Exploring Launceston: Tasmania’s Hidden Gem

Explore Launceston, Tasmania, and you’ll discover it’s rich history with modern culture, making it a top destination. While many head to Hobart, Launceston or “Launnie” as the locals say, offers stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and exceptional cuisine. In 2021, UNESCO recognized Launceston as a City of Gastronomy. It’s one of only 36 cities worldwide awarded this prestigious title.

This guide will take you through Launceston’s scenic landscapes, cultural highlights, and must-visit spots. We’ll also share accommodation options for your Tasmanian travels.

Explore Launceston’s Natural Wonders

Launceston is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, lush parks, and peaceful riverside retreats. Start at Cataract Gorge, where the South Esk River flows through cliffs and lush bushland, offering scenic walks and panoramic views. As you explore further, discover the Tamar Valley, renowned for its vineyards and cellar doors offering world-class wines. Visit Lavender Farms in summer for vibrant purple fields and sweet fragrance. Other local attractions include Tamar Island Wetlands,

Looking for a place to stay? Check out Travellarks Northern Tasmania Accommodation or North West Tasmania Accommodation for great options.

Discover Launceston’s Cultural Treasures: Historic Sites and Artistic Heritage

Launceston’s rich history is on display through its historic landmarks, museums, and vibrant arts scene.

Visit Franklin House, the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery , and the National Automobile Museum to delve into the city’s colonial past. Wander through streets lined with elegant Victorian architecture, including the Town Hall and Customs House, which showcase Launceston’s historical charm. For a modern creative experience, check out the Design Tasmania Centre, where local contemporary art and design reflect Tasmania’s innovative spirit. You can also explore Upcoming Events in Launcestonto enjoy the city’s dynamic cultural scene.

Step back in time at Brickendon and Woolmers Estates, UNESCO World Heritage sites that preserve the legacy of Tasmania’s early settlers. If you’re interested in learning more about local Aboriginal culture, join a Wallaby Walkabout Tour, led by an Aboriginal historian. These immersive tours offer unique insights into Tasmania’s Indigenous history and traditions.

For mountain bikers, head to the historic town of Derby where adventure awaits Mountain Bike Trails. There’s a network of world-class single-track trails, service support and great food. An influx of mountain bikers sees them congregate in the main street, lined with spots to service your bike, hire a bike, and order good food and coffee to “bike talk”. Australia’s only floating wood-fired sauna Floating Sauna is here for ravaged bikers. Heat up in the sauna, then jump in the lake outside – repeat for an hour. So many things to do in Launceston! Now let’s get down to some serious eating…

Indulge in Culinary Delights: Gastronomic Experiences

Culinary Delights in Launceston

Explore Launceston Tasmania region’s reputation for fresh, high-quality food grown in nutrient-rich soils with clean air and water brings cuisine to the table enriched with these elements. This bounty supports over 150 food producers and a vibrant culinary scene with more than 200 cafes and restaurants. Launceston’s UNESCO City of Gastronomy status underscores its global recognition for superior produce, which attracts both domestic and international visitors seeking unique dining experiences.

Harvest Launceston: A Taste of Tasmanian Freshness

Discover local flavours at the Harvest Community Market. Held every Saturday in the heart of the city, this bustling market is a hub of Tasmanian flavours, offering everything from organic fruits to artisan cheeses. Set in an old industrial precinct, the market features over 50 stallholders, showcasing the region’s rich agricultural bounty and artisanal craftsmanship. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Harvest Market offers a genuine taste of Tasmania’s agricultural heritage.

Black Cow Bistro: A True Taste of Tassie Beef

For a truly iconic dining experience, head to Black Cow Bistro, where the name gives away its signature dish—premium Tassie beef. Housed in a former butcher’s shop, Black Cow specialises in grass-fed, free-range, dry-aged beef, with a focus on taste and quality. Tasmania’s strict food laws ensure that no artificial hormones or antibiotics are used in the production of red meat. If you’re not a fan of red meat, don’t worry—vegetarian and pescatarian options are available. Be sure to pair your meal with one of the exceptional Tasmanian wines on offer.

Stillwater: A Historic Dining Experience by the Cataract Gorge

This is award winning dining in a 180 year old flour mill at the mouth of the Cataract Gorge. For a dining experience that blends history and culinary excellence, visit Stillwater. It offers a unique atmosphere and exceptional food. The mill, which once supplied fresh water to Launceston, has evolved into a modern dining destination that celebrates Tasmania’s rich gastronomic traditions with a passion for quality and creativity.

