(The old stables/wintry drive/gate)
We didn't go far and we didn't go for long but we had a wonderful time.
Saturday lunchtime we set off south and travelled some tiny back roads past very old properties and historic homesteads wending our way till we eventually came out at the township of Ross. Ross is only 78km south of Launceston and is one of the few historic towns reasonably untouched by the commercial gaudiness of tourism. It is very well known for it's sandstone bridge built with convict labour and intricately carved but there is a tremendous amount of history attached to Ross; it's past as a women's prison settlement, it's fine churches of the day and the sandstone cottages on wide tree-lined roads and dry stone walls. I'm still only scratching the surface on my explorations of Ross thus far but they are stories for another day.
We travelled north again just 10km to the next township of Campbell Town and after a quick lunch and a shop we picked up some platter nibbles at the local store and Craig finally revealed our mystery destination for the night
a beautiful B&B just a street back off the main road.
Built in about 1838 you can read more about it's history here. We stayed in the very spacious and luxurious Tuscan Room and our hosts, David and Irene, couldn't have been more attentive and welcoming.
We settled into our rooms with a very special bottle of Tasmanian wine; may I recommend Stafano Lubiano Pinot Noir, divine!
Every need is anticipated and all the rooms cosy and lamp lit oozing charm and atmosphere. Curios, charming period decor and an abundance of books all added to the richness of the experience.
We watched the setting sun turn the hills pink and gold, the winter's day fading fast our noses repeating in the joy of the wine's bouquet. Our hosts telephoned and arranged our booking for dinner at the local cafe Zeps while we relaxed in soft sofas by the fire.
Dinner was delicious even if the cafe was lacking in atmosphere and afterwards we returned to spend the remainder of the evening in our private sitting room with another bottle of wine and a selection of CDs talking and knitting by the fire.
We couldn't fault a thing and had we been staying longer I would have indulged in a leisurely fragrant bath and candlelight. The bed was so comfortable and not a ghost in sight.
(View from our room/ the breakfast room)
Next morning the continental breakfast spread was so lavish I felt sure we had made a mistake and that other guests must surely be joining us, but no, it was all for us!
Poached pears, compote of apricots and blueberries, creamy yoghurt with vanilla bean followed by freshly baked croissants.
Toast and hot boiled eggs and a platter of soft cheeses, baby tomatoes and pate.
A choice of three different jams and a marmalade served in silver dishes, the table set with blue and white china and crystal glasses.
A breakfast for a king and queen!
Late check out of 11am meant a very leisurely repast.
I didn't want it to end but oh a short break like this can be as good as a week's holiday!
We definitely recommend Ivy on Glenelg
We are not affiliated in any way with David and Irene or the business and did not receive any payment or discount for the post, we simply had a wonderful time and wanted to share an experience that we thought was value for money and hope it helps anyone planning a holiday in Tasmania.
Woooooooooooow.
ReplyDeleteCraig done good!