FAQ

The Sanctuary

Policies

Location

  • The Swan River Sanctuary is the homestead of a working regenerative cattle farm right on the door step of the Moulting Lagoon conservation area and Freycinet National Park.

    You will be staying in a home, not a hotel, it is a residence when not hosting guests. It is a personal space to which we invite you to come and live as us Tasmanian East Coasters do, taking it back to basics luxuriously.

    Our goal is to provide an environment based on connection to both nature, agriculture, family and friends.

  • We do not provide wifi at The Swan River Sanctuary. It is a conscious decision to provide a space for our guests to disconnect from the modern world by interacting with nature and the farm.

    There is mobile coverage for both Optus and Telstra

  • Private vehicle transfers between Swan River Sanctuary Lodge and Hobart Airport (1.5 hours) or Launceston Airport (1.5 hours) may be arranged with a preferred operator. We can also arrange scenic helicopter flights or transfers. Additional costs apply for all private road and air transfers. Bookings are best made in advance; please enquire for rates and information.

  • Check-in time is 2pm and check-out time is 10am. Where possible, flexibility with early check-in and late check-out will be provided, however, these are unable to be guaranteed. We will certainly do our best to fit in with your travel plans.

  • We absolutely insist on no smoking inside the house. Should you wish to smoke please step outside. There is an ashtray provided. Please take this with you and dispose of all buts etc.

  • Swan River Sanctuary welcomes children ten years and over.

  • 50% due at time of booking. Remaining balance due 30 days before arrival.

    There is a $100 cleaning fee per stay.

  • Bookings may be cancelled or amended prior to one month from arrival without forfeiture. Cancellations and booking amendments received within one month of arrival forfeit all monies paid.

    No refunds or credits can be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services, or unused nights due to travel and/or weather disruption. For peace of mind, we recommend you protect yourself with comprehensive travel insurance to cover any cancellation fees.

  • The Sanctuary is easily accessed from either Hobart or Launceston Airports, with direct flights to and from main touring gateways including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth. It is a 1 hour 30 minute drive from Hobart airport (120 km) and the same from Launceston airport.

    Self-drive is a popular option, the journey by road from Hobart meanders along the stunning Great Eastern Drive taking in some of Tasmania’s most iconic coastal landscapes culminating in stunning views over Great Oyster Bay and Freycinet Peninsula.

    From Launceston you will venture the Northern Midlands, Tasmania’s prime agricultural grazing area and then across the highlands of Lake Leak before dropping down in the Swan River Valley at the foot of Freycinet.

  • The weather on Tasmania's east coast is generally characterized by a maritime climate influenced by the surrounding ocean.

    Summers are typically mild and pleasant, with average high temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). It's a great time for outdoor activities and beach visits.

    Winters are also relatively mild compared to other parts of Australia. Average winter high temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), and frost and snow are rare near the coast. The Tasman Sea has a moderating effect on the climate, which helps keep temperatures relatively stable. Sea breezes can also provide relief on hot summer days.

    Overall, Tasmania's east coast offers a pleasant climate for most of the year, making it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

  • Reflecting the serene surrounds, dress is relaxed at Swan River Sanctuary. Easy to wear, resort style clothing for daytime and smart casual attire for evening is recommended. Comfortable, solid footwear is recommended for walking around the farm. It can get cold in the evening, even in the summer months so a good warm jacket is recommended to bring.

  • The official currency of Australia is Australian Dollars (AUD).

  • Located in Tasmania, The Swan River Sanctuary follows Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) which is 9 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +10). There is one of daylight savings in the Summer months October – April.

  • English is the official language of Australia.

  • Mains voltage in Australia is 230V 50Hz. The plugs in Australia have two flat metal pins shaped live a ‘V’ and some may contain a third flat pin in the centre.

  • It’s very safe to swim in the Swan River, a visit to the Sanctuary would not complete without a dip in the River of Life. Depending on the season the water may be salty or fresh depending on recent rains.

Our Commitment To The Environment

…is best expressed by the Sanctuary’s interaction with its local natural and cultural surroundings. A dynamic environmental management plan featuring continually evolving technologies steers our operations both in the lodge and on the farm and give our guests great insight in how sustainable tourism and farming can work together.