Waterway wandering
Riverside bliss
Soak up the scenery, culture, and cuisine
Launceston is nestled at the meeting point of three major waterways, plipatumila / the South Esk river, laykila / the North Esk river, and kanamaluka / the Tamar Estuary. The rivers are the life of the city, local environment, and culture.
kanamaluka / the Tamar Estuary is Australia's longest navigable estuary. This vibrant hub of biodiversity has been the cultural homeland to the Tasmanian Aboriginal community for over 40,000 years.
Deep channels, shallow mudflats, and spectacular rocky reefs provide habitat for a startling diversity of life, including mammals, reptiles, frogs, fish, invertebrates, and over 50 bird species. The endangered green and golden bell frog, glossy grass skink, and several rare plants also live here.
From the rain that falls in nearby forest reserves, to the hydroelectric power recharging your device, things are connected here, and you can feel it.
Seaport precinct
The tranquil Seaport precinct features a popular promenade boardwalk offering captivating views of the North Esk River. Here you'll also find an array of dockside eateries, including award-winning restaurants and relaxed family dining.
Cataract Gorge
Enjoy a swim or quick dip in the waters of the Cataract Gorge, Launnie's leafy heart. With grassy areas and a playground, it's a great spot for a family picnic.
Love our mud
The earliest Western maps of the region show mudflats in a very similar shape to what you see today. We're sentimental about sediment and the rich biodiversity it supports.
Wine and dine
Delicious meals with waterfront views
Established over twenty years, Mudbar is an ideal place to celebrate good times; with a fierce reputation for fresh, seasonal, handmade food. Achieving the rare feat of being all things for all people, Mudbar has created an ambience that suits those looking for a fun place for a relaxing lunch, a cocktail afternoon, a...
Mudbar Restaurant
28 Seaport Boulevard, Launceston
A favourite destination for locals and tourists alike, Levee Food Co offers a prime selection of Tasmanian sourced steaks and seafood in a relaxed riverfront setting. Levee Food Co is the perfect place to meet friends and family with plenty of parking near the CBD, and only a 10 minute walk from Launceston’s Cataract...
Levee Food Co
25 Seaport Boulevard, Launceston
Overlooking one of the oldest slip yards in Australia, and enjoying a sunset framed by the Cataract Gorge and Tamar river, is the Boatyard restaurant. Serving brunch, lunch and dinner with a special oyster shed bar open on the weekends, the Boatyard was previously known as Hallam’s. This beloved Launceston establishment...
Boatyard
13 Park Street, Launceston
Nestled at the foot of the Tamar River in Seaport, Tidal Café has a diverse menu featuring delicious breakfast options, savoury lunches, and ice cream for all. Immerse yourself in the warm ambiance and friendly service as you enjoy the beautiful indoor and outdoor seating options. With a fabulous river view, Tidal Café...
Tidal Café
5, 28 Seaport Boulevard, Launceston
Located at the picturesque Seaport, Rupert & Hound offers both indoor and outdoor waterfront dining where you can sample modern seafood cuisine celebrating local, seasonal and sustainable produce. The R&H culinary team is guided by local fisherman and Tasmania’s seasons to showcase the state’s best produce, with...
Rupert & Hound
30 Seaport Boulevard, Launceston
Established in 2000 and housed in an 1830s flour mill right on the banks of the Tamar River, Stillwater is a casual fine dining restaurant that focuses on local produce with exceptional service. With almost entirely local produce used, the seasons dictate what ends up on any given plate at Stillwater. The kitchen team...
Stillwater Restaurant
2 Bridge Road, Launceston
Offering an understated elevated dining experience that effortlessly weaves a celebration of this heart-shaped island, this multi award-winning restaurant is a must visit for foodies and wine lovers of all kinds. The menu is guided by Food Director Massimon Mele, a Tasmanian native who cut his teeth at esteemed Donovans...
Grain of the Silos
89 To 91 Lindsay Street, Invermay
Tamar River Cruises
Venture beyond the banks
With multiple cruises departing 364 days a year, the award-winning Tamar River Cruises allows you to experience the natural beauty of the Tamar Valley and Cataract Gorge.
On board the Lady Launceston or Tamar Odyssey, you'll get to sit back and unwind while admiring nature reserves, heritage homesteads, historical points, famous vineyards, and charming waterfront communities – all while enjoying some of the best food, beer and wine the Tamar Valley has to offer.
Whisky river
The brown colour of the river stems from tannins in the water – a harmless by-product of fertile, peaty soil. It's one of the reasons our whisky and fresh produce tastes so good.
Levee Banks trail
Ideal for family walks and cycling, the Launceston flood levee wall is an engineering marvel. It runs along the North Esk River, from the Tamar Street bridge to Remount Road.
Riverbend Park
Sit down for a picturesque picnic, then set the kiddos loose on state-of-the-art waterfront play equipment and surrounding scenic bike trails.
What's on in Launnie
${ entry.location.parts.address }, ${ entry.location.parts.city }
${entry.shortDescriptionParsed} Read more