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.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

14 unique stays in Australia to blow you away