When it comes to getting out of town, the dream scenario looks something like this: ‘Don’t think. Just wake up, pack a small bag and go.’
The reality is often much less spontaneous.
It’s finding a pet sitter, plotting travel times, deciding whether you stay an extra night, or come home early to meal prep for the week ahead. You know, the joys of adulting.
And what about all the time and tabs open to research Airbnb options…
Getting out amongst the elements and appreciating nature is one of our favourite things. It’s quite literally why we exist; to clean up after all our messy adventures.
To help fast-track you to your next adventure, here are six Airbnbs around Australia at the top of our wishlist. Sustainable, or simply stunning in their design, they all score high in the ‘ rejuvenate deep in nature’ department.
New South Wales: Gawthorne’s Hut | $440 per night | 5.0 star-rating
Built to give visitors a sense of isolation, peace and privacy, Gawthorne’s Hut is a luxurious, architect-designed and off-grid eco hut. Winner of ‘best unique stay’ at the 2021 Australian Airbnb Host Awards, Gawthorne’s Hut immerses you in the expansive and stunning views of the bush, without any degree of roughing it.
Queensland: Clouds Safari | $303 per night | 4.85 star rating
This property had our hearts with the words ‘Clouds Safari’. Located in the Gold Coast Hinterland, it’s less than a 5-minute drive from the “heart-shaped waterfall”, Killarney Glen. Surrounded by numerous bush-walking tracks and 45-minutes to the beaches, this property really lends itself to a ‘choose your own adventure’ style of stay. You can contemplate the day’s possibilities whilst looking out at the 180-degree views of Springbrook Mountain and Numinbah Valley.
South Australia: Bill’s Boathouse | $304 per night | 4.92 star rating
Two words we live to see in any Airbnb description? Outdoor bath. This sustainable boathouse permanently moored on the Murray River has all the best bells and whistles needed for a memorable getaway: kayaks, a Webber, fishing rods, a hammock, firepit, and a unique water-drenched view you can’t get from most Airbnb’s. If that wasn’t enough, it’s even pet-friendly.
Tasmania: Slow Beam | $527 per night | 4.99 star-rating
Awarded Best Designed Stay at the 2021 Australian Airbnb Host Awards, Slow Beam does an exquisite job connecting elegant modern design with its rugged, bush setting. Moody and with a calming sense of seclusion, the property is just a short 8-minute drive to the Salamance waterfront. A property where every detail has been considered, every window view is no mistake, each designed to capture the expansive river and wilderness views. If you appreciate Australian art, great design, and a fireplace, then this property was built from the ground up just for you.
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Victoria: Callignee II Eco Bush House | $445 per night | 4.89 star-rating
Nestled amongst 5-acres of private bushland, Callignee Eco Bushouse is a 100% off the grid home in the breathtaking Gippsland region. Featured on Grand Designs Australia, every room in the house is designed to enjoy the north sun. As an architecturally designed, totally off-grid property, staying at Callignee is an immersive experience in what smart, sustainable design can help us to achieve in homes - total energy efficiency, sustainability and independence. Bridging the gap between indoor and outdoor living, the property can feel like you’re oscillating between a holiday in Bali and the Victorian bush.
Western Australia: Foxtrot Flats | $350 per night | 5 star-rating
A secluded farm and small unassuming house. The property is 45 acres, most of which is beautiful Karri and Marri forest with 5 acres of pasture to support a small goat herd. Enjoy the serene views from the covered deck all year round. This is a great place to find that rural serenity and space to unwind.
