PUMPHOUSE POINT
Equal parts boutique hotel and bucket-list experience, Pumphouse Point is the ultimate getaway in the experiential age. Minimalist luxury colours every aspect of a stay at this heritage hydroelectric landmark on Lake St Clair, from lakeside Shorehouse rooms to the new ultra-modern retreat. Mohair throws, wood-fired lounges and in-room fridges stocked with Tasmanian treats mean that roughing it in this World Heritage wilderness sanctuary is confined to the great outdoors. Walks range from gentle to challenging, or borrow a rowboat and fishing rod for offshore exploration. The setting screams Instagram, but the absence of WiFi and abundance of serenity suggest switching off is the better option. 1 Lake St Clair Rd, Lake St Clair, 0428 090 436, pumphousepoint.com.au The Shorehouse’s dining room and lounge has been cleverly renovated with exposed timbers, firefly bulbs and grey-felt seating pods.
Staff are on speed dial, to deliver a complimentary loaf of warmed bread, emergency brie or pâté, or simply to provide guidance on catching that elusive trout (and then arranging for the chef to cook it). A breakfast buffet with a difference features free-range eggs for guests to boil to taste (timers provided), toasties to assemble and granola to anoint with local yoghurt and honey. Communal three-course set-menu dinners ($56) are served family style. Raid in-room fridges for Coal River Farm brie, wood-roasted salmon, Mures chowder and plenty more for a carpet picnic.
Three honesty bars and in-room fridges feature a top-notch selection of Tasmanian wine, beer and mixers.
WHERE About 175km from Launceston and Hobart, a three-hour drive from both. COST
From $280, with breakfast. AT A GLANCE
19 rooms and villa; bars, restaurant, free parking, free bikes and rowboats, adults only.
IN ROOM No WiFi, coffee machines, some baths, pillow menu, Sukin toiletries, heated bathroom floor.
BEST ROOM The new on-shore Retreat is an ultra-luxe, utterly private escape for two featuring indoor and outdoor baths, wood heater and well-stocked complimentary minibar.