The 10 cosiest places in Mudgee to book on Airbnb

Lara PiconeBy Lara Picone
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Curl up by the fire at these stylish stays in beautiful, vine-filled Mudgee.

Retreat to the country to unwind among Mudgee’s rural beauty and incredible wineries. Here, in the NSW town and her bucolic surrounds, cooler weather beckons with an array of cosy stays. From generous riverside barns to sweet, woodland cabins and downtown terraces, you’ll find the perfect Airbnb to settle in and warm up.

1. Highgrove Cottage

Best for: A couple of couples happy to share a hot tub

You had us at a hot tub on the deck. Add wine and we’re all in. This hilltop cottage lays out 360-degree views across Mudgee, complete with vine-threaded undulations, which you can absorb from that aforementioned hot tub.

the front porch at Highgrove Cottage, Mudgee
Relax on the verandah with a drink in hand at Highgrove Cottage.

But the two-bedroom Highgrove Cottage is also a stylish stay complete with a full kitchen, chic design, cosy touches of timber floors and indoor fireplace, and a separate studio for additional guests. It’s gorgeous inside, but you’ll struggle to draw your eyes from the muted tones of the rural landscape beyond.

the living room interior at Highgrove Cottage, Mudgee
Inside, you’ll find a chic and cosy interior.
Fireplace at Highgrove in Mudgee
A roaring fireplace completes the cosy vibes.

Location: Eurunderee, Mudgee

2. Gawthorne’s Hut

Best for: Architecture boffins looking for a romantic off-grid interlude

All the way up there for design-led cosiness, this triangular-shaped Gawthorne’s Hut has been voted ‘Best Unique Stay’ by Airbnb’s host awards and has been featured in architecture publications.

the Gawthorne’s Hut in Mudgee
Go for a romantic off-grid interlude at the triangular-shaped Gawthorne’s Hut.

It’s no surprise this one-bedroom wedge of a stay has snagged so much adoration with its luxe, off-grid design being the stuff of eco-dreams.

the wooden bedroom interior at the Gawthorne’s Hut in Mudgee
Curl up in the rustic-style space and enjoy the views.

While it’s not suitable for kids or infants, it is very suited to cosy lock-ins with a king bed, air-con, kitchenette and floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing sweeping Mudgee valley views.

Bathtub at Gawthorne in Mudgee
A deep bathtub to soak away the stresses of everyday life.

Location: Mudgee

3. Wilgowrah Church

Best for: History buffs who like a quiet space.

You’ll love going to church in this heritage-listed deconsecrated abode. Keeping true to its original form, but with stylish, modern design updates, this gorgeous 1920s country church  has been tenderly restored to welcome couples.

the Wilgowrah Church in Mudgee
Settle into this 1920s country church turned Airbnb in Mudgee.

Just six kilometres from Mudgee, you’ll be close to town and wineries, while feeling transported to a bygone era.

the bedroom inside Wilgowrah Church
Cathedral-style windows and ceilings are featured throughout.

There’s a cosy fireplace to huddle around as you admire the cathedral-style ceilings and textural brickwork, as well as an outdoor firepit, air-con and full kitchen at your disposal.

Wilgowrah Mudgee stay
There are plenty of spaces for relaxation.

Location: Mudgee

4. McKenna Terrace

Best for: Town-dwelling travellers

In the centre of Mudgee, McKenna Terrace  is beautifully welcoming with its luxe country style. Self-contained with a modern kitchen and lovely courtyard terrace complete with barbecue, settle in for an escape to that is both sleek and warm.

a close-up shot of the pillows on the bed at McKenna Terrace, Mudgee
Retreat to the sleek McKenna Terrace.

With a black and cream colour palette that soothes, from dark wooden floors to cabinetry, this two-bedroom stay is the perfect place to retreat to after a day in the vineyards.

the classy interior of McKenna Terrace, Mudgee
A black and cream colour palette is used to create a soothing atmosphere.

