Tasmania's east coast wineries set to sparkle

From flashy Devil's Corner to old school Spring Vale, and from the views of Boomer Creek to debutant newcomer Rooster & Robin, the wineries of Tasmania's east coast will be on show this weekend.

The beautiful east coast will host the Great Eastern Wine Week from Friday, October 23, to Sunday, October 25.

Now in its 12th year, the three-day festival invites locals and visitors alike to be immersed in a vibrant celebration of the lovely East Coast Wine Trail, which includes local favourites like Freycinet Vineyard, Milton, Craigie Knowe, Gala Estate and McLean Bay.

This year’s Great Eastern Wine Week will see a bumper line-up of east coast cellar doors host a program of boutique experiences, long lunches, vineyard events and tastings, showcasing the people, stories and spirit behind the region’s finest wines.

Event highlights include Devil’s Corner Vineyard’s hands-on Pizza and Pinot Masterclass, and Flow State, which will see Rivulet Wines open its riverside vineyard exclusively for Great Eastern Wine Week, inviting guests to join trophy winner Keira O’Brien on a guided tasting journey of the Rivulet range, while grazing on seasonal local snacks.

Great Eastern Wine Week Association Coordinator Kelsey Walker said: “This year’s Great Eastern Wine Week is a real celebration of the legacy and longevity of the winemaking industry here on the east coast of Tasmania.

"It’s a rare opportunity to go behind the bottle, meet the local legends who bring the region’s award-winning wines to life, and discover a new favourite wine while you’re at it.”

Spanning 220 kilometres of pristine coastline and making more than 150,000 cases of wine annually, the East Coast Wine Trail is one of Australia’s few coastal-facing wine regions.

It runs from Orford in the south to St Helens and surrounds in the north.

Great Eastern Wine Week will kick off with a relaxed, community-style celebration at Artifakt in Swansea on Thursday. 

Attendees can meet local winemakers, discover local wines and enjoy an evening of complimentary tastings, light nibbles and good company. There will also be a special auction featuring local wines and experiences.

Event tickets and the full event program are available at the Great Eastern Wine Week website at https://eastcoastwinetrail.com.au/

Prominent Tasmanian wine business for sale

Ever dreamed of moving to Tasmania and running a vineyard and wine business?

Now is your chance with Craigie Knowe, the oldest vineyard on the east coast of the island state, hitting the market as a going concern.

The landmark 19.17-hectare estate runs as a hospitality, tourism and agricultural enterprise, with 3.54-hectare vineyard at its heart.

The first vines were planted here in 1979, and the Freycinet Coast business includes a cellar door, vineyard restaurant and potential for events.

The vineyard is planted to pinot noir, Bordeaux red varieties and riesling - and there is potential for vineyard expansion.

Hobart dentist and wine pioneer John Austwick planted vines on the site, which as been owned by Glenn Travers and family since 2013.

The estate is anchored by an impressive circa-1836 stone residence with period features and traditional fireplaces.

The property also includes Flora's Restaurant with a commercial kitchen built in 2022.

 It is also registered as a campground and has storage facilities, workshop facilities, vineyard machinery, bird netting, fencing and sheep yards.

The sale offering also includes approx. $1.3 million of finished and part finished wine stock at cost.

Craigie Knowe Vineyard is available for sale by Expression of Interest. For further information, please contact Andrew ‘Gus’ Dean of AWN Tasmania on 0418 143 577. 

See https://www.awnproperty.net/property?property_id=1864322 

Camp in your van in a Tasmanian vineyard

Fancy parking your camper van in a Tasmanian vineyard setting for a few days?

Craigie Knowe is the oldest vineyard on the Freycinet Coast and just 40 minutes from the beautiful Freycinet National Park. It is now offering free self-contained camping in the vines.

The family-owned and operated vineyard and cellar door offers the opportunity to sit back and relax while you enjoy a glass of wine, just metres from the vines while enjoying a platter of local Tasmanian produce. 

