The Keep TASMANIA - UNIQUE SOLITUDE
THE LOCATION
The Keep is located in Goulds Country in north-east Tasmania. You could certainly call it ‘remote’ as this luxury accommodation is perched high on a rocky pinnacle in logging country. From the south, it is 40 – 45 minutes drive north from St Helen’s. From the north, it is about 2 hours 15 minutes drive from Launceston.
To access The Keep, you will need your own vehicle and an all-wheel drive is certainly recommended (2 – wheel drive cars will make it), as most of the route is along unpaved roads. Ensure that you enter the address into Google Maps / your GPS before you lose phone signal.
THE BUILDING
The Keep in Tasmania follows a square design, perfectly symmetrical from the outside, with boulders flanking one side of the base and a low brick wall following the curve of the hilltop on the other side. The Keep is completely off grid and is powered by solar panels and batteries, so you are able to charge your electronic devices but be mindful of the number of appliances being used and turning off the lights.
Built at the top of a rocky outlook, it is highly recommended to park your vehicle inside the lock up garage to protect it from inclement weather.
Split across three levels, you will need to be mobile in order to enjoy The Keep as there is no elevator and the surroundings can be quite steep with uneven surfaces following the lay of the land.
THE FACILITIES & AMENITIES
Despite its secluded location, The Keep does not go without modern creature comforts.
The first level features the entrance, the laundry with a washing machine and clothes drying rack and the lock-up garage where two camper chairs are stored.
The middle level has the bedroom, bathroom and sitting room. A glorious king bed with Blackheart Sassafras bed head and LED lights fills the master bedroom with a heritage sheep fleece hanging over a Tasmanian oak leather couch with integrated cow hide. Two plush black robes and yoga mats are available in the separate sitting room, a perfect little reading nook.
The upper level has the living and dining area. The floor to ceiling glass windows filter in plenty of natural light and here is where you’ll want to relax after an invigorating walk outside or when the temperature becomes too cold. The impressive custom blackwood drinks cabinet will no doubt tempt your tastebuds, carefully curated to promote and celebrate Tasmanian artisanal products (at an additional cost).
The living area also has a gas heater, bluetooth sound system but no television. This is on purpose so that you can connect with your significant other, simply sit and take in the natural beauty. Wifi is provided but its use is discouraged for the same reasons as previously specified.
The kitchen will have all the equipment and appliances that you’ll require to whip up some gourmet or simple meals. The pantry is generously stocked with basics. The fridge is stocked with pre-mixed cocktails (for an extra cost) and other beverages if you forgot to bring your own. Here is where you will also find a picnic rug and basket, board games and first aid kit.
If the weather outside is fine and the temperature is not too cold, you have the option to cook outside on the deck on the portable electric Weber BBQ. Wheel out the camper chairs or sling the hammock up. Amongst the boulders, you can start the outdoor fire with chopped wood, firestarters and lighter all provided inside the garage. Lastly, the crowning feature of The Keep, is its outdoor granite bath between the boulders. Fill the bath up, grab a bottle of bubbly and soak in the hot water, letting the minutes and hours pass as you wish.
THE SURROUNDS
As The Keep is in the middle of logging country, it goes without saying that you are surrounded by lots and lots of trees and Tasmanian wildlife.
The Keep has specifically marked 3 walks for guests to enjoy slowly and safely.
- The Myrtle – which takes you down through the rainforest. Follow the orange markers until you come to the base of the unofficially largest myrtle tree in Tasmania. The trail can be steep in parts and uneven so it’s best to wear enclosed shoes and watch your footing.
- The Ferns – a mostly flat trail marked by sandy bricks. This short, relatively flat stroll takes you underneath a canopy of ferns.
- The Creek – this one is a bit further down the driveway. Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time to visit this spot but after a 10 minute walk, you should come to a rainforest creek. Feel free to bring a picnic basket down here, don’t forget the insect repellent and keep an eye out for birds and sometimes a blue tongued lizard.
THE LOWDOWN
How To Get To The Keep Tasmania
Before your stay, The Keep will email you a detailed PDF document outlining specific instructions and directions. Ensure that you save and download these instructions before setting out on your journey,
If you are hiring a rental car, travel insurance is strongly recommended and be sure to tick the gravel road clause.
*This stay was provided complimentary by The Keep Tasmania. All photos, words and opinions are our own.
