Hideaway Farmlet, c. 1948
Sleeps 2 | Bedrooms 1 | Bathrooms 1
Step back in time with a stay at the cottage at Hideaway Farmlet. Nestled on top of a hill surrounded by mature blackwoods, blue gum trees and native birds, this romantic retreat has a special connection to the seasons and nature. Originally established by the Poltock family who made the voyage by sea to Australia in 1947, they chose to make Tasmania their new home as it most reminded them of England. As the road to Burnie was still unsealed, obtaining bricks from Burnie Brick Works was difficult, so the family homestead and outbuildings were built using concrete bricks made by a local bricklayer. Mrs Poltock, a potter, was homesick for the flora of England, planting many deciduous trees to mark the seasons. Now mature, the trees give an English feel to the gardens on the property.
In 2015, Lisa & Brad came across the farmlet for sale on a trip to Tasmania, and fell in love with the property. They relocated with their three children from Perth, Western Australia to the tiny township of Penguin. Using permaculture design and regenerative practices, they started their farming adventure - now a registered stud breeding Australian miniature goats. They have also extended the original orchard to include a wide range of fruit trees and mixed hazelnut hedgerow for future generations to enjoy.
The unique tile & concrete brick cottage, built in 1948, features original floorboards, woodwork frames and doors, and decorative high timber ceiling. The cottage sleeps up to two adults, with infants welcome at no charge (guests to supply their own cot & linen), consisting of a large open plan area, with bedroom nook, lounge area and kitchen/dining space. The queen bed is fitted with 100% linen ruffled sheets, snuggly winter-grade doona, and heavyweight pure Australian wool blanket. A hot water bottle is also provided, to ensure guests stay toasty warm, no matter the weather! The bathroom features handmade, organic liquid soap and botanical room spray with pure essential oils, also available to purchase - with recipe included.
Furnished with bespoke vintage and antique pieces, the interior has a welcoming and nostalgic English atmosphere, a nod to its original owners. The dining chairs are early Victorian rosewood, and the kitchen bench was crafted from repurposed jarrah, retrofitted with a salvaged bathroom vanity. Curtains underneath were handmade by local textile artist Rita Power. Breakfast supplies of coffee, a selection of teas, local milk & butter, homemade preserves, locally-baked mini bread loaf, cereals, juice and fruit are included in your stay, and produce in harvest is also provided for guests to enjoy. Choose from a selection of Tassie wines from the honesty bar.
Well stocked with a selection of games, books, puzzles, DVDs, and even popcorn for your movie night, it’s enjoyable just to stay cosied up indoors during your time here. Outside however, there’s a BBQ, hammock, outdoor chairs, and picnic basket & rug provided to enjoy the picturesque farmlet surrounds overlooking the paddocks. Of course, a stay wouldn’t be complete without meeting your neighbours, a very friendly herd of miniature goats. Mention Historic Stays when booking to receive a complimentary ‘Up Close and Cuddly’ experience, and learn more about farming life with your hosts.
Special Features
Cosy & Romantic
Natural Surrounds
Bird Life
Breakfast Provided
Things To Do
The coastal town of Penguin is just 90 minutes from Launceston, and the drive between Penguin and Ulverstone offers stunning views, especially at sunrise and sunset. Between October and March, spot fairy penguins on a tour at Lillico beach or The Little Penguin Centre in Burnie. Dial Park Reserve is just a few minutes away, with several hiking trails and a mountain bike track. Alternatively, spend the day at iconic Cradle Mountain, only a 90 minute drive from the cottage. Visit the Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden, 11 hectares of beautiful themed gardens and native wildlife, or feed Tasmanian devils at Wings Wildlife Park. Tour Highfield Historic Site in Stanley c.1832, a rare example of early colonial architecture from the Regency period. And to escape the everyday, stroll along tranquil Boat Harbour Beach or visit Preservation Bay, for a quiet swim in what feels like your very own private beach.
