Revealed: Top rural Australian getaways for a cosy autumn

Airbnb has revealed that Aussies are seeking peaceful escapes this autumn.

As autumn has finally settled in across Australia, travellers are getting ready for cosy Easter trips, red wine and autumnal leaves. And according to recent reporting by Airbnb, more of us are escaping to rural Australia this season.

Airbnb has reported a 65 per cent increase in searches for rural travel in Australia, indicating a growing preference for peace and tranquillity. The data behind this trend compares internal Airbnb searches for autumn 2025 to the previous year, highlighting a shift towards regional, nature-focused travel. The trend is particularly prominent among solo travellers and those aged 60-90 years.

Looking for somewhere to escape this autumn? Airbnb has compiled a list of some of the most sought-after rural destinations based on search growth since last autumn.

From coastal escapes to country getaways, these destinations should be on your radar.

Moogerah, Queensland

Airbnb autumn destinations — This off-grid cabin offers breathtaking views of the mountains. (Image: Courtesy of Airbnb Community)

There are many hidden gems to find in the Scenic Rim, including the idyllic Moogerah, which offers picturesque landscapes, outdoor activities, and natural beauty.

The cooler weather is the perfect time to go hiking, so make a beeline for Moogerah Peaks National Park where you can undertake the Mee-Bor-Rum Circuit and the Mount Edwards Summit Trail.

Base yourself at a cottage stay with breathtaking mountain views or an off-grid cabin to reconnect you with nature.

Huskisson, New South Wales

Huskisson. Airbnb autumn destinations-3 — Spend relaxing days kayaking through clear waters.

Jervis Bay is no secret to those who live in NSW, but this picturesque haven on the south coast boasts beauty in spades that cannot be ignored. In autumn, Huskisson, nestled along the shores of Jervis Bay, experiences mild weather and refreshing sea breezes.

Spend relaxing days snorkelling through clear waters, enjoying white sand beaches, and watching whales migrating along the “humpback highway" before retreating to your own beachfront apartment with modern coastal interiors.

Tanunda, South Australia

Penfolds. Airbnb autumn destinations — Tanunda puts you in easy access to iconic wineries like Penfolds. (Image: Nick Rains)

For many of us, autumn and drinking wine are synonymous, so a trip to a wine region like the Barossa Valley is the perfect getaway. Tanunda sits in the heart of the region, making it ideal for exploring the many wineries, including the iconic Penfolds or the unmissable Torbreck Vintners, and dining gems like Maggie Beer’s Farm.

For families or those travelling in large groups, position yourself overlooking the vines at the Barossa 1900 Vineyard Retreat , or for more intimate stays, get cosy in the Halletts Valley Hideaway .

Devonport, Tasmania

While most of us think of heading to Hobart, Devonport should be on your radar after being named the Top Tourism Town for 2024. This quaint port city in North West Tasmania offers a mix of coastal beauty, rich history and a laid-back atmosphere.

Visitors can discover the town’s maritime history at the Bass Strait Maritime Centre, embark on outdoor adventures in the nearby Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, or take a cold plunge at Coles Beach.

Stay a 10-minute drive from the city centre at the ultra-cosy Forth River Cottage Bed and Breakfast , where you’ll be treated to calming river and green pasture views.

Ballarat, Victoria

Ballarat, Bishops Palace. Airbnb autumn destinations — The grand Bishops Palace is nestled in the heart of Ballarat. (Image: Courtesy of Airbnb Community)

A vibrant gold rush heritage, eclectic art, and a burgeoning dining scene make Ballarat a wonderful destination to visit, especially when the autumn leaves are on display. Just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne, you’ll find plenty to explore, from admiring the changing leaves at the Ballarat Botanical Gardens to a 90-minute walking tour with Ballarat Heritage Tours .

For dinner, underbar , an award-winning eatery where chef Derek Boath crafts a seasonal tasting menu showcasing the best local produce, is not to be missed.

And where to rest your head or unwind during the day? Opt for a grand stay at the Heritage-listed Gothic mansion Bishop’s Palace , or retreat into a charming artist’s cottage .

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.