Launceston Travel Guide
Launceston accommodation, Launceston activities and attractions, Launceston maps, transportation to and around Launceston - the ALL NEW Jasons Launceston Destination Travel Guide is your complete visitor guide for Launceston.
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Launceston is the second largest city in
Tasmania, Australia's largest inland port. The hub of Tassie's northern region, it is located in the wide river valleys where the North and South Esk Rivers meet to become the Tamar River. The many well-established public parks and beautiful private gardens have given Launceston the name 'The Garden City'.
The history of the valley dates back to 1798 and Launceston was founded in 1805. In its heyday it was a very progressive city, being the first city in Australia with electric lighting. The city is graced with magnificent Victorian streetscapes and beautifully maintained historical architecture.
Launceston's most striking feature is the Cataract Gorge Reserve, a piece of wilderness just a few minutes' walk from the centre. The 12ha park containing the gorge boasts more than 70 species of fauna which is native to the area, including the South Esk Pine, only found in the river valley. In the hinterland is rich agricultural country with wineries, orchards and farms producing famed Tasmanian wools, foods and wines.
Associated Towns: Beaconsfield,
Bridport,
Carrick,
Deloraine,
Devonport,
George Town,
Hadspen,
Hobart,
Lilydale,
Mole Creek,
Scottsdale,
Westbury.
Geographic Location
64km from Bass Straight
Population
Over 75,000
Climate
Cool temperate
Summer: 11 – 24°C
Winter: 3 – 13°C
Rainfall
680mm per year