31 October 2023
13 mins Read
Just as Tassie’s food and wine scene has come of age, so too has the island’s accommodation offering; and nowhere is the transformation more apparent than in Tasmania’s capital. There are now a number of standout properties all jostling for your attention within the confines of this small city, whatever your budget and taste. Some of the city’s hotels have serious design credentials and are not just celebrated on a local scale, but number among Australia’s best.
It’s not all about luxury, no expense spared stays here though either. Hobart’s accommodation scene is also home to some quaint and arty hostels, well-maintained caravan parks and a glut of cosy Airbnbs too. Read on to find out where to stay in Hobart on your next trip to the Apple Isle.
There’s no shortage of boutique hotels in Hobart. Whether you’re on the lookout for a heritage hotel that boasts a wealth of history and character, an elegant and serene retreat outside of the Tassie capital’s CBD or a serviced aparthotel with impressive harbour views, these Hobart hotels deliver. And today, you can expect plenty more than just a room: the city’s newest additions also boast bars and restaurants to rival even the most established culinary players.
A waterfront haven that’s the favoured hang-out for cashed-up hipsters. That pretty much sums up The Henry Jones Art Hotel in a nutshell. Their rooms and suites are decked out in industrial rawness. No room is the same here, with fireplaces, terraces and kitchenettes in some and whirlpool baths and living areas in others. You’ll have trouble choosing where to eat from the two restaurants and a cafe on site. But no worries if you choose them all, the fitness centre will help you lose some of those holiday kilos.
The industrial rawness aesthetic of bedrooms at the Henry Jones Art Hotel. (Image: The Henry Jones /Adam Gibson)
A fantastic example of Regency architecture set among sculpted gardens with views to Mount Wellington. Like The Henry Jones, The Islington is a curated hotel. This one is filled with original art and antiques from the owner’s private collection. While it is slightly removed from the centre of Hobart CBD, this won’t feel like a city location, and more like a mountain-lodge getaway. If you’re in desperate need of luxury and tranquillity, this is the place to be. With only 11 rooms and rainfall showers with roaring fireplaces, this is the destination you’ve been dreaming of.
The Islington is a fantastic example of Regency architecture. (Image: The Islington Hotel)
Set right along the water, this gorgeous structure that is the Somerset was originally built in the 1930s but had a huge refurb to modernise the style. Every type of accommodation here is loft styled, with one or two bedrooms to choose from. You’ve got a full kitchen and dining area overlooking the water, so have some eggs and bacon while watching the sunrise on the harbour. If you’ve exhausted yourself from all those adventures during the day, head down to reception to choose a complimentary DVD rental to buckle down for the night.
Take advantage of the waterfront location of the Somerset. (Image: Somerset on the Pier)
If you’re searching for great value accommodation in a Heritage-listed hotel, then check into Customs House Hotel right now. Located right on the waterfront and in the heart of the Hobart CBD, this place is only a few steps away from Salamanca and Battery Point. Rooms start at $190 a night for a Standard Queen but if you want to turn it up a notch, the Waterfront Queen is only an extra $30 (WOW). Every guest receives a complimentary cooked breakfast for two, so you can’t go wrong spending a night or two here.
Customs House is only a few steps away from Salamanca and Battery Point. (Image: Customs House)
An entirely modern hotel, the MACq 01 took over the previous shipping shed that once stood and is now a prime accommodation spot for visitors. The decor is quirky with dark tones, which goes well with the sun-lit room. The rooms, while small, are incredibly comfortable, with a minibar stocked full of goodies and a bed you just want to jump onto. Head out onto your personal deck through the sliding glass doors and see the jaw-dropping view. Pop downstairs for dinner at their waterfront restaurant, Old Wharf Restaurant, and order the freshest catch of the day you’ve ever eaten. Add a butler service or the in-room massage to your bill and treat yourself.
Quirky and dark decor contrast against well-lit rooms at the MACQ 01 Hotel. (Image: MACq 01 and Adam Gibson)
The Hotel Grand Chancellor has got a great spot overlooking the harbour of Hobart. Full of all the best amenities, treat yourself to the fitness centre, do a couple of laps in the indoor pool and then enjoy a fancy dinner at their upscale restaurant. And if you’ve got a spare afternoon, book yourself a spot at their afternoon tea session, filling yourself with the best finger sandwiches and scones. The stunning harbour and mountain views will make you forget that you’re right in the heart of the Tasmanian CBD.