The surrounding area has magnificent scenery and beaches, seafood and several cellar doors, walks and art galleries.

Camping is strictly for self-contained vans as there are no facilities in the vineyard camp ground.

Craigie Knowe is at 80 Glen Gala Road, Cranbrook, Tasmania, 7190. 

See https://craigieknowe.com.au/vineyard-east-coast-tasmania/

Is this Tasmania's ultimate luxury getaway?

Saffire Freycinet, Tasmania's ultra luxe retreat, has a new signature accommodation offer.

The Saffire Jewel Private Villa is being promoted as "a rare sanctuary where the grandeur of nature meets the intimacy of home".

The new villa is close to completion with bookings open.

From its location overlooking Great Oyster Bay, the Jewel Private Villa is said to "enjoy a sense of complete seclusion with 800m² of beautifully unhurried space, three master suites, expansive living spaces and a sunlit outdoor terrace with infinity pool and jacuzzi, all opening up to one of the most breath-taking views in the country".

The villa has its own dedicated concierge and private guide, the option to dine in residence, and experiences included in the tariff.

Think luxe touches like a private wine cellar, in villa breakfasts and your own fire terrace with views of The Hazards.

Stays at the Saffire Jewel will commence from December 2026. You can book at https://reservations.saffire-freycinet.com.au/ - but be warned, prices start from $25,000 a night for up to six people.

That includes all meals and drinks - and some little surprises. I hope to report back once it is open. 

Sip and soar above Tasmania's east coast

 

So you'd like to splurge on a special experience when visiting Tasmania? 

Devil’s Corner has unveiled Soar and Savour, a one-of-a-kind Tasmanian experience combining a scenic helicopter flight over the Freycinet Peninsula with a premium cellar door tasting on the state’s east coast.

Designed as an intimate small-group experience, Soar and Savour offers visitors a new way to explore Tasmania’s coastal landscapes before returning to Devil’s Corner cellar door for a hosted wine and food experience.

Soar and Savour begins with sparkling wine and oysters at Devil’s Corner before guests board a scenic helicopter flight, taking in aerial views of the Freycinet Peninsula including the Hazards mountain range, deserted beaches and crystal-clear waters.

After the flight, visitors return to Devil’s Corner cellar door to enjoy a premium wine tasting paired with local produce from the recently opened Devil’s Corner Kitchen.

Devil’s Corner senior winemaker Tom Wallace said the new offering responds to growing demand for premium, experience-led travel in Tasmania.

“We’re seeing strong demand for immersive, high-quality visitor experiences along Tasmania’s east coast,” he said.

“Soar and Savour is designed to showcase the best of Devil’s Corner and the surrounding Freycinet region in a way that feels personal, elevated and distinctly Tasmanian.

“With limited numbers per flight, the experience offers an intimate and memorable way for guests to discover this remarkable part of the state.”

The cost is from $635 per person for the 2.5-hour experience, so it is not for everyone. 

Bookings: https://devilscornertasmania.rezdy.com/740576/savour-and-soar-the-ultimate-tasmanian-experience

Images: Jacob McKay 

Where to enjoy Tasmanian wines with a touch of sea spray

 

There are few better gourmet experiences than enjoying a glass of wine with some freshly shucked oysters while taking on some spectacular water views. 

The recently opened Le Gulch wine bar in Bicheno, on Tasmania's east coast, overlooks the churning waters of the the local gulch, a natural breakwater.  

Years ago, the venue was home to the Blue Waters seafood factory. A couple of decades ago you could visit to enjoy a roasted crayfish paired with Apsley Gorge wines. 

Now the venue has re-opened in the space known as Bicheno Winery, used for winemaking by Apsley Gorge owner Brian Franklin, who is known for producing outstanding Burgundy-inspired pinots noir. 

The Le Gulch Wine Bar is operated by Myles Franklin, son of Brian, together with business partner Shelley Bickerstaff, a wine industry veteran. 

