From wine-growing hubs to beachside hideaways and remote outback communities, Australia has an abundance of stunning towns, and this year travel site Wotif has searched high and low to determine which town is the country’s best.
This year, Launceston has taken home the travel crown – making this Tasmania’s inaugural win, as travel demand for the island state soars.
North Tassie is well known for its sweeping valleys, sprawling farmland and historic cities, and Launceston is certainly no exception.
While Launceston is one of Australia’s oldest cities, offering instant vintage charm, it’s also arguably Australia’s newest foodie destination, with a UNESCO City of Gastronomy title to prove it.
This town boasts world-class wineries, restaurants and the breathtakingly stunning Cataract Gorge, which is just a stone’s throw away from the city centre.
From nature lovers to foodie enthusiasts, Launceston has something for everyone; this town is a treasure trove of goodies.
Chris Griffin, CEO of Visit Northern Tasmania, has always believed Launceston was one of the “best places in the world,” and he’s thrilled for the town to host visitors from the mainland.
“Our promise is that you will grow here – whether that’s through close encounters with our nature and wildlife, reconnecting with loved ones while travelling, indulging in our fresh seasonal produce, or getting outside your comfort zone on an adventure, you will change for the better when you visit us,” he said.
The Award judges towns by accommodation affordability, quality, and traveller satisfaction, and recognises the country’s top destinations for 2022. The aim is to highlight the best of Australia’s diverse destinations and to encourage Aussie’s to make the most of the year ahead and explore their own backyard.
Wotif Managing Director Daniel Finch says “Launceston’s fresh produce, renowned sparkling wine and commitment to great food are world-famous and with some of Tasmania’s most spectacular natural landmarks just a short drive away … it’s no surprise that demand for the city has grown.”
“With several new hotels in the city and endless experiences offered, a trip to Launceston is every bit worth the hype,” Finch continued.
As state border restrictions ease, it’s clear Australians are making up for lost time and reclaiming their freedom to travel.
If you’re ready to book your Tasmanian holiday, why not enjoy two bucket list holidays in one: a visit to Tasmania, and a journey of grand old-world style aboard the Queen Elizabeth.
This grand old lady of the seas has several journeys to Tasmania scheduled on her 2022-2023 season, including a special gardening-themed voyage full of special guests and events.
Or why not tick Tassie off your bucket list with a 7-night cruise to Hobart and Port Arthur. This short cruise will give you the complete holiday feeling over seven easy, effortless nights.
You can also discover Tasmania’s East Coast, and explore the newly named Best Town, with a guided tour from Launceston to Hobart. Tasmania’s East Coast, with its secluded bays, pink granite mountains and pristine sandy beaches, offers a uniquely Australian coastal experience.
For wilderness lovers, visit wilderness areas, learn about Tasmania’s convict and maritime history and see the local wildlife in their own habitat with a small ship expedition.
With a third of Aussies saying that even with international travel reopening, they plan to stay within Australia, and a quarter planning to visit somewhere new within Australia in 2022, Wotif Aussie Town of The Year 2022 couldn’t come at a better time to encourage Aussie travellers to make up for lost time and explore Australia.