Launceston and its river valley blend history, scenery, creativity, adventure and the superb flavours of fine food and cool climate wines. The compact city’s graceful Victorian streetscapes are just a short walk to the granite walled Cataract Gorge – its European style parklands framed by steep stone cliffs dotted with rock climbers. A short drive away, the beautifully restored buildings of Deloraine house galleries, studios and restaurants. Set against the backdrop of the spectacular Great Western Tiers, the countryside around Deloraine features hills blanketed with vineyards and lakes brimming with trout.

The pretty township of Strahan on Tasmania’s wild and rugged west coast is the base for a wide range of natural adventures by kayak, jetboat, white water raft, seaplane, historic railway, 4wd or on foot. Dense forests line the dark rivers as they tumble through steep gorges, over thundering waterfalls into wide lakes. Steep cliffs shelter deserted beaches. And tiny townships tell tales of the area’s gruesome convict history and rich mining past.

Towering ancient pines are reflected in still glacial lakes. Icy streams cascade down spectacular mountain peaks. Wild moorlands give way to deep dramatic gorges. The Cradle Mountain - Lake St Clair national park is a picture postcard backdrop for mountain biking, canoeing, fishing, horse riding and walking. Alternatively, that comfy couch by the open fire of your cosy cabin is the perfect place to simply marvel at the many moods of the mountains as dramatic weather changes shape the vistas before you.