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.

Warmer days call for slowing down and relaxing in nature. Discover why The Tweed is the ultimate destination to do just that.

As the end of the year draws near, the need for rest and restoration grows ever more prominent. For many, that means heading into nature – and there’s plenty of science to back up the benefits of doing so. It quite literally makes us happier as it reduces stress hormones, lowers our blood pressure and more. And what better place to lean into this feel-good effect than during summer in The Tweed (in the Northern Rivers region of NSW)? Blending sparkling beaches, riverside towns and hinterland villages, this area has nature covered, while also offering top activities and dining options.

And of course, pack your SPF. We Are Feel Good Inc’s Ultra-Light Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 is a lightweight and fast-absorbing formula that keeps your skin hydrated and shielded, thanks to nourishing Coconut Oil and Vitamin E. But it’s also helping preserve the natural beauty around you on your Tweed vacation, thanks to 30 per cent ocean waste packaging.

Discover eight experiences that make The Tweed the perfect place for summer.

1. Underwater worlds

two people swimming after turtle on the tweed — Get a chance to swim with the locals.

There’s something about the ocean that calls to us as humans, and what’s below the surface is even more magical.

Green, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles (not to mention an abundance of other marine life) all use the protected waters around Cook Island, near Fingal Head, as their foraging ground, making it the perfect place to dive and snorkel to spot these adorable creatures.

Join Cooly Eco Adventures on a guided snorkelling tour that combines unforgettable turtle encounters with an inspiring look into marine conservation.

2. Farm-to-table dining

table spread at Potager restaurant — Treat your taste buds at Potager. (Image: Cara Sophie)

Respecting the land and nature also means appreciating its abundance of food. From farm-to-table cafes and boutique breweries to river cruises and restaurants championing local produce, dining around The Tweed often means engaging with the best local producers.

The award-winning Potager Restaurant , part of The Hinterland Collection , is the perfect example; beginning life as a kitchen garden, the passion to champion local producers is woven into every dish. Vegetables, fruit and herbs are picked from the garden or sourced from other local producers, the seafood comes from the Northern Rivers, and meat is sourced from ethical local producers. Even the cocktail list features local distillers.

Extend your stay with a night (or several) at boutique on-site accommodation, Potager House . This French-inspired country four-bedroom retreat boasts stunning views of the surrounding hills and nearby ocean, as well as a large pool, outdoor entertaining area and infrared sauna.

3. Water wellness

Waterguru Mindfulness in the Mangroves summer on the tweed — Find mindfulness in mangroves. (Image: Matt Johnson)

You’ll find mindfulness while floating around the mangroves of Kingscliff’s Cudgen Creek at any time, but Watersports Guru offers an immersive experience to help guests do so with more intent. Join a 90-minute guided session on a stand-up paddleboard to reconnect with nature and relax through breathwork, gentle movement and sensory awareness.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, Watersports Guru also offer Kayak fishing adventures or join a Sea Turtle Odyssey experience.

4. Restorative seaside stays

woman relaxing in spa at Halcyon Wellness, halcyon house — Unwind at Halcyon Wellness.

The Tweed encourages locals and visitors alike to slow down. To really indulge, a seaside stay is a must. Halcyon House has understood the assignment, blending a wellness philosophy centred on balance and self-discovery with luxurious surrounds. Stay in one of 22 rooms and suites (each individually designed by eclectic interior designer Anna Spiro) right on the beachfront. Book restorative treatments at the onsite spa, Halcyon Wellness, relax by the pool, dine at the hatted Paper Daisy restaurant and just let The Tweed work its magic.

While Blue Water Motel offers a relaxed coastal escape, just steps from Kingscliff Beach. Settle in stylish rooms, recently restyled by Jason Grant, nodding to the cool of Kingscliff with a fun retro vibe. Hire a bike from reception to explore the surrounding area.

5. Tasty drops

The owners at Husk Farm Distillery aren’t just about creating high-quality rum: they’re also farmers themselves. In fact, they create one of the world’s only single estate, farm-to-bottle spirits. Join a Farm to Bottle tour to discover the sustainable ‘full circle’ distilling practices used here, and even get hands-on with your own cane knife to help harvest and juice your own stalk of cane. And, of course, a welcome drink plus complimentary tastings along the way.

6. Rail trail adventures

Exploring the rolling green slopes and historic towns of the 24-kilometre Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is one of the best ways to connect with the region’s lush hinterland and interesting heritage. In this section of the trail, discover the area’s railway history at heritage-listed Murwillumbah Railway Station, and traverse by 18 railway bridges and through two railway tunnels.

Linking vibrant towns and villages with the larger hub of Murwillumbah, this section of the trail is covered in asphalt or compacted gravel, making it accessible for all ages and abilities, from prams to adaptive bikes.

7. Linger longer

surfer at fingal heads the tweed — Enjoy beachside locations, like Fingal Heads.

Linger longer at one of the seven idyllic beach, river and creekside locations of Tweed Holiday Parks – including at Tweed Heads, Kingscliff Beach, Hastings Point and Pottsville South. All just steps from the water’s edge, they make the ideal base to unwind, or head out for exploration of The Tweed. Choose from luxury waterfront cabins, accessible cabins, surfari tents (yes, they are basically glamping tents) or spacious sites for caravans, motorhomes and campervans or tents.

Find your feel-good summer in The Tweed at visitthetweed.com.au .

14 unique stays in Australia to blow you away