aunceston, founded in 1806, is Australia’s third-oldest city (and Tasmania’s second largest) with a fascinating history traced in its beautiful old buildings and streetscapes dating from early Colonial and convict times to the Georgian and Victorian eras. The city is situated where two rivers meet to become the Tamar on its way to the sea, and is famous for its ancient ravine cut into the hills by the South Esk River. This, Cataract Gorge, has been a major focus for Launceston's leisure time since the city's earliest days and is just a 15 minute walk from the city. The Tamar Valley is beautiful and famous for its cool climate sparkling wines and pinot noir. From Launceston you can also visit national parks such as Narawntapu, renamed in 2000 in recognition of its long and significant place in the history of Tasmania's Aboriginal people, or the historic villages of Evandale and Longford, with their English style Georgian architecture and nearby grand old farms and mansions. Launceston also offers alpine adventure just a short drive from the city. The craggy mountain region of Ben Lomond National Park with its dramatic dolerite columns is a haven for rock climbers, bushwalkers and skiers.