- Australian Traveller
- TAS
- North East
- Launceston
- 8 of the best hotels in Launceston
16 March 2023
8 mins Read
Launceston delights visitors with its historic streetscapes, beautiful nature and great food (courtesy of the incredible local produce from the surrounding regions!). The city is a melting pot of creativity, and a hub for many artists, artisans and designers, and this creative spirit shines through in Launceston’s holiday homes and hotels. Discover quaint heritage hotels, up-cycled luxury accommodation and holiday apartments that double as intrepid social enterprises. Launceston may be small – but it’s certainly full of surprises. Uncover what the city has to offer with our round-up of the best hotels in Launceston.
Looking down George Street in Launceston (Photo: Lusy Productions)
Go for: Boutique luxury accommodation that sings with history.
Entering the historic Florance guest house, you’ll be greeted by original stained-glass doors with marvellous jewel-toned panels. This sets the tone for what’s to come. Inside, you’ll find a beautiful light-filled conservatory framed by stunning artworks from acclaimed Tasmanian painters. There’ll be a sumptuous breakfast laid out here each morning— and in the afternoon, the space doubles as a hang-out spot where you can sink into a sofa, soak up the sun and enjoy some downtime.
Breakfast at the Florance in Launceston. (Image: Anjie Blair)
The rooms are well-appointed and elegant, decorated with modern designer flair. Combining charming heritage vibes with modern comforts, The Florance is a great option for luxury accommodation in the heart of Launceston. You’ll be well positioned, a few minute’s walk to the CBD and nearby City Park. If you’re after a room with a view, you can opt for a suite with charming vistas across the park.
The Florance combines charming heritage vibes with modern comforts. (Image: Anjie Blair)
Go for: Family-friendly hotel accommodation with a memorable twist.
Peppers hotels and resorts are renowned for providing modern, luxurious accommodation. Peppers Silo is no exception— although this Launceston hotel is far from conventional. Crafted from a collection of 1960s grain silos on the banks of the Tamar River, Peppers Silo Hotel represents up-cycling at its most magnificent.
Crafted from a collection of 1960s grain silos on the banks of the Tamar River, Peppers Silo Hotel represents up-cycling at its most magnificent. (Image: Rob Burnett)
The hotel now stands transformed as a triumphant landmark overlooking the river, containing 108 well-appointed and comfortable rooms. When you enter, you’ll likely be greeted by Archie, the hotel’s lovely Labrador who serves as a beloved companion to staff and guests. (Guests even have the option to take Archie for a walk along the Tamar River!) If you find yourself weary from your travels, the hotel’s Silo Spa is there to help you recharge. Add an extra dash of decadence to your stay with a massage, scrub, or aromatherapy treatment. Your spa therapist will use local Tasmanian products, offering you a taste of the Apple Isle’s calming magic.
Go for: A classic hotel experience in the heart of Launceston.
The Grand Chancellor is an iconic Launceston hotel. As you pull up to the entrance, you’ll be flanked by rows of picturesque white roses. The hotel towers six stories over downtown Launceston, commanding sweeping views over the city from the rooms on the upper floors.
The Hotel Grand Chancellor commands sweeping views over the city. (Image: Hotel Grand Chancellor)
The interior is classic hotel luxe— marble pillars, ceramic water features and a red carpet emblazoned with decorative motifs. You’ll have comfortable and well-serviced rooms with large beds and a variety of room sizes available, making this a good option for families. The Grand Chancellor provides comfortable and convenient accommodation close to the centre of Launceston. You’ll be nearby City Park, Launceston’s famous Harvest Markets, as well as lots of great restaurants and cafes.
Go for: Romance, luxury and the quaint charm of a historic property.
Bed down in this 1879 heritage property which mixes modern comfort with authentic Victorian era charm. You’ll surely feel regal waking up in an opulent 4 poster bed, or soaking up some sun in the hotel courtyard surrounded by a fragrant rose garden. Each room is elegantly appointed, with an eclectic mix of modern and antique-inspired luxury furnishings.
