10 dreamy Airbnbs in Canberra to try now

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The Airbnb Canberra scene is dominated by apartments, putting you at the city’s heart while allowing you the freedom to cook and lounge in a homely space.

Accommodation in Canberra is plentiful – this is a city where you could throw a stone, and it would land at the feet of a luxury hotel with great reviews. However, if you’re looking for something with more creature comforts, try an Airbnb in Canberra. You’ll quickly notice how many are on offer – much like its hotel scene, Australia’s capital city has Airbnb options ranging from ultra-luxe to budget accommodation for the money-conscious, all situated close to Canberra’s best restaurants, its cafe culture and major events like Floriade.

Angle your search a little further outside of the city’s boundaries, and you’ll also find relaxing Airbnbs in Canberra’s up-and-coming wine regions and farm stays among its picturesque countryside. Here are our favourite Airbnb picks in Canberra.

1. Luxurious Waterfront, Kingston

Best for: Those who want a relaxing retreat in the heart of the city

This Airbnb in Canberra is set apart due to its stunning views over the Kingston foreshore.

the balcony of an apartment at Luxurious Waterfront, Kingston
Relax on the balcony fronting Lake Burley Griffin at Luxurious Waterfront in Kingston.

Both the bedroom and lounge overlook Lake Burley Griffin toward the suburb of Russell, making this breezy apartment for two a welcome retreat from the city’s high-rise while still being within walking distance of some of Canberra’s best restaurants and cafes.

the living room interior of Luxurious Waterfront, Kingston
Settle in for a cosy evening after a night on the town.

2. Boutique Luxe Warehouse, Kingston

Best for: Friends looking for a luxury getaway

Ultra-cool with its moody industrial-style interiors, this warehouse-inspired Airbnb oozes Canberran style. Furnishings align well with the deconstructed feel of the space, with owners using leather and natural fabrics throughout – like soft, 100 per cent French linen bedding.

the interior of Boutique Luxe Warehouse Airbnb in Kingston
The Boutique Luxe Warehouse encapsulates the Canberra vibe.

The fully stocked kitchen allows for fun nights in, but you’re also situated in the suburb of Kingston near the heart of Canberra’s nightlife.

floral bedding at Boutique Luxe Warehouse, Kingston
The space hits the right balance between warm soft furnishings and industrial style.

3. Two Bedroom On Lonsdale Street, Braddon 

Best for: Feeling like a local

Braddon is the place to be for Canberra’s best coffee and cafe culture and is easily the coolest neighbourhood in Canberra right now, so staying at this Lonsdale Street Airbnb will have you right in the thick of it, feeling like a local. If you’re looking for a dog-friendly Canberra Airbnb, this is also a great choice – the owners allow up to two pets as long as they are house-trained.

a chic and cosy Airbnb, Two Bedroom On Lonsdale Street, Braddon 
Plant yourself in Canberra’s coolest neighbourhood at this Airbnb.

4. Heart of The City, Reid 

Best for: Getting around via public transport

Light-filled and bright, this Canberra Airbnb is situated right in the centre of Canberra’s CBD, so you’re close to all attractions via public transport – very handy if you didn’t drive into town! For those nights you’d prefer to stay in, the full kitchen, high-speed internet and selection of streaming services will see you set.

a light-filled Airbnb interior at Heart of The City, Reid 
This light-filled Airbnb in the CBD has splashes of pink and earthy tones throughout.

5. The Kindred, Braddon

Best for: Creative types with a love for detail

Tucked away in a garden-filled complex, The Kindred is a cosy haven for those with a penchant for interior design.

the bedroom at The Kindred, Braddon
The lush interior of The Kindred is rich in colour and understated pieces.

Everything has been considered in this beautiful condo, from the vintage Danish dining table to the local art and ceramics adorning the walls and pantry.

the dining table at The Kindred, Braddon
The vintage Danish dining table reinforces the nature-inspired colour palette.

A highlight is the two vintage-style bikes for guest use – take them for a tour around the Ainslie parkland, or use them to get around the city.

a garden-themed interior at The Kindred, Braddon
The Kindred is a garden-themed hideaway with plenty of nooks to relax in.

6. Bunda House, Narrabundah

Best for: Larger groups of friends

Located in stylish Narrabundah, Bunda House is a renovated 1960s home with a spectacular backyard and patio for entertaining.

the outdoor deck of Bunda House, Narrabundah
Soak up the sun on the outdoor deck of Bunda House.

