The Islington Hotel, Hobart

Location

The Islington is a small hotel set amid landscaped gardens in Hobart’s dress circle. The city, Australia’s second oldest capital city, combines a vibrant art and music community with opportunities for outdoor adventure on nearby mountain ranges and beaches. A thriving restaurant scene showcases the best in Tasmanian cuisine with the island enjoying something of food renaissance.

Accommodation

With just 11 distinct rooms, the hotel is easily able to maintain its intimate atmosphere. Heritage-inspired décor is complemented by in-room iPads and under-floor heating while each room has unique characteristics. Whether it’s the cosy Attic Room, tucked away at the top of the house, or a Garden Room that looks out over the rhododendrons to Mount Wellington, there’s something to suit all tastes. There are also the Regency Rooms, which are located within the original building, dating back to 1847, or, for a truly luxurious experience, the Austro-Hungarian Empire bed of the Signature Room is a decadent choice.

Dining

A two-storey glass conservatory hosts the main dining space where the hotel’s kitchen serves up menus focused on seasonal, local and organic produce. Menus change daily to ensure only the freshest ingredients are used, so it’s worth calling up in advance if you have any requirements. A typical meal might consist of Bruny Island oysters, twice cooked pork belly and an elderflower sorbet. Included in the room price is a cooked breakfast and, freshly baked muffins are available throughout the day.

Facilities

Amenities include a library containing illustrated books by artist and botanist Louisa Anne Meredith, who moved to the island in the 1830s and a fireside snug – all complemented by attentive personalised service. The hotel also plays host to an eclectic mix of ancient and modern artwork amassed on the owner’s travels.