There is a super chilled coastal vibe with a small but thoughtful selection of wines by the glass, from French rosé to Tassie bubbles and local labels like Freycinet Estate, along with current and back-vintage Apsley Gorge releases. 

The snack menu offers oysters, cheese and charcuterie plates, served, when we visited last week, by a charming French hospitality operative. Local beers and spirits are also on offer. 

"We are ready to welcome a new generation of guests to experience the magic of this east coast location and catch up with old friends," Myles Franklin says. 

It would be all too easy to settle in for a long session here. 

Summer opening hours are Wednesday-Thursday 3-8pm; Friday-Saturday 1-8pm and Sundays 1-6pm. 

You'll find Le Gulch at 54 Waubs Esplanade, Bicheno. See https://www.legulch.com/

So you'd like to stay on your own private Tasmanian island?

Looking to enjoy one of Tasmania's most exclusive destinations? 

After extensive renovations and the construction of a new primary suite, Picnic Island Tasmania has officially re-opened this month as an exclusive private island experience.

Availability is limited to 100 nights per year to protect the island’s delicate ecosystem (and resident Little Penguin colony). 

Picnic Island is located 800 metres offshore from Coles Bay near Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay on Tasmania's east coast. 

“This week we celebrated with the extraordinary people who helped make this vision a reality: architects, builders, local artisans, experience providers and producers, conservation partners, and Tasmania's tourism community,” said Picnic Island co-owner Mark Israel. 

“Their commitment to doing things right, rather than simply doing things quickly, has created something special. Now we're ready to share it with guests seeking an authentic connection to place.”

The property now accommodates up to eight guests across four luxe spaces: the newly built primary suite and two fully renovated copper-clad structures. 

No expense has been spared here. Think a dedicated island host and skipper, a private chef showcasing Tasmanian produce, and a selection of premium Tasmanian wines and spirits. 

A new Tasmanian-built boat is available for marine excursions and transfers to and from the island. 

The property operates off-grid through advanced solar systems and rainwater collection. 

“We’re not trying to recreate a five-star hotel on a remote island," says co-owner Elisa Yu. 

"We’re offering something more valuable: complete privacy in a place where nature still dictates the rhythm. The transformation guests experience emerges organically when they connect with this extraordinary place.” 

The bad news: the all-inclusive rate is $16,000 per night for the entire island for up to eight guests. With a three-night minimum stay. 

For more info see www.picnicisland.com.au.

Tasmania to get a new east coast resort

Tasmania’s spectacular east coast will gain a new luxury accommodation and vineyard experience later this year. 

Wineglass Bay Estate and its on-site vineyard Kitty’s Mistake are scheduled to open on June 10, the owner said in a press release. 

On the fringes of Freycinet National Park, the new property will feature a collection of retreats set along the edge of Moulting Lagoon with guests enjoying access to Kitty’s Mistake, a boutique, cool-climate vineyard within the property planted with young pinot noir vines. 

The new property is aimed at travellers "seeking meaningful experiences and the opportunity to engage with the surrounding landscape and local producers".

“The intention was to create a stay that sits quietly within its environment, offering the comfort and considered detail of a five-star hotel, with the privacy and space more often associated with a private stay,” said Kim Alfeldi, the owner of Wineglass Bay Estate. 

Wineglass Bay Estate has been developed with a deliberate focus on quality over scale, the release says. 

Guests will be encouraged to engage with the surrounding landscape, local producers and seasonal rhythms of the region. 

Accommodation retreats will all face front and centre overlooking the water, each designed to offer uninterrupted water views. 

Each retreat will have a king bed, en-suite bathroom, and spacious deck. 

Wineglass Bay Estate is about 2 hours from either Launceston or Hobart. 

See https://wineglassbayestate.com.au/ and stay tuned for more info. 

Celebrating Tasmania and its seasonal bounty

 

Tasmania is renowned for hosting several outstanding festivals.

Events like Taste of Summer, Festivale and Dark Mofo are all major drawcards.

