Tasmania's north is a feast of historic streetscapes and heritage estates, rich farmland, premier cool-climate wines, fresh produce and a haven for designers and craft makers eager to talk about their work.
The largest city in the region - and second largest in the state - is Launceston, a vibrant hub for food and wine and culture. There's also a touch of wilderness with Cataract Gorge just a few minutes walk from the city centre.
The city is located on the banks of the Tamar River and is the gateway to the Tamar Valley, a region where English conservatism sits happily alongside the unconventional and off beat.
Out of Launceston, the surrounding green fields and country lanes are lined with 150 year old hawthorn, poplar and elm trees, while in the rich farmland of the Tamar Valley you'll find lavender plantations, vineyards, strawberry farms and orchards.
This idyllic setting will satisfy other interests too, from those of history enthusiasts to nature lovers.
The nearby town of Longford with it's grand old World Heritage listed estates of Woolmers and Brickendon, offer visitors the chance to enjoy the architecture and community spirit of 19th century English villages made relevant for today. Many are now luxury retreats that offer a uniquely Tasmanian experience, combining old world elegance with a relaxed, new world style.
And for those interested in wildlife, nearby Narawntapu Nationa Park provides many opportunities to see Australia's unique animals as does Mt William Nationa Park in the north-east with its sparkling granite boulders covered with bright orange lichen, long sandy beaches and clear, blue seas.
