The 10 Most Adorable Cottage Stays In Australia

From creative retreats to farmyard chic: discover the best cottages for holiday rentals around Australia.

As our modern lives get busier, bigger and more connected, there’s a growing urge to run away to the countryside and forget it all. Cottagecore became a trend for a reason, after all. While in reality we may not be willing to leave it all behind, these adorable cottage stays around Australia invite us to disconnect and relax at one with nature, at least for a little while.

1. Poet’s Lodge, Daylesford, Victoria

If the phrase ‘roof to floor bookshelves’ doesn’t have you packing your bags, maybe the rolling ladder across it will. Nothing screams writer’s retreat like the three cottages of Poet’s Lodge . Only a few minutes walk to Daylesford and everything it has to offer, still get an off-grid, rustic feel with a warm fireplace or hot bath. Sit down as a group in large dining rooms, cosy up with a book, gaze and original paintings hung about the cottages or relax in your private courtyard.

lounge room and fireplace at Poet's Lodge, Daylesford VIC — Settle in by a roaring fire.

2. Liptrap Loft, WalkerVille, Victoria

The draping vines, wooden walls and quaint farmland setting make Liptrap Loft a thing of Cottagecore dreams. Designed in a modern, Japanese-influenced architectural style, the shape alone is alluring. But then the recycled materials used give a unique, magical pull. This is a stay all about secluded comfort in a rural and coastal setting. Wake up to the sun peaking through your windows as the birds create a chorus outside them.

exterior shot of liptrap loft holiday rental cottage in WalkerVille VIC — Enjoy unique and modern, Japanese-influenced architecture.

3. Grampians Pioneer Cottages, Halls Gap, Victoria

There’s a lot about the old world we’re happy to leave behind, but adorable and cosy wood log cottages aren’t one of them. Grampians Pioneer Cottages are built from Australian and New Zealand reclaimed timbers, stone, mudbrick, corrugated iron and 100-year-old redbricks, giving their outside a unique look. Inside is just as eye-catching. All self-contained, find wood finishings, thatched rooves, stone fireplaces and more. What’s more, they’re all wheelchair friendly with vistas of the Grampians.

loungeroom of Grampians Pioneer Cottages, Halls Gap, Victoria — Step into an adorable and cosy wood log cottage.

4. Captain’s Cottage, Hobart, Tasmania

There’s a lot to fall in love with around the sloped, residential streets of historic Hobart, and this Airbnb stay is the perfect place to start. Aptly named, the Captain’s Cottage was originally built in the mid-1800s for a ship’s captain, and has since become such an iconic stay that its textured furnishings (think velvet chairs and linen sheets), striking claw-footed tub and whimsical courtyard garden have featured in design and style magazines around the country.

fireplace and desk in Captains Cottage, Hobart TAS — Stay in a vintage Hobart home, originally built for a sea captain.

5. My Sister & The Sea, Marion Bay, South Australia

This rustic 1950s weatherboard cottage may have been brought in from Sweden, but nothing could look more at home in this coastal town. Light and bright interiors keep the cottage seaside-chic, including all three bedrooms. Its relatively large size for a cottage makes it perfect for small group getaways, not to mention the spacious farmhouse table, large kitchen and cosy fireplace with plenty of seating.

hallway inside My Sister & The Sea, Marion Bay SA — Stay in a rustic 1950s weatherboard cottage from Sweden. (Image: Frankie The Creative)

6. Cowboy’s Cabin on Wollombi Brook, Hunter Valley, NSW

Everything about Cowboy’s Cabin feels like an instant classic, from the slab-timber walls to the vintage rocking horse decoration. The name of the furnishing game is timber cosy and country florals, with an open plan kitchen and living space inviting guests to settle in for the evening. Set on a working farm, the only creatures you may wake up to are the grazing cattle as they wander by.

kitchen table inside Cowboy’s Cabin on Wollombi Brook, Hunter Valley NSW — Relax in country comfort on a working farm.

7. Bay & Bush Cottages, Jervis Bay, NSW

This boutique property near Huskisson is set up for all your coastal cabin dreams; whether that be staying cosy in winter or diving into summer. Find just eight self-contained cottages hidden amongst coastal and marine National Parks. Be welcomed to Bay & Bush by kangaroos and kookaburras, star gaze by the outdoor fire pit at night (ideally with marshmallows roasting), whale watching between late April and mid-November, head into town for museums and galleries or stay put with locally sourced food and wine.

8. Riverdale 1898, Kalgan, Western Australia

This cottage has the type of casual, whimsical charm that seems impossible to achieve in your own home. Take a step back in time – while keeping modern comforts firmly in place – to this farm. Wander the working cattle farm, small vineyard and flower-growing business onsite by day, then return home to a fully equipped kitchen at night to start the fireplace glowing. Cosy up with the well-stocked bookshelves boasting local and natural history, floral design and local authors.

loungeroom inside Riverdale 1898, Kalgan WA — Enjoy the casual charm of Riverdale 1898. (Image: Jemma Keech)

9. The Postman’s Cottage, Montville, Queensland

The rustic romance of The Postman’s Cottage is begging for a couple’s getaway. Set on Montville Estate, this cottage is believed to have started life as a railway house in a neighbouring town, then brought to the estate around 1895 for the lady of the house to birth six children in. Today, it’s been built to celebrate slow living. Find a king-sized bed, kitchen, classic clawfoot tub and a range of books and board games with a fireplace to enjoy them by. You’ll even find a Bluetooth speaker, but no TV or wi-fi. So get ready to disconnect.

ensuite inside The Postman’s Cottage, Montville QLD — Book a romantic getaway to The Postman’s Cottage. (Image: Yani Rae)

10. Whispering Valley Cottage Retreat, Maleny, Queensland

The Sunshine Coast might be known for its stunning beaches, but its Hinterlands hold their own, very underrated, pristine beauty. Imagine being nestled in lush green rainforest – uninterrupted for 18.6 hectares – fireplace burning and a tasting plate of local, fresh produce from the gorgeous breakfast hamper and welcome cheese platter and not another soul in sight. That’s the vibe at Whispering Valley Cottage Retreat . Each cabin has a fireplace, spa bath and fully equipped kitchen.

Whispering Valley Cottage Retreat, Maleny QLD — Step into the Sunshine Coast Hinterland for the perfect cottage retreat.

As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?

Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.

Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.

Noosa Rivermouth And Main Beach — Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.

Where to eat in Noosa

Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.

There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).

There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .

diners at Lucio's Marina in noosa in winter — Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)

Where to stay in Noosa

Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.

There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.

For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.

a beachfront swimming pool at Netanya Noosa — Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)

Things to do on land

There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.

A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.

Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.

woman enjoying the view after hiking through Noosa National Park, noosa in winter — Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)

Things to do in the water

Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.

You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.

Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.

For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.

women kayaking through Noosa everglades noosa in winter — Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)

Book your winter getaway in Noosa at visitnoosa.com.au.

The 10 most adorable cottage stays around Australia