Pick up some fresh produce at the Canberra markets and cook up a storm in its spacious modern kitchen, or head to nearby Manuka for cafes and shopping.

a bedroom with window at Bunda House
Bunda House embraces minimalist style in its rooms.

7. Hackett Gardens House, Turner

Best for: Families with active kids

Stylish and spacious, this property in the suburb of Turner is situated alongside a large park with a playground for the kids to tire themselves on, plus a large backyard and bikes renters can use to get around the city.

a stylish bedroom at Hackett Gardens House
Hackett Gardens House is chic and spacious.

We love the expansive kitchen, which has plenty of space for whipping up meals for the family.

a spacious living room at Hackett Gardens House, Turner
There are multiple living spaces to relax in during your stay.

8. Horseshoe Hideaway, Mullion

Best for: Those seeking solitude

Looking for something a little outside of the busy city centre? Horseshoe Hideaway might be 40 minutes outside of town in Mullion, but it’s well worth the drive if you prefer your holidays on serene farmland.

a private bath in Horseshoe Hideaway, Mullion
Showering is all about the views at Horseshoe Hideaway.

Part of a sheep property, this Canberra Airbnb tiny home is cosy, so ideal for a couple or solo traveller. Take advantage of the incredible outdoor hot tub and stargaze the night away.

a bonfire setup at Horseshoe Hideaway, Mullion
Sitting by the firepit is the perfect end to a day of exploring the city.

9. The Cottage at Petrichor Farm, Gundaroo

Best for: Immersing yourself in the country

Forty minutes outside of Canberra in Gundaroo wine region, you’ll find The Cottage At Petrichor Farm, a relaxing property surrounded by gardens and tastefully decorated with rural-inspired interiors.

the property exterior of The Cottage at Petrichor Farm, Gundaroo
The Cottage at Petrichor Farm is surrounded by lush greenery.

You can visit local wineries and providores, but make sure you block out an afternoon to soak in the picturesque outdoor bathtub, too.

an outdoor bathtub at The Cottage at Petrichor Farm, Gundaroo
Take a morning dip in the outdoor tub.

10. Luxurious Country Estate, Springrange

Best for: Winery touring with friends and family

This country Airbnb near Canberra is right in the heart of the Murrumbateman wine region, and with space for up to 12 people across six bedrooms, it can accommodate large groups with ease.

a dining space with glass walls at Luxurious Country Estate, Springrange
Set up an intimate family brunch at the Luxurious Country Estate.

Gather with friends or family around the indoor fireplace during winter, or enjoy alfresco dining on the deck overlooking paddocks in summer. There is even a dam on the property for swimming and fishing.

a telescope at Luxurious Country Estate, Springrange
Make use of the telescope of an evening.
For more recommendations on where to stay, read our guide to Canberra accommodation for everything from hotels to camping.
Melissa Mason
Melissa Mason is a freelance journalist who loves road tripping and car snacks. Previously holding Editor roles at ELLE, marie claire, Broadsheet and Pedestrian.TV, she now writes travel and lifestyle content for a wealth of Australian titles like SMH, Mamamia and Urban List, as well as copywriting for international brands. Outside of writing, she loves walks with her dog Ted, a great Sunday afternoon with friends, and op shopping. If she could be anywhere right now it would be lounging on a hammock at a tropical resort with a great romantic fantasy book.
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Your guide to slowing down in the Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges

There’s no better place to unwind than the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges – a leafy and idyllic region shrouded in mist, fern-filled gullies and a peaceful atmosphere.

Wrapped in the crisp mountain air, ancient ferns and ethereally verdant landscapes of the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges , you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re in another world (or at least another part of the planet).

But this gorgeous pocket is under an hour from Melbourne, a mix of top-notch food and wine, boutique stays and forested scenery that make for an easy weekend away or even a midweek escape. In fact, visiting during the week can offer a deeply relaxing experience, with fewer crowds and more space to linger.

If you’re keen to unwind, here’s how to spend your time in this idyllic neck of the woods.

Where to eat

Yarra Valley Dairy
Treat your taste buds to Yarra Valley Dairy. (Image: Visit Victoria)

From farm gates to cosy eateries, the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges house a plethora of places to feast. Start your day with a leisurely brunch and coffee at Ripe . This local hangout combines warm hospitality and hearty cafe fare against a backdrop of the hills’ iconic tree-fern canopies. It’s also nestled in the heart of Sassafras, the quaint village that best captures the Dandenong Ranges’ old-world charm.

