Kittawa Lodge’s stays in Bass Strait are both positioned for cinematic ocean and sunset views. Photo: Adam Gibson
The Apple Isle beckons not only with rustic charm, historic buildings and spectacular scenery – but innovative design to make the most of it all.
Kittawa Lodge
1272 South Rd, Pearshape, King Island; 0437 962 020; kittawalodge.com
THE LOCATION
Home to some of the country’s best cheese, beef and golf, this small island in Bass Strait, a 40-minute flight from Melbourne, also offers one of Tasmania’s most thoughtful luxury stays.
THE PLACE
There are two secluded, off-grid lodges on this 40-hectare property, both of which are positioned for cinematic ocean and sunset views. Each has a living/dining room, bedroom and bathroom tastefully appointed with artworks by King Island locals, a custom, locally-made amenities range and an all-Tasmanian produce and drinks selection. Wallabies graze outside the floor-to-ceiling windows and in place of a TV, the focal point of the living/dining area is a wood-stoked fire.
Fine scenery, near and far, at Kittawa Lodge. Photo: Adam Gibson
THE EXPERIENCE
Relax by the fire or pull on the gumboots at the door and walk along the blustery coastline to a stone cairn memorial marking Australia’s worst peacetime maritime disaster – the sinking of the Cataraqui in 1845. There’s more fascinating shipwreck history in Currie, a short drive away, and further north, stunning beaches where Kelly Slater is rumoured to have surfed. Return from a day exploring to the warm hospitality of owners and ex-Sydney sea-changers, Nick Stead and Aaron Suine – you might find herbal tea and home-baked banana bread waiting, or perhaps a crayfish to pop in the oven. For an extra fee, Suine can cook you a sumptuous four-course meal starring King Island produce.
DON’T MISS
At least one sunset from your lodge, Tasmanian pinot in hand.
