Travel news: summer 2024
Nola James gives us the low down on the latest travel adventures around Tasmania.
Lakeside retreat
Currawong Lakes, a wilderness escape set on 800ha of native bushland near Lake Leake, has reopened following a quick refresh. New owners Kim and Rod Forge – who also own Still at Freycinet, a luxury Nordic-style retreat in Coles Bay – have brought in local chef Chris Lucas for in-house private dining while retaining the property’s fly-fishing, clay shooting and quad-biking offering. The Lake House, Currawong’s premium accommodation option, features three king bedrooms, lake views and a beautiful sandstone fireplace.
Spicy new addition
Launceston’s first Sri Lankan restaurant, Salt & Chilli, has opened in the Quadrant Mall. The menu is built around kottu (chopped roti with vegetables, eggs and gravy) and aromatic curries made from spice blends sourced directly from the Sri Lankan owners’ hometowns.
Meet the maker
Utzinger Wines, finalist for Best New Winery in this year’s Halliday Wine Companion awards, has opened a cellar door at its Legana winery. The new space, which owners Matthias and Lauren Utzinger largely built and designed themselves, was three years in the making. The 45-minute guided tastings are by appointment only.
Light the way
After five years at Hobart’s Farm Gate Market, plus a few more with their food van, Ryan Lynch and Sappho Brothers of Orlando Plenty have opened The Lanterns, a cafe and providore in Dunalley. The menu is all vegetarian, with plenty of vegan options, plus lots of “secret pantry weapons” to take home, Ryan says. The providore has a strong takeaway focus to cater to travellers; expect to see some familiar faces in Bream Creek Dairy, Huon Me Crumpets and Tasmanian Juice Press.
New look for Mures
On Hobart’s waterfront, Mures Upper Deck has reopened after a significant refurbishment. “You wouldn’t recognise the place,” Will Mure says. The white walls and carpet are no more. In their place are deep-sea-blue hues, polished concrete and a state-of-the-art elevator for improved accessibility. The redesign also made room for Kelp Bar, a new late-night cocktail spot with a patio overlooking the dock.
Three to try - gift stores
Alma Supply Store, Hobart - A global selection of hip household goods, from Japanese garden tools to South African textiles, at this city centre emporium.
The Store @ Design Tasmania, Launceston - Shop online or in person for local designs, including works by furniture designer Matt Dikkenberg and jeweller Alison O’Keeffe.
Red Parka, Hobart - This bright-red store celebrates diversity and Tasmanian design through its range of children’s books, jewellery and homewares.
