Destination Southern Tasmania celebrates the exceptional achievements of local accommodation providers who have been recognised as winners and finalists in the prestigious 2025 Airbnb Australian Host Awards, demonstrating the region’s commitment to outstanding hospitality and innovative tourism experiences.
Braithwaite Claims Host of the Year Crown
Braithwaite, the heritage-listed former bakery apartment in Sandy Bay, has achieved the ultimate recognition by winning Host of the Year, the competition’s most coveted award. Hosted by Alix and John, this chic courtyard apartment located just 2km from Salamanca represents the perfect fusion of Tasmanian heritage and contemporary luxury.
The property distinguishes itself through thoughtful restoration that honours its bakery origins while incorporating modern amenities including a king-size bed, sunlit courtyard featuring a full-size outdoor bath, cosy living space with gas fireplace, and heated bathroom floors. Personal touches such as locally sourced treats further enhance the guest experience.
Judge Sarah Huang recognised the hosts for their “hyper-personalised, emotionally resonant hosting,” explaining that “they don’t just provide a stay, they create a moment in time that’s deeply meaningful. Whether it’s a handwritten note referencing a guest’s life or welcoming descendants of original bakers, these hosts transform history into hospitality”.
Regional Excellence Recognised Across Multiple Categories
Southern Tasmania’s diverse accommodation landscape gained further recognition through several distinguished finalists spanning various award categories:
Bowhill Grange – Shepherd’s Rest earned finalist status for Host of the Year, showcasing the region’s pastoral tourism offerings. This colonial sandstone cottage near Oatlands invites guests to experience authentic rural Tasmania across hundreds of acres of merino pastureland. Originally constructed during early colonial times and relocated in 1982, the property features sweeping views towards Table Mountain, wood heating, and a signature claw foot bath. Hosts Ruth and Peter enhance stays with home-baked breakfast provisions, free-range eggs, and popular grazing platters.
Ogee Guesthouse achieved finalist recognition in the Best Design Stay category. This North Hobart townhouse, adjacent to the acclaimed Ogee restaurant, exemplifies sophisticated hospitality design. The heritage property features a chef-designed kitchen equipped with Japanese knives and commercial-grade appliances, a dedicated listening room with locally crafted Pitt & Giblin speakers, and luxurious bathrooms with heated floors and distinctive round-footed bathtubs.
MarshMellow secured finalist status for Best Nature Stay, representing Tasmania’s innovative tiny house accommodation sector. Set amongst eucalyptus trees beside a tidal creek near Connellys Marsh, this sustainable retreat offers guests outdoor bathing, kayaking opportunities, and Land for Wildlife accreditation. Located just 45 minutes from Hobart, the property demonstrates how compact design can deliver luxury experiences while maintaining environmental responsibility.
Broader Regional Recognition
Central Wilderness Stay – The Lazy Prospector in Zeehan also achieved Best Nature Stay finalist recognition. This welcoming cabin serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring Tasmania’s rugged West Coast, featuring mountain views from a swing bed, deep soaking facilities, and wood fire comfort after adventure-filled days exploring the region’s wilderness areas.
Industry Significance
These awards underscore the substantial economic contribution of Tasmania’s accommodation sector. The recognition of Southern Tasmanian properties in these prestigious awards reinforces the region’s position as a leading destination for experiential tourism.
The diversity of recognised properties – from heritage bakeries to tiny houses, colonial cottages to restaurant guesthouses, demonstrates Southern Tasmania’s capacity to deliver authentic experiences that connect visitors with the region’s history, culture, and natural environment while supporting local communities and businesses.