"Helmsbay Cottage"
Serenity and Lifestyle in a Scenic Huon Haven
Set on over half a hectare of land, this renovated, late 19th Century farmhouse is situated in an idyllic position overlooking the pristine waters of Purcells Bay, joining those of Port Cygnet to meet at the mouth of the Huon River. The gently sloping lawns of the property are bounded on the northern and western sides by a lightly wooded reserve framing superb water views.
The house was built circa 1880 and while original features have been retained, it has seen a number of transformations resulting in a comfortable family home with a flexible floorplan. At present there are three, large, double bedrooms and two bathrooms in the house with a fourth bedroom occupying a separate bunkhouse, accessible via a covered walkway; the bunkhouse being one of two adjacent outhouses that have been attractively restored, the other housing the laundry, with original copper intact. An open plan living, dining and kitchen space spans the house with sliding doors to a family room, all of which have a northerly aspect welcoming all day sunshine, while a separate sitting room adjoins one of the bedrooms. Sliding doors lead from the dining and family spaces to an expansive covered deck, ideal for an alfresco lifestyle. Beyond, on a paved area, is an attractive hot or cold tub with a nearby sauna epitomising the relaxed, healthy, outdoor mood of the property. Separate from the house can be found a further group of buildings containing not only a shed, a garage and undercover storage areas but also a self-contained, one-bedroom apartment, suitable for friends, family, or for short term rental accommodation STCA. There is easy access through the reserve to a slipway (with concrete boat ramp) and small private jetty, while a mooring can be obtained in the calm waters of Purcells Bay.
The property is 50 - 55 minutes' drive from Hobart whether it is approached via the Huon Highway over the foothills of kunanyi/Mt Wellington or by the equally scenic route via the Channel Highway. It is a beautiful, tranquil location away from the hustle and bustle of city life, with numerous attractions nearby: the village of Cygnet is only 8 minutes' drive away with its shops, cafés, art galleries, medical facilities and commercial ventures, while the larger township of Huonville is 23 minutes' drive up the road. The property is ideally placed for exploring Tasmania's Far South including the Tahune Airwalk, Hastings Caves, and the Hartz Mountains and Southwest National Parks, as well as the delights of Bruny Island to the east.