Less commercial and more connected, ECHO is the East Coast Harvest Odyssey festival, a smaller. more focussed "festival of the senses" that will run from March 13-15 in 2026.

The brainchild of singer and gin-brand owner Ange Boxall, ECHO has grown from small beginnings in 2019 into an event that Boxall describes as being "all about connection".

 


The event launch was held today in Hobart and full details are now available at echofestival.com.au.

ECHO is a festival of storytelling with close connections to First Nations culture, but also indigenous food experiences, hands-on adventures and music.

There is also plenty of wine, with several local producers involved - Spring Vale, Gala Estate, Mayfield Estate and Craigie Knowe among them - as well as Boxall's Spirited Gin brand.

From bush foods and medicine to morning yoga and drinks masterclasses, ECHO showcases live music, art, culture, storytelling and knowledge-sharing. It is a celebration both of harvest and the laid-back East Coast lifestyle.

"Our theme, Layers: Woven in Time, celebrates the people, stories and landscapes that give the East Coast its unique rhythm," says Boxall (below, at the launch).

 

"This year’s early program release features coastal storytelling with surf legend Dustin Hollick, woodworking using rare Hydrowood timbers, a cultural creative space with palawa creative Melissa West, blacksmithing in a historic forge and more.

"The music line-up brings together a powerful mix of emerging voices and established artists from Tasmania and beyond. Across intimate stages and open coastal spaces, musicians will share original sounds rooted in place, story and community. Expect soaring vocals, rhythmic collaborations and atmospheric performances that echo the landscape itself."

The much-loved Native Bounty Feast will also return as the key element of the opening evening.

ECHO, held in Swansea. is supported by the Tasmanian Government through Events Tasmania.

See https://tickets.oztix.com.au/outlet/event/90c6baf5-d569-408a-bc77-91650ed7ff7b

New cellar door eatery in Tasmania focuses on local produce

 

There is a new food offering at one of Tasmania's most popular cellar doors: Devil's Corner at Apslawn on the east coast. 

Devil’s Corner Kitchen is a food destination "designed to capture the wild beauty and elemental character" of the region. 

With views of the vineyards, Moulting Lagoon and The Hazards mountain range, Devil’s Corner Kitchen promises to champion local produce, smokehouse flavours and garden-to-plate principles. 

The new facility is open daily (10am–4pm), with Jack Bennett as head chef. His career spans regional venues including The Chophouse at Falls Creek, Trentham Hotel and Sister’s Rock at Borrodell Vineyard in Orange. 

“At Devil’s Corner Kitchen, we’re creating dishes that feel inseparable from this landscape - flame, smoke and seasonal ingredients are at the heart of everything,” Bennett says.

“It’s about celebrating the east coast’s raw beauty and Devil’s Corner wines in a way that’s generous, approachable and distinctly Tasmanian.”

Bennett’s launch menu brings this philosophy to life with a line-up of pizzas, pastas and seasonal mains that showcase local produce and pair with Devil’s Corner wines.

Pizza choices include chardonnay-braised Tasmanian pork belly with barbecue sauce, pork crackling and mozzarella ($34) and fresh mozzarella, Napoli sauce, local tomatoes and basil oil ($28). 

Mains may include gnocchi with hazelnuts, sage, brown butter and parmesan ($28) and local venison pappardelle with mushrooms and rich venison sauce ($32). 

There are suggested wine matches for each course. 

“Our wines are made to tell the story of this coast - wild, elemental and full of character,” says senior winemaker Tom Wallace. 

“Having a kitchen that mirrors that philosophy elevates the entire cellar door experience. Jack’s approach is adventurous yet authentic and we couldn’t imagine a better way to showcase our wines.”

New owner, new experiences on Picnic Island

Tasmania's exclusive Picnic Island retreat will re-open later this year as all-inclusive luxury private island experience with a private chef. 

Located off Tasmania's east coast, the retreat is just 800 meters offshore from Coles Bay near the beautiful Freycinet National Park. It is only accessible by water. 

