Set on 5.2 acres and tucked away along a quiet rural road above the charming riverside town of Franklin, “Ashtree Cottage” is an idyllic lifestyle property where self-sufficiency and country charm are tied together. Perched above the fog line and in a sunny spot surrounded by rolling hills, orchards, and enchanting gardens, this is a gateway for those dreaming of a self sufficient lifestyle in Tasmania’s South.
Originally built in the 1920s, the cottage retains timeless character with tasteful modern updates. The home offers plenty of natural light, and every window frames a garden, orchard, or rural vista, with each season changing the outlook uniquely.
Inside the home, you will find three bedrooms, each with its own personality and views of the established gardens outside. The kitchen offers more than just country charm, it features practical conveniences too. With a ceramic sink and ample cupboard storage, it’s the perfect spot for the chef in the family. Directly off the kitchen is the sunroom, a cozy nook that makes the most of the home's sunny position and offers a great spot to enjoy the warm rays that stream in.
The spacious open lounge and dining area offers ambient space, with a large picture window overlooking the gardens and being warmed by either the Saxon wood heater, or the reverse-cycle heat pump ensures year-round comfort. The flexible floor plan includes a the bathroom with a separate toilet, a generously sized laundry and a fantastic utility space ideal as a hobby studio, or home office. Whether you work from home or need a quiet space for creative pursuits, you’ll find great potential here. The home also features a solar panel setup to help keep energy costs low.
One of the standout features of the home is the wind-protected and sun drenched deck, a private perch to relax and take in panoramic views over the property and nearby hills. Whether you’re reading a book or sipping morning coffee, this spot will quickly become a favourite.
At the heart of the property lies a thriving, well-established orchard planted with so many varieties of producing fruit trees. From apples, cherries, plums and citrus to nashi pears, almond, apricot, and pomegranate trees, this orchard often has something fresh and delicious to provide. The veggie garden boasts 20 edged beds, several composting bays, as well as a worm farm. Nature lovers will be drawn to the winding garden paths, which meander through rare and ornamental plantings and leafy trees. There’s also a hothouse for year round growing and a water system that supports it all, including a bore, dam (with a resident platypus), winter creek, and dual rainwater tanks. Water here is plentiful and reliable.
The remainder of the property is divided into fenced paddocks, each with its own shelter, ideal for keeping sheep, chickens, or maybe even a few potty calves. Alongside the northern boundary runs a winter creek, The chicken coop connects to the sheep paddock, allowing free-ranging.
For storage and practical spaces, there’s a timber-lined workshop with power, a four bay machinery shed, a potting shed as well as the “shed” with a deck in the paddock, that boasts sweeping views of the valley beneath and out to the wilderness beyond, all of which are ready for farm projects, hobby mechanics or extra storage.
Even with its wonderfully private location, the conveniences of daily life are within easy reach. Franklin, with its popular cafés, local markets, and easy riverside walk is only minutes away. The Huon Valley's vibrant arts and food scene ensures there's always something to explore and enjoy. The bustling hub of Huonville is just 20 minutes down the road, and Hobart can be reached in 45 minutes.
For more information or to book your own private inspection, feel free to get in touch today.
