Raffah House: Where History Lives

In my humble opinion, the best type of homes are the ones that are rich in both character and history. One that has many stories to tell, while at the same time, inviting you in, to create your own. This is the type of sentiment that Raffah House yields — dazzling all those who come to pay a visit.

Located just an hour’s drive from Hobart, and a tad over that from Launceston, Raffah House dwells in the quaint and historic township of Oatlands — home to the largest collection of Georgian-style sandstone buildings in all of Australia.

What was once a busy maternity hospital, originally built in the 1840’s, today, Raffah House has since undergone an extensive and sympathetic overhaul, transforming into a remarkable homestay for visiting guests.

Upon first glance, of course, it’s the cottage’s sandstone walls that first catch the eye, juxtaposed beautifully with the exterior’s navy-blue-coloured Tasmanian timbers.

Take a look around the property and you’ll notice raised planter boxes growing seasonal veggies, an outdoor dining area, perfect for delightful summer alfresco moments, chopped blocks of firewood lining one wall, all sitting snug next to a cluster of potted herb plants, as well as a chimney puffing smoke into the evening sky — making you feel nice and cosy, even before you walk in.

Once inside, you’ll find yourself instantly admiring the perfect symphony of old-world charm and modern comforts.

On one hand, there’s the exposed sandstone walls that continue inside, along with original fireplaces and antique doors that will spark a twinkle in your eye. On the other, contemporary wishes are also granted, with a modern kitchen, fit with all the amenities, a couple of cosy linen sofas in the living room, waiting to give you a warm embrace, and a spacious bathroom complete with heated flooring for those chilly Tasmanian winter mornings.

Raffah House bestows the best of both worlds — old and new — and you’ll feel more than happy to live in both.

Now as for a good night’s rest, the cottage has three spacious bedrooms, all of which are decked out in a cloud of soft, french linen and luxurious pillows. In fact, go ahead and turn off all of your alarms for the morning, as you’ll soon discover, these beds will naturally demand a mandatory sleep-in.

However, sleep-ins aside, don’t forget there’s also a historic town for you to idly explore. So go ahead and keep the windswept central plains of Tasmania company — seemingly a world away from whichever corner of the world you’ve come from.