Stay at the Hotel Grand Chancellor for all the trappings of a luxury hotel. (Image: Hotel Grand Chancellor)
Open since December 2021, this Hobart scene-stealer was six years in the making, bringing together not two but three buildings in the city’s heart. It’s the first Marriott Luxury Collection hotel in all of Australia – clearly the conglomerate’s bigwigs know a city on the up when they see one – and it promises abundant luxe touches… Cashmere throws, rain showers, high ceilings, 400 thread count linens, locally made leatherwood honey soap produced specially for the hotel, suites with fireplaces. If you’re after luxury accommodation in Hobart, The Tasman has you covered.
The Tasman is the first Marriott Luxury Collection hotel in all of Australia. (Image: The Marriott)
As the folks over at the Mona like to say, “come and stay with us at Mona – not in the museum (unless you’re dead)”. These cutting-edge self-contained villas at Moorilla Estate are truly a one-of-a-kind accommodation experience. These villas contain pieces of artwork from the MONA collections and are named after influential Australian architects and artists. You can choose from Roy, Robin, Esmond, Walter, Charles, Brett, Arthur and Sidney. There’s a heated infinity pool, gym and sauna on the grounds and one big touch that they’ve included is a personal security screen. Just in case you have any unwanted guests (literally) come knocking on your door.
The interiors of the Esmond Pavilion. (Image: Mona and Rémi Chauvin)
Hobart, or French countryside? This luxe traditional French provincial-inspired chateau is only 15 minutes outside of Hobart in Howden. Complete with traditional Parisian decor and furnishings, you’ll feel a million miles away from home in this deluxe estate. Once you’ve dumped your bags on the bed, hop down to the indoor saltwater pool for some pre-dinner laps. The cocktail bar is the perfect setting for your pre-dinner drinks, and after you’ve downed a few Aperol Spritzes, head into the bay-view dining room for a meal to die for. Did we mention that this place is pet-friendly too? So the whole family can join.
Villa Howden’s deluxe estate transports you to provincial France. (Image: Alice Hansen)
Given Hobart’s artistic cachet, it’s no surprise that this regional capital is awash with beautiful homes. From one-bedroom units perfect for a couple’s weekend getaway to historic two-bedroom cottages with plenty of personality, these Hobart Airbnbs promise lashings of style, a fair whack of space and the hallowed opportunity to live like a local. If you’re wondering where to stay in Hobart, why not try one of the below options for size.
Situated in Sandy Bay, a 15-minute walk from the CBD, this Hobart Airbnb ticks lots of boxes. Superhost Matt’s one-bedroom Sandy Bay apartment is as schmick as they come, all smokey greys and muted sage interiors with matt black fittings and fixtures here and there. And the well-equipped kitchen deserves special mention – might we suggest picking up some glorious local produce from one of the city’s weekly markets, and then devouring the fruits of your labour in the apartment’s cute outdoor dining area? As an added convenience, you can even lock in access to Matt’s car, should you wish.
The muted sage and smokey grey interior of this Airbnb is sure to put you in a zen mood. (Image: Sayer Gardens Apartment)
Your home away from home, this cosy West Hobart Airbnb strikes just the right balance between comfort and aesthetics. A gorgeous brick building that dates back to the 1850s, The Pickers’ Cottage has two bedrooms and is a great spot for small families – think black-out blinds, a travel cot, games and a high chair. And perhaps best of all, this little find is located within a stone’s throw from one of Hobart’s brunch institutions, Pigeon Hole. Beyond the cottage’s luxurious feel, it’s the attention to detail (think breakfast provisions and a handwritten welcome note) that really clinch the deal here.
