12 Weird And Wonderful Places To Stay Around Australia

Add a little flair to your holiday by spending the night in living quarters that are all shades of bonkers.

Some of life’s best stories come from taking the road less travelled, breaking away from convention and staying in slightly-off-kilter accommodation. For all Australia has to offer, it should come as no surprise that there are a host of ways to rest your weary head that don’t entail a stock-standard hotel room.

Creative minds have honed in on the terrain and climate unique to Australia, developing accommodation that goes off script. Comfortably sleeping underground, in the snow or high above the trees is not only a possibility but a reality for the eager story-seeker and memory-maker.

Read on for some of the downright strangest places to stay around Australia.

1. Earthship Ironbank, SA

Arguably Australia’s only B&B with a built-in greenhouse, a stay at Earthship Ironbank in South Australia is a leap forward in climate research. The founders and owners of Earthship Ironbank are continuously testing the lodge’s impact on the environment, so for those wanting to be living in a cosy science experiment of sorts, this B&B is the cream of the crop.

the exterior of Earthship Ironbank, SA — A stay at Earthship Ironbank feels like you’re in a futuristic sci-fi movie.

The unique design is reminiscent of a building you’d see in a futuristic sci-fi movie, while the interior is flooded with natural light and warm tones. Pour a morning cup of tea and ponder over the greenhouse or lay in bed for a little too long and gaze out the floor-to-ceiling windows before hopping in the tub for a tranquil bubble bath. Pure bliss.

a look inside the accommodation at Earthship Ironbank, SA — Inside, you’ll experience pure bliss.

2. Wilderness Island, WA

It might not quite be the edge of the world, but a stay at Wilderness Island will be the closest thing to it.

a small accommodation on Wilderness Island — Stay in the middle of nowhere on Wilderness Island.

From May to October every year, Wilderness Island in Western Australia is open for business, offering five secluded cabins as close to the ocean as humanly possible. It’s not uncommon to see hammocks and egg chairs on the porch of beachside homes, but the Wilderness Island retreats enter unusual territory by just how far removed the guests are from the rest of the world.

an aerial view of the Wilderness Island — Choose from secluded cabins on Wilderness Island.

Aliens could visit Australia and those staying at the resort would be blissfully unaware going about their day doing not much at all.

an aerial view of the seascape surrounding Wilderness Island — Wilderness Island is as close to the end of the world as you’ll get.

3. A Tassie Church, Tas

This Kempton-based country home in Tasmania answers the age-old question: what would it be like to stay in a historic church?

the entrance of A Tassie Church, Tas — Find out what it’s like to stay in a church.

With ceilings far higher than the average broom could reach, the barrel-shaped interior of this church-turned-home is utterly mesmerising. Stained glass windows maintain that spiritual element usually reserved for places of worship, yet the furnishing and décor offer a level of hospitality that makes you feel right at home.

the dining interior of A Tassie Church, Tas — Relax inside this church-turned-home.

A lush green garden can be found at the rear, ideal for a frolic or a round of bocce, while apple trees litter the lawn ready to be picked. In the morning, make the most of the barista-level coffee machine and at night, retire to the living room and warm your soul near the slow-combustion fireplace.

the barrel-shaped interior of A Tassie Church, Tas — Take in the high ceilings and big windows.

4. Pilliga Pottery, NSW

When we think of a regular farm stay, Pilliga Pottery in outback NSW’s Coonabarabran does not fit the brief. What can only be described as an intricate enclosed gazebo on stilts, Pilliga Pottery’s Old Schoolhouse is a traveller’s dream come true.

the Pilliga Pottery Old Schoolhouse surrounded by trees — Opt for a rustic stay at Pilliga Pottery’s gazebo on stilts.

Spanning two stories, the Old Schoolhouse is a stone’s throw away from a trampoline and pool – two features rarely found at this type of accommodation. After ascending the stairs to this oasis in the sky, cook up a feast in the decked-out kitchen or watch from above as your companions play a game of Marco Polo.

abstract patterns inside Pilliga Pottery’s Old Schoolhouse — Pilliga Pottery’s Old Schoolhouse is filled with intricate patterns and designs.

Outside of the Old Schoolhouse, guests can attend pottery workshops, embark on a bushwalk, avidly stargaze in Warrumbungle National Park (the southern hemisphere’s first dark sky park) or feed some animals – a traditional farm stay staple.

the bedroom at Pilliga Pottery’s Old Schoolhouse — Settle into this unique farm stay at Pilliga Pottery.

