On Board Cruise

Designed to embrace its stunning surroundings, Saffire is a natural treasure tucked away on Tasmania’s undisturbed shores. Located on what was once a caravan park site, a great deal of time has been spent revegetating the site with 30,000 native plants to encourage a return to its natural form. This boutique lodge has been showered in praise since opening in 2010. Its unique stingray-shaped design was carefully crafted to blend into the surrounding environment while creating a modern and ultra-luxe getaway.

Its 20 luxury suites boast unadulterated views across Great Oyster Bay to the Hazards Mountain Range, all from the comfort of absolute luxury. The décor throughout is warm and earthy and the premium suites have spacious living areas, a private kitchen and dining room where the chef can come and cook for you. They also have private courtyard plunge pools.

Saffire has an emphasis on supporting the local environment and uses local, seasonal and organic produce in the restaurant that is grown in the chef’s garden. The lodge also works with the Save the Tasmanian Devil program, set up in response to the decline of more than 80 percent of the native marsupials due to an infectious cancer. In a one-hectare, free-range devil enclosure, Saffire provides mature devils with a safe environment and also gives guests the rare opportunity to see the devils in a natural habitat.

As well as learning about conservation efforts in the region, Saffire guests can indulge in a multitude of complimentary experiences, from visiting a working oyster farm to sample Pacific oysters and regional wines to guided vineyard tours, canoeing, bird watching or nature walks. If that all sounds a bit much, then you can always just head to the state-of-the-art spa for the ultimate pampering.

The original inhabitants of Lake St Clair referred to it as Sleeping Water and a stay at Pumphouse Point is to experience the calm and natural beauty of the Tasmanian wilderness.

In 1940, the construction of a five-storey pumphouse began to house enormous water turbines to pump water from Lake St Clair into the nearby St Clair Lagoon. After being decommissioned in the 90s, the building was purchased and in 2015, turned into luxury accommodation. The design of Pumphouse Point is inspired by the industrial heritage of the building. Little has been done to the exterior and the interiors are simple but incredibly comfortable, so as not to detract from its character and the incredible setting.

Located 250m out into Lake St Clair is The Pumphouse, where 12 bedrooms are spread over three levels. Each room enjoys beautiful views out across the water and there are cosy lounges on the first two levels, with bay windows facing the mountains.

The Shorehouse is the former sub station located on the banks of the lake. Six rooms look out over the lake or the bush, and the ground floor is dedicated to the dining room and lounge.

And hidden on the edge of the lake, hugged by native bush, The Retreat is an opulent private cabin and modern architectural gem for two.

Each evening guests come together to savour the flavours of the Tasmanian with sharing platters brought to the table. In each of the rooms there is a larder filled with delicious soups, cheeses, cured meats as well as wine, beers and the island’s famous cider, ensuring you don’t have to go far to enjoy a lovely culinary journey.

It is no surprise that some of the most popular activities in the area are the walking routes, over 100km of them cutting their way through giant myrtle forests or along Lakes St Claire and Shadow. This is even before mentioning the world-famous Overland Track and the great spots for trout fishing.

One of only a handful of art hotels in the world, the Henry Jones expertly blends heritage and contemporary design, and enjoys a unique location in Hobart’s original waterfront warehouses.

The site’s history dates back to 1804 and at one time the buildings hosted the nation’s most successful companies, including Henry Jones’ jam factory. Henry Jones was one of Australia’s most successful businessmen and the first Tasmanian to be knighted.

Everything is considered here, with award-winning architecture and furniture design complimenting the artwork itself. Over 500 original and contemporary works of art are exhibited throughout the hotel, showcasing Tasmania’s leading and emerging artists.

There are 56 rooms, all with individual traits and characteristics. Many have retained original features such as the 19^th-century sandstone walls and rough-hewn timber window frames that frame views of the harbour, city and mountains.

The Peacock and Jones restaurant is inspired by Tasmanian produce and the changing seasons, while the Jam Packed Café brews up aromatic coffees and serves delicious craft beer. The IXL Long Bar is ideal for relaxing and enjoying an expertly mixed cocktail or glass of Australian wine.

You’re ideally situated to explore bustling Hobart and the hotel can arrange for classic car rental for a drive out into the countryside. If wildlife is more your thing, there are several reserves nearby as well as cruises that show off Tasmania’s ocean scenery.

Found in the port city of Hobart, the Islington Hotel is a small and exclusive hotel. Its history dates back to 1847 and the interiors are befitting of the Regency style in which it was built. From the outside, however, the hotel is thoroughly contemporary with a floor-to-ceiling glass facade.

The are just 11 rooms, each beautifully styled with fine art, antiques and rich fabrics. Some may be tucked up high at the top of the stairs, providing views of surrounding mountains, while others are more private with terraces opening onto verdant gardens filled with flowering rhododendron and cherry trees.

In terms of dining, the kitchen at the Islington is one that focuses on seasonal and organic produce, with an emphasis on exceptional local offerings.

Close by is the fascinating MONA, Museum of Old and New Art. For the discerning connoisseur, visit the many boutique wineries of the Coal Valley region. The famous Salamanca Market is a must, opening every Saturday without fail.