Today, as we spend our last full day in Penguin, Tasmania, we find ourselves reflecting with deep appreciation and a full heart. This stay has been more than simply a place to rest our heads. It has been an experience shaped by kindness, generosity, and a level of care that is increasingly rare.
We wanted to take a moment to express our special thanks to our landlord and friends, Fran and Terry, for making our six weeks at Sunrise in Penguin truly exceptional. From the moment we arrived, there was a sense that this would be something different, something more personal than a typical holiday rental. That feeling never faded. If anything, it only grew stronger with each passing week.
Their beautiful home, perched with its calming views over Bass Strait, offered us not only comfort but a sense of peace that settled in quickly. We often found ourselves gazing out at the water, watching the changing skies, feeling grateful for the opportunity to live, even briefly, in such a special place. But as lovely as the property itself is, it was Fran and Terry’s thoughtful attention that elevated this stay to something we will not soon forget.
Each week, without fail, they went above and beyond in ways that made daily life feel effortless. Fresh bedding appeared as if by magic. Clean towels were always at the ready. There was fruit, restocked household supplies, and those little extras that made us feel not like temporary guests, but genuinely cared for. Walking into a freshly cleaned space, knowing someone had taken the time to ensure everything was just right, never became something we took for granted.
Terry, in particular, checked in with us several times a week, always in a warm, easygoing manner that made it clear his offers were sincere. It was never intrusive, always thoughtful. What struck us most was how attentive he and Fran were to even the smallest, offhand comments. If we casually mentioned needing or looking for something, we would often find that within a few days, it had somehow made its way to us. That kind of attentiveness is not something you can manufacture. It comes from a genuine desire to make others feel comfortable and cared for.
This level of service reminded us of Louise in Marloth Park, someone who similarly leaves no detail unattended in creating an impeccable experience. It is a rare quality, and when you encounter it, you recognize just how meaningful it is.
As we sit here today, surrounded by the now-familiar comforts of this home, we feel a sense of gratitude that is difficult to fully put into words. Over time, the space has become more than just a rental. It has been a retreat, a place where we could settle into our routines while still embracing the ever-changing nature of our lifestyle.
Penguin itself has added another layer to this experience. The charm of this coastal town, combined with the friendliness of the locals, has made our time here all the more memorable. There is an ease to life here that quietly works its way into your days, encouraging you to slow down and appreciate what is right in front of you.
For anyone considering a stay in Tasmania, we would wholeheartedly recommend Penguin, and in particular, this remarkable property. Booking well in advance is essential, and it is easy to understand why. Places like this, and people like Fran and Terry, are in high demand for a reason.
As much as we are looking forward to what lies ahead, there is no denying a touch of sadness as we prepare to leave. We have grown comfortable here, not just in the physical sense, but in the way this place has made us feel. It has been easy to settle in, easy to feel at home, and never easy to say goodbye.
One thing is certain. We will carry this experience with us, and I have a strong feeling it will not be another ten years before we find ourselves returning once again.
Please click here to see the fine details about Sunrise at Penguin.
On the road trip tomorrow, flying to Brisbane the next day, and boarding the ship the following day, we may not have time to upload new posts until we’re on the ship on the 14th. But, please check back and see if we may surprise you.
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, April 11, 2016:
