The Ark Stanley

The place sits on the sheltered side of the rock, so we could enjoy the garden and verandah even in the usual westerlies. From the lounge couch, the wide views made it great to watch the weather roll in and then pass. There was a handwritten welcome postcard too, a small touch I really liked. The design team deserve credit for how thoughtfully everything has been put together. There are ramps as well as stairs, plus handrails in the shower and toilet, so the unit would have been accessible and usable for me if I were still using a wheelchair. The beds, garden and whole property were spotlessly clean, and the location is one of the best in town. We’ve stayed in plenty of good places around Tassie, but this is the one I’d pick. It’s spacious and airy, with the historic mariners theme done beautifully. It feels more like a governor’s quarters with modern facilities than rough, old fashioned lodging, and the Nut looms above the bay and shipyards. I hadn’t researched much and ended up booking here because only the pricier places were left. I’m glad it worked out that way. Hersey seafoods is an easy walk away. I was told they own the local fishing fleet, and the fresh lobster, scallops, real gummy shark and other seafood were fantastic. This isn’t the fish and chips we’re used to. They package it so you can take it back and eat at the kitchen table or in the garden. Pick up a bottle of local white from the fridge and it makes a lovely meal. There’s also a large laundry tucked away in the old stables, a gym I didn’t use, and bikes for touring town. The hosts were accommodating and even patient when I got my booking dates mixed up. Luckily another room was free. Top spot, and I’d book it again if I were up the top end of Tassie.