Revamped Picnic Island expects to welcome its first guests in November after a major transformation.

Picnic Island boasts of offering "a rare combination of complete privacy, bespoke luxury service, and refined accommodations for up to six guests". 

An additional host suite will soon to be added, increasing total capacity to eight guests). The island's distinctive copper-clad lodge will be completely renovated in the months ahead. 

"We've created something truly exceptional that showcases the wild beauty of Tasmania while providing the comfort, style, and service that discerning travellers expect," said Mark Israel, the new owner of Picnic Island. 

"We aim to deliver highly personalised, transformative experiences that can't be replicated elsewhere -high impact for guests, low impact for the environment. Our vision is a luxury retreat where visitors can disconnect from the ordinary and reconnect with something extraordinary."

The experience will include private boat transfers, a personal chef who will tell a story of place in each meal, and customised daily activities ranging from guided Freycinet walks to oyster farm visits, wine tastings, whisky distillery tours, and marine adventures. 

Guests will share the island with a colony of Little Penguins and other seabirds that return to their burrows each evening. 

"This isn't just luxury accommodation; it's a fully immersive experience in one of Australia's most pristine environments," said Israel. 

"We've reimagined what service means in this extraordinary setting. Whether it's a sommelier-led tasting of Tasmania's finest wines, a private yoga session on the deck at sunrise, or a chef preparing your freshly foraged seafood, every moment is designed to create lasting memories."

For more information about Picnic Island Tasmania and to inquire about bookings, see  www.picnicisland.com.au.

Images: Olly Gaspar

A one-day chance to peek and taste behind the scenes in Tasmania

The team behind Tasmania's boutique annual ECHO festivities is offering a one-day mini festival as part of the island state's Off Season celebrations. 

The Echo Odyssey coach will showcase some of the quirkier aspects of the East Coast on Friday, June 15, for a full day of fun and revelry. 

The East Coast Tasmanian Adventure - curated by local country music star Ange Boxall - will offer a behind-the-scenes peek (and taste) of the best of the region.

The package includes transport and a storytelling guide; local oysters and wine on the beach; sheep shearing in old shearing shed; an exclusive wine tasting at Gala Estate (above); lunch at historic Riversdale Mill; a tasting and cocktail with The Splendid Gin; learning about Tasmanian sea salt, and a goodie bag to take home valued at $60. 

Guests can depart from Hobart or Hobart Airport via coach transfer, or from Swansea township. Alternatively, stay at Piermont Retreat overlooking Great Oyster Bay where a 10% discount is offered to Echo Odyssey guests for direct bookings between June 12-15 June using code ECHO10.

See https://events.humanitix.com/winter-s-off-season-echo-odyssey-a-behind-the-scenes-east-coast-tour

Discover a Devil of a new Tasmanian gourmet experience

Innovative Tasmanian east coast winery Devil’s Corner - known for its stunning views and food and wine experiences - has launched a new signature experience: Moulting Lagoon Adventure.

The luxe journey offers guests an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at The Hazards vineyard and nearby scenic Moulting Lagoon, showcasing the region’s landscapes, premium produce and award-winning wines.

The Moulting Lagoon Adventure is described as "a curated luxurious exploration of the Devil’s Corner site" and includes a vineyard tour; learning the art of oyster shucking straight from the back of a ute overlooking Moulting Lagoon; indulging in a gourmet lunch in the exclusive underground cellar (The Devil’s Den); and concluding with a hosted premium wine tasting.

I'd schedule the wine tasting before lunch, but that would just be my preference. 

“We are incredibly excited to offer this bespoke and premium experience to our visitors,” says Devil’s Corner senior winemaker Tom Wallace.

“The Moulting Lagoon Adventure truly encapsulates the essence of Devil’s Corner, combining our passion for winemaking with the unparalleled beauty of our surroundings. It's a chance to connect with the land, the people and the flavours that make this region so special."

Devil’s Corner cellar door is at Apslawn on the east coast of Tasmania. The experience runs from noon-3pm and costs $195 per person. Bookings via the cellar door team on 0448 521 412 or at devilscorner.com.au.

