My travel plans usually prioritise a bit of luxury along the way, stays to look forward to after a few “on budget” accoms 🙂
Tasmania provided for quite a few such opportunities, albeit a saw a number of others that were already booked, the consequence of late bookings due to these uncertain times, now earmarked for a return.
Narrapumelap Historic House
As mentioned before however, my highlight of the trip was staying at the Narrapumelap Historic House in Wickliffe (VIC). I saw it on TA as a potential road stop of interest, but reviews mentioned the sensational accom, not on any booking website though. A call to Kevin and yes, for direct bookings only, you can have this place all to yourself.
Narrapumelap is open 10 to 4 most days by appointment, to be shown around, and Kevin’s passion for his restoration is quickly evident as you wander through the house (more pictures below) and up the tower. Then you get to his fully renovated Butlers Wing, and wow, you couldn’t ask for much more in this well appointed, sensationally comfortable stay. From which, you are welcome to take your torch and explore the house & tower during the night, and I recommend being in the tower for Sunrise & Sunset. Its only one accommodation choice on offer, so you have the place absolutely to yourselves.
For Tasmania itself, the stand out would have to have been Penghana in Queenstown.
The hosts Karen & Steve, of this National Trust listed property, made the stay all so much better with their welcome, drives to & from dinner, and personal touches like a fresh fruitcake that would rival the best chefs creations.
The Owen Suite would be the best choice, but I can’t see anyone being disappointed with any of the rooms.
Its a short walk from here to the Heritage Railway trips, the likely main reason to visit Queenstown.
The other 100yo+ stays along the way included (photos below)
- Amelias Cottage @ Duck Houses (Burnie)
- Arcoona Manor (Deloraine)
- Cambridge House (Geevstown)
- Claremont House (Claremont near Hobart)
- Colhurst House (Mt Gambier SA)
- Duffy’s Country Cottage (Mt Field region)
- Franklin Manor (Strahan)
- Kurrajong House (Launceston)
- Maylands Lodge (Hobart)
- The Grand on McFie (Devonport)
- & Windradyne BNB on the cliff front at Katoomba
Lynne at Amelia’s in Burnie set the tone for a very comfortable stay, you have the whole house to yourselves and it gave me vivid memories of my Grandma Sarah Arnott (yes, the biscuit family)
Maree at Arcoona Manor was equally delightful, and the manor & grounds are a true step back in time. A very pleasant night spent playing snooker on the 12×6′ table with other guests over Port.
Karen & Glen at Cambridge House provided a fabulous breakfast, with the bonus of resident Wild Platypus in the river at the bottom of the Garden.
Claremont House outside of Hobart offered a massive King room and spa, direct access to the balcony with a view over the Derwent to Cadburys factor, and Jack the charming random horse
Patti at Colhurst House was a welcoming host, the White Room upstairs was one of the most spacious stays.
Annette at the beautifully landscaped Duffys Country Accom provided a relaxed, very clean & comfortable stay with a very luxury country feel and verandah vista.
Marcus and the charming sooky cuddling Mr Henri made Franklin Manor at Strahan that extra special. A great midway location to walk to either the Steam Rail trips or Gordon River Cruises
Linda & Andre at Kurrajong House were memorable for all the right reasons, what a breakfast !
Maylands Lodge was more the whole package, modernised old world with sensational views of Mt Wellington.
Ben & Paul at The Grand on McFie have done a great job bringing their house on the hill back to its original glory. Watch the Spirit of Tassie come & go, and an easy walk to lots of dining.
And to wrap up this grateful thanks to hosts that make a huge difference, Veronica at Windradyne Boutique BNB could not have been more gracious, a beautiful experience in an unparalled location, topped with a lavish breakfast.
Save these links as inspirations for your future travels.
and then, the truly special, Narrapumelap Historic House
