famous lavender-flavored ice cream. Afterward, the entire group can try the soap-making workshop and spend the noon crafting their special souvenir!
Spend a day in Freycinet National Park and Bay of Fire
When we say Launnie is jam-packed with incredible nature, we mean it! Rounding off our list of best things to do in Launceston is a trip to Freycinet National Park, home of Mount Amos, Honeymoon Bay, and Wineglass Bay Beach. Challenge yourself by conquering the highest mountain peak–or the Wineglass Bay Lookout Trail for a more moderate hike.
Join this day tour of Freycinet National Park and be prepared for an action-packed adventure. Our guide will walk you through the well-preserved Georgian town of Evandale, the best hiking trails, and the Cape Tourville Lighthouse for unmatched 360-degree views.