The Pickers’ Cottage strikes just the right balance between comfort and aesthetics. (Image: The Pickers’ Cottage)
Located slap-bang in the thick of it all, this bright, airy and modern apartment in Hobart’s CBD is a fine place to spend a long weekend. A spacious two-bedroom unit that sleeps up to four guests, it features a pared-back interior – a smattering of abstract monochrome artworks and a neutral palette with warm accents of terracotta and blush – as well as a huge bathtub that’s great for a wallow after a long day on your feet sightseeing.
Opt for this modern apartment in Hobart’s CBD for an indulgent long weekend.
Avid campers and caravaners rejoice. Hobart is surrounded by a number of caravan parks and camping spots in pretty much whichever direction you turn but beware that not all of them were created equal. The Hobart camping and caravan parks listed below, however, offer clean facilities, handsome sites and a few added extras too.
Location, location, location – that’s the principal drawcard at Snug Beach Cabin and Caravan Park, perched right on the water’s edge. At night, when everyone’s settled into bed and a hush descends upon the park, you can even hear the waves lapping at the shoreline. Among the Hobart caravan park’s landscaped gardens there are powered and unpowered sites as well as cabins that can accommodate up to seven guests. Enjoy free, hot, untimed showers, accessible amenities block and contactless check-in, all a 30-minute drive south of Hobart’s centre.
“Snug” is the perfect word to describe these beachside cabins. (Image: Snug Beach Cabin and Caravan Park)
This pet-friendly Hobart caravan park receives rave reviews for the immaculate state of its grounds and cabins, but convenience is also a key feature here: BIG4 Hobart Airport Tourist Park is located just minutes from Hobart Airport and a 15-minute drive from the city. It’s also a reasonably priced option for those caravanning or campervanning, with powered sites available from $40 per night. You’ll find all the standard mod cons at this tourist park, from public barbecues to laundry facilities and a camp kitchen in addition to a playground and basketball courts. There’s even a free food section where travellers can donate whatever they no longer need (or pick up provisions for the road), as well as a free shuttle bus to the airport.
This BIG4 Tourist Park is perfect for those in need of easy access to the airport. (Image: BIG4 Hobart Airport Tourist Park)
If you’re looking to take it back to basics, The Lea Scout Centre is a great shout. Operating seasonally (between December 1 and March each year), this bush camping spot offers tranquillity in spades, as well as a wood-fired pizza oven, all less than 10 kilometres from the Hobart CBD. It’s caravan-, campervan-, motorhome- and tent-friendly, and features a limited number of powered sites too. Those craving a few more creature comforts can book one of the fully self-contained cabins instead.
The Lea Scout Centre gets you back to basics. (Image: The Lea Scout Centre)
Hobart’s hostel scene is undeniably underdeveloped when compared to the likes of its mainland counterparts such as Sydney and Melbourne. There are far fewer options, and the standards don’t quite live up to the flashpacker haunts that have slowly but surely become the industry benchmark. The following Hobart backpackers, however, offer the holy trinity of all good hostel stays: low prices, clean, comfortable and considered rooms, and plenty of communal spaces.
Looking for Hobart accommodation with an eclectic personal touch? Try the Alabama. What it lacks in facilities (all bathrooms are shared and there’s no lift or cooking facilities) it makes up for with art-plastered rooms, a gorgeous Art Deco facade, welcoming staff, a buzzing bar/lounge/balcony area, and some very attractive prices. Consider the Alabama Hotel a tried-and-true cheap accommodation option in Hobart’s CBD.
The Alabama Hotel offers a unique, eclectic touch. (Image: Natalie Mendham)
This highly rated Hobart hostel lives up to its ‘boutique’ name – think hardwood flooring, crisp white sheets, plush, antique furnishings and beds adorned with cosy merino wool blankets. Much more than just run-of-the-mill backpacking joint with overcrowded dorms, the vibe at Montacute is more B&B thanks to its friendly, hands-on owner Antony. In fact, it’s been named among Australia’s best on Hostelworld. There’s a communal kitchen, a lounge, a garden and a sizable first-floor balcony to loaf around on. Located in historic Battery Point, it’s a safe bet for a cosy yet economical stay in the heart of Hobart.
The Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse feels more BnB than hostel. (Image: Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse)
Looking at other things to do and see in Hobart? We’ve got you covered with our ultimate travel guide to the city.
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