5. Hotel No, Vic

There’s a laundry list of attributes that certify Hotel No as one of Melbourne’s kookiest public residences. After checking in, you’ll be taken to the rooftop and greeted by a cluster of retro airstream trailers, a sprawling red floor against a large mural of splattered shades of pink, a bird’s-eye view of Flinders Lane, and perhaps the strangest of all, a stocked mini-bar that’s free for guests.

the pink exterior of Hotel No, Vic — Hotel No is one of Melbourne’s kookiest public residences.

Hotel No prides itself on its ‘no’ policy: no ordinary stay, no concierge, and no outdated appliances – the latter of which is emphasised by in-room photo printers to capture your stay. Throw in a rooftop spa bath plus a private deck, and Hotel No is the epitome of eccentricity.

the pink room at Hotel No, Vic — You’re promised no ordinary stay.

6. Overnight Igloo Experience, Vic

Highly season-specific, these custom-built igloos on Mount Hotham come and go in a flash, adding to the unattainable allure some travellers strive to achieve.

The process of booking an igloo plays into the exclusivity of it all, as you first have to register for a waiting list before accessing the availability of the igloos, however, the team at Alpine Nature Experience always construct the igloos before they’re accessible to the public.

a custom-built igloo on Mount Hotham, Vic — Book a one-of-a-kind overnight Igloo experience. (Image: Kate Hanton)

Once you’ve locked in a date, expect the snow adventure of a lifetime. A brisk 30-minute stroll through the snow leads guests to a roaring fireplace, followed by appetisers of cheese fondue and a delectable three-course meal.

Share your life’s story with fellow snow-bunnies over a glass of wine before retiring to your one-of-a-kind igloo, kitted out with a toasty double bed and faux-fur blankets, additional layers for extra warmth, and a solar battery for your charging needs.

an igloo at night — Get cosy inside your igloo. (Image: Toshi Pander)

7. Desert Cave Hotel, SA

After a fruitful day of opal hunting and touring cavernous mines in Coober Pedy, head underground for a deserved night’s rest at Desert Cave Hotel .

the entrance of Desert Cave Hotel, SA — Opt for an underground stay at Desert Cave Hotel. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Best seen to be believed, this sprawling underground ecosystem feels almost otherworldly, as it operates like a regular hotel, with its premium onsite restaurant, cafe, bar, gaming room and shops, yet everything is situated far beneath the surface – it’s a wild experience.

the lobby of Desert Cave Hotel, SA — Everything is situated far beneath the surface. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Mood lighting lines the earthy walls throughout this hidden hotel and the bedrooms are fully furnished with the same luxuries found at any above-ground alternative. For travellers wanting to be closer to Earth’s core while also sleeping in hotel-standard linens, this should be high on the to-stay list.

the bedroom at Desert Cave Hotel, SA — Bed down at Desert Cave Hotel. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

8. The Shed, Kangaroo Valley, NSW

Tell people you’re staying in a shed while on holiday and they’re likely to baulk at you. Show people photos of your stay at The Shed in Kangaroo Valley and they’re likely to start planning their very own trip.

the accommodation exterior of The Shed in Kangaroo Valley — A vintage stay awaits you at The Shed.

Everything about The Shed is immaculately executed. From the vintage doors that serve as the entrance to the patchwork corrugated iron walls, there isn’t a detail that’s gone unnoticed in this spacious three-bedroom ‘shed’.

a group sitting around a bonfire at The Shed in Kangaroo Valley — Gather around the bonfire at night.

The outdoor area would also make for a stunning backdrop if you were planning a surprise engagement party or wedding but hadn’t landed on a location yet.

While you’re in Kangaroo Valley, put some time aside and venture to the gushing waterfalls and sprawling wineries for a well-rounded weekend away.

the exterior of The Shed in Kangaroo Valley — Escape to The Shed for the weekend.

9. The Old Mount Gambier Gaol, SA

When there’s an option to book a ‘room and cell’ at a hotel, the holiday is guaranteed to take a turn for the better.

the entrance to The Old Mount Gambier Gaol, SA — Waltz through this charming prison-turned-accommodation.

The Old Mount Gambier Gaol is rife with character and has a history of housing prisoners since its construction back in the 19th century. This charming prison-turned-accommodation hasn’t seen a lawless citizen waltz through its doors in decades, yet the remnants of life before the renovation can be found throughout the entire property.

Book a room at the Old Mount Gambier Gaol.

One glance at the architecture or the sturdy cell bars in select windows will offer further insight into this historic venue, which doubles as an events space as well as a resting place.

Time your stay correctly and you might catch some live music or one of the various exhibitions and workshops held behind (decorative) bars.

the facade of Old Mount Gambier Gaol at night — The Old Mount Gambier Gaol is rife with character. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/ Adam Bruzzone)

10. The Lily, WA

The Lily has been home to self-contained accommodation for years now, but there’s been a recent addition that takes the cake.

a 1944 Dakota plane at The Lily, WA — A 1944 Dakota plane has been converted into living quarters.

