Northern Tasmanian Escape

One of Australia's oldest cities, Launceston is one of the best-preserved examples of elegant Colonial and Victorian architecture in Australia, coupled with its century-old parks strung along the banks of the River Tamar. As Tasmania's second largest city, it is also a vibrant hub for food and wine, and one of only two cities in Australia to be named as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery offers a remarkably diverse and constantly evolving collection of art and museum exhibits, while you can get your nature fix just 15 minutes walk out of the city at the 65 million year old Cataract Gorge. It offers beautiful gardens, 5 kilometers of forested river reserve and walking trails, a swimming pool and a delightfully slow retro chairlift ride that offers far-reaching views over the dramatic gorge.

On arrival, you will be met by a private driver outside baggage carousel and delivered to your Launceston accommodation.

Launceston is Tasmania's second largest city, and a gastronomic and cultural hub. It is also a perfect place for art, wine, and nature lovers, and it is easily explored on foot. You can start your day with a free guided walking tour around the city centre. You could wander city streets and admire architectural treasures from across eras. You should definitely visit the superb Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery to immerse yourself in art, history, and natural science. In the afternoon, don't miss out on the popular Cataract Gorge Reserve, which is just 15 minutes walk from the city centre. It is a spectacular natural canyon that’s been a sacred meeting place for Tasmanian Aboriginal communities for tens of thousands of years. There are numerous walking and hiking trails, a swimming pool, beautiful gardens, and wildlife. In the evening, there is an excellent opportunity to explore another significant part of the city - food! Launceston is sometimes called the 'Tasmanian City of Gastronomy'. The city's restaurants offer a diverse dining experience combined with local produce. It recognises northern Tasmania’s unique paddock-to-plate culture and Launceston’s role as the region’s gourmet hub.

Departing from Launceston, head out on a full day of exploring the stunning red granite rocks and picturesque crystal-clear water! Begin the day of adventure at the Bridestow lavender farm - a signature tourist spot! After a quick stop at Scottsdale to purchase a treat from the award-winning cottage bakery, next up is Legerwood. If time permits, here you will see the tree carvings as you embark on a short walk through the moss-covered trees in the Welborough Pass. Arriving at one of the most beautiful places - The Bay Of Fires, soak up the views and take some photos to capture the beauty of the area! Up next is a beach stop at remote beach, Binalong. Here you will have the chance to taste some of the most amazing oysters from the farm and Lease 65, before ending the day with a real fruit ice cream.

Depart Launce­s­ton and trav­el via Sheffield, the Town of Murals before trav­el­ling up into the moun­tains through gorges, rain for­est, and but­ton grass plains to reach the des­ti­na­tion of Cra­dle Moun­tain, one of Tasmania’s most recog­nis­able land­marks and one of Tasmania’s most vis­it­ed attractions. On this ful­ly guid­ed day tour you expe­ri­ence the unique flo­ra, fau­na and geo­graph­i­cal fea­tures of the World Her­itage list­ed Nation­al Park.

Cruise past historical Kings Wharf, Seaport and Launceston’s delightful riverfront precinct. The highlight of the experience is cruising into Launceston’s spectacular Cataract Gorge, as the skipper engages the Lady Launceston’s unique silent electric drive. View the sheer cliffs from your comfortable seat, appreciate the unobstructed views on the multi award winning 1890s style vessel and enjoy the skippers captivating commentary on the history of this fascinating area.

You will be picked up from your Hobart accommodation and taken to the Launceston Airport.