Where to Stay
As you approach this 1843 bluestone warehouse, at the wharf end of Stanley’s heritage-protected precinct of fisherman’s cottages, there’s no hint of what lies inside. Outside it’s all quaint village charm, but within there’s space, light and sleek New York style. It still has its warehouse wooden beams, stone walls and timber floors, but the chic renovation has introduced a free-standing fire hearth and modern designer furnishings. The two super luxury suites have comfort as a top priority, especially in the bedrooms with fine linen and goose-down duvets on the pillow-topped beds, and a ‘munchie box’ to take care of any last-minute chocolate cravings.
16 Wharf Rd; (03) 6458 2032
If history and heritage are your passions then not only is Stanley the place for you, but these cottages are perfect for your stay. You’ll be spoilt for choice though, as there are seven to choose from and they each have charming features. There are fantastic water views from the family-sized Spa Cottage’s verandah, and it has a touch of extra luxury with a four-poster bed and wood fire. If you’re looking for cute and cosy, The Bakery or The Spa cottages might be just what you need. A continental breakfast is supplied in all cottages, and there are little extras like bubble bath or complimentary port to enjoy in some cases.
Abbeys Cottage 1, Marshall St; The Green House, cnr Church and Marshall sts; Pol and Pen Cottage, cnr Cripps and Pearse sts; Estowen House, 35 Main Rd; Abbey's on the Terrace, 34 Alexander Tce; Abbey's Spa Cottage, 46 Alexander Tce; Abbey's The Bakery, Marshall St; (03) 6458 1430, 1800 222 397
In contrast to Stanley’s heritage appeal, these futuristic eco-cabins have an eye on tomorrow. Treading lightly on the land – and what a fabulous plot of land they have, on the dunes of a near-deserted inlet – the timber cabins show what can be done with imagination, care for the environment and a flair for design. They are light-filled and beautiful, from the recycled-timber beds to the wave-washed stone bathroom floor and quirky porthole windows. But don’t spend too long inside; what awaits you on the beach is pure solitude, scenic beauty and a fresh feed of oysters for the taking.
253 Stanley Hwy; (03) 6458 1350
Sheltered from the Roaring 40s by The Nut at its back, this 1880s Federation house stands out from other cottages along Stanley’s historic Alexander Terrace because of its pretty-as-a-picture blue and white paintwork. Inside it’s a knockout, with superb views over East Inlet’s wide beach through the bay windows of the main bedroom, while throughout the house there are elegant classical furnishings and luxury touches such as beautiful parquet flooring in the kitchen. Arranged so guests can enjoy sole occupancy or one of two apartments, Gardenia House is in a perfect spot to enjoy some lovely walks around Stanley, or to catch the chairlift to the windswept top of The Nut. There’s a two-night minimum stay.
44 Alexander Tce; (03) 6458 1121
Open the electronic blinds in these two glass-fronted contemporary apartments for a new take on Stanley’s weird landscape with its volcanic ‘Nut’ dominating the surrounding plains. It’s a stunningly beautiful vista and you can gaze at it to your heart’s content from your king-sized bed, from the stylish modular lounge or while enjoying a deep relaxing spa or milk bath – glass in hand, of course – in these luxurious elevated studios. There’s no end to the special surprises on offer here: cheeses and pâtés, fabulous homemade bread, chocolate truffles and good coffee, but the best surprise of all is the breathtaking view.
88 Dovecote Rd; 0448 521 115
