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.

The Great Ocean Road has captured the hearts of Australians with its astounding scenery since 1932, but going off-course can enrich your experience with untouched nature, foodie delights and charming towns.

It’s a chilly 16 degrees. My husband pulls on a steamer and jogs – as all seasoned surfers do – into the water. We’re at Bells Beach , the legendary break on Victoria’s Surf Coast that’s home to the Rip Curl Pro, the world’s longest-running event in competitive surfing. Each year, over the Easter long weekend, up to 40,000 people descend on the region for the event. Today, though, we have the beach almost to ourselves, and the less-than-favourable temperature doesn’t deter my husband from surfing this famous break.

Torquay to Anglesea and Aireys Inlet

The red dome of Split Point Lighthouse in Aireys Inlet. (Image: Tourism Australia)

The nearby surf town of Torquay marks the starting point for the Great Ocean Road . Unfolding our map, which we have marked out with a highlighted route for our children to follow, we set off for lesser-known Anglesea, a chilled-out town 20 minutes south of here. Its wide, sandy beach is a gentler swimming option for our young family. Groms can learn to surf here with Go Ride a Wave, which also runs stand-up paddle boarding on the Anglesea River.

Split point lookout — The lighthouse overlooks the Shipwreck Coast. (Image: Tourism Australia)

After a couple of nights in Anglesea, we hit the road again, first stopping at Aireys Inlet. Here we stretch our legs at Split Point Lighthouse, which was made famous by the 1990s television series Round the Twist, before driving under the Memorial Arch that welcomes us, officially, to the Great Ocean Road.

This 243-kilometre coastal road was built by returned First World War servicemen and serves as a permanent memorial to those who fought and died during the war. Carved into rock using hand tools and horse-drawn carts, it was a huge engineering feat and provided much-needed access to isolated coastal communities.

Lorne to Birregurra

Lorne is a delightful beachside stop for lunch and browsing boutique stores. It’s also the gateway to Great Otway National Park , which comprises a varied landscape of old-growth forests, cool-temperate rainforests, heathy woodlands and rugged coast. With the highest rainfall in Victoria, the region is home to many waterfalls – 10 of which are within 10 kilometres of Lorne.

Turning slightly off the main drag, we wind along a gum-shaded road to Erskine Falls. Here, our son leads the way through the hyper-green rainforest and down 200-plus stairs to the cascade that drops 30 metres into a lush fern gully. We hop over large boulders to get closer to the falls, enjoying the entire place to ourselves; it’s worth the return climb.

From Sheoak Falls Picnic Area, there are walking trails to Henderson Falls, Phantom Falls, Won Wondah Falls and Kalimna Falls, some of which follow an old timber tramway from forest-logging days, which only came to an end in 2008.

You can follow your appetite north to the town of Birregurra, which is part of the Otway Harvest Trail that connects farm gates, markets, wineries, breweries and distilleries. It’s home to three-hatted modern Australian restaurant Brae , helmed by celebrated chef Dan Hunter, set among native gardens and an organic farm, and Otways Distillery, which produces small-batch spirits using local produce and botanicals.

Brae restaurant — Brae is a three-hatted restaurant in Birregurra. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Apollo Bay to The Otways

Back on track, the cliff-hugging stretch between Lorne and Apollo Bay is breathtaking. At Teddys Lookout, we overlook the winding road ahead and St George River spilling into the ocean. We spend languid days in Apollo Bay, a buzzy seaside town that boasts a three-kilometre-long, crescent-shaped beach with a backdrop of rolling green hills. One evening, as the sun sets, we take the steep 10-minute walk to Marriners Lookout, which affords panoramic views of the ocean, hinterland and town.

A 15-minute drive along the road, Maits Rest is a lush rainforest gully that has been protected since the early 20th century. Wandering along the 800-metre boardwalk, we inspect the delicate moss-covered forest floor and the gnarled roots of 300-year-old myrtle beech trees, then crane our necks to see their canopies, some 50 metres above us. It’s therapy in nature.

