Traveling back to Australia is always a special experience for me. It's an opportunity to return to places that once felt like home while discovering breathtaking landscapes and spectacular coastlines that I have yet to explore.
On my most recent visit, I had the opportunity to explore Tasmania with my twin sister. We began our journey in Hobart, staying at the beautiful Islington Hotel, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Nestled in South Hobart, this elegant boutique hotel seamlessly blends historic Regency architecture with contemporary luxury, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere from the moment you arrive.
Islington Hotel back garden.
With just 11 individually designed guest rooms, Islington feels more like a private residence than a hotel. Every space is thoughtfully curated with beautiful artwork, antiques, and carefully selected furnishings, allowing the property's rich history and character to shine. We especially enjoyed dining at their restaurant, where locally sourced Tasmanian produce was served against a backdrop of the sweeping Mount Wellington views. It was the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring, offering a sense of comfort, tranquillity, and understated luxury.
Wellington Suites with sweeping mountain and garden views.
Conveniently located just minutes from Hobart's city centre, the hotel provided an ideal base for discovering the city's vibrant waterfront, historic streets, acclaimed restaurants, and cultural attractions before heading further into Tasmania's wilderness.
Discovering the beauty of the Freycinet Peninsula
From Hobart, we ventured into the untamed beauty of Freycinet National Park. Surrounded by rugged granite peaks, pristine white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear turquoise waters, we stayed at the stunning Piermont Retreat on the Freycinet Peninsula. Nestled along the shoreline, the retreat offered the perfect balance of luxury and seclusion, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the remarkable natural beauty of one of Australia's most iconic landscapes. From peaceful coastal walks to watching the sunrise over Great Oyster Bay, every moment showcased the wild, untouched charm that makes Tasmania such an unforgettable destination.
One of the highlights of our stay at the Piermont Retreat was dining at the Homestead Restaurant, located within a beautifully restored 1860s heritage homestead. Open to both guests and visitors, the restaurant offers a Mediterranean-inspired dining experience that celebrates Tasmania's exceptional local produce. Working closely with neighbouring farmers, fishers, and Tasmanian winemakers, the chefs create a seasonally inspired menu that showcases the diverse flavours of the region. My personal favourite was sharing a plate of freshly shucked local Pacific oysters, perfectly paired with a crisp Tasmanian white wine.
Homestead Restaurant, Piermont Retreat.
One afternoon, we set off to explore the coastline, making a stop at the charming Kate's Berry Farm. This beloved local farm stand is filled with homemade jams, fresh berries, and an array of delicious Tasmanian treats. Before heading to the beach, we enjoyed a relaxed tea and coffee at the café, embracing the slower pace that makes this part of Tasmania so special.
After our adventurous days exploring the Freycinet Peninsula, we returned to our charming one-bedroom stone cottage at Piermont Retreat. Surrounded by sweeping coastal views, it was the perfect place to unwind and soak in the peaceful surroundings. Nestled amongst she-oaks, gum trees, and rolling dune grasses along the pristine shores of Piermont Beach, the retreat features fourteen private cottages ranging from one to three bedrooms. Each is thoughtfully designed with comforts including a cosy log fireplace, spa bath, full kitchen, laundry facilities, and a private beachfront deck, creating an idyllic escape immersed in Tasmania's natural beauty.
One bedroom stone cottage at the Piermont Retreat.
Contact Jane Patrick
Discover the beauty of Tasmania and the Freycinet Peninsula through a thoughtfully curated journey. For bespoke recommendations, exceptional stays and personalized travel planning, contact Jane Patrick to begin planning your Tasmanian adventure.
