Check out Airbnb’s latest: Where history meets slow travel bliss

Overlooking Australia’s oldest bridge in the historic village of Richmond, this convict-crafted accommodation offers a backstage pass to history – best enjoyed with a glass of wine in hand, writes Cas Garvey

The exterior of the beautifully transformed two-bedroom, convict-built cottage which now operates as an accommodation offering, called the Engineers Hut 1823, in the historic village of Richmond, Tasmania. Picture: Rosie Hastie

Each year, tens of thousands of tourists and Tasmanians alike stop to marvel at the Richmond Bridge – the oldest stone bridge still in use in Australia.

And in the back garden of one of Airnbnb’s newest listings, partly built by the convict labourers who helped bring the bridge to life, you feel like you’ve been given a backstage pass as you take in the historic view with a glass of wine in hand.

The story of Engineers Hut 1823, on Bridge St, Richmond begins circa 1820, when the original timber structure was built by convict labourers as part of the works supporting the construction of the now-iconic Richmond Bridge.

Some time after the bridge’s completion, between 1825 and 1839, the land was granted to one of the very convicts who helped bring the bridge to life.

In 1841, it’s believed he went on to build the main sandstone portion of the house that still stands today – a lasting legacy of craftsmanship, perseverance and Tasmania’s early colonial history.

The iconic Richmond Bridge makes the perfect backdrop for the historic township’s latest accommodation offering, the Engineers Hut 1823. Picture: Rosie Hastie

Opening the door to this special home with its large metal key and walking inside, it feels like the perfect mix of stepping back in time, without missing the modern comforts.

The convict-built home has recently been beautifully renovated, while still honouring its historic roots.

It features two comfortable bedrooms and a gorgeous bathroom, a cosy living room and a massive dining room, with ample heating and blankets throughout.

The back garden mentioned earlier is perfect for an afternoon glass of wine you’ve picked up at one of the many cellar doors nearby – in our case Pooleys, Every Man and His Dog and Pressing Matters.

The exterior of the beautifully transformed two-bedroom, convict-built cottage which now operates as an accommodation offering, called the Engineers Hut 1823, in the historic village of Richmond, Tasmania. Picture: Rosie Hastie

There’s so much space to unwind outside, with a dining table near the original brick wood-burning stove, and garden chairs where you can lounge and watch the ducks on the water.

If you’re one of the many Tasmanians who are yet to venture to the historic town, Richmond has so much to offer – antique stores galore, beautiful homewares and gifts, cafes and wineries all within a stone’s throw of each other.

Engineers Hut 1823, in Richmond, that pays tribute to Tasmania’s early colonial history, is a beautifully appointed home available for stays through Airbnb. Picture: Rosie Hastie

While just a 25-minute drive from Hobart, it really is worth spending a night or two to really appreciate the local wines, all of which you can sample while leaving the car keys at your Airbnb pad just a short stroll away.

Local produce is king in Richmond, with a trip to Larder & Vin and the famed bakery essential for charcuterie platter ingredients and sourdough bread to enjoy back at 62 Bridge Rd.

The modern bathroom in the Engineers Hut 1823, is a classy addition. Picture: Rosie Hastie

One of the cosy bedrooms in the Engineers Hut 1823. Picture: Rosie Hastie

Larder & Vin host a monthly ‘supper club’ with a set two or three-course menu which always includes curated local dishes. Their next supper club will be held on July 25.

They also hold weekly ‘no menu dinners’ every Friday and Saturday over winter, which is a weekly cook-up of a wholesome, slow-cooked ‘one pot’ dish served with fresh sourdough.

The famous Richmond lolly shop is also a must for young and old, which still makes old-school milkshakes in tin cups, truffles and fudge on site.

Some of the historic spoons and small tools used as a feature wall at the Engineers Hut 1823. Picture: Rosie Hastie

Larder & Vin in Richmond is one of many great little eateries this historic township has to offer. Picture: Cas Garvey

Back at the Airbnb for our last night, the massive dining table came in handy to play a few board games pm while finishing off the last of the cheese with a few glasses of red before having a very comfortable sleep.

If there’s any space left in your car boot, a quick pit stop into Puddleduck Vineyard and Coal River Farm on your way home for some wine, cheese and chocolate is the icing on the cake for a weekend well spent in Tassie’s Coal River Valley.

The author was a guest of Engineers Hut 1823, Richmond

The sunny private courtyard at Engineers Hut 1823, boasts peaceful rural views to the bridge and beyond. Picture: Rosie Hastie

MAKE A NOTE

ENGINEERS HUT 1823

This beautifully renovated two- bedroom, one-bathroom convict-built home is nestled in the heart of historic Richmond. The cottage which sleeps up to four guests, blends heritage charm with modern convenience and is perfect for couples, friends, or families. With a view of the iconic Richmond Bridge from the backyard and just minutes’ walk to local cafes and shops, this property allows you to soak in the timeless beauty of one of Tasmania’s oldest and most well-preserved towns.

Rooms start at $200 per night and there is a two-night minimum stay.

For bookings and more information search for ‘Engineers Hut 1823’ on Airbnb.com.au