THE CITY OF GREEN SPACES & WILD PLACES
Launnie, where nature meets the city, is beautifully framed by an abundance of green expanses. With a remarkable collection of more than 148 parks, gardens and play spaces, our city offers an unparalleled mosaic of green retreats, underlining Launceston's commitment to preserving its natural charm.
PRINCES SQUARE
Fancy a walk through Launnie's history? Take a leisurely stroll down the winding paths of Prince’s Square, where every step leads you closer to the striking Val d’Osne Fountain - a true 19th century gem. Feel the perfect blend of our city's rich past and its tranquil present, all in one iconic space.
ROYAL PARK
Once the site of Tasmania’s first military barracks, Royal Park is an open, grassy area next to the estuary. Here you will find barbecue facilities, a play space, a skate park and free tennis courts. Its paths link to Cataract Gorge and Seaport, making it a versatile and inviting destination for a wide range of recreational activities.
CORONATION PARK
Play soccer or catch local teams training at Coronation Park. A playground and off-leash dog area are additional attractions at this leafy pocket on the edge of the CBD.
WILD PLACES
Civic Square
Nestled in the CBD, Civic Square is the perfect place for reflective pauses amidst bustling days. Highlights include an array of seasonal flowers, serene Denham Henty Waterscape and the exquisite Japanese Garden, a nod to our sister city, Ikeda.
Carr Villa Flora Reserve
With more than 100 plant species, including wild orchids and lilies, thrive in six hectares of nature reserve that’s perfect for walking and photography.
Havelock Reserve
This expansive bushland reserve provides habitat for more than 200 native plant species including the threatened blue pincushion (Brunonia australis).
Queechy Lake Reserve
More than 80 native bird species flock to this birdwatcher’s paradise. Regular visitors include grey goshawks, white-bellied sea eagles and cormorants.
Punchbowl Reserve
A local favourite for barbecues and picnics in a bushland setting. Punchbowl Reserve features include a play space, walking trails, a duck pond and a summertime rhododendron display.
Tamar Island Wetlands Centre
Wander along the elevated walkway, taking in the stunning variety of the estuarine landscape filled with mudflats, lagoons, and islands. From the bird hide, keep an eye out for the 60 different bird species that make this place their hangout.
FAMILY FAVOURITES
Cataract Gorge Reserve
The wild, green heart of Launceston serves as the go-to playground for local nature lovers, offering opportunities to walk, hike, swim, or ascend via the scenic chairlift across the dramatic First Basin.
Hollybank Forest Reserve
A 20-minute drive from Launnie, Hollybank is a popular picnic spot with European-style autumn scenery, educational forest walks, extensive mountain bike trails (including the challenging Juggernaut descent), and amenities like a bike map, toilet, tap, and bike wash.
Riverbend Park
Explore Riverbend Park featuring four unique zones: River Play and Gorge Play, boasting Australia's largest play structures, alongside the tranquil Wild Core and the lively Urban Plaza – an unparalleled all-abilities playground adventure!
City Park
A leafy time capsule of Victorian sensibilities, City Park provides an idyllic retreat from urban life. Giant oak trees offer perfect shade for picnics, while the John Hart Conservatory dazzles with its flowering orchids.
YOUR LOCAL GUIDE
ROCK CLIMBER: GERARD NARKOWICZDiscover the thrill of rock climbing at the Cataract Gorge, Australia’s largest urban climbing venue, conveniently situated within the scenic landscape of Launnie. With a history dating back to 1972 and boasting about 950 climbs, this outdoor haven offers impeccable dolerite rock formations that set the stage for electrifying ascents up to 30 metres high.
The Gorge is not just a local treasure; its easy access and close proximity to the city make it a coveted destination for climbers nationwide. With versatile geography, it offers year-round climbing. Choose from shady routes to escape the summer heat or sunlit paths that make winter climbs an absolute delight. As well as the Cataract Gorge, Launnie is blessed with an abundance of quality climbing within an hour’s drive at places such as Hillwood, the North Esk River, Mt Blackwood near Poatina, the Cluan Tier near Westbury and our truly world-class venue at Ben Lomond.
Find tranquillity in the untouched wilderness upstream from Duck Reach, where the only sounds are the flowing river and native fauna. For those looking to socialise or arrange climbing expeditions, the bouldering gym in Invermay serves as a hub for community engagement.
UNCOVER LAUNNIE
Our city is a network of thoughtfully designed green and wild spaces waiting to be explored. Unplug, breathe deep and listen to nature. There’s always time to find a new favourite picnic spot.
Visit Launceston Central
QVMAG NATURAL SCIENCES
Immerse yourself in the natural wonders at QVMAG. Explore facets of our unique Tasmanian ecology, from zoology to geology to botany, there's something for anyone keen on understanding what makes our local ecosystem tick.
Visit QVMAG
Explore the essence of Tasmania's diverse landscapes through the 60 Great Short Walks, where every trail promises an adventure, from serene seaside strolls to exhilarating mountain treks, all within reach from Launceston.
Visit Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service