Of all the places that we stayed in Tasmania, Free Spirit Pods on Bruny Island would have to be one of our favourites, if not the most. Free Spirit is home to two epic waterfront self-contained pods created with a lot of love and clearly no expense has been spared! Meaning you’ve got everything you could ever need when staying on an island, be it rain, hail or shine (of which we had all of!) Here’s the complete low down on what to expect when you check in to the luxurious Free Spirit and why Bruny Island is one of Tasmania’s best-kept secrets. We visited in the depths of winter and seriously can’t wait to check it out again in summer to make full use of all the features!
Free Spirit Pods, Bruny Island, TAS
From the entrance to the property, we knew it was going to be something special. A minimalistic sign blended into the thick Aussie bushland letting you know you were headed the right way. Free Spirit is on 8 acres of bush and you have a good chance of spotting plenty of wildlife just on the drive in! The drive curves through pristine scrub before descending towards the two luxury pods and the calm waters of secluded Quarantine Bay. It was clear from this moment that we were in for a treat! Free Spirit is the perfect base for couples and families alike to get in touch with nature and experience what life is meant to be about! Whether that’s relaxing from the comfort of the pod or out adventuring, there’s something here for all.
Inside Our Pod
The two pods, Flying Duck and Blue Wren are identical, a blend of solid steel, handcrafted Tasmanian timber and double-glazed glass set amongst the towering tree-tops. Walking up to our Pod, Flying Duck, there was an excitement in the air to get a glimpse of the interior and the view from the balcony. The first thing we noticed inside was the alluring smell of the Tasmanian timber and the radiating warmth from the roaring pellet fire. This place oozed cosy romantic vibes!
The large enticing bed is the centrepiece of the room, drawing your eyes towards the view before it. And if somehow you ever get sick of that view, there is always the large Smart TV loaded up with Netflix, so you’re ensured to be able to chill!
The Pod was enormous inside and we had plenty of space for all of our gear in the built-in cupboards whilst Ollies port-a-cot easily fit beside our bed. For those travelling with anybody a little older, the comfy Italian leather sofa also doubles up as a queen bed.
The kitchenette is fully equipped to whip up a storm (which we did!) courtesy of a whole range of quality appliances and utensils. Our favourite item though, the Smeg coffee machine, ensuring barista-style coffee without having to leave your pod!
For those chilly Tassie evenings, the spacious bathroom is fitted out with heated floors (you don’t realise how much you need these in your life until you try them!). The bathroom also features a stylish walk-in shower and is accompanied by luxurious Sheridan towelling.
Finally, the piece de resistance, the floor to ceiling bi-fold doors that open up to a huge deck furnished with a barbeque and loads of seating to soak up the natural surroundings. We will admit eating a yummy platter and drinking a glass of red out here went down an absolute treat!
The Experience
Free Spirit is all about ensuring you have a memorable trip; this is made possible through the plethora of extra features and goodies found in your pod and throughout the property in general. We won’t spoil all of the surprises but seriously a lot of thought has gone into everything here.
Stroll out of your pod and you will find a decked area, complete with fire pit, fairy lights and seating, the perfect Insta photo spot! And if you’re feeling indulgent, don’t fret the pod has a jar of marshmallows (amongst other yummy treats) so you can toast them over the open fire. There is even a little marshmallow toasting utensil that resembles some kind of futuristic torture ideal for the job!
Being in such a natural setting there is HEAPS of wildlife around that will seriously come within metres of you. You’ll spot wallabies, pademelons, quolls and more roaming the grounds, especially after dark when they come to grab a bite to eat from the various feeding stations where there is natural feed to lure them in!
And whilst you’re out immersing yourself in nature, why not take advantage of the direct beach access and take one of the free-use kayaks down, or maybe the provided fishing gear?
If you’ve got the means, Free Spirit even has its own boat mooring. Meaning you don’t need to bring the ferry, because you can bring your own boat!
Perhaps though, what gives Free Spirit that something extra is the hosts, Garry and Chris. Their friendly Aussie charm and humour are a delight and they are really passionate about not only what they’ve created, but Bruny Island and life in general. You can tell they genuinely care about guests have a fantastic time. We seriously feel as if we have known them for years and would love to catch up again in the future.
Book your stay at Free Spirit Pods, Bruny Island
Two days seriously wasn’t enough and we wish we had stayed two weeks, from the welcoming staff to the idyllic surroundings and luxury, Free Spirit feels like home.
Room rates are approximately $260 per room, per night. Book online at Free Spirit Pods.
Thinking of travelling to Tasmania? Be sure to check out our Spirit of Tasmania Guide.
WOW…makes us feel so very proud…AND fortunate to have had you three stay with us @ Free Spirit. Beautiful photos and story.
Thanks so very much James, Paige…& Oliver