Launceston is located in the north of the island, where the North Esk and South Esk Rivers join to become the Tamar River, which then flows into Bass Strait. The city is elegant with Victorian and Edwardian buildings and is surrounded by beautiful countryside.

The city of contrasts - a short walk from the graceful Victorian-era facades is the scenic Cataract Gorge Reserve, with its tree rhododendrons and peacocks, fern glades and spacious lawns. And it's a place of the unexpected, where you can try rock-climbing, hang-gliding or white water rafting.

The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery holds a superb collection of colonial art. The work of today's artists and craftspeople is exhibited nearby in Macquarie House, Civic Square which houses the internationally acclaimed Tasmanian Wood Design Collection.

Before you leave home remember to book you hire cars Launceston Airport with Bargain Wheels.