Adjacent to the iconic Dutch windmill lies a dormant 1944 Dakota plane that’s been converted into living quarters. Every aspect of the plane has been put to use in The Dakota . The cockpit now serves as a fully functioning bathroom, the body of the plane is now the living room and kitchen, and at the tail-end sits two single beds perched on an elevated landing.

an original 1944 Dakota accommodation at The Lily, WA — Stay in an original 1944 Dakota.

Walk through the cargo doors and you’ll plant your feet firmly on an outdoor patio, where you can watch the windmill stand in solitude nearby. Most travellers have slept on a plane before, but not like this.

a Dutch windmill next to The Lily, WA — The Lily also offers other accommodation types.

11. Bubbletent, NSW

From the depths below to soaring heights above, Bubbletent in Capertee Valley, halfway between Mudgee and Lithgow, will satiate view-deprived guests with its transparent design and enviable vantage point.

the Bubbletent luxury glamping in Capertee Valley — Sleep under the stars in a luxe bubbletent in Capertee Valley. (Image: Destination NSW)

Three private bubbles dot the valley’s hills and cliffs, each offering different amenities and views to cater for all walks of life. Named after different star signs, anticipate an invigorating session in Leo’s wood-fired hot tub, superior views and a rest in Leo’s hammock, or, for romantic getaways, opt for the Virgo bubble and spend the weekend rocking back and forth on the ultra-cute love swing.

a woman relaxing in the outdoor tub at Bubbletent Australia overlooking the Capertee Valley — Soak up superior views while relaxing in Leo’s wood-fired hot tub. (Image: Destination NSW)

Pack hiking shoes and weather-appropriate gear, too, as Capertee Valley is destined to be explored.

Bubbletent Australia overlooking the Capertee Valley — Soar above the scenic Capertee Valley. (Image: Mayumi Iwasaki)

12. The Carriage, WA

Sitting pretty on the outskirts of Mundaring, The Carriage is a delightful and unique alternative to a B&B. Once a functioning mode of transport from the early 1900s, this modernised slice of heaven has added all of the creature comforts while maintaining the original aesthetic of an actual train carriage.

Surrounded by 10 acres of thriving flora, The Carriage is ideal for getting away from the chaos and living off-grid with the perks of on-grid amenities – make the most of the Smart TV, dishwasher, wi-fi and BBQ area while enjoying the clean air and car-free sounds of nature.

Deceptively spacious, The Carriage also comes equipped with a cute two-seater dining table, a comfy three-seater couch and a homely cooking setup in the kitchen. Through the rear door awaits the master bedroom, complete with a super king-size bed and ensuite. Without looking at the exterior, you’ll forget you’re sleeping in a century-old piece of history.

Slow down and find your rhythm on a Murray River journey through time and place.

Trust is a funny thing. It seems not that long ago that my mother was insisting on pouring the milk into my cereal bowl, because she didn’t trust me not to slosh it over the table, and yet here I am on the Murray River at Mildura in far north-west Victoria, being handed the keys to a very new and very expensive luxury houseboat.

After a crash course in how not to crash, I’m at the wheel of the good ship Elevate – pride of the All Seasons fleet – guiding her upstream past red-ochre cliffs as pelicans glide above the rippled river and kookaburras call from reedy banks. There’s a brief moment of breath-holding while I negotiate a hairpin turn around a jagged reef of skeletal, submerged gum trees, before a cheer rings out and calm descends as the timeless river unfurls in front of us.

The Murray River winding through Yarrawonga. (Image: Rob Blackburn)

Setting sail from Mildura

Murray River birds — Home to a large number of bird species, including pelicans. (Image: The Precint Studios)

A journey along the Murray River is never less than magical, and launching from Mildura makes perfect sense. Up here the river is wide and largely empty, giving novice skippers like myself the confidence to nudge the 60-tonne houseboat up to the riverbank where we tie up for the night, without fear of shattering the glass elevator (the boat is fully wheelchair accessible) or spilling our Champagne.

My friends and I spend three days on the water, swimming and fishing, sitting around campfires onshore at night, and basking in air so warm you’d swear you were in the tropics. The simplicity of river life reveals an interesting dichotomy: we feel disconnected from the world but at the same time connected to Country, privileged to be part of something so ancient and special.

