If you think bed & breakfast establishments are death by doily for the blue rinse set, then think again. There is a strong movement in Australia of contemporary bed & breakfast's popping up in a fabulous destination near you, offering a high level of sophistication & style.
Launceston's newest boutique accommodation Highfield House opened late last year after a much loved restoration took place to the circa 1860 heritage house.
Sitting high on the hill, the historic house commands impressive views of the city below. Host Michelle, who is caretaker of this luxurious property, greets us warmly. Arriving on a chilly winters afternoon we're ushered into the sitting room where a roaring fire is inviting us to relax on the plush sofas.
There are five suites, each individually themed but with a similar style aesthetic throughout. All have en-suites, except the William Henty suite that has it's own private bathroom down the hall.
We're allocated the beautiful Highfield Suite located on the top floor overlooking the city. Be aware there are a number of stairs on the premises, so pack light, as you'll be expected to carry your own luggage.
The Highfield Suite features a king size bed with bright yellow throw, two armchairs in front of the windows overlooking Launceston, the perfect spot for perusing the Whileaway Guide to Launceston & planning your itinerary. There is a separate lounge room with dining table for two. The mini bar includes local James Boags Premium Lager, Tasmanian Pagan Pear Cider and a selection of Tasmanian artisan treats plus complimentary Love from Tassie Still Water.
The bathroom is French Parisian chic with a selection of Barr & Co soaps and lotions. The fireplaces in the room are for show only, but heaters keep the room toasty warm.
The beautiful interior styling is the work of owner Kerry & Peter Bower of famed Melbourne Raine & Humble. R&H is a unique homewares brand whose sole objective is to beautify homes with a blend of classical antiquity and innovative modernity. Love the furnishings? Take home a little Highfield House style and purchase items from the online store. Our eye is on some monochrome cushions!
The exquisite beds are cloud like; it must be some type of pillow top magic, complete with electric blanket and quality linen, the luxurious bedding had us dozing swiftly.
Thoughtful touches abound in the well-appointed rooms, including candles, mini-bar of local Tasmanian produce, fluffy bathrobes, throw rugs & water pitchers.
Breakfast is served at a leisurely 8.30am fireside in the dining room or in the warmer summer months outside on the terrace. It's a quality spread with freshly baked croissants & bread from Manu bakery, homemade jams & local relish & a selection of fruit and cereals.
Venturing out for other meals, you can't go past Launceston institution Black Cow Bistro. A warm and cosy corner bistro, which was once a butchery. Impeccable food, wine & service ensues and while a little on the pricey side, it's a quality experience. Also try, sister restaurant Stillwater, open breakfast, lunch & dinner (closed Monday).
New on the bar scene is Saint John Craft Beer Bar. The brainchild of a bunch of mates after a quality brew in Launceston, they set up a simple bar with craft beers as the focus. The business has grown and expanded moving into the shop next door, creating a barrel room-come movie theatre and if you're lucky enough to be there on the Beats with Eats nights, the back roller door goes up to allow access to a gourmet food truck. Serving over 170+ beers by the bottle & rotating up to 14 on tap, you're sure to find a favourite brew.
There is plenty to see and do in Launceston and a 48-hour itinerary might include visiting Cataract Gorge, explore the Tamar Valley wine region including the masters of sparkling wine Jansz and Joseph Chromy.
Sure, you might hear the creaking of floor boards from guests in an adjacent room, reminding you you're sharing a house with other guests, but you're likely to be able to meet & mingle with other guests, swap travel tales & the opportunity to chat with the host for recommendations without the need for compendiums.
It's time to reconsider B&B's and book a stay at the luxurious Highfield House, Launceston.
