Launceston, Tamar and The North - Tasmania

Tasmania’s second largest city is Launceston with a population of 95,000. It is a great base for visitors wanting to explore the vineyards of the Tamar River Valley or the historic unspoiled villages of Evandale, Perth, Longford, Campbell Town and Ross.

Near Scottsdale, each December and January are fields of lavender that drift away to the horizon. It’s also about three hours` drive from Launceston to the beautiful east coast. The east coast boasts white sandy beaches washed by turquoise seas. From St Helens to Triabunna is a coastline to beat any tropical isle.

One of the most awesome visions along this coastline is the sight of three granite monoliths called the Hazards. The renowned walk to the top of the mountain produces spectacular views over Wineglass Bay. Wineglass Bay was voted by Conde Nast Traveler readers as one of the top 10 beaches in the world.

The Freycinet Peninsula sweeps north along the Friendly Beaches to the sea-side town of Bicheno, known for its nightly march of tiny penguins returning to their nests. Bicheno is also one of the best places to catch crayfish as well as to try some temperate water diving or snorkelling. From June to November pods of whales pass close to shore.

Just 10km north of Bicheno is Douglas Apsley National Park. Much of this coastline area was once inhabited by two groups of the Oyster Bay Tribe and all along the beaches their middens can be found. The road wanders past the Chain of Lagoons, Scamander and St Helens. St Helens is the crayfish and Orange Roughy fish centre.

Highlights

	Cataract Gorge
	Cataract Gorge Reserve, or The Gorge as the locals call it, is a unique natural formation within a two-minute drive of central Launceston - a rare natural phenomenon in any city.

	Tamar River
	The Tamar River winds its way through rolling farmlands to Launceston, a perfect base for exploring Tasmania’s premier wine-growing region. Further north-west are the coastal ports of Burnie and Devonport

	Deloraine
	Deloraine, at the foot of the Great Western Tiers in Tasmania's central north, is classified by the National Trust, and you'll see why the moment you enter. The bridge, Bonney's Inn and the Baptist Tabernacle are just a few of the historic features that give this riverside village its charm.

Return to Victoria state guide ...