Touring from Launceston using public transport

Launceston to the Tamar Valley by Public Transport

Discover the gorgeous scenery and cultural attractions of the Tamar Valley during this leisurely day trip from Launceston using public transport. Enjoy the family-friendly attractions in the Swiss-style village of Grindelwald before learning about one of Australia’s most famous mine rescues in the town of Beaconsfield. At aptly named Beauty Point, home to Australia’s National Institute for Maritime Studies, you can come face-to-face with seahorses and platypus. 

Depart Launceston at 8:30 am (9:45 am Saturday/Sunday/Public Holidays) on the 780 bus, which will take you along the scenic west bank of the River Tamar. Alight at Grindelwald, a Swiss-inspired village where you’ll find an 18-hole mini-golf course, a recreational lake and the world's longest bouncing pillow! Waterfront views are on offer from the Alpenrose Bistro where you can grab a coffee before being back at the Grindelwald bus stop to catch the 788 service north at 11:28.

From Grindelwald, travel to Beaconsfield where you can learn about Tasmania’s legendary mine rescue at the Beaconsfield Mine & Heritage Centre. Hear how the miners were trapped nearly a kilometre beneath the ground and the innovative techniques used to get them safely to the surface. There are plenty of cafes in Beaconsfield where you can grab lunch, including Four Figs, Daydreamers and Ducky In the Field. 

At 1:52 pm, the 788 bus will whisk you onto Beauty Point, home to Seahorse World and the Platypus House. Located alongside one another, these two facilities enable you to get up close to two of the world’s most elusive species and discover what it is that makes them unique. 

You can catch either the 4:22 pm or 5:22 pm 788 bus from Beauty Point back to Launceston. 

Please note that bus timetables are subject to change, so check current services closer to your departure date. Due to the limited bus services on Saturdays and Sundays, this itinerary is best completed on a weekday.

Launceston to Evandale by Public Transport

Visit one of Australia’s most beautifully preserved historic towns on this day trip from Launceston using public transport. Clustered with late-Georgian and early-Victorian buildings, Evandale is a photographer’s delight, with relaxed cafes and boutiques to discover. 

Catch the 10:05 am 792 bus (11:05 am Saturday/Sunday/Public Holidays) from Launceston’s St. John Street Stop 1A for the journey to Evandale. Spend the day wandering its relatively untouched streets, which are lined with buildings dating from the early 19th century. Keep an eye out for the colonial-style Presbyterian Manse and the former Blenheim Hotel, then marvel at the Doric columns and bell tower of St. Andrews Uniting Church. 

When it’s time to eat, you can dine on sweet and savoury treats in the courtyard of the Ingleside Bakery Cafe, enjoy hearty sandwiches and burgers at the Evandale Cafe or feast on locally sourced fare in the beer garden of the Clarendon Arms. If you’re a fan of all things vintage, coincide your visit with the February National Penny Farthing Championship that draws period-dressed riders from near and far. 

From Evandale’s Scone Street, catch the 2:00 pm 792 bus (4:18 pm Saturday/Sunday/Public Holidays) back to Launceston. 

Please note that bus timetables are subject to change, so check current services closer to your departure date.