Launceston (named after Launceston Cornwall in England) is located in the north of Tasmania. It is the second largest city in the state after the capital, Hobart, and boasts a population of just over 62,000 people. Settled in 1806, Launceston is one of the oldest cities in Australia.

Launceston is home to the University of Tasmania with its Australian Maritime College. The region is also known for its supply of tin and other minerals—gold was discovered only about 50 kilometers away. Finally, Launceston is an agricultural hub, known for its apples, vineyards, and the fine wool of its sheep.

There are many tourist draws in Launceston. In fact, in 2004, the city played host to over 400,000 visitors from the UK, the United States, and several other countries. Arguably, its most popular attraction is the lovely Cataract Gorge which features the longest (308 meters) single span chairlift in the world. Give it a pass if you’re afraid of heights, but if you’re not, you’ll never see another view like Cataract Gorge.

Launceston is also home to the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery which features Australian colonial art, objects from Tasmanian history, and several natural sciences displays.

Other tourist draws include the historic architecture (Australia’s oldest bookstore, A.W. Birchall & Sons, still stands where it was founded in 1844) and the Tasmania Zoo with its Tasmanian Devils breeding program. Also, Launceston is a great place to enter the wine country of Tamar Valley.

Launceston is serviced by the Launceston Airport which recently underwent a 20 million dollar renovation. The airport plays host to four domestic airlines, making getting into and out of Launceston an easy prospect.