Perched at the confluence of the North Esk and South Esk Rivers — where they become the Tamar River and flow towards the sea — sits the lovely city of Launceston. Tasmania's second city and the gateway to the cultural heartland of the island’s north, this artsy community has a solid reputation for cracking cuisine, gorgeous landscapes and friendly charm. Brilliant for heritage buffs as well as keen foodies and wine aficionados, this delightful destination boasts a number of excellent accommodation options. Whether you’re dreaming of a beautifully appointed inn or achingly cool suites housed in a restored flour mill, the best places to stay in Launceston won’t disappoint!

Strolls around the city centre yield glimpses of restored heritage buildings, and streets lined with quaint antique shops, trendy cafés and fantastic farm shops. The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery is wonderful, as is the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania. Make your way to the boardwalk for some of the best seafood restaurants in Tasmania, and to admire dazzling river views. Striking Cataract Gorge is moments away, as are opportunities for cycling, walking, bird-spotting and sailing.

Follow the Tamar Valley Wine Route for terrific tours and tastings at more than 30 cellar doors, visit sprawling lavender estates, or follow mountain bike trails and hiking routes between vineyards and verdant farmland. Little ones will adore the Hollybank Forest Adventure Park, as well as the colony of tiny penguins based at Lillico beach. You’re also well-placed for walking part of the legendary Overland Track through the heart of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, returning to one of the best places to stay in Launceston for fabulous food and well-deserved Tasmanian wine.

The Best Places to Stay in Launceston

For Boutique Chic

• The Red Feather Inn is a collection of beautiful colonial-era buildings, offering rooms, suites and superb private cottages in the Meander Valley. Just a short drive from Launceston, this is a great base for couples, friends and families, with gorgeous gardens and easy access to hiking and cycling trails. The farm to table cuisine is top-notch.
• Quamby Estate, set within 150 acres of landscaped grounds with tennis courts and a nine-hole golf course, is a marvellous rural retreat just 20 minutes from Launceston. Unwind in laid-back boutique bliss, savour seasonal cuisine or host a gorgeous wedding. A historic homestead dating back to the 1820s, with plenty of charm.

For Foodies

• Stillwater Seven is the stuff of legend. Chef Craig Will's seven-course tasting menus will delight foodies, who have been flocking to the award-winning Stillwater Restaurant since its opening. Linger a little longer with a few nights at one of the seven suites housed in an 1830s riverside flour mill. Elegant, design-led spaces are a fabulous fusion of old and new, and feel wonderfully romantic.

For an Industrial Conversion

• Peppers Silo Hotel, housed in four converted grain silos rising to 35 metres, has cool, contemporary interiors with stunning Tamar River views. A chic city base just steps from the river, the city centre and the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania. The seasonal cuisine and spa treatments are excellent.

For Great Value

• Mantra Charles Hotel offers simple, comfortable rooms with bright splashes of orange in an imposing Art Deco building. Great for business travellers, the hotel offers multiple meeting facilities. It's also a lovely base for families, who will appreciate the flexible room options and the affordable rates.
• Waratah on York, a restored Victorian mansion in Launceston, has rooms, suites and a three-bedroom apartment with high ceilings, big windows and lots of light. Guests share access to a sunlit deck, and there are restaurants within walking distance. A very reasonably priced base.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY Cottage

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Launceston?

• Fly to Launceston Airport from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane, and catch a bus or taxi to your destination from there. Many hotels will also be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
• Tasmania is ideal for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit in the summer months — between December and February — for pleasant temperatures and plenty of sunshine. This is peak season; you may find the spring and autumn shoulder season quieter, and hotels often offer reduced rates in those months.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Hobart.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Tasmania.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Launceston