Once a bank. Then a hospital. Later, an antique store. Now, a beautifully undone apartment perched above the Huon River in the old boating village of Franklin.

A retreat with old bones, good sheets, and river views from every window, The Bowmont blends hotel comfort with the charm of a character stay.

Built in 1906, it has lived many lives — not all of them grand. These days, it’s a graceful two-bedroom escape and creative event space that honours its past while embracing the present.

Guests have exclusive use of the light-filled first-floor apartment, once the private residence of the bank manager. Inside, two generous bedrooms, one king and one queen, dressed in French and Belgian linen, a luxurious bathroom with walk-in shower, underfloor heating, and a tub you’ll want to move into.

There’s a cosy sitting room with a window seat to watch wooden boats glide past, and a reading nook full of good books. The kitchen is well set up for slow breakfasts and simple suppers. There’s a coffee station with a moka pot, French press, pour over, and grinder. They leave breakfast provisions sourced from local farmers and makers: sourdough, eggs, granola, yoghurt, seasonal fruit, and coffee roasted just up the road.

At its heart, The Bowmont is about welcome, a place to feel looked after, a little restored, and gently transported.