Our Philosophy
Our vision is to be the ultimate destination for an idyllic coastal getaway on Tasmania’s east coast, celebrated for its historical richness, natural beauty, the opportunity for adventure and unmatched dining experiences. We welcome our guests with warmth and thoughtfulness, invite them to embrace nature, and share in the history that makes Piermont unique.
We are a family owned and operated business. At the core of the business is Marie Von Haniel, Piermont’s owner, whose commitment to upholding her late father’s vision has shaped Piermont into the destination it is today. We are further shaped by our team who bring expertise across hospitality, design, food and land stewardship, each contributing to the thoughtful experience we are known for.
History (1838 - 1990)
Piermont’s story begins when Robert Webber, a 19th century English settler, requested and received his allocation of land on the East Coast of Tasmania and named it Piermont. In 1838, the elegant Georgian two-story family home was completed on the plateau overlooking Great Oyster Bay. Painted with whitewash, it became known in Swansea as the ‘White House’ due to its large size and striking Georgian architecture.
In the early 1840’s Captain John Perkins King took over the management of Piermont and eventually married Robert & Mary Webbers’ daughter, Elizabeth in 1844. The story of how they met is rather remarkable. His presence still resides at Piermont today in the form of stone slabs fashioned into a seat to watch the passing vessels go by.
The Gill family married into the King family by way of Frank Gill and were the longest serving family to live at Piermont.
Piermont’s tranquil setting is layered with stories of ancient tribes, colonial farmers, and family legacy. A walk along the foreshore reveals thousand-year-old Aboriginal shell midden sites left by the Stoney Creek band of the Oyster Bay tribe. We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land and recognise their continued custodianship and connection to the land, waters and community.
Three stone cottages 1993
History (1990 - 2026)
Framed by 180-year-old pine trees, the farmland began its transformation into a nature retreat in 1992 at the hand of German forester Rupert Von Haniel-Niethammer. Passionate about nature, Rupert envisioned Piermont as a rare Australian sanctuary to parallel Lemú Cuyén, a retreat he’d built on the same latitude in rural Patagonian Argentina. Rupert saw an uncanny connection between the two distant locales—a shared sense of calm, unspoiled nature and remoteness.
Rupert began a legacy of regenerative conservation and planted over 10,000 native trees across the property. In November 1995, the first guest was welcomed through the gates. Since then, the retreat has grown from 3 stone cottages to now 13 sustainably built stone and rammed earth cottages, 6 contemporary spa suites, and 9 architecturally designed residences. All positioned around the bay to make good use of the view. At the heart of the property remains the original 1838 Homestead, now home to the aptly named Homestead restaurant.
Guests can enjoy a game of tennis or explore Great Oyster Bay with our complimentary kayaks, no bookings required. Scenic walking trails and mountain bikes offer a self-paced way to discover native bushland and the coastal views. The outdoor pool provides a peaceful space to unwind, and a Roman-inspired stone amphitheatre offers a spectacular setting for weddings and events.
With a carefully considered array of activities and amenities on offer, Piermont’s guests are free to curate their ideal coastal escape—whether social, solitary or scenic is preferred.
30 Years and Counting
In 2026, Piermont celebrates a remarkable milestone: 30 years since we welcomed our first guests through the gates.
Many generations have made Piermont part of their lives, each with a tale to tell. You’ve returned for special occasions and quiet escapes by the ocean. Many arrived as couples, later returning with children, then grandchildren. Each stay has added a layer to the soul of the retreat. It’s an honour to hold a place in your most cherished moments.
To commemorate the milestone, Tasmanian ceramicist Cate Zayons has created replica pottery cottages of the first stone cottages built on the property 30 years ago, highlighting their iconic coloured window frames and Indian slate tiles. The replica cottages will be available for guests to purchase as keepsakes of their stay, and displayed around the Piermont property.
Piermont Residential
Piermont Residential offers a rare opportunity to own land within the historic Piermont estate at 12990 Tasman Highway. Surrounded by the landscape of Piermont Retreat, this land and lifestyle offering represents a once in a lifetime opportunity within a property defined by nearly two centuries of history, coastline and untouched land.
Each development stage has been carefully planned to respect the character of the estate while creating a limited collection of residential villages dispersed across 230 acres.
Stage One, the Piermont Headland Lots, are now sold out. Stage Two, The Green Equestrian Village, has two lots remaining. Future releases include The Riverview Village on the north side of the property in late 2026 and Schouten View Seaside Village in late 2027.
Piermont Residential is more than land. It is an opportunity to become part of a place shaped by history, nature and time.
This is land that appreciates in value. And in meaning.