Tasmania is renowned for its expansive mountain ranges, turquoise bays and swathes of greenery. Its landscapes rival some of the most beautiful destinations globally, so what better way to drink them in than from the comfort of a luxury farm stay? Here are five of the best
Lumière Lodge
Lumière Lodge opened its doors in the Winter of 2019, having been restored to its original Victorian-era beauty by owners Kerran and Samuel. Tucked away in the mountain range of Knocklofty Reserve, Lumière Lodge is just a short drive from the city centre and popular eateries. However, it is arguable guests would rather cook up a storm in the traditional English kitchen adorned with Neff appliances and a deep trough overlooking the cottage garden, rather than eat out.
The lodge is designed to feel like a home away from home; a location for guests to fully unwind and sip whisky by the fire or slip into the clawed foot bath. Beautiful antique oil paintings, chandeliers and stained-glass windows reflect a luxurious, yet robust feel.
The Granary
A homestead set within the Richmond Hill Garden, The Granary overlooks the beautiful Macquarie River in the heart of Northern Tasmania, just a scenic 20-minute drive from Launceston Airport. The three-bedroom farm stay offers panoramic views and the comforts of home. The surrounding landscaping at The Granary is a highlight, with a gentle mix of formal and cottage gardens with an emphasis on herbaceous borders.
A complimentary tour of the main homestead garden is also available for guests, along with an extensive list of activities, such as visits to the Blenheim Gallery and Garden, Woolmers Estate, Fly fishing in the Great Lakes, The Launceston harvest market and the town of Evandale. Guests can opt for in-house catering by the team at Hubert & Dan or a pre-made degustation from the team at Alps & Amici, or cook up a storm themselves, with sought-after grocery stores and markets just around the corner.
Leighton House
Sitting pretty in the heart of Evandale, Leighton House is a remodel of a family farmhouse turned luxury farm stay. The property sits on 300 acres of farmland right by the South Esk River and offers panoramic views of Ben Lomond Mountain. The original homestead, which comprises three guest rooms, was built in the 1840s but has since been reconfigured and sparked with new life. A contemporary additional wing has extended the property, embodying the fusion of modern design with architectural heritage.
Activities at Leighton House are catered exclusively to each guest, from antique and art lovers to sport enthusiasts alike, with highlights including a visit to MONA, a Tamar Valley wine road trip and a mid-morning trail of Wineglass Bay. Specialty food stores nearby include Evandale General Store and Bread & Butter, where you can pick up delicious baked goods and coffee.
Islington Hotel
Originally built in 1847, Islington Hotel is perched in the exclusive enclave of South Hobart, just a stone’s throw from the city and national parks and boasting panoramic views of Mount Wellington. This luxury boutique hotel is adult-only and comprises 11 guest rooms showcasing an aesthetic that melds Art Deco design with aristocratic features. At the Islington Hotel, there is a strong emphasis on local, premium Tasmanian produce that is ethically and sustainably sourced, from coastal seas, lush paddocks or forest depths. At Islington Hotel the devil is in the details: the kitchen staff rise before the sun to freshly make their bread, pastries and condiments for guests to enjoy throughout their stay. Guests can mingle amongst themselves between the Library, Conservatory and Morning and Rose rooms, which are adorned with an impressive collection of fine art and antique furnishings.
Satellite Island
It may not be the traditional type of farm stay that comes to mind, however, Satellite Island is an icon for a reason. Secluded away from the mainland on a 76-acre private island, when you hire Satellite Island, you are hiring the whole island, not just a hotel room. There is a two-bedroom Boathouse that sits perched over the water, making up the three accommodation venues available, in addition to the luxury bell tent and three-bedroom Summerhouse. With a maximum occupancy of eight guests, Satellite Island is as exclusive and luxurious as it is a raw immersion of Tasmania’s environment.
Visitors have access to the orchard and organic veggie patch, as well as the freshly caught seafood and shucked-on-the-spot oysters straight off the jetty. A boat transports guests to and from the island, and a 24-hour seafaring concierge is available. Satellite Island is not short of activities on offer, with fishing equipment, kayaks, snorkels, stand-up paddle boards, yoga mats and flippers, available for guests to take as they please.
