New Tasmanian luxe option

New Tasmanian luxe option

Prospect House Private Hotel, one of Tasmania’s oldest and most elegant country house hotels, is now welcoming guests after new owners, John and Libby Pooley, invested more than $5m in refurbishing and upgrading the historic property they bought in 2017.

Built with convict labour in 1830 for James Kestell Buscombe, Prospect House is a fine example of a Georgian style country house. Tasmanian Premier Will Hodgman describes it as an ‘iconic heritage asset.’

When the Pooleys bought Prospect House it had been used as a private home for more than five years and hadn’t undergone a significant renovation since the 1970s. It needed major remodelling and refurbishment to meet their vision for the property. John and Libby then incorporated an eclectic mix of furnishings and antiques from their private collection to give every space its own character.

‘We’ve always loved restoring and renovating period properties. Prospect House was an ambitious project, but we’re delighted with what we’ve been able to achieve and are looking forward to sharing it with guests,’ says John.

Prospect House now has 12 guest suites, will accommodate up to 24 guests and, with a minimum staff to guest ratio of around 1:2, aims to attract guests looking for a luxurious experience with exceptional hospitality and service in a unique heritage location.

The restaurant at Prospect House celebrates the farmers and producers of Tasmania’s South East. Head Chef Kurstin Berriman’s menu focuses on seasonal and sustainable local produce, much of it sourced from nearby Coal River Valley. For example, the three-course dinner menu ($85) includes entrees such as Eel Escabeche or Westhaven Goats Cheese Pannacotta, main courses such as Rare Seared Wallaby Fillet or Crispy Skinned Line Caught Salmon, desserts such as Lemon Verbena Scented Mascarpone Tartlet or a Pyengana Cheddar cheese plate. Guests can enjoy fine Tasmanian wines, including a selection of cool climate Coal River Valley wines, and dine in the restaurant or under the stars.

Situated within an easy stroll, bike ride or short drive from the historic village of Richmond, Prospect House guests have plenty to occupy and entertain them. Signature activities include cycling, tennis, golf and bird watching. Prospect House also has its own apiary, where a thriving bee community produces honey for the restaurant kitchen.

Prospect House is an ideal base for visitors wanting to explore the Coal River Valley wine region, the World Heritage Listed Port Arthur Historic Site or Greater Hobart.

Accommodation at Prospect House starts from $350 per night including breakfast.

Source: Prospect House Private Hotel