A delightful country experience just an hour from Hobart

Fancy an old-style bed and breakfast stay in an elegant Tasmanian heritage homestead with a fascinating history? 

Or maybe a budget break in old shearers' cottages with en suite bathrooms in the heart of a historic working sheep farm? 

Perhaps a stay in a self-contained one-bedroom rural cottage with up to six friends? 

Alternatively how about getting a few friends together for a pay two/stay three deal.

All are among the many possibilities at Rathmore Accommodation, a "rustic chic" destination just a one-hour drive from Hobart but in the heart of the Derwent Valley countryside. 

This is a real country experience. You'll need to make sure the front gate is closed to prevent the sheep from escaping; a couple of roosters and their flocks roam freely and many guests report sightings of platypi on the property's dam. Some of the resident horses enjoy a carrot or two from guests.

Dinner can be enjoyed in the guest house, or ordered to “heat and eat” or cook on a barbecue, campfire or slow cooker. There are also a couple of nearby pubs.

Hampers or cheese and charcuterie platters for a barn or Dew Rivulet picnic can be arranged with advanced notice. You have 37 hectares to explore. Wine and art retreats are held occasionally. 

Those staying in the main house may have to share bathrooms if the property is full - a small price to pay for such generous hospitality as that provided by owners Richard and Cally Lyons. Sole use bathrooms can be arranged, so ask.

The Georgian homestead has been beautifully restored, with four guest rooms available for stays of two nights or more and a delightful shared lounge.

There are three outdoor campfire and barbecues available for those staying in the shearers' cottage and post-Covid three nights for the price of two deals are available for groups.

When it rains, the peaceful Dew Rivulet that runs through the property turns into a roaring torrent. At other times you can fish for trout and enjoy the bird and wildlife.

A great experience for city kids of all ages, who will enjoy exploring old sheds and outdoor dunnies.    

There are several gourmet diversions on the way in or out: including The Agrarian Kitchen in New Norfolk, The Larder at Sfefano Lubiana Wines and stunning Lawrenny Distillery for gin and whisky tasting just down the road.

Rathmore is at 2158 Hollow Tree Rd, Hollow Tree, TAS 7140. www.rathmore.com.au