10 Wonderful Waterfront Hotels in Tasmania

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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Tasmania.
• Alternatively, check out our list of 11 Great Group Getaways in Tasmania.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

  • Truffle Lodge Gretna, Tasmania 5 rooms from €528

    
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    Back to Nature  -  A gorgeous glamping escape on the banks of the Derwent River, with walks, boat rides & wildlife-spotting on your doorstep

    Canoeing  -  Glide along the Derwent River by canoe, discovering the beautiful valley with its surrounding hills, farms and wildlife

    Great walks  -  Follow walking trails through Mount Field National Park, or take trails to Russell Falls and Tall Trees

    Groups  -  Book the whole place for a group retreat or outdoorsy celebration with friends

    

    A gorgeous glamping retreat, with five luxurious tents on the banks of the tranquil Derwent River. Tents feature double beds, patterned rugs, private terraces & ensuite bathrooms with big wooden tubs. Guests gather in the main lodge for breakfasts, three-course dinners & games by the fire. Lovely. See More

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  • Woodbridge on the Derwent near Hobart, New Norfolk, Tasmania from €315

    
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    Watersports  -  Swim in the river, or hone your paddle boarding or hydro bike skills out on the water as you admire beautiful views

    Great walks  -  Follow mapped trails through the hotel grounds, including gorgeous riverside walks, or stroll into town to explore

    Local exploring  -  A beautiful base for exploring the Derwent River or the plethora or nearby eateries, pubs and boutiques on foot

    Country Escape  -  A gorgeous rural escape, with a historic country house dating back to 1825 and oozing luxury charm

    

    Eight luxury suites in historic 1825 convict-built riverside mansion, only 25 minutes from Hobart. Family owned and run, with a private ballroom, library and open fireplaces. A great base for exploring renowned local cuisine and wine producers. See More

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  • The Cove Kettering, Tasmania 4 rooms from €164

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Four luxurious suites, each with a private balcony, close to Little Oyster Bay — perfect for a romantic break

    Local exploring  -  Brilliantly placed for discovering Bruny Island and the coast, yet also within easy reach of lively Hobart

    Local markets  -  Drive 30 minutes into Hobart for the fabulous Salamanca Markets, where 300 stallholders gather with fresh produce & crafts

    Great walks  -  Head inland to follow verdant hiking paths amidst the forests near Samson Falls, or part of the famed Huon Trail

    

    A collection of four contemporary suites with views towards Little Oyster Bay in coastal Kettering. Sleek, airy spaces have big beds, cosy sofas & private balconies. Guests share access to a guest lounge with a crackling fireplace & inviting breakfast area. Lovely & luxurious. See More

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  • Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge Cradle Mountain, Tasmania 86 rooms from €357

    
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    Country Escape  -  A beautiful rural escape in the stunning surroundings of Cradle Mountain, perfect for outdoorsy types who also appreciate luxury

    Romantic Break  -  A romantic lodge with indulgnet guest rooms, a superb spa and hot tubs with verdant views & plenty of privacy

    Other Activities  -  Take to the skies to see dazzling Cradle Mountain and the surrounding national park from the air

    Outstanding location  -  Located on the edge of the spectacular World Heritage listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

    

    Recommended by  -  Fodors

    A Tasmanian wilderness experience that's hard to beat. Four different styles of accommodation including suites and standalone family friendly cabins. A fabulous spa sanctuary makes this the perfect base for trekking in the Cradle Mountain area. See More

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  • Thousand Lakes Lodge Liawenee, Tasmania 9 rooms from €230

    
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    Active Holiday  -  Experience adventure in the Tasmanian wilderness, with hiking, fishing, e-biking, mountain biking and wildlife-spotting

    Wildlife Area  -  Spotted-tail quolls, wombats, wallabies, ringtail possums andlLong-nosed potoroos can all be spotted nearby

    Cycling  -  Explore the western lakes of the Central Plateau World Heritage area on the new off road e-bikes

    Eco break  -  An enchanting off-grid and eco-sensitive lodge in a beautiful part of Tasmania

    

    An adult-only contemporary lodge offering luxury accommodation in one of Tasmania's most epic and rugged regions. An enormous lounge features vast swathes of glass and an equally impressive double sided fireplace. A place to come and discover the 'real' Tasmania. See More

