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There's no shortage of beautiful places to stay in Tasmania. There's so much to see and do, however, that first time visitors can find it tricky to narrow things down ahead of time. Conscious of the plethora of choice, our Gurus have put together a list of 10 top spots for those dreaming of gorgeous waterfront views whilst on the island. Perfect for couples, friends or families travelling together, these sleek design hotels, beachfront retreats and remote lodges in unspoilt national parks are all very special. They also all face bodies of water: the meandering Derwent River, sparkling lakes or the vast ocean itself. So whether you're envisaging days of kayaking and birdwatching, touring art galleries and vineyards, or simply soaking up the sunshine from your private balcony — you need look no further!
For Intimate Charm
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- Truffle Lodge offers five indulgent tents on the banks of the Derwent River. A wonderfully tranquil escape for couples or groups of friends, the lodge promises river views from each guest room, as well as from the convivial main lodge, where three-course dinners and fireside games await. Interiors feature double beds, patterned rugs and wooden bathtubs, opening onto private terraces. A charming return to nature.
- Woodbridge on the Derwent, an imposing 1825-built heritage residence, also overlooks the Derwent River. Just 25 minutes' drive from Hobart, this restful country house invites guests to unwind with crackling fireplaces, classic bedrooms, a cosy library and an extensive wine cellar. Paddle board and kayak on the river, or cycle along its banks before sinking into the hot tub. A blissful wine country base.
- The Cove is made up of just four spacious suites, each with views over Little Oyster Bay in coastal Kettering. Airy, understated spaces have big beds, indulgent bathrooms and private balconies. Gather in the guest lounge for hearty breakfasts or cosy evenings by the fire. Brilliant for relaxed couples.
For a Lakeside Lodge
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- Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge, in the enormous Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park, is a fabulous base for keen explorers of all ages. Trek and bike through the National Park, spotting wallabies, wombats, possums and endemic birds, before returning to the spoiling Waldheim Alpine Spa. Couples will adore generous suites, whilst families can pile in to multi-bedroom cabins. A luxurious escape.
- Thousand Lakes Lodge has just nine contemporary guest rooms, each with whitewashed walls and high ceilings. Set in one of Tasmania's most rugged regions, this bolthole on the banks of Lake Augusta encourages adventurers to spend days hiking, fishing, mountain biking and wildlife-spotting in the wilderness before returning to the lodge for delicious dinners and chats by the fire in the enormous lounge. Off-grid and adults only.
For Sleek Design
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- MACq 01, on the Hobart waterfront, offers sleek contemporary design in an unmissable building with a glittering metal roof and pale wooden siding. Modern guest rooms and suites have floor-to-ceiling windows, big photographs as headboards, and unique designer furnishings. Tours of the hotel — and the wider city — are fascinating, and will delight art and architecture aficionados.
- Mona Pavilions, in the grounds of the acclaimed MONA Museum on the Morilla Estate, is a slick spot with design-led houses overlooking the Derwent River. Bold, ultra-modern spaces feature geometric shapes, lots of glass, and pops of red, orange and purple against a largely monochromatic palette. Ideal for design lovers looking to discover the museum, take vineyard tours and feast at the Mediterranean restaurant. There's an indoor pool, gym and sauna, too.
- Stillwater Seven has been a foodie favourite for years. Chef Craig Will's award-winning restaurant also offers seven glamorous suites, where cool, contemporary design meets the classic character of the building. A carefully restored 1830s riverside flour mill, the space oozes character. A lesson in sophisticated style.
For an Oceanfront Escape
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- Piermont Retreat, on Tasmania's tranquil east coast, offers multi-bedroom cottages and cabins set around a 19th-century farmhouse. Facing two superb private beaches, these pretty cottages are decorated in warm, earthy tones, with big kitchens, sitting rooms with log fires and sink-into bathtubs. Swim, surf, kayak and hike, before tucking in to terrific seasonal cuisine with family and friends.
- Freycinet Lodge sits in the remote Freycinet National Park, an oasis for adventurers eager to trek, kayak, take ATV tours and spot wildlife with expert naturalists. Comfortable modern cabins overlook Coles Bay and verdant forests. Superb.