Exploring Northern Tasmania
Starting with Tasmania's Northern Capital of Launceston, you will find yourself with a fantastic base from which to explore the wonders of northern Tasmania. Launceston is a fine Victorian town, home to beautiful victorian buildings which are transforming themselves into gourmet restaurants and cafes.
This beautiful city also has a hidden wilderness within. Just a fifteen minute walk from the city centre, down the banks of the Tamar River, and you'll find yourself at Cataract Gorge. This wilderness in the city is a great place to try hiking or abseiling the gorge, or you can slow down and visit the swimming pools and cafes along the banks. On the northern side of the gorge, visit Cliff Grounds, a beautiful victorian garden, now home to many peacocks with which you can gaze at as you tour the grounds or picnic in a shady spot.
Should you arrive in Tasmania by ferry, you'll arrive in the aptly named Devonport. Tasmania's third largest city is ready to welcome you with its beautiful coastline and fine food. Over forty percent of Tasmania's vegetable crop is grown around Devonport, which is famous for its rich, fertile, soils. Walking or cycling along the coast is a treat, while you're exploring, learn about Tasmania's first peoples at the Tiagarra Aboriginal Centre.
To escape from one island to another, take a plane to King Island. This is a must see destination for divers, as it is now the final home of over seventy ship-wreaks most of which can be dived and explored.
For those not keen to take to the choppy waters, spoil yourself at the King Island Dairy, learn how they make all those fine cheeses and sample some of the thickest and creamiest cream in the world! Wildlife is an attraction of itself on this windswept island, see if you can spot the rare Orange Bellied Parrot, or a grand Sea Eagle.
For some sweet-smelling air, head to Bridestow Estate Lavender Farm in Birdport. One of the largest producers of Lavender Oil in the world, its Woodcroft Cafe serves lavender inspired food. From tea and cake, to fudge and cheese, everything here smells and tastes of that sweet scent of lavender. The White House in Westbury is well worth a visit that prefer their engine oil to lavender. Housing an impressive collection of vintage cars it is a must see for those inclined to the horseless carriage. There is a cafe on site, still baking bread in the original wood-fired oven, and for those feeling nostalgic, The White House has a nationally recognized collection of Children's Memorabilia.
For a small village atmosphere visit the village of Ross, population three hundred - or thereabouts. Ross is the finest example of, and best preserved, a convict stone village in Australia. The highlight is Ross Bridge, a victorian stone bridge designed by Joh Lee Archer. The stone carvings were made by convict stonemasons, their work is exceptionally fine - the governor certainly thought so, for the men were given a full pardon for their efforts.
Another village that is worth a visit is Evandale. With a fantastic Sunday Market, with over a hundred stalls, plenty of antique shops and even a stained-glass workshop to explore, this is a lovely little village that comes alive with whimsy in February.
Coinciding with the annual Village Fair is the National Penny Farthing Championships - yes, you did just read Penny Farthing. While now a symbol of whimsy, this once normal mode of transport is taken rather seriously in Evandale and its well worth a visit in February.
From the city of Launceston, you have all of Northern Tasmania to explore and there is a lot to explore. From the remote King Island to a Lavender Farm and Penny Farthing Champions, Northern Tasmania has a lot to see and do for everyone, you'll find something new every time.