Launceston

Founded in 1806, Launceston is the second largest city in Tasmania and boasts a rich, cultural heritage as well as a thriving food and wine scene. Located in the north of the state at at the head of the picturesque Tamar Valley, Launceston is an ideal base for exploring the region's National Parks and vineyards. Walk through the elegant streetscapes, century-old parks and take the boardwalk into Cataract Gorge, a place of mystical beauty.

Launceston city is located approximately 45 kilometres south of the Bass Strait, with its closest city Devonport, approximately 99 kilometres to the north west. Launceston serves as the commercial hub for the north of Tasmania, and like many parts of the state, is becoming a major tourist centre.

Launceston is home to a campus of the University of Tasmania, the Australian Maritime College, the longest single span chairlift in the world (stretching 308 metres) and the Tasmania Zoo, which is known for its wildlife conservation work, including a breeding program for Tasmanian Devils.