A fun festival with a sustainability message

If you like your festivals small and quirky the Tasmania’s ECHO festival should be on your radar.

ECHO, the brainchild of singer and entrepenueur Ange Boxall, combines of activities and experiences in a rural setting on Tasmania's east coast.

The festival, officially launched yesterday, will run from March 14-16 next year, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a celebration of music, local produce, sustainability, creativity, and the natural world.

The festival’s Friday evening signature event: Native Bounty Feast (above) will again showcase Tasmanian produce, this time incorporating elements inspired by the tides.

ECHO Festival is renowned for its hands-on workshops and artisanal demonstrations, and the main day on Saturday will see guests involved with traditional craftsmanship, such as blacksmithing in the on-site 200-year-old forge, where they’ll create unique anchor wall hooks.

Woodworking enthusiasts can craft a boat paddle-shaped spatula from Tasmania’s legendary Huon Pine.

Festivalgoers will also have the chance to explore their creative side at the Writer’s Corner with acclaimed Tasmanian author Robbie Arnott, and dive into the world of bees and pollinators with a special Bee & Honey Workshop hosted by Wild Hives Honey.

Additionally, the festival will feature seaweed activations, highlighting the ecological importance of these coastal organisms.

Throughout the event there will be live music performances and attendees can also enjoy gin, wine, and whisky masterclasses, led by top distillers and producers.

The Trashions on The Field fashion parade, where participants showcase outfits made from recycled materials, will return for another year.

For food lovers, the Farmers Corner will feature a selection of local producers offering fresh Tasmanian products.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.echofestival.com.au.

Images: Dearna Bond

Tasmanian wine producer Devil's Corner joins the club

Wine tourism is one of the fastest growing sectors of the travel industry. 

One of the leaders in the space is Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia, which has just announced Tasmanian winery Devil’s Corner as its latest member. 

Devil's Corner is known for its spectacular views and is located on Tasmania’s Great Eastern Drive, two hours from Hobart and 90 minutes from Launceston. 

The tasting facility overlooks the Freycinet Peninsula and the Hazards mountain range, which are name-checked in Devil’s Corner’s premium tier of wine.

Part of the Brown Family Wine Group, Devil’s Corner specialises in pinot noir, chardonnay and riesling. 

With decks for al fresco dining, the cellar door has two tasting spaces and also offers  fresh Tasmanian seafood and wood-fired pizzas from on-site culinary partners Fishers of Freycinet and Tombolo Freycinet.

Guests visiting the winery can book an immersive Ultimate Winery Experience to go beyond the cellar door. The Moulting Lagoon Experience goes off the beaten track, exploring the picturesque vineyards before an authentic hands-on oyster shucking demonstration with a glass of riesling or pinot gris. 

Guests with a sweet tooth can indulge in a wine and chocolate pairing, where a flight of four wines is paired with artisanal chocolates from local producer Tutumaz & The Devil (strange name!).

“Devil’s Corner joins House of Arras, Josef Chromy and Moorilla as our fourth Tasmanian winery member," says Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia Executive Officer Sarah Myers. 

"Nestled in the heart of Tasmania's rugged landscape, Devil's Corner perfectly captures the essence of this wild and pristine region.” 

Devil’s Corner is open seven days a week from 10am-5pm. 

Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia is a collection of premium award-winning wineries offering experiences that invite visitors to go "beyond the cellar door". 

See www.ultimatewineryexperiences.com.au

Bird In Hand goes hard in Tasmania

Adelaide Hills winery Bird in Hand is going full tilt with its expansion in Tasmania.

Bird in Hand recently announced its long-term lease acquisition of a 10.1-hectare vineyard located in the West Tamar.

It says it wants to deepen its roots in Tasmania’s cool-climate wine regions.

The new addition is in Rowella, and produces grape varieties including shiraz, riesling, chardonnay and pinot noir.

