7 Bucket-Trip Worthy Stations Stays Across Australia

Float across croc-infested floodplains, immerse yourself in natural waterholes or discover the wonder of ancient Aboriginal rock art, all whilst staying in some of the most remote and remarkable places in Australia.

Station stays are gaining popularity and raising the bar with a tapestry of memorable experiences. They offer a chance to feel the beating heart of the Australian bush, in spectacular and offbeat locations, without compromising on comfort. From simple to swanky, here are seven station stays you’ll wish to linger longer.

1. Bullara Station, WA

At this cattle station, in the Exmouth Gulf, it’s more than ochre dirt that sinks into your skin. Found near World Heritage-listed Ningaloo (Nyinggulu) Marine Park, it’s 90 kilometres south of Exmouth.

an aerial view of Bullara Station near the beach — Bullara Station is found near Ningaloo (Nyinggulu) Marine Park.

Damper tasting, cattle mustering and star gazing all add to the Aussie outback feel. Adventure along 4WD tracks to access remote fishing, shower outside beneath the gumtrees and taste homemade scones in a Banjo Paterson-style converted wool shed.

red dirt across Bullara Station — Red dirt spans across Bullara Station.

Live music and festoon lights set the scene for a bush party for their Friday “Burger Night" – made with homegrown beef, of course. Take your pick of accommodation at Bullara Station from camping, camp cottages, bell tents and safari huts.

the interior of a safari hut at Bullara Station — Stay in a rustic safari hut at Bullara Station.

2. Quobba Station, WA

At Quobba Station , an eco-stay an hour’s drive north of Carnarvon, the Outback and ocean converge in a rugged display of natural beauty. Just like the famous blowholes here, this coastline will blow your mind. The homestead has a range of individual quarters to stay in, some sleeping up to eight people. ‘The Chalets’ sleep two and deliver a salty Indian Ocean view.

an aerial view of Red Bluff, Quobba Station north of Carnarvon — Sunset paints the bluff fiery red at Quobba Station. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

At Red Bluff, further north, this spectacular setting has prime camping sites, a stone’s throw from the powder-white beach. The safari tents that cling to the craggy hillside are the hero; from here you can gaze at the turquoise Indian Ocean to spot whales or watch as surfers glide, leaving white froth piping in their wake. Sunset is a sight to behold as it sizzles into the sea and paints the bluff fiery red.

Red Bluff, Quobba Station north of Carnarvon — Quobba Station is nestled north of Carnarvon. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

3. Bullo River, NT

Set on 400,000 acres, the road to Bullo River cattle station is 4WD access only. A plane charter will have you there in 30 minutes from Kununurra, or 90 minutes from Darwin. Twelve guest rooms provide an air-conditioned sanctuary and the palm-fringed pool is a cool oasis.

the Bullo River Station accommodation — Feel at home at Bullo River Station. (Image: Tourism NT/Bullo River Station)

Guests can float down the Bullo River Gorge, walled by towering red cliffs and riverbanks dripping with fig trees and pandanus. Storytelling, throw net fishing, and ancient Aboriginal rock art make up a day rich of wonder when embarking on a cultural tour with a local guide. Soar in a helicopter above Djarrany-Djarrany Country where chasms of gorges cut scars into the landscape and creeks criss-cross, veinlike, across the land.

an aerial view of Bullo River — Bullo River is situated on the edge of the Kimberley. (Image: Tourism NT)

4. Finniss River Lodge, NT

This family-owned cattle station, 90 kilometres from Darwin delivers luxurious lodgings, on the edge of vast wetlands that are ever-changing with the seasons. With six suites, catering for up to 12 guests, Finniss River Lodge offers a personalised stay.

an outdoor pool at Finniss River Lodge, NT — Lounge by the pool at Finniss River Lodge. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Immerse yourself in station life on a cattle muster, check troughs and fences or feed gangly poddy calves. Adventure on a guided airboat tour where native water lilies sit pretty, a contrast to the feral pigs and stealth resident crocs that dwell here.

the Finniss River Lodge, NT — Finniss River Lodge is a hidden outback gem. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Learn how to make fire or forage for bush tucker that chefs will prepare for your dinner. Finish your day, cocktail in hand, astounded by an immense fire-red sunset over the floodplains from the poolside deck.

sunset views from the pool at Finniss River Lodge, NT — Sip wine by the pool at sundown. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

5. Gilberton Outback Retreat, QLD

The ‘quick’ way to Gilberton is via helicopter where you’ll touchdown on a heart-shaped pink landing pad. It’s a unique arrival to set your heart aflutter at this seventh-generation working cattle station in Far North Queensland. The Retreat at Gilberton is perched atop the bluff overlooking the Gilbert River and meals and activities are all-inclusive. Their spacious digs are draped in understated luxury, including a pillow-top king bed and fluffy robes that will have you feeling like bush royalty.

