Guests enjoying the summer season of the Maria Island Walk which resumed on October 1, will experience a more comfortable stay in the new-look Bernacchi House, following a makeover of the elegant colonial home.

Located in the world heritage convict settlement of Darlington, Bernacchi House provides guests with a rewarding night of charm on the final night of the Original Four-Day Walk or two nights during the Winter Escape Walk. Both walking experiences allow guests to immerse themselves in the stunning natural landscapes and learn about the fascinating history and the flora and fauna of the island which lies off Tasmania’s east coast.

Wild Bush Luxury, the premium experience operator of The Maria Island Walk has engaged mostly local artisans, suppliers, and products to elevate the property, offering guests more sophisticated modern comfort while maintaining the important heritage of the home which dates to 1880 when it belonged to Italian settler and pioneer Diego Bernacchi.

Wild Bush Luxury founder, Charlie Carlow, said, “the investment and upgrades to Bernacchi House now offer our guests a cosier stay on the final night of the Original Four-Day walk and we hope it will encourage more walkers to experience Tasmania winters with the offer of a homelier stay.”

“We also want to ensure our tourism business contributes to local community – part of Wild Bush Luxury’s ongoing sustainability philosophy built around a 4C’s platform – Conservation, Community, Culture and Commerce.”

This philosophy, plus keeping the surrounding environment and heritage top of mind, made up the key elements in the re-design which was undertaken by Laura Stucken, Tasmanian designer, and co-owner of Van Bone Restaurant.

Of the appointment, Stucken said, “As Van Bone looks out over Maria Island, I am very familiar with the landscape, environment, and the history of the island, and understand how important materials, furniture and finishing touches are to capturing the spirit of a place.

“I was delighted to work with the team on the re-design of Bernacchi House which now feels refreshed and sophisticated but still remains true to the building’s fabric and story.”

Stucken commissioned several local artisans during the project including Scott Van Tuil who designed the sandstone side tables and coffee tables, as a nod to the famous Painted Cliffs of Maria Island; Simon Ancher Studio which has supplied floating beds using Tasmanian timber.  Soft furnishings have been sourced from Hobart-based Featherson Interiors and vases from local potters across the Mercury passage at Dunalley, Tim and Tammy Holmes, are dotted through the house.

Adding further softness and warmth to the house is new carpet laid by Hayes Flooring, freshly painted walls by DJ Painting and the installation and joinery was completed by Garrett Kitchens & Cabinets.

In the dining room, the heart of Bernacchi House, a large new family style dining table from Australian owned furniture brand King Living will bring guests together for banquet style meals featuring local produce and fine wine as they share stories from the guided walks.  From wildlife including the lumbering wombats, elegant Cape Barren Geese and a growing insurance population of Tasmanian Devils to some of the most spectacular landscape and views, the walks generate endless conversation and create incredible memories.

The Original Four Day Walk has varying departure dates commencing October 1 and costs from $2,700 per person. The Winter Walk runs from 1 June 2023 to 31 August 2023 and is priced from $1,690 per person.

The cost includes return transfers from Hobart to Triabunna, the scenic cruise across the pristine waters of the Mercury Passage to Maria Island, gourmet Tasmanian food and wine, experienced guides, National Park entry fees, accommodation and use of waterproof jackets and day packs.

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Note to editors:

About The Maria Island Walk

The award-winning Maria Island Walk is part of the Wild Bush Luxury portfolio which is owned and operated by leading Australian adventure and leisure tourism company, Experience Co Limited (ASX:EXP).  The experience is a fully guided three-night, four-day journey into one of Australia’s most spectacular destinations.  A maximum of ten guests per group and two guides begin their journey in Hobart with a short scenic drive to Triabunna.  A relaxing boat trip with frequent sightings of seals, dolphins and spectacular sea birds delivers them to the Island where they walk between wilderness camps taking in the landscapes, wildlife and history of the destination. The final night of the Walk is spent at historic Bernacchi House in the settlement of Darlington.  Walks depart daily from 1 October to 1 May each year.

Guests can also visit Maria Island in the winter season with the three-day lodge-based Winter Escape package.

For further information visit www.mariaislandwalk.com

About Wild Bush Luxury

Wild Bush Luxury is a leading provider of nature tourism experiences.  Wild Bush Luxury’s mission is to reconnect guests with the bush, through experiences that are thought-provoking and inspirational. Our concept of ‘Wild Bush Luxury’ brings a touch of style to any experience of Australia’s extraordinarily diverse habitat: a ‘down to earth’ yet attentive level of service; an appreciation of the finer details and above all, a team of hosts and guides who are passionate about Australia’s environment, wildlife and culture.  The Wild Bush Luxury portfolio includes Bamurru Plains, Arkaba Conservancy, the Arkaba Walk and The Maria Island Walk.

For further information visit www.wildbushluxury.com