Launceston is Tasmania’s second largest city is compact, and its pretty, colourful Victorian and Edwardian homes line the hillsides along the river banks.  With a population of 68,000 the city has a strong sense of identity, and has one of the best regional galleries in Australia – the Queen Victoria Museum at Inveresk, along with art and craft galleries and quality restaurants. Like most Tasmanian towns it’s easy to explore and nature is right nearby – Launceston Gorge, with its Victorian parklands, complete with peacocks, has steep, rugged cliffs and wild areas that attract climbers. Launceston is a good base for exploring the vineyards of the Tamar Valley, and you can visit boutique cool-climate wineries that line both river banks.