14 Unique Stays In Australia To Blow You Away

From the remote reaches of the outback to the heart of UNESCO World-Heritage listed sites, these are Australia’s most unique stays.

Australia is practically overflowing with amazing accommodation options. But digging through countless accommodations can not only be time-consuming, it can sometimes be a little disappointing. To avoid those booking regrets, we’ve hit the ground to uncover some of the most unique stays across Australia that you simply can’t find anywhere else. Trust us, they’re so cool you won’t want to leave.

1. The Secret Treehouse, NSW

Live among the canopy of majestic gum trees at The Secret Treehouse in NSW’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains. With all wooden accents and floor-to-ceiling windows, this special stay makes you feel truly at one with nature.

Snuggle up by the fireplace as you look out over undulating valleys. Wander along walkways constructed high above the ground. Enjoy a spa bath or in-cabin full-body massage.

The surrounding area is also full of things to do if you’re keen on an adventure. Go on a guided glow worm tour, check out the nearby organic farms or go fruit picking in Bilpin. All before coming home to your very own hideaway in the trees.

2. Longitude 131, NT

Experience the quintessence of the Australian outback at Longitude 131 in the Northern Territory’s Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Here, you’ll have front-row seats across the desert to Uluru, one of Australia’s most celebrated icons.

Longitude 131 in NT — Live out your outback dreams at Longitude 131. (Image: Tourism NT/George Apostolidis)

There are a range of accommodation options at Longitude 131. Luxury tents consist of gorgeous glamping domes with floor-to-ceiling windows and a large balcony that looks out over red desert plains.

Step up the grandeur by booking the Dune Pavilion, designed for peak outback luxury. The only accommodation in Australia to offer views of both Uluru and Kata Tjuta, the lodge features a rain shower, fireplace, outdoor lounges and a stunning private plunge pool with spectacular views. Add the proverbial cherry on top by visiting the onsite spa.

3. Desert Cave Hotel, SA

Book a stay under the earth at Desert Cave Hotel in Coober Pedy, South Australia. One of a select few international underground hotels around the world, this truly is a once-in-a-lifetime stay.

Hang out in your cave-style room, all dug-out walls and earthy tones and featuring all the usual amenities required of a hotel stay, despite being underground. You can also grab dinner and a drink in the hotel’s subterranean restaurant.

Coober Pedy is also full of incredible outback experiences. Go on a tour of nearby caves and mines. Fossick for rare opals. Hike the famous Oodnadatta Track. Or catch the sunset at Big Winch Lookout.

4. ReefSuites, Qld

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system. And now you can sleep amongst it at ReefSuites , Australia’s first underwater accommodation. A common motif among unique Australian stays, ReefSuites feature floor-to-ceiling windows that look out at crystal-clear waters and the marine life that live there.

ReefSuites in Qld — Get up close and personal with marine life. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Arrive via a scenic flight over the Whitsundays, where you’ll see the reef from above in all its glory. Each room (there are only two available) is tinged in turquoise shimmers and features a large comfy bed and an en suite.

While staying at ReefSuites, take advantage of its prime location and go on a private guided snorkelling tour or semi-submarine tour of the reef. Check out the onsite underwater observatory or dine under the stars come nighttime.

Great Barrier Reef, Qld — ReefSuites is on the doorstep of the Great Barrier Reef. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

5. Lilypad, NSW

Drift along Pittwater in Sydney’s Northern Beaches at Lilypad , one of Australia’s most luxurious houseboats. Floating in the middle of the bay, this dreamy, sustainable stay is unlike anything you’ve seen before.

Accessible only by a tender, the full-service villa is secluded and private with 360-degree water views. Laze on the large deck on a sun-lounger or take one of the stand-up paddleboards for a cruise on the water. Come evening, the deck is the perfect place for a sunset cocktail.

Inside, resort-style furnishings bring the vacay vibes. From the luxurious king bed and fireplace to an open kitchen-living space and on-board wine cellar, you won’t want to leave.

6. Mile End Glamping, WA

Take glamping to the next level at Mile End Glamping in the stunning Margaret River wine region of Western Australia. This off-grid stay consists of distinctive geodesic domes with stilts that look out onto the 58-hectare natural estate.

Mile End Glamping in WA — Stay in a funky geodesic dome. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Each dome features a private bathroom, kitchen, king bed and private deck with an outdoor bath so you can soak in the views. Mile End Glamping is only a 20-minute drive from a variety of Margaret River wineries and the beachside suburb of Busselton, so there’s plenty to do when you’re not hanging in your unique retreat.

7. Thorngrove Manor Hotel, SA

Fairytales are real – at least they are at Thorngrove Manor Hotel in Stirling, a 25-minute drive out of South Australia’s capital, Adelaide. This Small Luxury Hotels of the World stay transports its guests into the pages of a picture book with its cobblestone facade, towering turrets and manicured gardens.

