'The perfect recipe for a holiday': Escape to Tasmania's Bruny Boathouse

Take a 30-minute drive south-east of Hobart, followed by a 20-minute journey on a car ferry from Kettering, and you’ll find yourself arriving at Bruny Island – a stunning destination where a slew of treasures wait to be discovered.

One such gem can be found in one of the Tasmanian island’s main townships, Alonnah, in the form of the idyllic and aptly-named waterfront shack Bruny Boathouse.

Situated just above a peaceful beach, with bobbing boats docked at a nearby jetty and in the company of whistling gum trees, it’s not hard to see why this restful retreat has quickly become a popular holiday home. It’s been welcoming guests since November 2019.

Though there’s much to admire about the boathouse, it’s the stunning view across the D’Entrecasteaux Channel through the living room doors – resembling a framed oil painting of Tasmania’s dreamlike landscapes – that has become the most loved and photographed spot of the shack.

This is the same spectacle that first caught the eye of its owners, Nick and Sophie Weeding.

“Bruny Island has always held a special place in our hearts, so we kept notification alerts for properties in the area, and when the boathouse popped up back in August 2019, I booked a time to inspect the property the very next day,” Sophie recalls. “The property itself was in excellent condition, and that million-dollar view immediately took my breath away.”

Aside from the view, Sophie says, the biggest drawcard was its blank canvas of white walls and timber floors, which allowed her to easily imagine how the place could look and feel.

“From the moment we walked in, I had visualised and identified every piece of furniture and artwork we required, and where they would go, while my husband was sizing up boat parking in the yard outside,” she says.

“Given that the shack is also used by our family, the style is very much our own, with natural, coastal textures and minimal decor, complete with commissioned artwork that speaks large volumes.”

Although there’s much to explore in any direction, Bruny Boathouse offers the quintessential hideaway; one where guests can embrace the wonders of a quiet island life.

“I love being curled up on the deep sofa by the bifold doors, or enjoying some freshly shucked oysters and local cheeses and meats on the deck.

“No matter the weather, it’s always magical to watch the elements ever-changing across the water,” Sophie says. “And at the end of each day, you can retire to a cocktail of linen in the bedrooms, with the ocean breeze drifting through the window – the perfect recipe for a holiday.”

While on Bruny Island …

Visit some local beaches

Spend a slow, sunny day at one of the many beaches on the island, from quiet gems like Adventure Bay Beach to surf beaches like Cloudy Bay. If you’d rather not venture far, there’s always Shell Beach, located in front of Bruny Boathouse.

Sample local cheeses and beers

Bring your appetite and head to Bruny Island Cheese Company, an artisan store selling locally produced cheeses, beers and condiments. Sit under the gums and enjoy a mix of local delights and stock up on your way out.

Taste some local oysters

Let the island’s foodie trail lead you to Get Shucked, a popular oyster farm and bar offering a bay-to-bar dining experience. Grab a seat in the sun and sample some local oysters, or go to a drive-through window for takeaway.

Pull up at a roadside stall fridge

Take a short drive to the beloved Bruny Baker, a roadside stall where you can grab some freshly baked sourdough and chocolate-topped Anzac cookies, tucked into retro fridges. Go early so you don’t miss out – and you’ll need cash.