1. Explore the Iconic Coastline
This area is home to some of Australia’s most recognized coastal areas: The Bay of Fires. With white sands that stretch forever, waters that are so clear you can see through and those photogenic granite rocks splashed with orange lichen, you could explore this area for days! The area is also full of scenic reefs, corals, underwater caves and abundant sea life. Bingalong Bay is one of the best places to see the Bay of Fires in all its glory. Or you can check out The Gardens or Skeleton Bay Reserve, two truly extraordinary places for snorkelling and sunsets.
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2. Head Inland
It’s not just the coast which offers wonderful exploration opportunities. Head slightly inland and you’ll be treated to some beautiful bushland, breathtaking waterfalls and unique landscape. Head underground and check out The Mole Creek Caves and see the underground river system of take a glow-worm tour. Discover one of Australia’s rarest trees at Pine Lake. Or search for the spotted-tail quoll in Liffey River Reserve. You aslo must visit Tamar Island Wetlands (see walks).
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3. Visit Flinders Island
Many Lappers miss Flinders Island since you need to take a flight to the island or wait for the weekly barge, but it is well worth a visit. You’ll enjoy some pretty unique accommodation (including ex-convict buildings), breathtaking bushwalking, untouched coastline and delicious crayfish dinners!
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4. Have A Tipple
With a number of wineries, breweries, cideries and distilleries, there are some great places to visit and sample the local brew, including some well-known brands like James Boag and Janz. Either self-tour or head to Valleybrook winery where they do Wine on Wheels Tours; you drink, they drive! Don’t forget to check out Launceston Distillery in the heart of Launceston; they are quite passionate about producing the finest quality Tasmanian single malt whisky.
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5. Have An Animal Encounter
Hold a seahorse at Seahorse World, then head next door to the Platypus House to watch Tasmania platypuses and echidnas in an indoor setting. Tasmania Zoo, just 15 minutes from Launceston exhibits Tasmania’s largest collection of rare, exotic and native species including the Tasmanian Devil. Get the family involved and hand-feed the animals kangaroos, wombats, miniature ponies and 80 species of birds.
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6. Visit the Galleries and Museums
Launceston and surrounds have many galleries that showcase outstanding pieces of artwork, historic exhibitions and more. The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG) is a major destination for art, history and natural sciences in Northern Tasmania. Their collection has been in the making since 1842!
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7. Catch Your Dinner
The Tamar River offers visitors and locals plenty of opportunities to catch a large variety of fish species including flathead, snapper and trevally. Head to St Patrick’s River, home to the famous brown trout and beautiful speckled trout. If you need help, then there is always the Launceston Lakes Trout Fishery, a great beginner spot as tuition is given to show the finer points of fly fishing and lure fishing in five trout-filled lakes.
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8. Make A Splash
If you’re looking to take a dip, you’re spoiled for choice in this region. Head towards the mouth of the Tamar River to Green Beach, an ideal spot for families. Lagoon Beach is a quiet, family-friendly beach located about 35 minutes from Launceston, a perfect location for a day out with the kids.
Aside from the ocean, there are a number of watery-wonders in the area. At Cataract Gorge you can take a dip in the gorge itself or head to the First Basin and swim in the swimming pool. For something a little warmer, head to Kimberley Warm Springs, a small geothermal natural pool.
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