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Two houses on the ocean
Heading south on the Tasman Peninsula to teralina / Eaglehawk Neck is a coastal delight. Follow the road over a mountain to a beach and an isthmus that almost cuts you off from the world, and Pirates Bay emerges. It’s now a place for refuge, where the wilds beckon beyond the windows. House of the Weedy Seadragon and Semaphore Shack are two sister houses at Eaglehawk Neck. These soulful original shacks can be booked separately or together for up to 10 guests. Either way, a magical time is in store. Semaphore Shack Light and bright, this little cottage was built in 1934. It has been lovingly restored and has a touch of shack luxe. The two bedrooms sleep up to four. There’s a cosy indoor wood heater and bathtub, expansive deck with water views, and an outdoor firepit. Enjoy a barbecue, then, as the sun sinks, wander down to Descent Beach via private access. House of the Weedy Seadragon A 1970s true Tassie shack, imperfectly ramshackled and full of charm. It is full of character and a wonderful base for couples or families. Enjoy the roaring fire, three bedrooms with enough room for six, and an inviting hilltop sauna with ocean views. The lovingly restored shack has everything you need for a beachside getaway – even an electric vehicle charger! The family story In the 1930s, a Hobart family started building houses on the sand dunes next door to an abandoned sawmill. They used these beautiful dune homes as weekend escapes, where their children and grandchildren learned how to fish and swim. Their origin tale ranges across islands, oceans, nations and cultures. The houses represent them, and were always a place to rest between journeys to plan new adventures. Now, current family members are trying to save and preserve these houses. With no new buildings permitted in the area because of the risk of sand dune erosion, the quaint shacks need love and attention. All proceeds from renting these houses go back into maintenance and upkeep, with the hope that they remain for many more generations to enjoy. The family endeavours to make conscious choices for minimal environmental impact. That means your showers are 100 per cent rainwater, and the premium bathroom products are in refillable vessels. The next step is solar power, to create an even gentler footprint. 301 Blowhole Road, Eaglehawk Neck houseoftheweedyseadragon.com |