Relaxing at Tasmania's Freycinet Lodge

This secluded, recently revamped lodge on Tasmania’s east coast will take you back to nature – with a top drop of red at the ready. 

The lodge

Spread across 6.6 hectares of Freycinet National Park, the lodge features a cast of cabins and new pavilions dotted in bushland, as well as a central sanctuary where you’ll find reception, dining, a gift shop and views of Great Oyster Bay. Set out on a day hike and return to cocktails by the fire or walk to dinner under conceitedly bright stars, guided by a torch and the glow of the eyes of curious possums keeping watch. Who says you need to rough it to be at one with nature?

Image: Alastair Bett

The room

You could book a cabin but if you want to up the indulgence, opt for the recently unveiled Coastal Pavilions. Constructed from local oak and ironbark, our Coastal Pavilion Bay View room is shaped like two curved wings; one side houses a king-sized bedroom, the other a cool lounge area. Both abut a private deck that has netted balustrades you can lie in like a hammock while you’re looking out at the bay. The architecture may be bold but it’s the thoughtful touches – a cupboard full of board games, another with yoga mats – that make this a room to remember.

Image: Alastair Bett

The lowdown

Location Three hours from Hobart, on Tasmania’s rugged east coast.

Number of guestrooms Nine new Coastal Pavilions, plus 54 cabins.

Check in/out 2pm/10am.

Food and drink The Bay Restaurant has a firm focus on local seafood, Richardson’s Bistro is a more casual affair and Hazards Bar and Lounge is great for drinks by the fire. The gift shop sells wines and snacks.

Wellness There’s no spa or gym so make the most of the hiking trails, stunning beaches and picturesque bay, where you can kayak.

Business facilities Four onsite venues cater for a meeting of 10 or a conference of up to 110.

Minibar A small but thoughtful selection of locally made sweets, cheeses, wines and beers.

Water in room Bottled water (600ml; $4) is available or sip tap water from Villeroy & Boch glasses.

Room service Cheese, charcuterie or seafood platters, $45 each. We opted for charcuterie, which arrived at our door in 15 minutes.

Pillow menu Five types, from feather to microfibre and latex.

Bath On the deck, private and under the stars. Need we say more?

Bathrobe Super-soft microfibre.

Amenities Appelles Apothecary & Lab.

The housekeeping test It took four minutes for reception to arrive to deal with an uncooperative bedside light – and they had a way to walk.

TV and movies Free-to-air and more than 400 movies available from $5.95. All free in pavilions.

Wi-fi Complimentary in the lodge and Coastal Pavilions. Telstra coverage only in the national park.

Price From $599 a night (including breakfast for two).

Ask for... a Coastal Pavilion Bay View room.

Verdict The perfect blend of grit and glamour.

Top image: Alastair Bett

SEE ALSO: The Cosy Tasmanian Lodge Luring Adventure Lovers