Ace Rental Cars Blog

Visiting the vibrant city of Launceston on a weekend getaway? From discovering the city's rich history and natural beauty to venturing hiking trails and admiring breathtaking views, we’ve listed the top ways to make the most of your time here.

• Cataract Gorge Reserve
• Tamar Valley Wine Region
• Bridestowe Lavender Estate
• Hollybank Treetops Adventure

City Discoveries

• Launceston City Centre
• Cataract Gorge Reserve
• Cataract Gorge Circuit
• The Gorge Scenic Chairlift

Start your journey in Launceston with a delicious breakfast in the heart of the city. With an array of cafes, restaurants and eateries lining the city centre, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Indulge in a refined all-day breakfast menu at Elaia, enjoy a hearty brunch at Cuccina Cafe or settle in at the artsy Le Cafe on St George for a cosy meal. Afterwards, head out on a stroll through the CBD to admire historic architecture contrasted with dazzling river views and embrace the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Next, drive your Ace rental car to Cataract Gorge - Launceston’s unique natural landform, just ten minutes from the city centre. From hiking and walking trails to chairlift rides, there are plenty of ways to explore and enjoy the Gorge’s scenic landscapes. You’ll see the best highlights, including the Duck Reach Power Station and the Alexandra Suspension Bridge, on the Cataract Gorge Circuit, and experience uplifting views from the Gorge Scenic Chairlift which passes over the First Basin and South Esk River. Let the picturesque and varied landscapes reflected by Launceston’s morning light captivate and inspire you for a brilliant start to your journey.

A Scenic Escape

• Tamar Valley Wine Region
• Tamar Islands Wetland Centre

After a morning of city exploration, it’s time to put your Ace rental car to use with a scenic drive to the Tamar Valley wine region. Best known for its Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Sparkling varieties, the Tamar Valley boasts an abundance of wineries, restaurants and attractions, backdropped by rolling hills and countryside landscapes. Enjoy a flavourful lunch and tasting at one of the region’s top wineries like Josef Chromy Wines or Clover Hill, or pick your own berries and enjoy a sweet treat at the Farmgate Cafe at Hillwood Berries. An enticing way to discover the area, you’re in for a delightful culinary experience amongst beautiful scenery no matter which winery, restaurant or eatery you choose to dine at. Always remember to appoint a designated driver when drinking alcohol on your road trip. Looking to pause for a moment in nature before heading back to Launceston? Stop by the Tamar Island Wetlands Centre to see native and rare wildlife including the white-bellied sea-eagle, green and gold frog and the common rush. Perhaps take a moment here to journal and reflect on your holiday so far, or note down any wildlife that you spot. Travel back to Launceston for dinner where dining options are seemingly endless, from cosy cafes to elegant restaurants.

Natural Beauty in Launceston

• City Park
• Bridestowe Lavender Estate

Good morning Launceston! There’s no better way to welcome a new day in a new city than with a stroll through the town’s City Park. As one of Australia’s top-ten parks, this green space offers plenty of space to roam, shady areas and even a Japanese Macaque enclosure. Visit the John Hart Conservatory to view beautiful blooms in a Victorian-style historic building, watch the curious Macaques - gifted to Launceston in 1980 by sister city Ikeda City in Japan - as they wander around their enclosure, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the Children’s Jubilee and Dolphin Fountains. Next, drive to Bridestowe Lavender Estate - just under an hour out of Launceston - for an early afternoon adventure. If you’re visiting in the blooming season (December to February) the fields will be filled with lavender flowers, providing a beautiful purple glow as far as the eye can see. If you’re in town from March to November, you can still wander the fields and take a behind-the-scenes tour to get insights into farm life and indulge in a lavender food tasting. Let the calming scent of fresh lavender fill your mind, marking a beautiful memory to look back on.

Wilderness Adventure and Last Drinks

• Hollybank Treetops Adventure
• Levee Food Co

For your last afternoon in Launceston, visit Hollybank Treetops Adventure to experience the Tasmanian wilderness from a fresh perspective. There are four ways to explore the park, from the forest floor to the treetops. Embark on a freeing adventure through the trees on a zipline tour, discover the forest up close on a segway tour, put yourself to the test with a challenging tree ropes course or hire a mountain bike to venture the trails differently. Whichever way you choose to play, let the fresh air and natural beauty free your mind as you enjoy your last day in Launceston. As your 48 hours on the island state ends, enjoy a delicious meal in town for dinner. Levee Food Co is a local favourite, offering harbour views and Tasmanian-inspired cuisine. Choose from Tasmanian sourced steaks and seafood, premium pizza and pastas, and an extensive local and imported wines list for a flavourful send off.

A visit to Launceston offers everything from scenic escapes to unique attractions, and you can discover it all at your own pace with an Ace hire car by your side.