The lease forms part of Bird in Hand’s plan to expand its presence in Tasmania.

In 2021, it developed a vineyard at Seymour on the island's state's east coast.

“With its collection of established vine plantings, the West Tamar vineyard in Rowella infuses us with energy and excitement,” says Andrew Nugent, co-founder of Bird in Hand.

“Under the guidance of our winemaker Sarah Burvill and wine consultant Sam Harrop MW, Bird in Hand is well-positioned to build upon ongoing efforts to craft beautiful Australian wines reflecting the cool climates of Tasmania and our Woodside estate in Adelaide Hills.”

The east coast vineyard at Seymour borders the Douglas Apsley National Park.

A total of 60 hectares will be planted to pinot noir and chardonnay.

Just shucking: discover Tasmania's festival of the wild and wacky

Fancy working with a blacksmith/artist to create your own oyster shucking tool? 

Or maybe showing off your fashionable clothing design made from found/recycled materials? 

Tasmania's ECHO festival - the brainchild of country artist Ange Boxall - is a celebration of the eclectic. It is described as "guiding guests on a journey of exploration that encompasses all the senses - taste, smell, sight, sound and touch".

The festival returns for another year in 2024, running over the weekend of March 22-24 on the picturesque east coast of the island state.

The 2024 program brings together chefs, winemakers and producers along with artists, musicians, storytellers and thought leaders. It is a boutique 18+ event.

March 22 is dedicated to a Native Bounty Feast dinner (probably sold out by the time you read this), while Saturday 23rd is the main day and evening. Activities start at 10am and music will continue late into the evening.

BYO camping is available for Friday and Saturday nights, while a shuttle bus will also be available to Swansea town centre on Friday evening and throughout Saturday.

Among the highlights: the chance to work with blacksmith/artist Pete Mattila in a 200-year-old forge.

With the 2024 festival theme being oysters, Mattila will use a venue once used to make horseshoes to allow visitors to craft a shucking blade and then brand it with the ECHO stamp.

The wooden handles will be made from beautiful Tasmanian hardwood timber retrieved from the depths of the Pieman River, donated by Hydrowood. 

There will also be the opportunity to make traditional Aboriginal rope made from stringy bark and cutting grass with proud palawa artist and educator, Trish Hodge. 

This can be used to hang your handmade shucker in pride of place in your kitchen. 

Along with gin and wine masterclasses events will also include Sunday morning yoga, and Trashion on the Field.

ECHO patrons can make their own fashions from found objects, unwanted clothing, and pieces of plastic or rope from the local beach areas. This event is billed as a "a riot of absolute rubbish!" 

For tickets and details of the wide range of eclectic experiences see https://events.humanitix.com/echo-festival-2024

Cool season deals on offer at Saffire Freycinet

A stay at Saffire Freycinet luxury lodge is one of Tasmania's most sought-after experiences with demand frequently exceeding supply. 

Studios are a little easier to book during the island state's cool season and Saffire has announced a new year offer with 25% savings offered on all stays of three nights or more.

The deal is on offer for stays between the dates of April 1 and September 30, spanning the autumn, winter and early spring seasons, when migrating whales frequently visit the east coast of the Apple Isle.

The offer aims to encourage guests to spend a little longer exploring the Freycinet region, enjoying fine local food and drinks with Saffire Freycinet as a luxury base.

Guests can enjoy calm sailing onboard the popular Seafood and Sparkling cruise and spot whales as they glide into the bay. 

Seals can be spotted basking in the sun during the Waubs Harbour Whisky experience - home to Tasmania’s maritime single malt whisky in the nearby coastal town of Bicheno. 

On the daily tasting menus created by Saffire executive chef Paddy Prenter - who I tip as a future superstar - guests can expect fresh, sustainably produced seafood with oysters coming from nearby Dolphin Sands, rock lobster from surrounding waters and octopus from Stanley in the state’s north. 

There is also Robbins Island wagyu beef and lamb and venison from Springfield Farm.

