Launceston & Tamar Valley Info
Introduction
The second largest city in the Australian state of Tasmania, Launceston is a charming and historic city of some 90,000+ inhabitants, cozily nestled in the green hills of the Tamar Valley region.
With a mild climate that is marked by four distinct seasonal changes—as opposed to most parts of Australia where really only two seasonal changes can be made out—the Tamar Valley region has very pleasant temperatures during the peak summer months, with sudden drops in temperature and other changes being quite common given the local topography. As is the case with most of Tasmania, this area is a favorite destination for nature walkers and all breeds of sight-seers, given the abundance and diversity of the native flora and fauna.
The city itself offers all the pleasures and treats of modern urban life, but with a distinct air of calmness and naturalness permeating every corner of the urban landscape, with the imposing and mesmerizing panoramic vistas dominating every corner of town. Simply taking in the sights is an industry unto itself around here, and it's quite successful.
Whether checking out the surrounding wildlife in all its beauty and pristine glory, or checking out the city with its rich architectural appeal and long history, Launceston and the Tamar Valley are eternal joy-givers that will have every visitor eager to stay around just a bit longer, and definitely to return.
Visiting Launceston, Tamar and The North
Getting to the area is easy, as most ferries crossing from the Australian mainland end up docking here, as it is the main tourist hub of northern Tasmania. Once here, there is a lot to do, and there is something for every imaginable taste, whether visitors are looking for a little rugged fun out on the trails or for some pampering in style in the center of town. The biggest attraction in the region would have to be the Cataract Gorge, located on the outskirts of town, which beyond offering spectacular views of the natural landscape, also proudly hosts the world's longest single span chairlift. A great, picturesque day walk can be had at about two hours' drive from the city, by visiting famous Cradle Mountain, sure to take any person's breath away.
A little closer in to the city lie the Tamar Valley Wetlands, which is a center of wildlife (and particularly bird species) that will amaze everybody with the rich diversity and unique appearances of the many species to be seen. There are indeed so many nature reserves and parks that all one has to do is walk, bike, or drive in any given direction and you'll surely come across one.
Many offer more extreme entertainment options, like mountain biking or even cable rides, like those to be found out at the Trevallyn State Reserve. Among the species that can be found in and around this area area wallabies, kangaroos, different eagles, and yes, the notorious and lovable Tasmanian devil.
Relaxing in Launceston is an easy thing to do, since there is such a great assortment of restaurants and hotels, almost all of which are architectural treats in addition to offering great service. Since local produce and the abundant seafood of the coast are so readily available, visitors will lose themselves in a deluge of sensational experiences.
History of the Area
Launceston and the surrounding Tamar Valley represent one of the oldest European settlements in Australia, going all the way back to 1806. The city is very proud of its history, which includes several firsts, such as being the first Australian city to have an underground sewer system and the first city in the country to be benefited with hydroelectric power generation. Founded on the pastoral industry that thrived in the lavish green rolling hills, the area later became notorious for the discovery and exploitation of tin and also gold in the late 1800s.
One of the main sites, which also commemorates much of the amazing legacy of this place, is the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, dating back to 1891, which happens to be the largest museum to be found outside of a capital city in the country. The area is home to a series of cultural events and concerts every year, which help further its reputation as a major attraction, full of promise and excitement.