Disconnect from the world (there’s no phone coverage) and connect with life in the bush. Wander amongst eucalyptus trees with a guide to taste bush tucker and spot local wildlife such as rare albino wallabies. Spend a day fossicking for gold in an area rich in mining history. Soak off the gold dust in your balcony bath overlooking the meandering river.

a man riding a motorcycle across the outback grounds of Gilberton Outback Retreat — Immerse in the wilderness at Gilberton Outback Retreat. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

6. Callubri Station, NSW

Taste rural life, literally, at Callubri Station , a merino sheep station that offers stays for a maximum of 12 guests. You won’t go hungry with their wine and dine packages, delivering seasonal produce that’ll have your belly as plump as the wool on the sheep’s back. Catch yabby from the dams or join in on farming life helping fix fences and check on lambing ewes.

a woman relaxing in a hammock at Callubri Station — Relax in a hammock at Callubri Station. (Image: Monique Wye)

Look out for wildlife such as comical long-legged emus or pink and grey galahs chattering like class clowns. Take a farm tour to learn about wool production and finish with canapes and drinks at ‘The Lookout’, gazing over the Western Plains.

the exterior view of Callubri Station, Buddabadah — Experience a luxury outback stay at Callubri Station. (Image: Monique Wye)

7. Flinders Bush Retreats, SA

Flinders Bush Retreats offer eco-tent glamping, privately positioned in a secluded gorge, just outside of Hawker, in the Flinders Ranges. Accommodating two people, it’s completely off-grid. There’s a soft sheet-clad queen-sized bed, plus a kitchenette and ensuite with a self-composting toilet.

the rugged mountain landscape surrounding Flinders Bush Retreat — Flinders Bush Retreats is completely off-grid. (Image: Isaac Foreman)

The scenic views and spectacular walks on your doorstep are a great way to settle into the rhythm of nature. Spot strutting emus, curious kangaroos, or even spiky, roly-poly echidna. At night, listen to the crackle of your open campfire and marvel as stars traverse an unpolluted celestial sky.

a safari tent at Flinders Bush Retreats, SA under the night sky — Sleep under the stars. (Image: Flinders Bush Retreats)

For those that prefer extra mod cons, book the historic 1900s Mount Scott Homestead or ‘The Quarters’ to experience this sixth-generation grazier’s property.

an aerial view of Flinders Bush Retreat — Check into the Flinders Bush Retreats in the middle of the rugged landscape. (Image: Isaac Foreman)

Thredbo in summer is a nature lover’s dream of show-stopping alpine beauty, cool mountain air and magical moonlit adventure.

For many of us, Thredbo calls to mind shimmering slopes and snow-dusted gums, but come summer, this Alpine resort transforms into a playground of an entirely different kind. A cool mountain retreat despite the season, Thredbo summer hikes are astonishingly beautiful, criss-crossing over dramatic peaks, pristine glacial lakes and abundant flora and fauna.

From approachable tracks for novice walkers to more challenging hikes across the Main Range and even journeys under moonlight, Thredbo puts on an unforgettable show of natural splendour all summer. Lace up your walking boots and take the chairlift from Thredbo village to embark on a self-guided exploration or a tour of the Snowy Mountains’ most compelling landscapes.

These eight unforgettable hiking experiences are only available in summer and offer an alpine adventure like you’ve never experienced before.

1. Full Moon Hike to Mt Kosciuszko

There’s something almost mystical about hiking by the light of a full moon. This guided experience begins with a 15-minute chairlift ride, where you’ll admire the Thredbo Valley below, bathed in the fading sun.

Once at the top, you’ll pass rivers, alpine lakes and spot nocturnal wildlife on your way to the Kosciuszko Lookout and Lake Cootapatamba. By the time you reach the summit, sunset is well underway as you watch day give way to night and the alpine landscape magically illuminated by the lunar glow. Enjoy a hot chocolate here before following the path back to Eagles Nest, brightened by the night sky.

