We get it – the lure of a Euro summer is strong right now. But hello! Have you seen what’s waiting just an hour or two from our own capital cities? Australia is home to a helluva lot of cool Airbnbs – from secluded farm stays and romantic rainforest retreats to toasty tiny homes and beautiful beachfront huts.
With hundreds of thousands of Airbnb listings across the country, finding your dream stay can be overwhelming. To help you out, we asked Airbnb to reveal to us the most wishlisted stays in every Aussie state and territory. Warning: you might want to start drafting that annual leave request.
Coach Light Cabin, Aldinga, SA
Tucked away on a small working vineyard in the Fleurieu Peninsula, this minimalist tiny house feels incredibly homely. The real showstopper is the outdoor copper bath where you can watch the sun go down with a glass of wine in hand.
Secluded Magical Rainforest Retreat, Byron Shire, NSW
Hidden amongst tropical treetops in the heart of Main Arm, this rustic cabin is magical and secluded, indeed. Once inside, you'll immediately notice the Balinese-inspired interiors, complete with an outdoor breakfast bar, cosy woodfire and large deck overlooking a tranquil creek. Don't forget to check out the floating egg chair in the middle of the forest – Instagram's calling.
Cleves Hut, Nannup, WA
Slow down and switch off at this 100 per cent off-grid sanctuary, surrounded by lush rolling hills and grazing cattle. Built by hand using bespoke recycled timber from the property, the cosy farm stay features a roaring indoor fireplace, heated bathroom flooring and an outdoor tub to soak under the stars.
Little Beach Co, Chain of Lagoons, TAS
Woodfired hot tub, anyone? This bespoke villa on Tasmania’s East Coast overlooks the valley and mountains to the north and the sparkling ocean to the southeast. The woodfired sauna sits right on the cliff’s edge, and from the hot tub, you spot whales and dolphins passing by.
Villa Nalu, Fannie Bay, NT
It feels like Fiji, but this luxury hideaway is just a ten-minute walk from Fannie Bay Foreshore in Darwin. The tropical-inspired villa boasts a temperature-controlled pool, surrounded by a plush daybed and alfresco dining with a wine fridge and barbecue – perfect for laid-back entertaining.
Lake Weyba Cottage, Peregian Beach, QLD
Just a 15-minute drive from Noosa, this 20-acre retreat offers the best of both worlds – a peaceful rural escape that’s close enough to the region’s most beautiful beaches. The cosy cottage features a double spa bath and wood-burning heater, making it the perfect winter getaway.
Romantic Forest Getaway, Sassafras, VIC
Set across three acres of private rainforest, this private hideaway is the ultimate romantic escape. You can relax your muscles in the cedar dry sauna, then sink into the indoor jacuzzi as you soak up views of the enchanting century-old garden. Serious fairytale vibes!