The sleepy city of Hobart boasts some of the most pristine bays in the country, standout eateries, access to vineyards and (of course) Mona. It’s also home to some seriously creative folk. We’ve done the hard work for you and found the places to bed down next time you’re in town.
Bespoke Beach House, Dodges Ferry
Sleeps 2 / from $180 a night, three-night minimum
A tranquil spot made for unplugging – you won’t find a wi-fi password at this beach house. Situated in a beachside town just half an hour’s drive from Hobart, the house is a stroll to Park Beach for a surf (board provided), or a dip in the calmer Red Ochre Beach, also just a five-minute walk away. This house was hand-built and has rustic features like a stone sink, timber cladding and sandstone indoor walls. The interiors are warm and welcoming, with a slightly retro feel. Floor-to-ceiling windows are a great vantage point for birdwatching in the native garden. Plus there’s an expansive deck, firepit and table tennis set-up.
Captains Cottage, Hobart
Sleeps 2 / from $274.50 a night, two-night minimum
This heritage-listed cottage was first built for a ship captain in the mid-1800s. Now it’s a romantic inner-city getaway, walking distance to some of Hobart’s best eats. Warm timber, natural textures and colonial furnishings are intended to take you back in time. A claw-foot bath peeks out at a curated courtyard through French doors, and the loft bedroom is quaint and cosy. There are ample heat sources for the winter months and the pantry is stocked with local produce.
Slow Beam, Hobart
Sleeps 2 / from $550 a night
Despite being in the capital and just a short-drive from the Salamanca waterfront, this two-storey house feels like a world away thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows that face the bush and let nature in. Plush, colourful furnishings and a statement carpet in the living area contrast with the moody grey aesthetic. The bathtub is surrounded by ’70s-esque orange tiles and there’s a king bed with treeline views. The well-stocked kitchen comes with complimentary bottled cocktails, and there’s a fireplace for maximum cosy vibes.
Provider House, Lenah Valley
Sleeps 6 / from $595 a night / two-night minimum
This Japanese-inspired home between Hobart CBD and Mona is the work of Tara Bennett (the owner of Sydney’s Provider Store) and Sydney-based architecture studio Trias. The three-level space with a reading room and a fully equipped kitchen is filled with antique and modern furniture. And we have to mention the ryokan-inspired wooden bathtub, crafted from Australian western cedar.
The Long House, Cygnet
Sleeps 6 / from $700 a night, two-night minimum
Designed by local architect Nathan Crump, this Japanese-inspired dwelling overlooks rolling countryside and the moody Port Cygnet bay. It’s polished and stark with slatted timber cladding, sleek tiling and clean lines. Don’t worry about getting cold – there’s a stacked brick fireplace in the living room, another on the deck and a third firepit away from the house. There’s space for six guests in the three self-contained bedrooms, each with an ensuite that can be heated underfoot. Plus blackout blinds for sweet dreaming, a bath with a view, a Nespresso machine and a stocked pantry. The surrounding Huon Valley region is known for its vineyards, so make sure you leave time for a daytrip.
Bruny Shearer Quarters, North Bruny
Sleeps 4 / from $1060 a night, two-night minimum
Named the Australian House of the Year in 2012, this property is situated on acclaimed architect John Wardle’s 540-hectare sheep farm, overlooking remote Storm Bay. Sustainability is at the heart of this cliff-top spot, with timber from recycled apple boxes, original 20th-century bricks and a circular rainwater system. The uncomplicated, angular design lets the rugged ocean-front view speak for itself. Make the most of access to three private beaches and walking trails, like Kelly’s Whaling Station at the property’s north and One Tree Point to the south. There are two bedrooms and a bunk room, fireplace, barbeque, beach essentials and outdoor hot tub for stargazing. You can arrange for local chef Luke Burgess to cook you a long lunch, tailoring the menu to seasonal ingredients and cooking over embers.
Additional reporting by Chynna Santos.
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