Launceston is the second largest city in Tasmania after state-capital Hobart. Most would classify it as a big country town, although there are more than 100,000 people living there.
It is also a nice place to pass through and relax, with great live music, local foods and beer, before heading to the nearby Cataract Gorge for the day.
The Cataract Gorge is breathtaking, especially after rain when a raging torrent of water thunders through the steep-sided Gorge. There are a few walking tracks to great vantage points, a suspension bridge to walk across, and the Cataract Gorge Cable Car, the longest single-span chairlift in the southern hemisphere and with a spectacular view. The Cataract George is a great spot to walk in and you can bring picnic and relax, while you enjoy the nature and the quiet atmosphere.
Take a cruise from George Town down the Tamar River, the most important river in the north with plenty of wildlife and with unique scenery.
If you are a beer lover and interested in local beers, made with local ingredients, then you should definitely visit the Boag’s Brewery. On a 90 minute tour you will hear the incredible history about brewery founder James Boag, his uncle John Fawns and his son James Boag II, and you can see, smell and (most importantly!) taste the beer.
The north of Tasmania has some great scenery, and its reputation for stellar local produce, including wine, is constantly growing. You can drive yourself and explore at your own leisure, places like Stanley, Shearwater, Tamar Valley and Ross. If you do not have a car, you can get to these places by bus and find some great local wineries and restaurants.
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