Borradale Stanley, 1922
History
Nestled on a 163-acre beef property surrounded by pristine beaches, ‘Borradale’ was first inhabited by the First Nations ‘Peerakka’ people. Farmed by the Borradale family as tenants during the 19th century, in 1916, the Trethewie family became its first freehold owners until 2009, leaving behind a legacy that resonates through the landscape.
Originally a simple two-room worker’s cottage dating to the 1800s, the cottage as it stands today was built in 1922 by William Stagg House Smith. Smith was responsible for many other buildings in Stanley and around Circular Head, including several schools.
In 2016, Craig and Melinda Dwyer purchased Borradale, introducing sustainable farming practices, raising Cape Grim beef, and managing sheep to nurture the land. They also undertook a four year restoration of the cottage - alongside day jobs, farming, and raising their family - carefully preserving its historic charm throughout. Ornate fireplace surrounds, exposed brickwork, high ceilings, and original Tasmanian Oak floors have all been painstakingly restored, and the graceful wraparound verandah was rebuilt with fretwork recreated from photos of the original cottage.
Accommodation
Reimagining the farm stay experience, Borradale brings together the peace and tranquility of farm life with utterly luxurious accommodation. With four spacious bedrooms, the cottage sleeps up to 8 guests, and children over 12 years are welcome. Each bedroom has been thoughtfully appointed, with French flax linens and premium bedding.
With interior design by Belle Hemming Bright and styling by Lynda Gardener, each room is delightfully different, with unique colour palettes, soft textures, antique pieces, vintage curios, and artwork that draws on the history of Borradale and Stanley.
An exquisite bathroom features soothing green hues, original brickwork and a cosy fire, with restored clawfoot tub, double shower, and Salus Australian natural body products. Enjoy long soaks with a glass of wine while taking in your stunning surrounds. There’s also a separate laundry room to cater for longer stays.
A fully-equipped, farmhouse style kitchen with high quality appliances, and beautiful vintage tableware makes preparing meals a pleasure. The cottage also has its own small larder room, where guests will find a range of locally-sourced Tasmanian produce available to purchase - including the farm’s own Capegrim beef, Stanley octopus, charcuterie, cheeses, and local wines, beers, and spirits for your favourite cocktails.
For a wholly Tasmanian food experience, simply choose ingredients from the larder, then head outdoors to harvest seasonal produce from Borradale’s kitchen garden for your very own paddock-to-plate dishes!
The lounge room, with its ornate open fireplace, incredible views, and plenty of board games is a quiet haven. Light the fire, curl up with a decadent afternoon tea, and watch the clouds roll in across the sea.
Borradale’s wide wraparound verandah commands spectacular views of the iconic Nut, ocean, and the historic township of Stanley. Yoga mats and blocks are also provided for guests’ use - meditation or yoga at sunrise, followed by coffee on the verandah is a wonderful way to start your morning.
Enjoy wandering the colourful cottage gardens breathing in the fresh sea air, cook outside on the BBQ, and to end the day, gather around the fire pit for long chats under starry skies, listening to the waves roll in.
Special Offer
Book 2+ nights and mention Historic Stays to receive a complimentary bottle of Tasmanian wine and home-baked sweet treats.
“What a stunning homestead and surrounds. It’s such a beautiful place, we had difficulty dragging ourselves away to discover Stanley! Thank you for being such a welcoming family and sharing what you have so brilliantly created. We have begun our plans to return!”
Special Features
Historic Town
Open Fireplace
Clawfoot Bath
Full Kitchen
Things To Do
Stanley is a picturesque coastal town known for its rich history and stunning natural landscapes. A must-visit iconic landmark is The Nut, an ancient volcanic plug that offers breathtaking views of the town and surrounding coastline. You can take the steep walk to the top, or enjoy a more leisurely chairlift ride. Once there, a scenic loop track showcases panoramic views of the ocean and countryside.
History lovers will enjoy exploring Highfield Historic Site, a beautifully preserved 19th-century homestead that offers insights into Tasmania’s colonial past. For nature lovers, the surrounding area offers incredible wildlife experiences, including penguin tours, seal cruises, and opportunities to spot unique bird species. Stanley itself has a range of cafes, art galleries, and boutique shops.
All images by Renee Thurston
