Tasmania
Launceston & NorthHistoric streetscapes, fertile farmland, outstanding cool-climate wines, and seasonal produce - make sure you stop in at one of the many wineries or sample the local fruit from the orchards.Free settlers established Launceston on the River Tamar in 1806. Today, the city has many fine Victorian buildings dating back to the 1870s and 1880s sitting comfortably alongside elegant contemporary architecture and a modern lifestyle. Cool climate wines and fine dining are the essences of the new Launceston experience and the city is a perfect base from which to explore the surrounding region. Cataract Gorge is a unique natural wonder only a 15-min walk from the city centre and not far from the J Boag and Son historic brewery.
Further afield, the River Tamar flows north from Launceston to George Town and Bass Strait, past forested hills and pastures, lavender plantations, vineyards, strawberry farms and orchards.
If you have an interest in fine wine and fresh produce then follow the Tamar Valley Wine route where you'll find dedicated makers inspired by the rich surrounding farmland ready to share their stories with you while you sample their wares. North-east of Launceston is Scottsdale and the popular port and seaside town of Bridport, famous for fishing and Barnbougle Dunes links golf course - Australia's No 1 public course.
Nearby are the purple lavender fields at Nabowla. Beneath the Great Western Tiers west of Launceston is the pretty town of Deloraine. Every year the town hosts Australia's biggest working craft fair, while to the south down the Midland Highway are examples of Tasmania's living history.
In Evandale, Longford, Campbell Town and Ross, you'll find World Heritage-listed estates, 19th-century grand country manors, early workers' cottages and peaceful town centres that are home to thriving country communities.
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Josef Chromy - Go Behind The Label. Tour, tasting and lunch
Go behind the label and explore the wine-making process from grape to glass.
An informative yet informal opportunity to learn a little more about how a vineyard works and how the grapes develop throughout the season. You will taste some wines in their unfinished state before heading to our cellar door for a two course lunch of fine Tasmanian produce matched with wines.
Tour price is $140.00 per person. Tours commence at 11.00am.
Go mountain bike riding at Hollybank Forest Reserve
Hollybank Forest Reserve is just a 20-minute drive from Launceston. This is one of Tasmania's most popular picnic areas and has a distinctly European flavour.
In autumn, exotic deciduous trees are a colourful contrast to the natives. A 40-minute walk passes through examples of Tasmania's major production forest types in a demonstration forest. Interpretive signs show how each forest type is harvested and regenerated.
The reserve also contains 20 kilometres of dedicated mountain bike trails descending through the forest with short and long loops suitable for beginner and advanced riders. For the more adventurous there's a ten-kilometre descent called the Juggernaut that will challenge the best of riders. There is a bike map, a toilet, tap and bike wash at the trailhead.
Take a Hot Air Balloon ride
There is no better way to Discover Tasmania than by hot air balloon. The true beauty of the landscape of this island is revealed as you gently lift into the sky with the morning sun. A balloon basket offers an exciting, unique unobstructed view of Tasmania’s mountain skyline, running rivers, lush fertile farmland, heritage homesteads and Victorian townships.
The magic sensation of flying in one of these magnificent flying machines makes the experience so much more rewarding. Flights take place daily, all year round from Country Club Tasmania, Launceston. A FREE- city hotel pick up service available upon request.
All flights include breakfast and souvenir photos of your experience at no extra charge. Hot Air Balloon Tasmania is a Tasmanian owned and operated Company, flying all year round.
Go for a walk in Cataract Gorge Reserve
The Cataract Gorge Reserve on the South Esk River is a unique natural formation just minutes from central Launceston.
The Gorge has walking tracks, 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 tea rooms 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.
Go on a foodies tour of the Tamar Valley
Tamar Valley Food & Wine Tours offers a daily six-hour tour which includes a food and wine experience unlike others offered in the Tamar Valley.
Telling the stories of the region which includes the epic stories of Matt Brady, Mark Jeffreys and John Batman, to the owners of the vineyard and seller doors. You will have the chance to taste wines, sparklings, cider, draft beer, and Gin and.
The tour includes a fabulous platter (vegan option too) with some of the very best produce of the region. We value your experience and want it to be one you won`t forget and can`t wait to Instagram!