LAUNCESTON

Launceston was settled in 1804 and is Australia’s third-oldest city. Although it is Tasmania's second largest city and a busy tourist centre, Launceston manages to retain a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Nestling in hilly country where the Tamar, North Esk and South Esk rivers meet, Launceston is also at the junction of four main highways and has direct air links with Melbourne and Hobart. It is sometimes known as the Garden City because of its beautiful parks and gardens. Launceston has one of the best-preserved early cityscapes in Australia with its elegant Colonial and Victorian architecture and century-old parks. It has a charming ambience of old buildings, parks, gardens, riverside walks, craft galleries and hilly streets lined with weatherboard houses.