Next, take yourself on a gastronomic adventure. Visit Yarra Valley Dairy , a regional favourite doing handmade cheeses, or Cherry Hill Orchards , where in summer you can pick your own cherries and enjoy them in the farm’s picturesque grounds. Treat yourself to a tasting at one of the Yarra Valley’s renowned wineries to finish – Rochford , Re’em and De Bortoli are standout picks for a sample of the region’s signature drops.

By night, book a table at either Citrine in the mountain town of Olinda or restaurant 1309 at Balgownie Estate in the Yarra Valley. Both do elevated seasonal fare paired with excellent drinks.

And if you’re simply in the mood for a tipple, you’re spoiled for choice. The Alpine Hotel in riverside Warburton is a historic and character-filled spot pouring pints and locally made drinks, while Four Pillars is a must for gin lovers. The distillery’s award-winning spirits are famed nationwide, but here you can try them right from the source.

Things to do outdoors

two people walking through Dandenong Ranges National Park
Wander the Dandenong Ranges National Park.

A motley patchwork of misty rainforest, rugged bushscapes and beautifully tended gardens, the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges are some of Melbourne’s most scenic pockets. No visit to the region would be complete without a wander through its lush surrounds, either by bike or on foot.

The Ngurrak Barring trail stretches 39 kilometres through the Dandenong Ranges, connecting the towns and fern-filled forests that make the hills so unique. Along the way, be immersed in thought-provoking art installations and cultural stories, sharing a different perspective of this ancient landscape.

While in the area, wander through Cloudehill Garden & Nursery and the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens , situated in Olinda. The cooler climate, rich volcanic soil and consistent rainfall offer both gardens ideal conditions for vivid and vibrant flora.

Over in the Yarra Valley, the 40-kilometre Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail is a flat and family-friendly path perfect for leisurely bike rides and longer walks. It takes you through vine-lined scenery and towns like Seville and Wandin. Biking enthusiasts should head to the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination, a network of 160 kilometres of trails that traverse through untamed terrain.

For a more laidback outing, Alowyn Gardens encompasses seven acres of themed gardens perfect for a meandering stroll. The nearly 100-metre-long wisteria archway that connects different garden zones is a highlight – especially in October, when the lilac blossoms are in spectacular bloom.

The arts and culture scene

TarraWarra Museum of Art
Take in the displays at TarraWarra Museum of Art. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges are havens for arts and culture thanks to their inspiring landscapes and thriving creative community. Naturally, a slower escape should include a visit to some of the region’s best studios and galleries.

The TarraWarra Museum of Art in Healesville showcases modern and contemporary Australian art, with both a permanent collection and a rotating display of thoughtful exhibitions. The building and grounds are well worth exploring: a striking architectural landmark amid landscaped lawns and open-air sculptures overlooking the Yarra Valley.

Delve into the area’s rich history at the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum , a treasure trove of more than 13,000 unique pieces. See everything from Indigenous artefacts to archival photographs and historical objects that tell the region’s story.

On your way back to the city, stop by the leafy enclave of Eltham to discover Montsalvat . This five-acre artistic playground is Australia’s oldest continuous art community, combining galleries, Gothic-style buildings and expansive heritage gardens.

Stay at a local retreat

Re’em yarra valley accommodation
Re’em is an ideal pick for an indulgent stay.

No matter your style, and no matter your budget, you’ll find a suitable spot in the region to rest your head. If the weather is warm and the sky is clear, set up a tent at BIG4 Yarra Valley Park Lane Holiday Park or Pine Hill Cabin & Caravan Park. The former has secluded camping spots surrounded by tranquil bushland and local wildlife, along with glamping pods and cabins. The latter has powered and unpowered sites suitable for all kinds of campers, and is pet-friendly if you’re travelling with your four-legged friend.

Or, book yourself into the RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort – a sprawling retreat complete with stylish rooms and luxe amenities that invite you to unwind. Relax at the day spa, tee off at the 18-hole golf course, or recharge with a round of tennis or a few laps in the pool.

And if you’re after something truly indulgent, Re’em is an ideal pick. A boutique collection of just 16, the luxuriously appointed rooms feature plush linens, high-end amenities and oversized baths with panoramic views across the estate. A gourmet breakfast showcasing gorgeous local produce is also included.

Start planning your reset getaway at visityarravalley.com.au.