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 country’s rawest places offer some of its most transformative, restorative experiences.

Australia offers sublime opportunities to disappear into the ancient, untouched wilderness, worlds away from modern stress. Wild Bush Luxury offers a collection of experiences that are a portal into the continent’s wildest, most undiscovered landscapes, from wide floodplains to vast savannas, where the only distractions are birdsong, frog calls, curious wallabies and the daily drama of sunset. With a focus on conservation and Indigenous knowledge, these all-inclusive experiences allow guests to slow down and quiet their minds for intimate encounters with the natural world.

1. Bamurru Plains

safari tent at Bamurru Plains wild bush luxury — Let nature take front row.

In the remote Top End, just outside Kakadu National Park on the fringes of the spectacular Mary River floodplains, you’ll find Bamurru Plains , a peerless Australian safari camp. After a quick air transfer from Darwin to the camp’s private airstrip, you’ll be whisked away via 4WD to a vivid natural wonderland of shimmering floodplains, red earth, herds of peacefully grazing water buffalo and 236 bird species (Bamurru means magpie goose to the Gagadju people).

Accommodations consist of 10 mesh-walled bungalows and two luxe stilted retreats where guests enjoy panoramic, up-close views that invite them into their rightful place in the landscape (and binoculars to see it even better). Being an off-grid experience designed to help guests disconnect, the only distractions are birdsongs, frog calls, curious wallabies, the occasional crocodile sighting and the daily drama of the spectacular golden sunset.

It’s a place where nature’s vastness rises to the level of the spiritual, and Bamurru’s understated, stylish, largely solar-powered lodgings are designed to minimise human impact and let nature take front row. Guests relax in comfort with plush linens, an open bar, communal tables that allow for spontaneous connections and curated dining experiences from the in-house chef using local ingredients and bush-inspired cooking methods.

Bamurru Plains airboat tour — Zoom across the floodplains. (Image: Adam Gibson)

It’s a restorative backdrop for days spent zooming across the mist-covered floodplains in an airboat, birding with expert guides, taking an open-sided safari drive or river cruise through croc country. Spend time at the Hide, a treehouse-like platform that’s perfect for wildlife spotting.

In fact, nature is so powerful here that Bamurru Plains closes entirely during the peak monsoon season (October to April), when the floodplains reclaim the land and life teems unseen beneath the water. Yet Wild Bush Luxury’s ethos continues year-round through its other experiences around Australia – each designed to immerse travellers in a distinct Australian wilderness at its most alive and untouched.

2. Maria Island Walk

woman on a headland of Maria Island Walk — Maria Island Walk offers sweeping coastal scenes.

Off Tasmania’s rugged east coast, the iconic Maria Island Walk is an intimate four-day journey through one of the country’s most hauntingly beautiful and unpopulated national parks, encompassing pristine beaches, convict-era ruins, and wildlife sightings galore. Accessible only by a small ferry, Maria Island feels like a place reclaimed by nature, which is exactly what it is: a penal settlement later used for farms and industry that finally became a national park in 1972.

These days, the island is known as ‘Tasmania’s Noah’s Ark’ and its only human inhabitants are park rangers. It’s a place where wombats amble through grassy meadows, wallabies graze beside empty beaches, dolphins splash in clear water just offshore and Tasmanian devils – successfully reintroduced in 2012 after near-extinction on the mainland – roam free and healthy.

Each day unfolds in an unhurried rhythm: trails through coastal eucalyptus forests or along white-sand bays, plateaus with sweeping ocean views, quiet coves perfect for swimming. Midway through the journey, you’ll explore Darlington, a remarkably preserved 19th-century convict settlement whose ruins tell stories of human ambition at the edge of the known world.

At night, sleep beneath a canopy of stars in eco-wilderness camps – after relaxing with Tasmanian wine and locally-sourced meals, and swapping stories with your fellow trekkers by candlelight.

3. Arkaba

two people standing next to a 4wd in Arkaba — Explore Arkaba on foot or on four wheels.

For a bush immersion with more of an outback flavour, Arkaba offers a completely different type of experience. A former sheep station and historic homestead in South Australia’s striking Flinders Ranges that has been reimagined as a 63,000-acre private wildlife conservancy. It’s now patrolled mainly by kangaroos and emus.

Small-scale tourism (the homestead has just five ensuite guestrooms) helps support rewilding projects, and guests become an essential part of the conservation journey. Days begin with sunrise hikes through ancient sandstone ridges or guided drives into the ranges to spot yellow-footed rock-wallabies. And end with sundowners on a private ridgetop watching the Elder Range glow vibrant shades of gold, crimson and violet as the air cools and time stands still.

Here, you can join conservation activities like tracking native species or learning about Arkaba’s pioneering feral-animal eradication projects, then unwind with chef-prepared dinners served alfresco on the veranda of the homestead, which is both rustic and refined. The highlight? Following Arkaba Walk, a thriving outback wilderness where emus wander and fields of wildflowers grow.

It’s an unforgettable immersion in Australia’s vast inland beauty, a place where the land’s deep and complicated history – and astounding resilience – leave their quiet imprint long after you return home. In a world where genuine awe is rare, Wild Bush Luxury offers a return to what matters most in the untamed beauty of Australia’s wilderness.

Disconnect from the grind and reconnect with nature when you book with at wildbushluxury.com

12 weird and wonderful places to stay around Australia