Launceston Private Charter Service (3 days in advance

Planning a day in Launceston? This private 7-hour tour offers a well-rounded taste of the area’s natural beauty and unique attractions. It’s tailored for those who want a personalized experience, away from the crowds, with a focus on authentic scenery and local charm.

What we love about this tour? First, the opportunity to visit the Swiss Village, which offers a sweet slice of Europe right in Tasmania. Second, the breathtaking vistas you’ll find at Brady Lookout and Cataract Gorge—these spots are picture-perfect and worth every minute.

A possible consideration? The inclusion of not visiting the Bridestowe Lavender Estate isn’t part of the package, which might disappoint those wanting to see Tasmania’s famous lavender fields in bloom—although, it’s understandable given the time constraints.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic drives, enjoy nature, and want a flexible, private experience that covers Launceston’s highlights without the rush.

Key Points

Personalized Experience: The private tour ensures you’re not part of a large group, making the day more comfortable and flexible.
Scenic Highlights: From wetlands to mountain viewpoints, the tour is packed with stunning sights that showcase Launceston’s natural beauty.
Cultural Touch: The Swiss Village offers a charming taste of European architecture and love stories, adding a quirky cultural aspect.
Exclusively Scenic: All stops are designed to maximize visual impact—especially Cataract Gorge with its panoramic views.
Value for Money: While the cost may seem high, it covers a full day of tailored sightseeing with an expert driver-guide.
Limited Lavenders: The lavender farm isn’t included, perhaps a missed opportunity for some travelers seeking that experience.

This private tour ticks many boxes for anyone wanting an intimate, flexible, and visually rewarding way to explore Launceston and its surrounds. Let’s walk through each stop and what makes it special, along with practical tips to help you get the most out of your day.

Start Point: Comfort and Convenience in Launceston

Your journey begins at the Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston, a centrally located spot that’s easy to find and convenient for most travelers staying in town. Since this is a private experience, your group’s comfort is prioritized, and the vehicle is air-conditioned—perfect for Tasmania’s sometimes unpredictable weather.

Stop 1: Tamar Valley and Bird Hide – Nature’s Quiet Beauty

Just a short walk from the tourist center, the Tamar Wetland is a peaceful spot to observe the local birdlife and wetland ecology. The bird hide offers an up-close view of wetland birds and the Tamar Valley, providing a gentle introduction to the area’s natural environment.

While the visit is brief—about 30 minutes—the wildlife sightings are often a highlight, especially if you enjoy birdwatching. It’s a calm, scenic start that sets the tone for the day.

Tip: Bring your camera or binoculars if you have them; this is a chance for some relaxed wildlife photography.

Stop 2: Grindelwald – The Swiss Village in Tasmania

Next, we visit the Swiss Village at Grindelwald. Established in 1989 by Mr. Vos as a tribute to his wife’s love of Grindelwald, Switzerland, this charming little spot feels like a slice of Europe right in Tasmania. The architecture, quaint shops, and scenic surroundings make it a delightful stop.

Authentic charm is what makes Grindelwald stand out—think Alpine-style chalets, flower-lined streets, and a peaceful atmosphere. The story behind its founding adds a romantic touch, making it more than just a pretty village.

The visit lasts about 45 minutes, giving enough time for a quick walk, some photos, and perhaps a coffee or a snack in one of the local cafes.

Review Insight: Travelers love the “wonderful location” and the “story of love attached to it,” which makes the visit more meaningful.

Stop 3: Cataract Gorge Reserve – Tasmania’s Natural Jewel

Post-lunch, the highlight for many is Cataract Gorge, a stunning natural gorge just a few minutes from Launceston’s city center. Here, you’ll find walking trails, panoramic lookouts, and the world’s longest single-span chairlift, which offers breathtaking views over the gorge and the river below.

The suspension bridge and various lookouts give you multiple vantage points to appreciate the rugged beauty of the gorge. If you’re feeling adventurous, the trails are suitable for some light hiking, or you can simply relax and take in the scenery.