Thorngrove Manor Hotel in SA — Live out your fairytale dreams at Thorngrove Manor. (Image: Thorngrove Manor Hotel)

There are six unique accommodation options at Thorngrove. The Tower Room is a sophisticated option with a porcelain spa bath, hand-carved bed and private balcony. Or opt for the peak of prestige with The Kings Chambers, a two-room suite on the ground floor with a private driveway, rose-covered portico and baronial-style fireplace.

Whether you’re wandering the stunning grounds, indulging in a private afternoon tea or exploring the wine region surrounding the property, you’ll feel like royalty at Thorngrove Manor.

8. Mount Ophir Estate, Vic

Stay on 50 hectares of farmland in the Rutherglen region of Victoria at Mount Ophir Estate , a collection of accommodation options that feel straight out of a movie. Mount Ophir is split into six different stays – The Gatehouse, The Tower, The Lodge, The Residence, The Winemakers Cottage and The Pickers Cottage.

Mount Ophir Estate in Victoria — Mount Ophir Estate resides in the Rutherglen region of Victoria. (Image: Kate Shanasy)

Each refurbished offering is unique in its own way. French-provincial The Tower stretches three floors and sleeps two. The Winemakers Cottage is part of the original facilities and features a cosy loft bedroom. Whichever you choose, you’ll be spoilt.

In the heart of the estate, a heritage winemaking building doubles as one of Victoria’s most unique events spaces – four main halls, all exposed brick and high ceilings, across two levels – perfect for small groups and special events.

9. Picnic Island, Tas

Have a whole slice of Tasmania to yourself by booking a stay on the picturesque and private Picnic Island . Nestled between Freycinet National Park and The Hazards mountain range, it’s the perfect place for nature lovers.

Picnic Island in Tasmania — Retreat to your private island near Freycinet National Park. (Image: Luke Tscharke)

The copper-clad luxury retreat can be booked for up to 10 people across two lodges. Gather in the communal Birdhouse for dinner, then relax on the deck by an open fire with views across Wineglass Bay. If you’re lucky, you’ll even spot the resident penguins!

10. Hideaway Litchfield, NT

Stay in a glamourous shipping container in the heart of Litchfield National Park with Hideaway Litchfield in the NT. Designed to fit into the landscape, these shacks are artful, minimalistic and oh-so cosy.

Litchfield Hideaway in NT — The cabins are nestled in the heart of Litchfield National Park. (Image: Tourism NT/Jason Charles Hill)

Choose from three cabins – Cascade, Wangi and Tolmer. Cascade is perfect for families, situated at ground level with easy access. Wangi is for the intrepid traveller, featuring an outdoor staircase and stunning views of native bushland.

Hideaway Litchfield in NT — The cabins are made from shipping containers. (Image: Tourism NT/Hideaway Litchfield)

Tolmer is the epitome of bush-style luxury. The two-storey masterpiece includes a spacious deck and balcony, floor-to-ceiling windows and world-class views. If you’re keen to camp, check out the private camp with huts and bunk beds.

11. Shandonvale Station, Qld

Go full outback at Shandonvale Station , one of a few incredible bucket-list station stays across Australia. Here, you’ll be calling a recently refurbished 100-year-old guesthouse home in the middle of the Queensland outback.

Shandonvale Station in Outback Queensland — The station is situated on more than 6000 hectares of farmland.

Think an outdoor treetop artesian bath, filled with mineral-rich waters, a chopper ride over the bush, paddock-to-plate dining experiences, shooting lessons at the gun range, and the list goes on!

Just under a two-hour drive from Longreach, Shandonvale is located on a working outback station that sprawls across more than 6000 hectares. Sheep, kangaroos, camels, donkeys, horses, emus, pigs and deer all call it home.

12. The Lily, WA

Bunker down in a real-life Dutch windmill at The Lily in WA’s Stirling Range National Park. The self-contained accommodation offers views across the Stirling Range, with cattle surrounding the property adding to its charm.

Originally a 16th-century ground-sail flour mill, the five-storey windmill is one of the largest of its kind in Australia. The Scandinavian wood heater, air-conditioning, full-equipped kitchen and wi-fi with have you feeling right at home.

13. Barnhaus, Tas

Barnhaus is a unique, self-contained tiny home built in the agricultural region of Forth in Tassie. The Scandinavian barn-style cabin welcomes guests to disconnect, enrich their souls and enjoy nature – all while leaving a limited ecological footprint.

Barnhaus in Tasmania — Barnhaus offers the perfect hideaway in Tassie.

At Barnhaus, you’ll find a cosy sleeping area, a country-style kitchen, a sleek bathroom and a private garden. Spend the day tending to the veggie patch, enjoying the sun, reading by the large window or bingeing Netflix. It truly is cosy, countryside living.

14. Qii House, Vic

A meditation and relaxation hub in Victoria’s Otways, Qii House is tranquillity at its best. The architecturally designed retreat was built in the 70s by Melbourne architect Edgard Pirrota.

Qii House in Victoria — Qii House was designed by architect Edgard Pirrota.

The bespoke house sits among lush greenery, hidden in plain sight by its wooden exterior. It’s filled with natural light by day and glows softly in the night. The space features fishbowl windows, al fresco living areas, funky interiors and an outdoor deck.

