Local Attractions & Activities

Launceston may be your first introduction to Tasmania. This beautiful city has many special attributes, including century old parks and gardens, elegant, historic buildings, river activities as well as galleries and design centres. Launceston's unique lifestyle is a wonderful blend of culture, history, nature, adventure and entertainment. Situated at the head of the Tamar Valley, Launceston is the gateway to the regions premium food and wine.

Cataract Gorge– just 15 minutes walk from the centre of the City where the South Esk River cascades over rocks on its journey to the Tamar. Walk through the beautiful Cliff Grounds, cross the river on the Suspension Bridge or chairlift, or enjoy a coffee at the café.

Heritage walk– discover the rich history of the nation's third - oldest city (1806) after Sydney and Hobart.

Parks & Gardens – Magnificent City Park incorporates Albert Hall, the Conservatory, Senses Garden, Duck Pond and the fascinating Japanese Macaque monkeys. Princes Square and Royal Park are also a must to experience nature and beauty in the heart of this city.

Three Rivers – meet here in Launceston, the North and South Esk join the headwaters of the Tamar. Enjoy a river cruise, a stroll along the boardwalk or fine dining at Seaport.

J. Boag & Son Brewery – on the banks of the North Esk River, this fine beer is being brewed. Take a tour at Boag's Centre for Beer Lovers and learn all about the art of brewing at the historic Tamar Hotel.

Culture – visit the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery with its Planetarium, extensive natural history displays or the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania, a must see for those lovers of rare and classic cars.

Aurora Stadium – home of AFL football in Tasmania

Festivale–a celebration of excellence in the arts, food, wine and entertainment, this wonderful event is held in February.

As you travel northward through the Tamar Valley, the scenery is tranquil, just beautiful, and the choices unlimited. A few suggestions are:

• Watching for cormorants and pelicans at the Tamar Island Wetlands Centre
• Scenic drive through Rosevears along the river, with its wineries and restaurants
• Grubb Shaft Gold & Heritage Museum at Beaconsfield for those gold mining enthusiasts.
• Visit Beauty Point and Seahorse World, the first seahorse farm on Earth. Marvel at this underwater world.
• Platypus House is an opportunity to learn about these beautiful egg laying mammals. Sightings are guaranteed.
• Enjoy the lower reaches of the Tamar River on the Shuttlefish Ferry – several cruises to choose from.

From Tam O'Shanter Views, it is an easy drive to enjoy the East Tamar region – George Town, Low Head Historic Precinct, Hillwood's Strawberry Farm and of course, the wineries along the Tamar Valley Wine Route.

Another option is to head for Bridport, the seaside township on Anderson Bay with its beautiful beaches, greatfishing and walking tracks. For the golfers, Barnbougle Dunes Golf Links is a popular attraction.

Scottsdale, with its dairy pastures and rolling hills reveals the regions forest heritage at the amazing Forest EcoCentre. Learn about Tasmania's fine timbers and forest ecology through its innovative displays. Don't miss the Cottage Bakery in Victoria Street - medal winners in The Great Aussie Meat Pie Competition!!.

Lilydale – visit Lilydale Falls and admire the blooms at the WAG Walker Rhododendron Park or the fragrance at Bridestowe Estate Lavender Farm. The region has many varied and interesting experiences to offer, from nature's pristine beaches and forests to Launceston's fine restaurants and the cool climate wines of the Tamar Valley.

Whatever your preference, Tam O'Shanter Views is the perfect place to return to after an enjoyable day.