Kurrajong House mixes modern comfort with authentic Victorian-era charm. (Image: Kurrajong House Boutique Accommodation)
Every morning you’ll find a hearty breakfast waiting for you, featuring locally-sourced Tasmanian jams and fruits to give a sumptuous start to your day. You’ll be nestled in the historic precinct of East Launceston, a short walk to the CBD and with lots of charming cafes to discover close by. Here, the vibe is warm and personal. Your hosts will be more than happy to share local secrets and advise you on a few things to do in Launceston. Charming, stylish with a strong touch of romance— Kurrajong House is a delightful option for luxury accommodation to base yourself in Launceston.
Go for: Family-friendly and self-contained accommodation with a great cause behind it.
What if you could change the world for the better, one sleep at a time? That’s the concept behind Change Overnight— where all profits are donated to different charitable causes, nominated by the staff and the public each night. Change Overnight’s 18 rooms are comfortable, modern and designed with stylish urban flair. (Each room has a mural painted by graffiti and street artist Patrick Camino).
Change Overnight’s 18 rooms are comfortable, modern and designed with stylish urban flair. (Image: Change Overnight)
The location is optimal— close to Launceston’s CBD with great coffee shops right at your doorstep. There’s a quick and seamless self-check-in process, after which you can head up to your self-contained apartment that includes free wi-fi, speakers and a well-equipped kitchen. Change Overnight is easily the most unique self-contained accommodation offering in Launceston. With the knowledge that your stay is contributing to a good cause, you’re bound to get a great night’s sleep.
Go for: A boutique hotel experience with elegantly designed rooms.
Two guardian lion sculptures flank the entrance to this heritage-listed Victorian-style mansion. Waratah on York is a hotel with character— combining the building’s original 1861 features with gorgeous, modern decor to create rooms you’ll want to hang out in. If you’re looking for a room that’s oozing with opulence, opt for the King suite.
Waratah on York is a hotel with character. (Image: Waratah on York)
You’ll get stunning views over the Tamar River and the addition of a spacious two-person spa bath. The furnishings here are blanketed in baroque motifs, with beautiful antique furnishings to top it all off. Owners, locals Bart and Clare, are all passionate about sharing what Tasmania has to offer. They, along with their friendly staff bring a warm atmosphere that adds a personal touch to your stay.
Go for: Comfort, convenience and great views, all a stone’s throw from the CBD.
If a room with a view is high on your list of criteria when it comes to choosing a place to stay, then Areca Launceston might be the hotel for you. Areca is the sister hotel to Waratah on York, retaining the same friendly atmosphere with a more classic and modern style.
Areca is the sister hotel to Waratah on York, retaining the same friendly atmosphere with a more classic and modern style. (Image: Areca Launceston)
Perfect for business and leisure travellers, the rooms here are clean, comfortable and simple– but the real draw is the sweeping panoramic views that extend across the city and into the Tamar Valley. Although you’ll feel a world away, you’ll just be a 5-minute walk from Launceston’s centre.
Go for: An unforgettable boutique stay on the waterfront.
Launceston is known for its quirky charm and excellent food. This is epitomised by fine-dining establishment Stillwater, an acclaimed restaurant located in a refurbished 1830s flour mill (and considered one of the best restaurants in Launceston). Recently, Stillwater opened Stillwater Seven, a luxury boutique hotel on the upper floors of the mill. The suites retain a rustic feel with exposed wooden beams, combined with decadent design and decor.
Stillwater Seven retains a rustic feel with exposed wooden beams, combined with decadent design and decor. (Image: Anjie Blair)
There are personal touches (like fresh-baked bread delivered to your room) that make this hotel stay feel like home. You’ll also be conveniently located a few footsteps away from the beautiful Cataract Gorge, and of course, a world-class dining experience at Stillwater lies right below your feet. Stillwater Seven may be new on Launceston’s hotel scene, but it’s already making a splash with plenty of rave reviews pouring in.
Read our ultimate travel guide to Launceston for more tips, guides and itineraries.
Our stay at Stillwater Seven in February was absolutely superb, stunning rooms, great service and delicious menu!