Wander the Great Otway National Park surrounding Qii House and you’ll stumble upon flowing waterfalls and a flurry of wildlife. You’ll (reluctantly) return home feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

The heavens take centre stage at this Outback NSW glamping lodge.

Crane your neck. Look up. If it’s nighttime in a major Australian city, you might see a faint dusting of stars. Now imagine yourself out in the bush. Here, those stars aren’t just scattered dots – instead, they’re smudged across the sky in endless, glittering streaks. Welcome to Wilderluxe Lake Keepit , a new glamping lodge in one of the most picturesque corners of outback NSW.

Between its eight stargazing tents, Gilay Guest Lounge, and shared tales of the Dreamtime night sky, this retreat is designed to exist in harmony with the breathtaking lake and surrounding landscape. Intrigued? Here’s everything you need to know.

Bathed in warm light, a couple watches the sun dip beyond the horizon. — Watch the sky melt into magic at Wilderluxe.

Getting to Wilderluxe Lake Keepit

Wilderluxe Lake Keepit is in the NSW Northern Tablelands, bordered by the Great Dividing Range. The lake itself is hard to miss: this mammoth body of water is two-thirds the size of Sydney Harbour.

Just 40 minutes from Tamworth and close to Gunnedah, it’s on the inland route between Sydney and Byron Bay. Drive or take one of the daily flights to Tamworth’s airport.

Aerial view of Wilderluxe. — Let vast waters and towering ranges set the scene for your escape.

Wilderluxe Lake Keepit rooms

Don’t settle for a paltry room when you can sleep directly under the cosmos. Wilderluxe offers eight domed ‘Star Tents’ , all named after Aboriginal sky stories – like Djirri Djirri, the sacred messenger bird, Baiame, the Sky Father and great creator, and Dhinawan, the Emu in the Sky constellation.

On a clear night, use your tent’s retractable roof for gazing above or wander to the outdoor bathtub on your private deck to soak under the night sky. No need to go anywhere. You can stay put come evening with a kitchenette inside and a gas barbecue on the deck.

A couple gazes up at a sky ablaze with stars at Wilderluxe. — Sleep beneath the stars.

Style and character

When it comes to aesthetics, Wilderluxe Lake Keepit stays on trend. The encampment blends with its surroundings, building up layers of minimalist visuals that mirror the ever-changing curves of the water.

Earthy tones, natural materials and timber finishes also anchor the retreat in its bushland surrounds. It’s enough to deepen the sense of calm you’ll experience as you drive off-grid, and this is only heightened as you spot kangaroos grazing at dawn or hear the chatter of native birds by the lake.

The dreamy sunset at Wilderluxe. — Go off-grid in style at Wilderluxe Lake Keepit.

Wilderluxe Lake Keepit dining

‘Dinner and a show’ hits differently with the property’s Big Sky dinner experience . Hosted in the Gilay Lounge, enjoy complimentary drinks and a grazing table with the host, followed by a screening of Big Sky Dreaming, a film produced exclusively for Wilderluxe guests in which Kamilaroi storyteller Uncle Len Waters narrates tales of the Dreaming above.

Once your imagination has been fed, it’s time to take a seat fireside for a glass of Australian port and a serving of s’mores.

Keen to explore the wider area? Staff can provide barbecue and picnic hampers, stuffed with regional meats, cheeses and organic local fare.

Wilderluxe Lake Keepit facilities

While you could very well spend all your time in your tent, sometimes it’s time to hit pause on the celestial show. Instead, make your way up to the Gilay Guest Lounge, where you can relax on the deck overlooking the lake or the outdoor fire pits. It’s a great way to unwind and clink glasses with other stargazers.

The Gilay Lounge with the view of the lake. — Unwind by the fire and raise a glass at Gilay Lounge.

Wilderluxe Lake Keepit experiences

No need to turn nocturnal; when the sun rises, there are still plenty of ways to touch the sky.

Lake Keepit hosted the 2020 Women’s World Gliding Championships, and it’s one of the best places in Australia to stretch your wings. The local Soaring Club operates year-round, meaning you can book a gliding experience any day of the year – or opt for a scenic flight to take in the vast beauty from above.

Prefer to keep your feet on solid ground? There are plenty of walking and cycling trails in and around the area. Luckily, bikes are part of the Wilderluxe package. All you have to do is ask a staff member for their favourite route, throw a picnic onto the back and cycle off into the great beyond.

Alternatively, nab a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) or kayak and head out onto the lake. Or, if you’re feeling lucky, borrow a fishing rod and try your chances.

A person kayaking through serene waters. — Paddle into peace.

The details

A two-night minimum twin-share accommodation package includes Big Sky dinner and drinks experience, plus daily continental breakfast. As well as access to leisure equipment including mountain bikes, kayaks, SUPs and fishing gear.

The interiors of the glamping tent. — Let nature restore you, while luxury takes care of the rest.

Start planning your outback glamping adventure at wilderluxe.com.au.

14 unique stays in Australia to blow you away