Cape Otway to the Twelve Apostles

The southernmost tip of Cape Otway is a delightful detour, home to the 1848-built Cape Otway Lightstation, the oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia. We climb the narrow winding staircase to the gallery deck, explore the keepers’ quarters and telegraph station, and enjoy a coffee and some ‘famous’ scones at the charming onsite cafe.

It’s a pinch-me moment to finally see the Twelve Apostles in person. This unmistakable cluster of limestone stacks rising abruptly from the sea were never 12, however. When coined this in the 1890s as a marketing ploy, there were only nine; today, only seven remain after two collapsed in 2005 and 2009. We admire these Aussie icons from the viewing platform, in awe of Mother Nature’s ever-evolving artwork.

The Grotto is another natural attraction within Port Campbell National Park. (Image: Carmen Zammit)

Edging the wild Southern Ocean, this part of the coast – dubbed Shipwreck Coast – is made up of many sea-carved natural wonders including London Bridge, The Grotto and Gibson Steps. After exploring the lookout trails of Loch Ard Gorge/Poombeeyt Kontapool – its English name taken from the site of the 1878 shipwreck – we nestle into the sandy beach encircled by towering sandstone cliffs, as our children splash about on the water’s edge, and soak it all in.

Port Campbell to Timboon

Timboon Fine Ice Cream is part of a regional foodie trail. (Image: C McConville)

Just north of Port Campbell National Park, the region of Timboon is part of the 12 Apostles Food Artisans Trail, filled with purveyors of delicious foodstuffs such as Timboon Fine Ice Cream , Timboon Railway Shed Distillery and Apostle Whey Cheese. As an antidote to the indulgence, the 20-kilometre Poorpa Yanyeen Meerreeng Trail is a self-guided ride or walk between Port Campbell and Timboon through tall forests, over historic bridges and past sparkling lakes and farmland with grazing cattle.

Warrnambool to Port Fairy

Warrnambool building — A 19th-century building in Warrnambool. (Image: Peter Foster)

In Warrnambool, a town rich in maritime history, we take the four-kilometre Thunder Point Walk that traces the coast. The kids squeal when an echidna shuffles out from beneath the wooden boardwalk, and we stop to admire a seal lazing on a rock at the port.

Further along, the streets of quaint fishing village Port Fairy are lined with 19th-century cottages, old stone churches and Norfolk pines. Follow the historic walking trail to see some of the 60-plus National Trust buildings. Port Fairy is also home to Port Fairy Folk Festival (6-9 March), one of the country’s longest-running music and cultural festivals. You could time your road trip with the event for a fittingly celebratory end to any journey.

The Great Ocean Road can easily be done in three days, but we’ve spent a week on the road. The highlighted line on our now creased and well-worn map doesn’t follow the famous route precisely. It has sprouted branches in many directions, leading us to untouched rainforest and charming rural towns filled with culinary delights, and where we experienced some of our most memorable moments on the Great Ocean Road.

A traveller’s checklist

Staying there

The Monty is a highly anticipated, newly refurbished motel with a chic Palm Springs-inspired aesthetic set across the road from the Anglesea River. Basalt Winery in Port Fairy grows cool-climate wines such as pinot noir and Riesling in rich volcanic soil. Stay among the vines in its tiny home, complete with a kitchen, lounge area and outdoor firepit.

The Oak & Anchor Hotel has been a Port Fairy institution since 1857. Cosy up by the bar in winter or bask in the sunshine of the Lawn Bar in summer. The rooms are beautifully boutique with considered details, such as luxe baths for sinking into post-road trip.

Eating there

The Coast in Anglesea is a modern Australian restaurant focused on local ingredients. Grand Pacific Hotel has been a local landmark in Lorne since 1879 and recently underwent a restoration. It serves a mix of traditional pub and Italian fare alongside ocean views.

Graze is a cosy 40-seat dining room in Apollo Bay with a modern Australian menu complemented by regional wines. Apollo Bay Distillery offers tasting flights, a gin blending masterclass and serves woodfired pizzas.

12 weird and wonderful places to stay around Australia