Seafood on the Waterfront: Fresh and Sustainable Dining

Tasmania is famed for its fresh seafood, and Launceston offers a perfect setting to enjoy it. Along the waterfront, you’ll find restaurants serving the region’s renowned salmon and oysters, fresh from the pristine waters of the island state. Cataract on Paterson is one such spot, known for its commitment to sustainable farming practices and high-quality local produce. Seasonality features on their menus and, if you love the idea of an interactive dining experience, cook your own meal on a 400ºc volcanic stone! With a strong social ethos and a focus on environmental sustainability, Cataract on Paterson provides a dining experience that goes beyond great food.

Tamar Valley Gourmet Trail: Farm-to-Table Experiences

For a deeper dive into gastronomy, take a gourmet tour through the Tamar Valley. This scenic region is home to numerous farm gates and boutique eateries, where you can enjoy farm-to-table experiences and cellar door tastings of world-class wines. One standout stop is Timbre, a vineyard restaurant in the Tamar Valley, where locally sourced produce takes centre stage in dishes that are simple yet innovative. The restaurant’s ever-changing menu ensures that every visit offers something new, making it a must-visit for foodies and wine enthusiasts alike.

The Tamar Valley Wine Trail: A Journey Through Cool-Climate Wines

The Tamar Valley is Tasmania’s largest wine-growing region, known for its cool-climate wines. Stretching from Beaconsfield in the west to Pipers Brook in the east, the Tamar River Wine Trail is a must for wine lovers. With over 30 cellar doors to visit, each with their distinct DNA and within short driving distance of one another – there’s something for every palate. The region’s terroir produces exceptional wines, and whether you’re a connoisseur or a casual wine enthusiast, you’ll find a wine to suit your taste. Some notable wineries include Utzinger, a Swiss-owned vineyard with a commitment to organic practices, and the Josef Cromer Winery, which pairs cool-climate wines with fine dining in a stunning setting.

Utzinger Winery: A Swiss Influence in Tasmania’s Wine Scene

Utzinger holds a special story and place in our hearts as the wayfaring Swiss winemaker wandered the world wondering where to establish his vineyard. The heart stopping moment was discovering the love of his life in a Tassie girl in 2015. Done! Their land overlooks the Tamar River where Matthias & Lauren Utzinger began in 2018 with their first planting and lo and behold only 6 years later Matthias is a finalist Young Gun of the Year 2024! Certified organic, their wine styles are expanding beyond classic Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, and a ‘Fumé’ Sauvignon Blanc with inventive vine cuttings to be imported from Matthias’ homeland of Switzerland. By appointment only, Utzingers is worth the effort.

Josef Cromer Winery: A Legacy of Cool-Climate Winemaking

The Josef Cromer Winery also heralds a legend in Tasmania’s wine industry through his long-standing passion for cool climate wine making, now paired with its hatted restaurant. If you don’t have a booking, there’s a walk-in brasserie waiting just for you. The estate is the perfect backdrop for weddings, events and private functions with their picturesque views overlooking the century old garden and lakeside vineyard.

Finding it difficult to choose your wine trail? Try this fab resource to help decision making: Wines Tasmania.

Beyond Food and Wine: Artisanal Products and Culinary Education

The region’s commitment to gastronomy extends beyond food production to include artisanal products like gin, whisky, truffles, and specialty crops like hemp and wagyu beef and cooking schools, reflecting a deep cultural appreciation and economic prosperity rooted in local agriculture and culinary arts.

Explore Launceston and its Seasonal Highlights

Throughout the year, explore Launceston Tasmania seasonal highlights enchant visitors with unique experiences. In spring, witness the city burst into bloom with vibrant tulips at the Tesselaar Tulip Festival. Summer invites you to explore the outdoors with bushwalking in the nearby national parks or kayaking along the Tamar River. Autumn brings a tapestry of colours to the vineyards, perfect for wine enthusiasts and photographers alike. Winter transforms the landscapes into a serene wonderland, inviting you to cosy up by the fireplace with a glass of local pinot noir.

Launceston’s allure as a year-round destination offers diverse experiences for visitors whose curiosity about the historical past, those seeking adventure, culture, and culinary delights will find exploring Launceston Tasmania beyond Hobart are a refreshing change from the big smoke. If you think Tasmania is an amazing holiday destination, check out Stays with a WOW accommodation.