Located in the picturesque town of Perth, Tasmania, The Stone House is a charming Heritage Trust property that’s ideal for a quiet getaway. Built by convicts in 1825 for the first Northern Tasmanian clergyman, the Reverend John Youl, the house had only four owners before Jenny and David Savage snapped it up in 2004 on a quick visit to the area while looking for a weekender.
Georgian Charm
The bluestone Georgian-style house, which overlooks the South Esk River and is surrounded by formal English-style gardens, had been well-kept, with much of its original wood panelling still in place, but the couple were keen to restore its traditional heritage feel and since then they’ve worked hard to bring it back tastefully to its former state. Having found a ‘heritage’ architect, they added two upstairs bedrooms with ensuites, updated the two downstairs bathrooms and also built a conservatory.The furniture designs were inspired by Georgian furniture books and most of the pieces were made by hand by an amazing furniture maker from Java, Indonesia, using hundred-year-old recycled wood and featuring carvings of flowers from the garden to complete each themed room. And no detail has been spared for the fittings either, which include brass and glass lights and French windows. Original features such as Baltic pine flooring and cedar panelling were preserved, while new silk drapes were made in Vietnam, where the bedding and cushions were also sourced. With the renovations complete, there are now four luxurious bedrooms in the house, each with flower-inspired names. The Water Lily master bedroom is home to a stunning king-size four-poster bed, while the Rose room has French doors overlooking the front garden and the river. Upstairs, the Blue Bell and Chrysanthemum rooms have cosy queen-size beds and private ensuites.
Home away from home
Today, Jenny and David have made the whole house available as a week-stay, making it especially ideal for groups, perhaps four couples or a family with older children. On arrival at The Stone House, you’ll be greeted by resident caretakers Peter and Ilona, who live in a newer semidetached wing and who will help you settle in for your stay with a glass of Tasmanian wine and homemade afternoon tea. Once you’ve unpacked your bags, you’re sure to be drawn to the generously sized formal lounge room which has an open fireplace, grand cedar mantelpiece and solid cedar French doors. If relaxing by the fire doesn’t take your fancy, you can always strike up a tune on the lovely old pianola in the corner. The elegance of this area is matched by the beautiful formal dining room with its exquisite Italian chandelier and hand-embroidered tablecloth and serviettes. There’s even a quaint butler’s pantry where, at one time, servants would have waited behind curtains to offer drinks to guests during dinner parties. But if you’re looking for the perfect place to unwind, head to the spacious light-filled conservatory. Overlooking the back garden, it features a gorgeous Indian silk carpet hanging on the wall, a huge Maharaja antique chest from Rajasthan and beautiful patterned flooring of white marble and black granite sourced from Delhi.The house also has a big-screen television and a range of CDs and DVDs, plus there’s a computer with an internet connection in the fourth bedroom. Outside, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained, from the 11-metre inground pool and spa to the barbecue and spit area. Take a stroll around the beautiful gardens or curl up on one of the antique day beds with a book.
Out and about
Feeling peckish? Guests are treated to a continental breakfast with fresh bread, cereal, local jams and honeys along with fruit, juice, tea and coffee every day, with dinner available by prior arrangement. And they’re welcome to use the kitchen too, which is equipped with a stove, microwave and dishwasher plus some utensils and basic ingredients, and has been newly finished in an old-fashioned Georgian style that Jenny just loves. And being just seven minutes from Launceston Airport and 20 minutes from Launceston itself, The Stone House offers the perfect base for a trip to Tasmania. Perth is also close to the historic townships of Longford and Evandale with their excellent restaurants and local pubs, and Jenny and David fully recommend a trip to the Evandale Market on Sunday morning for local produce and fresh fruit and vegetables. Peter and Ilona are happy to offer advice on activities and attractions, including day trips to Launceston, the Tamar Valley, Cradle Mountain, Hobart, local historical houses, vineyards, and antique stores. Bikes and fishing equipment are also available to use, and picnic hampers can be arranged too.
The Stone House is part of the Beautiful Accommodation collection of Australian properties. For more information, visit www.beautifulaccommodation.com
The Stone House
18 William St, Perth, Tas 7300
Ph/Fax: (03) 6398 2703
Email: thestonehouse@bigpond.com
www.thestonehouse.com.au
Story by Lauren Broomham