Launceston may be small, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to memorable lunch experiences. Whether you’re a wine lover eager to sample Tasmanian vintages or a nature enthusiast wanting a scenic escape, this city offers a range of options that combine great food with local culture and stunning landscapes. Among the standout choices, we particularly like the Tamar Valley Wine Tours — they blend excellent wine tastings with delicious meals, making them perfect for those who want to indulge. And if you’re craving a mix of wilderness and good food, the Cradle Mountain Day Tours are an unbeatable way to see nature at its best without sacrificing a good meal.
For a quick overview, we’ll walk you through four fantastic lunch experiences in Launceston. From intimate wine tours to full-day adventures in the wilderness, each offers something special to suit different tastes and schedules. Check out the list below to find the best fit for your trip.
1. Tamar Valley Wine Tour with Lunch
Taking the top spot is the Tamar Valley Wine Tour with Lunch, a highly-rated experience with a perfect blend of wine, food, and personalized attention. For around $135, you’ll spend about 6.5 hours exploring 3 to 4 boutique vineyards in Tamar Valley. Your guide will take you to some of the region’s best hidden wineries, where you can sample Tasmanian wines and learn about the area’s rich viticultural history.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on quality and intimacy. The small-group format means more interaction, and the gourmet Tasmanian produce platter lunch pairs beautifully with the wines. Guests consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and cheerful demeanor — one reviewer called Terry “cosy and cheerful,” enhancing the experience further. The included round-trip transfers from Launceston make logistics simple, so you can relax and focus on tasting and chatting.
This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts seeking boutique wineries and a relaxed pace, or travelers wanting a memorable meal paired with premium wines. The consistent 5-star reviews underline its value, with travelers mentioning the “incredible food” and “unique tasting experiences.” The only downside might be its focus on wine, so if you’re after a broader sightseeing day, other options may suit better.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for wine lovers who want a personalized, flavorful day with gourmet lunch and expert guidance.
2. Launceston: Tamar Valley Wine Tour with Lunch
Ranking just slightly below the top, the Launceston: Tamar Valley Wine Tour with Lunch offers a similar experience with a few slight differences. This 7-hour tour emphasizes visiting premium wineries while providing engaging commentary on Tasmanian wine heritage. The tour includes tastings at several wineries, where you can learn to judge wines with expert tips, making it perfect for those interested in developing a more refined palate.
What sets this experience apart is its focus on education—getting to understand the subtleties of Tasmanian wines. Visitors appreciate the chance to meet new people over a shared meal at a cellar door, making the day more social and interactive. The included lunch complements the tastings, enhancing the overall value. With a solid 4.8/5 rating from over 200 reviews, this tour is highly reliable.
It’s well-suited for travelers curious about wine history or those who enjoy immersive tasting experiences. While slightly longer than the first tour, it offers a deeper dive into the region’s wine scene. If your main goal is to learn about Tasmanian wines while enjoying a quality lunch, this is a great pick.
Bottom Line: A perfect pick for wine enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding of Tasmania’s winemaking tradition with a friendly, educational atmosphere.
3. Cradle Mountain Day Tour from Launceston Including Lunch
At number three is the Cradle Mountain Day Tour from Launceston, a full-day escape into Tasmania’s wilderness. For about $139.86, this 10-hour adventure includes a scenic drive, a lunch break, and a chance to explore iconic sights like Dove Lake, Waldheim Chalet, and Weindorfers Rainforest Walk. The tour provides bottled water and snacks, making it easy to stay refreshed during the day.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on natural beauty rather than food or wine, but it still offers a well-deserved lunch in the park. The highlight is the opportunity to hike in Cradle Mountain National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, without the hassle of navigating solo or driving yourself. Visitors praise the knowledgeable driver-guide, Steve, whose humor and insights make the day memorable.
This experience is ideal for outdoor lovers and those who want a day in the wilderness with minimal planning. It’s perfect if you’re after a scenic adventure with a convenient, included lunch. Be aware that the weather can change quickly, so pack accordingly.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for nature lovers wanting a guided, hassle-free visit to one of Tasmania’s most famous parks with great lunch options.
4. Cradle Mountain: Fully Guided Dove Lake Day Trip with Lunch
Rounding out the list, the Cradle Mountain: Fully Guided Dove Lake Day Trip with Lunch offers a comprehensive experience with a focus on a guided walk around Dove Lake. For $148, you’ll enjoy a 10-hour day that includes a 6 km hike, allowing you to experience the park’s iconic scenery in depth, plus a provided lunch to keep your energy up.
This tour is especially appealing for travelers who want a structured, guided walk and expert commentary on the landscape. The guide’s insights help you appreciate the unique geology and wildlife of the area, making the scenery even more meaningful. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a moderate hike combined with expert guidance and a scenic lunch spot.
With a 5-star rating from just five reviews, this is a newer but highly recommended option. The focus on nature and active exploration makes it ideal for those who prefer hiking over simply sightseeing. If you’re after a well-rounded day with a focus on the outdoors, this tour delivers.
Bottom Line: A top choice for active travelers wanting a guided hike with scenic views and a satisfying midday meal.
How to Choose
Choosing the best lunch experience in Launceston depends on your interests. If wine tasting with gourmet food is your priority, the Tamar Valley Wine Tours are hard to beat. For those curious about wine history and looking for a more educational experience, the another wine tour offers in-depth tastings and social ambiance.
If your focus is on exploring Tasmania’s natural beauty, the Cradle Mountain Tours offer a full day immersing you in stunning landscapes and light hiking, with the added convenience of included lunch. Consider whether you’re comfortable with longer days and outdoor activity levels.
Book early, especially in peak seasons, and plan your day based on what excites you most—whether that’s wine, wilderness, or a mix of both.
Final Thoughts
Launceston offers a surprising array of lunch experiences that cater to different interests and activity levels. For a relaxed, wine-focused day with premium tastings and gourmet bites, the Tamar Valley Wine Tour with Lunch is a standout. If you prefer a mix of outdoor adventure and scenic views, the Cradle Mountain day trips deliver a memorable wilderness experience paired with a hearty lunch.
For travelers who want to deepen their understanding of Tasmania’s wine scene, the second wine tour is an excellent choice. Meanwhile, active explorers will enjoy the guided hikes around Dove Lake, with the convenience of an included meal.
No matter your preference, booking early ensures you’ll secure a spot in these popular tours. Launceston’s diverse offerings mean there’s a perfect lunch experience waiting for you, whether you’re after a taste of the region’s renowned wines or a day in the wilderness.