“We are spoilt with exceptional produce in Tasmania - including from our own new kitchen garden - and I’m privileged to take our guests on a culinary journey during their stay," says Prenter. "We are fortunate that our state teems with world-leading seasonal produce - including delights like winter truffles - so there is never a better time to enjoy our tasting menu."

Saffire Freycinet General Manager Patrick Barrie said the cool season offer was designed to offer guests an incentive to spend a little extra time on holiday.

“There’s so much to discover here at Saffire on the beautiful Freycinet coast, from fine local wines with the winemakers, to walking adventures or savouring oysters shucked fresh from the lease. Plus, there’s the pure delight of kicking back to lazily watch the ever-changing views of the Hazards Mountains from our guest suites."

All-inclusive rates on the 25% Savings Cool Season offer start at $2250 per night for two guests. See saffire-freycinet.com.au 

Saffire Freycinet is a member of the Luxury Lodges of Australia collection.

Tasty treats on the east coast of Tasmania

Take an ugly old-school red brick pub with 80s-style daggy-chic decor in its dining room and bar.

Throw in a talented chef and his partner, a charming front-of-house professional.

Factor in a waterfront location overlooking Great Oyster Bay on the booming east coast of Tasmania. And add some superb local produce.

Then a wine by the glass selection featuring names like Two Tonne Tasmania, Lubiana and Kelvedon Estate.

 
What you get is one of Tasmania's hottest gourmet locations: the Waterloo Inn in Swansea - around a 90-minute drive from Hobart, but well worth the trip.

The dining room of the Waterloo Point Hotel retains a stag's head, pool table, and blackboard menu while the furnishings are comically out of date, particularly the disastrous drapes. 

Which matters not a jot when the food and service are this good.

 

The Waterloo Inn is a two-person business, operated by chef Zac Green and his partner Alex Sumner.



We shared a deliciously spicy grilled octopus with chilli oil and labne (above); and super tender venison skewers in a tasty jus for starters.

Then came a modern take on a pub favourite: a pheasant scallopini and a moist, flavoursome whole rainbow trout with asparagus.

 

Dishes are designed to be shared, except perhaps the lemon posset with shortbread. I wanted it all to myself.

"The inspiration for The Waterloo comes from our favourite cosy pubs," say Zac and Alex. "The kind that feel like a home away from home.

"Our venue is designed for relaxation and good times. There's a bar that's perfect for a quick drop in for a glass of wine and a snack, while our pub hotel dining room is ideal for when you feel like settling in."

On Sundays, there is a three-course set lunch featuring seasonal produce.

Now for the bad news. The Waterloo Inn has become a “destination dining” venue.

Don't think of arriving and expecting to get a table. Plan ahead, book ahead.

The Waterloo Inn is open Wednesday-Friday for dinner, Saturday for lunch and dinner and Sunday for lunch.

See https://www.waterlooswansea.com/

Walk Like a Tasmanian

Not that long ago bush walks were something you did to escape and spend some time on your own.

Then, suddenly, they became a group event.

Among the early group walking tour companies was Freycinet Experience Walk in Tasmania, who are are celebrating their 30-year milestone.

The company helped pioneer pack-free multi-day hikes.

The Freycinet Experience Walk’s are operated from an eco-lodge base - Friendly Beaches Lodge - which tucked into the landscape.

“I think what strikes people is that simple structure sitting lightly in the landscape," says Delia Nicholls, former Tourism Tasmania Manager of Destination Promotion. 

"And that you can walk a pristine white beach and just see animals and birds and shells. You can't find that in many places in the world any more.” 

Founded by Joan Masterman in 1992, Freycinet Experience Walk is a four-day eco-certified walk along the Freycinet Peninsula on Tasmania's east coast, including Wineglass Bay.

 

On the trail, walkers are are immersed in indigenous stories; the area once a rich food bowl for local tribes.

Back at the lodge, the menu highlights the ‘bush tucker’ influence of the surrounding landscape.

For more information visit Freycinet Experience Walk