Launceston & the Tamar Valley

Established in 1806 by free settlers, Tasmania's “northern capital”, Launceston is one of Australia’s most picturesque locations, with maintained Victorian buildings dating back to 1870 and elegant contemporary architecture.

There are plenty of unique attractions on offer with highlights including natural wonder, Cataract Gorge, a short 15-minute walk from the city centre, and iconic J Boag and Son brewery, for those who like the amber ale.

Cool climate wines and fine dining are the essence of the new Launceston experience and the city is a perfect base from which to explore the surrounding region.

The tidal River Tamar flows north from Launceston to George Town and Bass Strait, past forested hills and pastures, lavender plantations, vineyards, strawberry farms and orchards.

Excellent restaurants, superb boutique wineries and simple roadside stalls ensure every appetite is indulged.  Explore by road or cruise along the river, the idyllic location will satisfy any interest from nature lovers to history buffs.

North-east of Launceston is Scottsdale with its Forestry EcoCentre, en route to the popular port and seaside town of Bridport, famous for fishing; the purple haze of lavender fields at Nabowla; and the links golf course, Barnbougle Dunes.

Beneath the Great Western Tiers, to Launceston's west, is the pretty town of Deloraine, which hosts Australia's biggest working craft fair annually, while to the south, down the Midlands Highway, are authentic examples of Tasmania's “living history”.

In Evandale, Longford, Campbell Town and Ross, you will find 19th century grand country manors, workers’ cottages and peaceful town centres that are home to thriving country communities today.

Local help from Tasmania's Visitor Information Centres is available at:

• Launceston 
  Cornwall Square, 
  12-16 St John St 
  Ph (03) 6336 3133 
  Email travelcentre@launceston.tas.gov.au
  
  
• Deloraine 
  98-100 Emu Bay Road 
  Ph (03) 6362 3471 
  Email: manager.gwtvc@greatwesterntiers.net.au
  Web: www.greatwesterntiers.net.au
  
  
• Exeter 
  Main Road 
  Ph 1800 637 989 
  Email: exeter@tasvisinfo.com.au
  Web: www.tamarvalley.com.au
  
  
• George Town 
  Main Road 
  Ph (03) 6382 1700 
  Email: georgetown@tasvisinfo.com.au
  Web: www.tamarvalley.com.au
  
  
• Scottsdale
  96 King Street 
  Ph (03) 6352 6520 
  Email scottsdale@tasvisinfo.com.au
  
  
• Ross
  Church Street 
  Ph (03) 6381 5466 
  Email: taswoolcentre@bigpond.com 

Visit the official Launceston & Tamar Valley Website

Useful links

• www.discovertasmania.com
• http://brochures.discovertasmania.com/launceston_tamar_and_north/Index.aspx
• http://launcestontamarandnorth.realviewtechnologies.com/
• www.tamarvalleywines.com.au
• www.winetasmania.com.au