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Launceston: Home of the Basin Chairlift & Basin Cafe

November 25th, 2010 | Author:

Cataract Gorge in Launceston is one of our favourite places to visit in Tasmania.  A reserve close to the centre of town, one of the highlights is the Basin Chairlift.  The cakes from the Basin Cafe aren’t too bad, either!

Launceston Tasmania - Cataract Gorge

Cataract Gorge Reserve in Launceston, northern Tasmania

Basin Chairlift, Launceston

The chairlift was built in 1972.  And now Launceston Tasmania can claim to have the longest single chairlift span in the world – the 308-metre central section.  The entire length of the chairlift ride actually stretches to 457 metres.

Launceston Tasmania - Basin Chairlift Sign

The Basin Chairlift, Launceston: longest single span in the world

There are stations on either side of The Gorge and you can enjoy a return journey starting from either end.  Or you can buy a one-way ticket and return via foot (about a 10 minute leisurely walk).

Launceston Tasmania - Chairlift Price List

Launceston Basin Chairlift - return prices or one-way

Passengers glide along slowly and have a chance to take pictures of the Cataract Gorge Reserve Grounds and the waters of the South Esk River flowing into Launceston.


 

Tasmania, as usual: providing spectacular photographic opportunities.

Launceston Tasmania - Basin Chairlift

Enjoy the views of Launceston from the Basin Chairlift

Starting from the First Basin as we did, you can break the journey at the Cliff Grounds.  There’s lovely gardens, walkways, a restaurant and views over the river.  And lots of peacocks!  They are very tame and not camera shy at all.

Launceston Tasmania - Cataract Gorge Peacock

Peacocks roam the Cataract Gorge Cliff Grounds in Launceston

Basin Cafe, Launceston

Back where we started (while we enjoyed a peaceful afternoon tea in the Basin Cafe) the kids went to inspect the now-normal swimming pool.


 

During our last visit, the grounds were completely flooded.  The pool had even been submerged.

Launceston Tasmania - Basin Cafe

Cakes from the Basin Cafe, Launceston Cataract Gorge Reserve

There is a lovely view from the Basin Cafe.  You can see feet dangling into view as riders pass over the top on the chairlift.  And you have a great vantage point over the grounds of the Cataract Gorge from the picture windows.

Launceston Tasmania - Basin Cafe & Basin Chairlift

Launceston: Basin Chairlift passing over the Basin Cafe

And of course: a cafe; tourism; a hot-spot like The Gorge.  There must be souvenirs!  You can buy a little reminder of your visit to Launceston.  They even stock some of the Handmade Tasmanian rock candy from Sweet-As.

Launceston Tasmania - Cataract Gorge Souvenirs

A memento from Launceston from the souvenir shop!!

Map: Cataract Gorge, Launceston Tasmania…

 

Related Posts

Posted in Launceston & Tamar Valley, Tasmanian Food and Drink, Tasmanian National Parks, Forests and Reserves, Tasmanian Things to Do | Tags: , , , , , , ,

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