Somerset on the Pier Hobart

Housed in a refurbished 1930s building right on Hobart’s waterfront, Somerset on the Pier is a modern property that attracts all types of travelers with its apartment-style rooms and excellent location. Nautical elements decorate the lobby, such as sailboat murals and models, blue-and-white rugs, and a central fountain feature. The other limited common areas stick to a largely unremarkable, though contemporary design showcasing midcentury modern furnishings and mostly neutral tones aside from pops of red and navy blue. While low on features, the hotel is connected to a couple of restaurants and it has impressive views of River Derwent and Sullivans Cove. Unfortunately, some guests have complained of late-night noise from those outlets and functions at the connected Hobart Function and Conference Centre. Somerset on the Pier Hobart is popular with both short- and long-term leisure and business guests.

Centrally located on the city’s waterfront, Somerset on the Pier Hobart overlooks River Derwent and Sullivans Cove, and is within a short walk of restaurants, bars, and shops. The Museum of New and Old Art and the Mona Ferry Terminal are a short stroll away, while downtown and Salamanca Place -- offering bars, restaurants, and galleries -- can be reached in 10 minutes on foot. Meanwhile, Hobart International Airport is about 20 minutes by car or about an hour by public transportation. The hotel can arrange airport transfers and offers limited parking spaces.

All similar in style, the 56 apartments come with either one or two bedrooms, and premier options have balconies overlooking River Derwent and Sullivans Cove. A simple contemporary look Ikea-like gray couches and carpeting, simple wood furniture, white walls and linens, and bright-red armchairs. Mirroring the gorgeous views outside, apartments are decorated with photos of yachts serenely bobbing in the harbor. Living and dining areas are spacious, and bedrooms are located in a loft space. Unfortunately, stairs may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, and some apartments have bathrooms downstairs from the bedrooms, which past guests have found inconvenient. Additionally, guests have reported noise from connected restaurants, the conference center, and other rooms.

Kitchenettes or kitchens come with two-burner stoves, microwaves, full-size or mini-fridges, dishwashers, kettles, toasters, and all necessary cookware. Other standard amenities consist of air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs with cable channels and DVD players, free Wi-Fi, closets with ironing facilities and electronic safes, washer/dryers, and iPod docking stations. Straightforward, predominately white bathrooms come with shower/tub combos and quality toiletries. Daily housekeeping is provided.

While the hotel does not have its own restaurant, several are connected to the Somerset. Room service is available from Cafe Lola, which is just a minutes' walk away. On the downside, the hotel lacks a pool, spa, and gym. It does have a Residents’ Lounge on the first floor, which is equipped with a TV, couch, and computers and printer. There re also a DVD library and board games. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.