Offered for the first time since 1974, this elegant convict brick cottage, built on land granted by Governor Macquarie to a recently arrived Norfolk Islander in 1810, then sold in 1827 to another recent arrival who, it is said, used the nearby beach to smuggle rum from passing whaling ships, is possibly the oldest inhabited residence in the leafy, beachside environs of Sandy Bay's much admired avenues.

Resplendent in antique character and charm and shrouded in privacy, the secluded residence belies the fact that it is only minutes from the bustling hub of Sandy Bay and Hobart’s CBD.

Boasting intricate, landscaped grounds that once rivalled elements of Hobarts famous Botanical Gardens, this remarkable property sits nestled within an encircling perimeter hedge and comprises approximately 1600m2 of land in a truly coveted position at the base of iconic Red Chapel Avenue.

As a Georgian colonial homestead, it retains much of its original identity. Originally constructed C1820, considerable restorations and upgrades have been made since the 1970s yet were carefully carried out so to retain most period features. Myriad garden paths lead to multiple entrances into the home, the finest of which is of course at the front, overlooking the gardens from the aged timber veranda.

Multiple living spaces are offered throughout, with a flexible floorplan allowing for varying accommodation configurations and living arrangements. Within one such living room, a Blackwood mantlepiece was beautifully hand carved by a previous owner C1890 and the elegant simplicity flows effortlessly throughout with high ceilings and large windows framing the glorious garden vistas at every turn.

The spacious kitchen at the rear of the home, provides versatile functionality and features slate floors and marble benchtops. Solid timber cabinetry melds with tiled trimming and functional, modern appliances, including a Miele dishwasher, double Electrolux oven and a electric stovetop.

A spacious family bathroom with over-spa bath shower and vanity sits between a separate powder room with external sink, and a separate shower room. Nearby, a large laundry provides space for necessary appliances and additional storage.

From the central hallway, generous rooms extend on either side, with a magnificent formal living room and a dining room with original fireplace offering space for family gatherings whilst overlooking the garden. There are also four spacious bedrooms, two of which feature polished hardwood flooring. Built-in wardrobes and cupboards are dotted throughout and large linen closets are conveniently located nearby.

History and natural beauty combine throughout the expansive grounds encasing this thoroughly remarkable residence. The award-winning gardens have been developed over the course of nearly 50 years of constant ownership and care, with the present owners showcasing their passion for rhododendrons, some of which may be Australia’s only hybrids after being imported from New Zealand under special licence. Other rare plants and fragrant florals have been fastidiously cared for, along with numerous established trees including a dominating English Oak that has surveyed the grounds for almost two centuries. The grounds are also fruitful, boasting apples, pears, lemons, almonds, and plums, and in the lower garden, vegetable beds offer seasonal produce.

A nineteenth century sundial stands proudly on a stone pedestal within the old-world gardens, which also feature restored brick paths weaving their way to park seats, stone benches, storage sheds, swimming pool that was once the focal point of the family’s summer-time hours.

At the rear, what were once stables now offer sheltered vehicle parking, or additional space to store outdoor maintenance equipment. Another large shed to the rear of the paved courtyard provides additional storage space.

Steeped in centuries of Hobart history, what may well be the oldest inhabited residence in Sandy Bay, sits within sight of the River Derwent while enjoying complete privacy and a rich, colonial heritage rarely found in such remarkable location.