Wildlife and facilities like a swimming pool, restaurant, and cafes add to the atmosphere, making it a good spot to unwind or enjoy a leisurely lunch.

Authentic Experience: As one traveler notes, “it is a very beautiful place to visit,” and the views are often described as spectacular.

Tip: The chairlift fee is not included, so budget accordingly if you want to ride it. It’s a worthwhile experience for the views alone.

Stop 4: Bridestowe Lavender Estate – The Lavender Field (Optional)

While this tour’s itinerary doesn’t include a stop at Bridestowe Lavender Estate, it’s often a favorite among visitors. With over 260 acres and around 650,000 lavender plants, it’s one of the world’s largest privately-owned lavender farms.

If you’re a lavender lover, you might find this omission disappointing, but given the tour’s schedule, it’s understandable. The estate is about a two-hour visit if included, which would extend the day significantly.

Note: The estate’s admission fee isn’t included, but the experience of wandering among the fragrant fields can be magical, especially during peak bloom.

Practical Aspects and Value

The tour includes air-conditioned vehicle transportation and a driver guide, which simplifies the logistics of exploring Launceston’s sights. The group size is limited to your party, ensuring a personalized experience that’s less hurried and more tailored to your interests.

Cost at just over $1,000 for a group of four averages out to about $250 per person, which might seem high for some. However, this covers a full day of flexible sightseeing, avoiding the hassle of public transport or multiple bookings. If you value comfort, flexibility, and a curated experience, this can be a good investment.

Timing: The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, a manageable day that leaves some flexibility for additional stops or relaxing moments.

Booking in advance: Most travelers book about 24 days ahead, emphasizing the need for planning, especially in peak seasons.

The Experience’s Strengths and Potential Drawbacks

The most praised aspect, based on traveler feedback, is the stunning scenery—Cataract Gorge, Brady Lookout, wetlands—each offers postcard-worthy views. The personalized nature of a private tour makes it easier to customize or relax during stops.

On the flip side, some might find the cost a bit steep considering that certain attractions like the lavender farm are not included, and the tour doesn’t visit every possible highlight in the area. Also, the lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget for that.

This private experience is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, tailor-made day exploring Launceston’s best sights. It’s perfect if you appreciate scenic views, enjoy learning about local stories, and prefer comfort over crowds. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a flexible schedule, this private tour offers good value.

However, if your priority is visiting the lavender fields or more extensive winery tours, you might want to consider other options. Also, those on a tight budget may find it a bit costly compared to group tours.

This private Launceston tour offers a thoughtful blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and scenic vistas. It’s a flexible way to see the highlights without feeling rushed, all in the comfort of a private vehicle. The stops are carefully chosen to showcase the region’s diversity—from wetlands to mountain outlooks, with a charming Swiss village thrown in for good measure.

While the price might seem high, the personalized service and curated stops justify it for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic, and authentic day out. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to explore Launceston with a focus on stunning views and local charm, this tour is worth considering.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, as it involves mostly sightseeing and walking at scenic spots.

How long is each stop?
The Tamar Valley stop is about 30 minutes, Grindelwald lasts around 45 minutes, Cataract Gorge is about 1 hour 30 minutes, and the lavender estate is approximately 2 hours if included.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so you should plan to buy your own during the day.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your driver guide can offer some flexibility, but significant changes would need to be arranged beforehand.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 24 days ahead, especially during peak seasons.

What is the cost for a group of four?
The full price is $1,004.14, which breaks down to roughly $250 per person—good value for a full-day private experience.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most stops involve walking, but the overall terrain is manageable for most. It’s best to confirm specific needs with the provider.

In summary, this Launceston private tour blends scenic beauty, cultural interest, and personalized service into a memorable day. It’s a good pick for those who want a comfortable, flexible way to enjoy Tasmania’s northern highlights, especially if stunning views and relaxed exploration appeal to you.