5 Things To Do In The Charming Launceston City At Under 50 USD A Day

1. Start your day with an awesome breakfast on the banks of Tamar River

Located at 2 Bridge Road at the mouth of Cataract Gorge, Stillwater Restaurant is one of Tasmania’s most highly acclaimed restaurants set in a gorgeously restored 1830s flour mill. The restaurant is open daily for breakfast and lunch from 8.30 am to 3.30 pm and it is best to call for reservations to avoid disappointment. Dine indoors in the main dining hall to admire the fine timber interiors or enjoy your breakfast overlooking the picturesque Tamar River at the outdoors courtyard on a fine day.

The best part of the deal is you do not have to break the bank to dine in this renowned restaurant. For 24 AUD (about 17 USD), look forward to a delicious Eggs Benedict on nicely-toasted ciabatta toast and a generous portion of Parma ham, with a fragrant cup of freshly brewed hot coffee to perk you up for the day. At such a strategic location in the city surrounded by scenic nature, there’s no better way than to start your day with a stroll to Stillwater for a gourmet breakfast made from the freshest ingredients.

2. A relaxing hike at the Cataract Gorge

After a hearty breakfast at Stillwater, take a short 3-minute walk down Paterson Street whereby you’d see a road sign directing you to cross the street to get to the Cataract Gorge Cliff Grounds. Enjoy your relaxing hike in the well-maintained grounds that was originally built in the 1890s looking down onto the South Esk River. This shady Cataract Walk on the northern side of the river is relatively easy to walk on, with just gradual slopes that you will encounter along the path.

Spend at least 2 hours here to immerse in the refreshing views of the unique nature reserve conveniently located in Launceston city borders. You can check out the Victorian garden with ferns and exotic plants, or wander across the suspension bridge to the southern side of the river known as the First Basin where you can jump in for a free dip at the outdoor swimming pool from November to March. So how much does it cost for such a healthy and refreshing hike that brings you close to native flora and fauna? Nothing, because admission is free!

3. Wholesome lunch at Burger Got Soul

Well, you have had a great workout at Cataract Gorge, so you should be yearning for some good food again. About 15 to 20 minutes away from the Gorge is the popular Burger Got Soul restaurant located at 243 Charles Street. As the name of the restaurant suggests, it is a burger restaurant, using only fresh Tasmanian vegetables, lean beef, free range chicken and eggs direct from the market daily.

Order its signature Soul Burger made with 100% lean beef, lettuce, tomato, relish and soul mayo, and pair it with a pot of fragrant Arabic Honey Tea. The burger may be considered a big portion for many ladies, but do not be surprised when you finish it all up before you realise! As you savour this wholesome yet flavourful meal, you will love the beef patty that does not leave a greasy feeling in your mouth and the well-toasted burger bun. This satisfying lunch costs only an affordable 14 AUD (about 10 USD). No wonder Burger Got Soul is popular with the young locals!

4. Discover more about the heritage park in Launceston

Established in 1858, Prince’s Square in the south of the city plays an important part in the cultural life of Launcestonians today. Originally an abandoned brickfield that was a temporary rubbish dump for residents in the area until 1843, it became a local recreational space and meeting point after the first church in the city – St John’s Church - was constructed nearby. Today, Prince’s Square has the highest concentration of churches in the city with a total of 5 churches facing the square.

Just 10 minutes away from your wonderful lunch at Burger Got Soul, you will be able to enjoy a heritage tour in this park for free! Do not miss the iconic 7-metre high Val d'Osne Fountain sitting in the centre of the park at the meeting point of the main pathways. Marvel at the fine bronze replica of the award-winning fountain design by the biggest producing fine art foundry in France in the 19th century. You can breathe in the fresh air and view the many beautiful old trees planted by the royalty in this historical park.

5. Check out the fresh local produce at the supermarket

Time flies when you are enjoying yourself. After trying out the 4 activities above, it’s probably time to think of what to have for dinner already. Instead of heading to another restaurant for a good meal, visit Coles Supermarket just diagonally across Prince’s Square at 198 Charles Street for some fresh local produce to whip up a simple and nutritious meal. The supermarket is open daily from 6.00 am to 10.00 pm packed with competitive priced products for your selection. With only 23 USD left from your 50 USD budget for the day, rest assured you will be able to purchase quality Australian produce such as vegetables, meat and fruits here to prepare a simple yet yummy dinner, even if you aren’t staying in a place equipped with cooking facilities!