Luxury accommodation in Tasmania
The southern state is having a moment thanks to a slew of newly-opened and established iconic hotels and eco-lodges.
Tasmania shrugged free of its ‘hidden gem’ status a long time ago. It’s easy to see why the southern state is now one of Australia’s most sought-after holiday locales, attracting travellers from far and wide with its lush pine forests, sustainably designed eco-lodges and world-class wines and distilleries that satisfy even the most discerning gourmand.
Now, a slew of luxury hotel openings is pushing the island state to even loftier levels. From The Tasman, a brand-new 152-room hotel in the heart of Hobart, to iconic favourites like Saffire Freycinet, luxury knows no size or bounds in Tasmania. The real question is: city or sea?
Here, we’ve rounded up the very best luxury accommodation in Tasmania, from remote state-of-the-art eco-lodges to trending inner-city suites.
What: The Keep may draw inspiration from the refuge and safety of medieval keeps — traditionally, fortresses used as the last resort when a castle falls — but any historical references are purely metaphorical. Where the antiquity stops, the modern amenities and bright, mid-century outfitted rooms begin.
Where: Perched atop a 650 metre pinnacle in Goulds Country.
For an additional dose of luxury… take to the skies by private charter flight. Soar above the nearby Blue Tiers and Tasmania’s rugged North East Coast, and land in one of the vineyards nearby for an afternoon al fresco wine.
What: The beauty of Pumphouse Point’s natural surrounds — tranquil Lake St Clair and undulating gorges and valleys — can’t be captured through a camera lens. This secluded adults-only wilderness retreat is split across two buildings which once operated as a hydro-electric station. Now, guests are encouraged to switch off and tune in to their surrounds.
Where: Deep in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, which is part of Tasmania’s Wilderness World Heritage Area.
For an additional dose of luxury… reserve the cocooned private retreat in a freestanding cabin at the edge of the lake, which comes complete with its own larder and private cellar.
A touch of history, a penchant for modern art and an appreciation for exceptional food and drink — The Tasman is very charming and very Hobart. The dashing new Marriott-run Luxury Collection group hotel boasts stately Georgian sandstone on the outside and light, modern furnishings on the inside.
Where? A 5-minute walk from Hobart Cruise Terminal in the centre of the city.
For an additional dose of luxury… head to the oyster tasting bar downstairs at chef Massimo Mele’s restaurant, Peppina, and compare the nuances of the region’s bivalves.
What: With its broad white roof that mimics the undulating body of a stingray, you’d be forgiven for thinking that the most impressive part of Saffire Freycinet is the facade. But there is so much more to this East Coast lodge than design credibility — guests have access to complimentary activities, including beekeeping, expeditions to the Freycinet Marine Oyster Park and a guided walk to the lookout over Wineglass Bay.
Where: In Freycinet National Park, a two-and-a-half hour drive from Hobart.
For an additional dose of luxury… steam up with a massage that incorporates hot granite stones sourced from the nearby Hazards Mountains.
What: King Island’s most luxurious opening in recent years is Kittawa Lodge, a secluded property that snakes along the coastline across 96 acres. Stay in one of two architecturally-designed lodges for a front seat to the theatre of Tasmania’s natural, rugged beauty.
Where: On remote King Island, which is located off the west coast of Tasmania in the middle of Bass Strait.
For an additional dose of luxury… opt for an all-inclusive package for maximum serenity — it includes guided yoga, a private chef and meditation sessions.
If your preferred type of luxury means centrality and immersion in the beating heart of a city, then you’ll find your place at The Rox. Choose to stay in one of four self-contained apartments: two steeped in heritage, and two that embrace the modern lines and sleek furnishings of the future.
Where? In the centre of Midtown, touching both Hobart’s past and present; think thriving galleries, buzzy bars, historic convict churches and graffitied walls.
For an additional dose of luxury… order room service from Sonny, one of Hobart’s most sought-after wine bars. No need to jostle for a table if you’re staying at The Rox: sit back and let chef Matt Breen take care of your evening.
What: Set in an unspoilt bay in Swansea on Tasmania’s east coast, Piermont Resort is a scattering of suites, cottages and lodges anchored around a quaint, stone farmhouse. Inside is the lauded restaurant, Homestead. With its welcoming atmosphere and well-appointed fit-out, Piermont is built for those in the know.
Where: In the picturesque Swansea region, a great base from which to explore places like Cradle Mountain and Freycinet National Park.
For an additional dose of luxury… request an Argentinian asado, fired up by owner Juan in the summer for private groups. His South American roots shine through in an otherwise locally-focused venue.
What: Art isn’t just MONA’s bit. In a 19th-century warehouse in Hobart is the Henry Jones Art Hotel, a venue that swills old and new together to thrilling effect. Original brick inlays play off the clean, sharp lines of the decor, while art from local emerging and established artists lines almost every possible space.
Where: Overlooking the River Derwent in Hobart.
For an additional dose of luxury… opt for the Peacock Terrace, which is housed in a jam factory from the 1800s. It is the oldest standing building on Old Wharf.
Thousand Lakes Wilderness Lodge
What: Indulge your designer to go off-the-grid at Thousand Lakes Wilderness Lodge. Here, the surrounding pine forest is lush and the stars are unnervingly bright. After a day of walking, fishing, climbing or bouldering, rest your head in simple, quiet luxury — and don’t forget to look up.
Where: In a remote part of the Central Highlands World Heritage Area of Tasmania, often referred to as the Western Lakes.
For an additional dose of luxury… book a walking guide to uncover the region’s secrets, from streams that overflow with trout to the best vantage point over pine-lined valleys.