Quarry Hill Lookout

Overlooking the crystalline waters of Port Esperance Bay, Quarry Hill Lookout is a luxurious modern retreat ideal for getting away with family or friends. 

This is one of Australia’s southernmost towns and the unspoilt scenery, beautiful beaches and quaint cottages give it a charm that is uniquely Tasmanian. The house is perched atop a hill in a historic quarry, offering stunning views of the bay, the gardens and the surrounding wilderness from almost every room. The spacious deck is a great spot to sip local wines, and it flows out onto a seasonal productive fruit and veggie patch ready to be harvested. From here, you get a sense of how special Tasmania’s far south really is.

The architect-designed house is set-up perfectly for groups. Three bedrooms plus a sofa in the library ensure plenty of privacy and space for everyone. The living and dining areas are open, light-filled spaces that are a pleasure to entertain in. When the weather permits,  prepare meals on the BBQ.  Create your very own ‘garden-to-plate’ dining experience. If you have no desire to cook on your holiday, simply tell your hosts who will arrange a personal chef to prepare a bespoke menu that will satisfy your culinary cravings. 

Dover and the wider Huon Valley region are known for their gourmet produce and fine wines. Take a short drive to Huonville and visit the Home Hill Winery, one of the state’s top vineyards. Closer to home is St Imre Vineyard, where the winemakers produce preservative free wines the European way. 

If there are kids in your traveling party they’ll love the Ida Bay Railway, which has been beautifully restored to represent its former glory. Australia’s southernmost railway is a two-hour round trip through bushland to the banks of Ida Bay and the old limestone pier at Deep Hole. Those preferring to explore on foot should head to Hartz Mountain National Park, part of the Tasmanian World Heritage area. Waterfalls, glacial lakes and rainforest make this park a spectacular place for a hike up to the exposed mountaintops.

You can do as little or as much as you’d like on a trip to this wonderful part of Tasmania. It’s a short stroll from your peaceful haven to virtually private beaches with very few footprints in the sand. Cast a line from the shores, or simply bask in the sun and gorgeous scenery.