Revealed: Top rural Australian getaways for a cosy autumn

Rachael Thompson Rachael Thompson
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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.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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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

Airbnb autumn destinations
Enjoy a serene stay at the Forth River Cottage. (Image: Courtesy of Airbnb Community)

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. 

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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. 

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Rachael Thompson
Rachael Thompson is a freelance travel journalist. With a background in design and travel media, Rachael is dedicated to curating content that is as much informational as it is beautiful. She began her career at Belle magazine, before taking up editorial roles at Homes to Love, Bed Threads and Australian Traveller/International Traveller. When she's not writing, editing or optimising content, Rachael enjoys exploring the city's newest restaurants, bars and hotels. Next on her Aussie travel wish list is Lord Howe Island.
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8 unexpected experiences to have during a weekend in Moreton Bay

Credit: Tourism and Events Moreton Bay

    Rachel Lay Rachel Lay
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    Halfway between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, the coastline is hiding a holiday gem. Meet Moreton Bay: a region brimming with unexpected experiences. 

    Weekends are a finite resource. Each year, we must decide how to extract the most value from just 52 of them – and Moreton Bay may just be the perfect way to do it. 

    But don’t be fooled by the region’s easy accessibility. It’s somehow remained an unspoken secret among locals and travellers alike. 

    It has the fresh seafood and the island-dotted bay, but did you know about the wizarding store, the disco royalty, or the vintage train-carriage-stay tucked into a national park? 

    The best part? You can explore them all without touching your annual leave balance. 

    1. Oyster Shed at Sandstone Point 

    Oyster Shed at Sandstone Point 
    Be sure to stop for oysters. (Credit: Tourism and Events Moreton Bay)

    You could make the argument that the Oyster Shed at Sandstone Point is reason enough to spend a weekend in Moreton Bay. 

    What was once a humble, wooden oyster farming shack in the 1900s is now a seaside paradise: day beds bathed in Queensland sunshine, a jetty that pierces the sea, and a seafood menu based on their exclusive fishing partner’s daily catches. 

    Your first stop in Moreton Bay must be to try the area’s beloved Moreton Bay Bugs. Here, they’re served fresh in the sea breeze. Order the Crustacean Plate that’s prepared fresh each day. Or, try their signature baked fish tacos. 

    2. Ocean View Estates 

    Ocean View Estates 
    Stop in for wine and grazing plates. (Credit: Tourism and Events Moreton Bay)

    Tucked away in the hills of Moreton Bay, you’ll find Ocean View Estates, poured across 100 acres of sloping vineyards. Arrive via winding or scenic mountain roads. 

    Join the Wine & Dine in the Vines experience to be greeted with a glass of wine upon arrival before taking the time to stroll (wine in hand) through the grapevines. Spot the adorable herd of Highland cows before joining a behind-the-scenes tour of the vineyard’s operations. Sip wine straight from the vat before starting your four-course, wine-paired degustation. 

    If you can’t bear to leave, spend the night in one of the property’s quaint wine-themed cottages. 

    3. Green Thumb Farm

    green thumb farm moreton bay
    Learn about (and taste) sustainable food growing practices at Green Thumb.

    Green Thumb Farm calls Samford Valley home. This not-for-profit, educational community farm’s goal is to share sustainable food growing practices with the community. 

    Each Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday morning, you can follow the ‘farm walk’ signs through the property on a self-guided walk to witness how growing food with regenerative farming principles can support pollinators and soil to help create a more resilient food cycle. 

    To sample the produce, stop by on a Saturday morning to explore the spray-free fruit and vegetable markets. 

    4. Redcliffe KiteFest

    Redcliffe annual KiteFest
    Watch the sky change colours during KiteFest.

    Plan your visit to Moreton Bay for the weekend of the 19th and 20th of September this year and you’ll be greeted with an explosion of colour, creativity and family fun. Why? Because the Redcliffe annual KiteFest is back in town. 

    Browse the local food trucks as giant kites soar overhead, fly your own kite, let the kids try their hand at kite making with a series of workshops, and so much more. 

    For a colourful, family-friendly weekend close to Brisbane, you’ll be hard-pressed to find something better in your calendar. 

    5. Mt Nebo Railway Carriage and Chalet

    Mt Nebo Railway Carriage and Chalet
    Stay in one of the region’s most unique accommodations. (Credit: Tourism and Events Moreton Bay)

    Under the shaded canopy of the Boombana section of D’Aguilar National Park, you’ll find a lovingly restored 1920s Queensland Rail carriage and chalet. 

    The rail carriage comes complete with Wi-Fi, a smart TV, and even a barbecue. Take your morning coffee in the buffet car’s booth seating while you browse the record selection from the train’s original luggage racks. 

    Here, among six acres of picturesque mountain rainforest, you’ll find quaint gardens, tranquil views and close access to walking trails. 

    6. Hip Hops Brewers

    Hip Hop Brewers
    Try tasty craft beer flavours at Hip Hop Brewers.

    Brendale’s Hip Hops Brewers has one of the region’s most exciting craft beer offerings. Their local taproom is home to 21 different, meticulously crafted beer offerings and their mammoth selection of local wines and spirits. Hip Hops Brewers works in collaboration with local artisans and charities to deliver on their offering of drinks and events.  

    Spend an afternoon working your way through the selection at their ridiculously welcoming taproom and brewery. 

    7. The Store of Requirement

    The Store of Requirement
    Step inside for a touch of magic. (Credit: Tourism and Events Moreton Bay)

    For Harry Potter fans, The Store of Requirement is a compulsory visit. Much like the story’s Room of Requirement, the shop exists to provide whatever it is you need at the moment. Yes, that does include their own butterscotch brew. You’ll find wands, Hogwarts uniforms, and all the ingredients you’ll need for potions class. 

    You’ll even find the powder blue car Ron and Harry crash-landed at Hogwarts parked right out front. 

    8. Bee Gees Way

    bee gees way mural
    Find the groove on Bee Gees Way. (Credit: Tourism and Events Moreton Bay)

    Did you know that the Bee Gees brothers Barry, Robin and Maurice grew up in Moreton Bay? The disco supergroup called Redcliffe’s shores home before settling in at the top of the charts with hits like ‘Stayin’ Alive’. 

    Now, the spirit of disco is absolutely alive in Redcliffe thanks to Bee Gees Way. 

    The 70-metre outdoor museum pays homage to the band and was developed in collaboration with the band’s Barry Gibb. The experience is completely free and meanders along the Redcliffe foreshore. Walk down memory lane with photos, album covers, personal stories from the band, and exclusive interviews with Barry all about Moreton Bay. 

    Once the sun has set, catch the free light show set to the band’s greatest hits. 

    Trade the everyday for Moreton Bay, plan your weekend getaway now at visitmoretonbay.com.au.