Explore

Aquila and beyond

Aquila is a sanctuary. A place to stop, breathe and enjoy magic in the moments. We’ve created this haven so you can truly relax. Set amongst 20 hectares of working farm and secluded bushland, take the time to reconnect with nature, yourself and your loved one.

“When one tugs at a single thing in nature, one finds it attached to everything else.”

– John Muir

Aquila Eco Retreat

MEET THE LOCALS

Say hi to the resident sheep. Chat to the talking rescued parrots in the on-site aviaries. Sway in your private deck hammock and keep watch for a plethora of native birdlife – including the magnificent Tasmanian Wedge-tailed Eagle. As dusk settles, look out for wallabies grazing and possums on the move.

GO FOR A WANDER

Relish a romantic picnic in the paddock; there are plenty of spectacular places to choose from. As you wander, look out for the storytelling signage dotted around the retreat grounds, and pause at the Tasmanian-made sculptures created by talented local artists for an unforgettable photo opportunity.

FEEL THE HEAT

Indulge in our Flame Space. This is where wellness happens. Feel the deep relaxation in the wood-fire sauna as your cares melt away. Then experience the invigorating power of cold immersion. Your skin will tingle for hours.

BATHE IN THE STARS

Snuggle around the firepit in Flame Space and share a story over a glass of Tassie Pinot Noir. Look up! A trillion stars are twinkling in the night sky. With no light pollution and an expansive sky, lose yourself in the wonders of stargazing.

IN-ROOM MASSAGE

What is more indulgent than your own private masseuse coming to you? With the choice of relaxation or remedial massage, you’ll be transported to a state of bliss without even having to leave your room.

EXPLORE ON E-BIKES

Our e-bikes will give you the chance to explore at the perfect pace. Don’t miss the little things by whizzing around in a car, take your time and stop whenever you want to literally smell the roses or take photos of your stunning surroundings.

Richmond and the Coal River Valley

You probably won’t want to leave the tranquillity of Aquila, but if you do feel like venturing out, you’re perfectly placed to explore the immediate surroundings.

STEP INTO HISTORIC RICHMOND

Richmond is one of Tasmania’s most historic townships; a place where heritage streetscapes, timeless buildings and stories from the early colonial era feel beautifully close. Wander along the river, pause at Richmond Bridge (Australia’s oldest bridge), and take your time soaking up the atmosphere of this remarkable little village. When you’re ready, settle in for lunch at one of Richmond’s welcoming cafés, then browse the boutique shops for beautiful Tasmanian-made gifts to take home.

EXPLORE THE COAL RIVER VALLEY WINE REGION

With Aquila located in the heart of one of Tasmania’s premier wine regions — the Coal River Valley — you’re only a short drive from a remarkable collection of cellar doors, ranging from beautifully historic to ultra-modern, architecturally designed masterpieces. Discover some of the finest cool-climate wines you’ll find anywhere and take your time tasting your way through the valley. Many vineyards sell their wines exclusively at the cellar door, so it’s the perfect chance to take home something you can’t find elsewhere. Along the way, you can also seek out local producers — from cheese making to watching gourmet Tasmanian chocolates being crafted — for a delicious taste of the region. Touring maps are located in your accommodation.

A little further down the road

SEE EXTRAORDINARY ART

Delve into your subconscious as you enter MONA to see one of the most controversial private art collections in the world. Located in Berriedale, you can drive to Mona or catch a fun ferry from Brooke Street Pier. The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) is a major gallery in Hobart showcasing some of Tasmania’s finest collections, and there are galleries scattered throughout Salamanca Place, including Long Gallery, Handmark and Despard Gallery.

EMBARK ON HOBART

Aquila might feel a world away, but cosmopolitan Hobart is only a 20-minute drive. Visit the boutiques and galleries in historic Salamanca Place on the waterfront. This is where the largest open-air markets in Australia come to life every Saturday. Wander over to Battery Point and marvel at the quaint convict-built cottages and cozy pubs. Take the 30-minute drive to kunanyi/Mt Wellington for 360-degree views over Hobart, the Derwent River and the Huon Valley. There are many bushwalks to choose from on the mountain – from 30-minute strolls to several-hour hikes.

TRY LOCAL BUSH TUCKER

kipli takara is a 90-minute bush tucker tour at piyura kitina/Risdon Cove. Guests are treated to a 90-minute guided walk of the culturally rich and unique property, with palawa (Tasmanian Aboriginal) guides. Along the way, you can taste the native bush tucker currently in season and get a first-hand glimpse into how palawa continues to enjoy Indigenous foods and undertake culturally-centred land management across lutruwita/Tasmania.

STEP BACK IN TIME

No trip to Tasmania is complete without a visit to the Tasman Penisula and more specifically Port Arthur. Consistently one of the most visited places in Australia, and for good reason, this globally significant historic site sheds light on one of the most significant and brutal times in our history. Part of the UNESCO Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Property, Port Arthur will stay with you long after you’ve left the site.