Got Questions?
Bus Accommodation FAQs
Find the answers to a few of our most commonly asked questions below.
Is the bus accessible?
Due to the nature of the bus’ location it does not have wheelchair access. The bus is accessed via a gravel path which leads down several stone steps, onto a wooden deck. There are then three steps to access the bus, while the floor inside is split over two levels. The bathroom also has a step down shower and then is another step is required to get into the bed.
Lighting within the bus is able to be dimmed and there are blinds in the bedroom area which diffuse but do not entirely block out light. We provide incense and subtly-scented candles for our guests, however these can be removed from the bus by request.
If you have any further questions regarding accessibility, please don’t hesitate to Contact Us via email and we’ll come back to you promptly.
Can I get to the bus in a 2WD car?
The bus accommodation is accessed by an all-weather dirt track that is approximately 300m long. It is suitable for small 2WD vehicles (as well as motorbikes) all year round.
The bus is 'off the grid' – what does that mean?
The bus accommodation is completely off the energy grid, which means that it is solar powered and rainwater-fed.
The solar system powers the lights, fridge, a USB port and a 240v power plug which will enable you to charge your devices.
Please note, hair dryers and other electrical appliances with a heating element are not able to be used and will cause the electrical system to shut down. The solar power system and rain-fed water mean that these resources are not unlimited so should be used wisely. If you run out of power there is however a generator on hand which can be used to recharge your power supply if needed.
The bus also features a spacious bathroom with a shower, hand basin and a sophisticated odour-free composting toilet.
Is there mobile phone service?
While the bus does not have wifi, there is good mobile phone coverage with all major networks (such as Telstra and Optus).
What do I need to bring?
We recommend brining a set of slip on shoes for moving between the bus and the outdoor hot tub. Other than that, all that you’ll need is some food and drinks to enjoy during your stay!
We supply shampoo, conditioner and body wash as well as all towels and linen. There are a few board games and books in the bus, however if you have any particular favourites we would recommend bringing them along too.
Although the bus is cosy warm when the woodfire is burning, Tassie can be notoriously chilly so we recommend bringing some layers and a warm coat for your trip.
Are children allowed?
Huntingdon Tier Forest Retreat is adults-only due to the nature of its location, being atop a steep hillside. Cosy (and hot) wood fires, including the one which heats the outdoor hot tub are also an important part of the experience. These poses risks for little people if not actively supervised at all times.
Can I bring my dog?
We love doggos, however it is our priority to care for the resident wildlife who inhabit the bush around the bus (such as Tasmanian devils, echidnas, wallabies and wombats). Therefore, we are unable to accommodate pets on site.
How do I heat the hot tub?
The outdoor hot tub is heated by a wood fire located at the back of the hot tub itself. This process takes several hours to heat to temperature and you will need to continue to fill the firebox with wood during this time to keep the water at a warm temperature. If you have any difficulties with this please feel free to get in touch so that we can assist. We’re more than happy to help and can also light the fire for you prior to your arrival to give the heating process a good head start. There’s nothing better than arriving to your wood-fired hot tub accommodation almost ready to go!
Can the hot tub be used during the fire restriction period?
The hot tub is able to be used all year round (even in summer), with the exception of total fire ban days. We typically only experience one or two of these a year at most in Southern Tasmania, so this occurrence is possible but unlikely.
Is the water safe to drink?
All water at the bus is rainwater fed, filtered with in industry-standard UV filter. It is perfectly safe (and delicious) to drink. However, if you’re not comfortable drinking treated rainwater we recommend bringing your own bottled water. You may also prefer to boil the water before drinking it.
Are linen and personal items supplied?
We supply high quality bed linen and towels (including a spare set) along with Sukin shampoo, conditioner, body wash and hand wash.
What is the cooking set up?
If enjoying local produce sounds appealing, the kitchen is well-equipped to cook up a Tasmanian feast. You will find a two-burner benchtop stove and small grill in the kitchenette along with utensils, pots, pans, crockery and cutlery.
Is there an outdoor BBQ?
For fire safety reasons we do not have an outdoor BBQ available. However, for those interested in cooking with coals we recommend utilising the hot tub fireplace. Once a bed of coals has been established a grill pan or hamburger basket fit neatly in this fire and it will cook a mean smoky BBQ dish!
What kitchen supplies are provided?
We supply pantry basics such as ground coffee, tea, sugar, fresh local milk, butter, salt, pepper and olive oil as well as all of the cooking equipment that you will need. If you’re planning to prepare a Tasmanian feast we recommend picking up ingredients for meals prior to your arrival. The closest supermarket (an IGA located at Brighton) is a 20 minute drive toward Hobart and has everything that you might need, however for the best range of quality Tasmanian produce the Hill St Grocer in West Hobart is our top recommendation.
Is there a refrigerator?
The bus kitchen includes a 130L Bushman fridge, which also includes a small freezer section (although it’s not big enough to fit a full tub of ice cream – sorry!).
Where is the cave?
The cave is located down the small track past the front of the bus, which leads down the hillside to the cave entry which is located almost directly below the bus. Inside the cave you will find a rug and cushions waiting for you and this is the perfect spot for meditation or even a picnic!
Where is Huntingdon Tier Forest Retreat located?
The bus apartment is nestled into a private part of a 28 hectare property at 289 Huntingdon Tier Road, Dysart, Tasmania. This area is called the Southern Midlands. It is just 50 minutes drive from Hobart and 1 hour and 45 minutes from Launceston.
Bush Accommodation Tasmania
Eco Bus Apartment
Huntingdon Tier Forest Retreat is a unique off-grid eco retreat in Tasmania. Offering idyllic bush accommodation in the form of a carefully renovated school bus, you’ll find yourself perched atop a mountain overlooking the valley below.
Designed for couples (or besties) seeking to disconnect from busy lives and reconnect with nature, this secluded forest hideaway features a private wood-fired hot tub.
Nestled here in the Tasmanian bush, enjoy breathtaking views, a simple yet (very) comfortable interior and opportunities to spot native wildlife.
Guests can relax by a warm fire, soak in the peaceful surroundings, and enjoy a minimalist yet luxurious escape just a short drive from Hobart, making it a standout choice for relaxing bush accommodation in Tasmania.
