We’re taking you to the north of Tassie this week. We covered the region in this week’s On The Road episode – check it out if you haven’t already. Launceston and surrounds might not have the star power of Hobart, but if you know what’s what (that’s what we’re here for) we have no doubt this little slice of Tassie will also capture your heart.
Havilah
First up, wine. Because it’s important to get straight to the good stuff. Havilah on Charles Street in Launceston is everything you could possibly want in a wine bar. It’s owned by the winemaker behind Two Tonne Tasmania, so naturally, there’s plenty of TTT on the wine list, but there’s also always a selection of interesting local and international wines. The specials board is always has something different to try. Havilah also offers smaller share plates – there’s enough selection to stay for dinner, or you can book a $50 chef’s menu.
Harvest Market
Launceston’s Harvest Market might not be as well known as Salamanca, but it has a really excellent offering. It’s a farmers’ market, so its offering is exclusively food and produce. I like to go for fresh produce and stay for brunch. There’s a few next-level breakfast roll or toasted sandwich options, but a Korean pancake is my go-to.
Cataract Gorge
Cataract Gorge is well worth a visit, but especially so if there’s been lots of rain. You can either drive, via Basin Road or Gorge Road, or walk-in from Kings Bridge. The walk is gentle, and enjoyable. If you’re feeling particularly energetic, you can walk a loop, via the Zig Zag track.
Bread and Butter
If you’re after a coffee, there are plenty of good options in Launceston – Mondello, Alps and Amici, Alberto’s, and Sweet Brew – but Bread and Butter is my go-to, mostly because they serve heavenly walnut croissants; it’s truly worth going just for these nutty-sweet treats.
Stoney Rise
Back to wine recommendations. Launceston is surrounded by plenty of great wineries and cellar doors. For a full, three-course style sit-down lunch I recommend Josef Chromy, but for anything else, Stoney Rise is where it’s at. The cellar door has been designed by Cumulus Studio and it features a clean-lined indoor and outdoor dining option, complete with an outdoor fireplace. The wine is stunning and the menu offers a series of share plates of simple, but delicious dishes. I keep returning for the Chardonnay and the French onion dip!