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  • MACq 01 Hobart (Australia) 114 rooms from €214

    
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    Mountain biking  -  The Bangor Adventure uses pedal assisted electric mountain bikes to explore Bangor, an extraordinary private Tasmanian property

    Local exploring  -  Close to Constitution Dock with its fishing boats and pleasure craft, Salamanca Place, Franklin Square and St David’s Park

    Hotel Entertainment  -  Listen to the Master Storyteller and his team of full-time Storytellers who speak of local tales of Tasmania

    City Style  -  A hugely chic city hotel, with a real focus on hip contemporary design & original artwork

    

    Situated on a wharf offering stunning views over the waterfront, river and mountains. Interiors are elegant and modern with light rooms boasting indulgent bathrooms and private terraces. Featuring an interesting storytelling theme and offering organised tours of the hotel and city. Superb. See More

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  • Mona Pavilions Berriedale, Hobart, Tasmania from €432

    
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    Romantic Break  -  A luxury gem for design-focused romantics, with spacious suites featuring artwork, dazzling views & a real sense of glamour

    Foodies  -  Mediterranean-inspired restaurant the Source is a destination in itself, with fresh flavours & sensational seafood

    Local markets  -  Take the hotel's boat along the river to Salamanca in Hobart, where 300 stalls sell local produce each Saturday

    Museums  -  Beautifully placed to visit the acclaimed Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Slick, contemporary self-catering pavilions on the Morilla Estate a short ferry ride from Hobart in the grounds of the acclaimed Mona. Festivals, culture courses, with free museum entry, a gym, sauna and heated indoor infinity pool await at this super-stylish escape. See More

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  • Stillwater Seven Launceston (Tasmania) 7 rooms from €213

    
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    Foodies  -  Chef Craig Will's seven course tasting menus at the award-winning Stillwater Restaurant are the stuff of foodie dreams

    Romantic Break  -  Indulgent suites are hugely romantic, and perfect for unwinding with river views after delicious dinners

    Fishing  -  Take day trips to the Western Lakes for some of the world's best trout fishing — the Stillwater team can cook up your catch, too

    Restaurant  -  The Stillwater Restaurant has been a gastronomic landmark for two decades, showcasing top Tasmanian produce in innovative ways

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Housed in an 1830s riverside flour mill on the edge of Launceston, Stillwater welcomes guests to seven beautiful suites with handmade furnishings & moody tones. Honouring the history of the building, these unique spaces have exposed beams & stone, big beds & river views. The restaurant is legendary. See More

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  • Piermont Retreat Swansea, Tasmania 28 rooms from €269

    
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    Families  -  The estate and wild surroundings are brilliant for older children or teenagers who can fully enjoy the outdoor adventures

    Wildlife Area  -  The nearby Freycinet National Park, a wildlife hub, stretches from the heathlands to the beaches of the Tasman Sea

    Back to Nature  -  A beautiful escape on Tasmania's remote east coast, with eco-conscious cottages & suites in rugged seaside grounds

    Kayaking  -  Borrow one of the hotel’s kayaks and paddle along the coast

    

    A stylish and romantic coastal retreat with access to two stunning private beaches. Charming cottages are clad in earthy tones, and feature log fires, spa baths and full kitchens. Many also boast ocean views. Flavoursome seasonal fare and a plethora of activities complete the picture. Exceptional. See More

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  • Freycinet Lodge Coles Bay, Tasmania 60 rooms from €239

    
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    Families  -  Family Cabins sleep up to 5 guests & activities for all ages include sea kayaking, boat rides, walking & wildlife tours

    Romantic Break  -  A wonderfully romantic escape in the Frecinet National Park, ideal for outdoorsy couples seeking secluded indulgence

    Views  -  Magical views over Coles Bay

    Outstanding location  -  Set between the long curve of Richardson’s Beach and rocky Honeymoon Bay on the remote east coast of Tasmania

    

    A collection of understated coastal cabins & pavilions on beautiful Coles Bay in the remote Freycinet National Park. Crisp contemporary spaces have clean lines & earthy colour palettes: the focus is very much on the views. Two excellent restaurants, a buzzy bar & myriad outdoorsy activities await. See More

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Written by Saskia Walker

posted Wednesday, 8th May 2024