This 13-kilometre hike will take place on 3 January, 2 February, and 2 April in 2026.

2. Super Full Moon Hike

Super Full Moon Hike in thredbo — Take in the might of a super full moon.

The only thing that could level up the celestial beauty of a full moon hike would be a super full moon hike . Following the same route, you’ll meet the moon when it is largest and closest to Earth by ascending to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko at an elevation of 2228 metres. From such a height, it almost feels as though you could reach out and touch its glowing surface.

Given the rarity and splendour of the super full moon, limited spots fill up fast for this awe-inspiring hike, so be sure to book the 5 December in advance.

3. Lunar Eclipse Hike

Thredbo Lunar Eclipse Hike — See dazzling celestial displays.

What could be more extraordinary than witnessing a lunar eclipse from Australia’s highest peak? Whether you’re a keen astronomer or simply revel in nature’s beauty, this guided 13-kilometre hike will place you on top of Mount Kosciuszko just as Earth passes between the sun and moon, throwing shade over the lunar surface before transforming it with a deep-red hue.

It’s an epic place to witness one of our galaxy’s most spectacular and rare light shows. Apart from the dazzling celestial display, you’ll also enjoy walking through the moon-bathed landscape, an evening chairlift ride, and a hot chocolate at the summit.

Book now for 3 March.

4. New Moon Hike

New Moon Hike Mt Kosciuszko — Catch the changing skies of a new moon.

A stargazer’s delight, the darkness of a new moon gives the Milky Way full permission to dazzle with its shimmering display. Both astronomers and photographers will relish this opportunity to observe and capture the starry skyscape from the lofty height of Australia’s highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko. Departing Thredbo Village at dusk and leaving its twinkling lights far below, you’ll arrive at the summit in time to see the sun slip away and the stars appear.

Catch this hike during the new moon lunar phase on 20 December, 19 January, 17 February, 19 March or 17 April.

5. Thredbo River Track

Embark on a gentle entry into the Snowy Mountain scenery with an amble along the Thredbo River. This self-guided hike hugs the river and wanders along the valley floor, revealing snow gum forests, swimming holes and little waterfalls that make for revitalising cold plunges in the summer heat.

6. Merritts Nature Track

Merritts Nature Track thredbo summer hikes — Stop at swimming holes along the way.

On warm summer days, venturing into the cooler air of Thredbo’s alpine tracks offers relief from the heat. Particularly if you set course for the four-kilometre Merritts Nature Track , where there are opportunities to take a refreshing dip in swimming holes along the way.

The two-to-three-hour self-guided hike meanders through towering ancient trees (dubbed the ‘Pixie Forest’ by locals), takes in stunning mountain vistas and is soundtracked by the melody of birdsong. Stop for a picnic and discover a hidden natural infinity pool, the location of which is given away by the roar of a cascading waterfall.

7. Mt Kosciuszko Summit Tour

Follow a guide along Mt Kosciuszko's summit. — Follow a guide along Mt Kosciuszko’s summit.

While you can easily steer yourself to Australia’s most iconic peak without a guide, following an expert guide to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko will colour your experience with a deeper knowledge of the landscape and its wild inhabitants. The 13-kilometre return trail puts the alpine scenery on display with 360-degree views from the highest spot in the country.

The walk begins at the top of the Kosciuszko Chairlift and takes around four to six hours to complete, but is gentle enough to be embarked upon by all ages.

8. Snowies Alpine Walk Experience

If you’re looking to truly untether from daily life and embark on a real immersion in Thredbo’s stunning alpine scenery, pack your hiking boots for the newest multi-day walk in the mountains. The Snowies Alpine Walk can be tackled over two or three days and includes nightly accommodation in the iconic Thredbo Alpine Hotel, daily buffet breakfast, packed lunch and dinner vouchers, plus daily transfers to and from trail heads in a brand-new Defender.

The two-day experience covers 24 kilometres, while the three-day experience almost doubles that at 44 kilometres. Along the way, explore barely trod landscapes, vast high-country plains and uplifting mountain horizons.

Discover the full offering of summer hikes in Thredbo at thredbo.com.au.

7 bucket-trip worthy station stays across Australia