Stop one: Echuca

19th-century paddlesteamers — A historic 19th-century paddlesteamer cruises along the Murray River. (Image: Visit Victoria)

The six-hour drive from Melbourne to Mildura (or four hours and 20 minutes from Adelaide) is more than worth it, but you don’t have to travel that far to find fun on the river. Once Australia’s largest inland port, Echuca is the closest point on the Murray to Melbourne (two hours 45 minutes), and you’ll still find a plethora of paddlesteamers tethered to the historic timber wharf, a throwback to the thriving river trade days of the 19th century. The PS Adelaide, built in 1866 and the oldest wooden-hulled paddlesteamer operating in the world, departs daily for one-hour cruises, while a brand-new paddlesteamer, the PS Australian Star , is launching luxury seven-night voyages in December through APT Touring.

The town is also a hot food and wine destination. St Anne’s Winery at the historic Port of Echuca precinct has an incredibly photogenic cellar door, set inside an old carriage builders’ workshop on the wharf and filled with huge, 3000-litre port barrels. The Mill, meanwhile, is a cosy winter spot to sample regional produce as an open fire warms the red-brick walls of this former flour mill.

Stop two: Barmah National Park

Just half-an-hour upstream, Barmah National Park is flourishing, its river red gum landscape (the largest in the world) rebounding magnificently after the recent removal of more than 700 feral horses. The internationally significant Ramsar-listed wetland sits in the heart of Yorta Yorta Country, with Traditional Owners managing the environment in close partnership with Parks Victoria. Walkways weave through the forest, crossing creeks lined with rare or threatened plants, passing remnants of Yorta Yorta oven mounds and numerous scar trees, where the bark was removed to build canoes, containers or shields.

The Dharnya Centre (open weekdays until 3pm) is the cultural hub for the Yorta Yorta. Visitors can learn about the ecological significance of the Barmah Lakes on a 90-minute river cruise, led by a First Nations guide, or take a one-hour, guided cultural walking tour along the Yamyabuc Trail.

Stop three: Cobram

Continue east to Cobram to find the southern hemisphere’s largest inland beach. Swarming with sun-seekers in summer, the white sand of Thompson’s Beach is shaded by majestic river red gums and dotted with hundreds of beach umbrellas, as beachgoers launch all manner of water craft and set up stumps for beach cricket. But the beach is at its most captivating at sunset, when the crowds thin out, the glassy river mirrors the purple sky, and the canopies of the gum trees glow fiery orange.

The region is also home to some fine resorts and indulgent retreats. Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort has two riverside championship golf courses, luxury apartments and self-contained villas. While not strictly on the Murray, the historic wine town of Rutherglen is rife with boutique (and unique) accommodation, including an exquisitely renovated red-brick tower in a French provincial-style castle at Mount Ophir Estate. Fans of fortified wines can unravel the mystery of Rutherglen’s ‘Muscat Mile’, meeting the vignerons and master-blenders whose artistry has put the town on the global map for this rich and complex wine style.

Stop four: Albury-Wodonga

First Nations YindyamarraSculpture Walk — First Nations Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk is part of the Wagirra Trail. (Image: Carmen Zammit)

Follow the river far enough upstream and you’ll arrive at the twin border cities of Albury-Wodonga. The Hume Highway thunders through, but serenity can be found along the five-kilometre Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk – part of the Wagirra Trail that meanders through river wetlands just west of Albury in Wiradjuri country. Fifteen sculptures by local First Nations artists line the trail, conveying stories of reconciliation, enduring connection to culture, local Milawa lore and traditional practices. It feels a long way from Mildura, and it is, but the pelicans and kookaburras remind us that it’s the same river, the great conduit that connects our country.

A traveller’s checklist

Staying there

New Mildura motel Kar-rama. (Image: Iain Bond Photo)

Kar-Rama is a brand-new boutique, retro-styled motel in Mildura, with a butterfly-shaped pool and a tropical, Palm Springs vibe. Echuca Holiday Homes has a range of high-end accommodation options, both on the riverfront and in town.

Playing there

BruceMunro’s Trail of Lights in Mildura — Bruce Munro’s Trail of Lights in Mildura. (Image: Imogen Eveson)

Artist Bruce Munro’s Trail of Lights installation, comprising more than 12,000 illuminated ‘fireflies’, is currently lighting up Mildura’s Lock Island in the middle of the Murray. Murray Art Museum Albury (MAMA) is a hub for contemporary art, with a rotating roster of exhibitions, and is a major outlet for young and First Nations artists.

Eating there

Mildura’s diverse demographic means it’s a fantastic place to eat. Andy’s Kitchen is a local favourite, serving up delicious pan-Asian dishes and creative cocktails in a Balinese-style garden setting. Call in to Spoons Riverside in Swan Hill to enjoy locally sourced, seasonal produce in a tranquil setting overlooking the river.

12 weird and wonderful places to stay around Australia