Launceston: Tasmania's Top Tourism Town 2022

Read what makes this idyllic town so special below, and embark on a four-day road trip to discover it all.

‘There’s something that lies beneath the surface here that defines us as a city. You may not see it at first, but the moment you step foot here, you feel it. You sense it in the architecture, in the streets, out in nature, between the people—an undercurrent—born from generations of hard-work, curiosity, community, resilience, independence.

You’re not a tourist in Launnie. You're a temporary local who's welcome to join in on an early morning cycle, row or yoga class-always followed by coffee somewhere around Charles Streetthen another brew over in George Street.’

Day one

After journeying to Launnie, grab some fresh air in the Gorge: take the Daffodil walking track and wind up the Snake Track (not as scary as it sounds, promise).

Settle into your accommodation before popping into our Visitor Information Centre to collect a walking guide that'll introduce you to some of the city's renowned built history such as Holyman House, Albert Hall and Ritchie's Mill. Most of our central paths are wide and flat, making the trail accessible by a variety of abilities.

Stop for coffee and lunch at Sweet Brew along the way and maybe enjoy dinner at Pachinko, or catch a live gig at the Royal Oak.

Day two

The best croissant beyond Paris at Bread and Butter then down St John Street for some boutique shopping at Stockton and Co then onto Petrarch's Bookshop, Hope and Me and Cloth.

Drive to Clover Hill for a glass of bubbles and view of Bass Strait via Fork It Farm where they raise well-loved pigs that become the most marvelous pancetta. Reset with a walk to Lilydale Falls: a short walk to cascades amongst rainforest.

Back in town, squeeze in to cosy Bar Two for an aperitif before hitting up Stelo for local fare through an Italian lens.  

Day three

Join the weekly bread and gossip run at Harvest Market where you can also snavel delicacies to take home then enjoy a Korean pancake and fresh brews for breakfast.

Get your hands dirty amid the curative process of ceramics Glazed and Confused. Now that you've dipped your toe in the art world, visit the Queen Victoria Art Gallery to view an internationally significant collection of classic and contemporary works. Free entry, also.

Drinks and snacks at Havilah and if you're still peckish, try supper at Geronimo or Black Cow Bistro.

Day four

Weave through the tea tree forest along the estuary's western bank and plunge into the First Basin pool for a truly fresh start to the day. For those less bold but still keen for a dip, do some indoor laps at the Aquatic Centre over on the hill.

Pack your wicker basket with charcuterie, cheese and treats from Alps and Amici and head to St George's Square for a picnic.

Catch some Hollywood at the grand old Star Theatre or if you time your trip, take in some local talent at the Princess Theatre. Saved the best to last: dine at Stillwater and soak in the estuary one more time.

Want to know more about Launceston? Read our guide.

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Information included in this blog is correct at the time of publishing. Please contact individual operators for further information.