Location: Mudgee CBD

5. Resteasy at Sunset Cabin

Best for: Laidback country charm

An almost rustic rural retreat for those looking to deep-dive into their surrounds, Resteasy at Sunset Cabin  is a one-bedroom stay that offers all the charm of a bush shack, while ensuring guests are abundantly comfortable.

a rural retreat in Resteasy at Sunset Cabin, Mudgee
Resteasy at Sunset Cabin has an outdoor tub to soak in under the stars.

There’s a claw-foot bathtub outside for soaks under the stars, a firepit, barbecue, coffee machine and electric fireplace. It’s cosiness all wrapped up in corrugated iron walls with mountain views waiting to be revealed in the misty morning.

the kitchen inside Resteasy at Sunset Cabin, Mudgee
Inside, you’ll find a modern kitchen with a coffee machine.

Location: Frog Rock

6. Thistle Hill Mudgee

Best for: Groups and families looking to lock in and unwind

Agrarian beauty abounds at this stunning homestead set among pinot noir vines and olive trees. Sleeping six, you can settle into the luxury Thistle Hill Mudgee lodge with your crew and lean into rural living, from catching yabbies in the dam and wandering the 100 acres to sipping morning cups of tea while listening to local birdlife.

guests chatting at the farm in Thistle Hill Mudgee
Settle into the luxury Thistle Hill Mudgee lodge with your crew.

In winter, an inviting indoor fireplace crackles into life and you can huddle around the fire pit come evening, while in summer a private pool beckons for refreshing dips. All this, and you’re just 10 minutes’ drive from Mudgee.

Lounge room at Thistle Hill in Mudgee
Rich earthy colours and textures feature throughout.

Location: Mudgee

7. Black Springs

Best for: Lumberjack lovers

Consider your cabin goals reached at this idyllic, bush-surrounded retreat. Set on 33 acres, Black Springs  is located only 10 minutes from Mudgee, but huddled amid tall trees in this charming cottage, you’ll feel wonderfully secluded from the outside world.

a look inside the bedroom at Black Springs, Mudgee
Bed down at this bush-surrounded retreat in Black Springs.

Inside the studio, country vibes are well maintained with elegant but sympathetic styling in heritage tones of cool green and warm wood. Snuggle fireside, sink into a warm bath, and watch resident wildlife, such as kangaroos, mooch about from the porch.

Clawfoot bath at Black Springs in Mudgee
Throw open the doors to take in your surroundings while soaking in the clawfoot bathtub.

Location: Budgee Budgee

8. The Black Shed

Best for: Snug family time

Leaning into a rustic-luxe aesthetic, the architecturally designed Black Shed  presides over a working vineyard and out to the attention-stealing vistas of Lawsons Creek and Mount Buckaroo. The cosy checklist is all here, from indoor wood-burning fireplace, timber finishes and artful styling, to full-kitchen, bathtub and barbecue.

the accommodation exterior of The Black Shed, Mudgee
The rustic-luxe Black Shed presides over a working vineyard.

Sleeping up to five across two bedrooms, you can bring your four-legged friend or children, or both, but do be aware farm animals do free-range on the property. Only five kilometres away from Mudgee, exploring town is a cinch.

a bed set next to a balcony at The Black Shed, Mudgee
Wake up next to breathtaking vistas.

Location: Milroy

9. River Ranch

Best for: Small but perfectly formed celebrations

A barn-style escape set by an almost hyperbolically beautiful river, River Ranch  is charming in every sense of the word.

the exterior of the Airbnb stay at River Ranch, Mudgee
Check into this charming barn-style Airbnb stay at River Ranch.

Enjoy a deep dive into the fantasy of rural living here, where eight guests can unwind across four bedrooms and find plenty of nooks and crannies to enjoy a little solitude, from the patio to the riverside and in the company of a resident alpaca.

a billiards table inside River Ranch, Mudgee
Play billiards or simply enjoy your solitude.

With barn doors swinging open from the dining room to reveal a breath-snatching farm view, this place is perfect for special celebrations. There’s also a fireplace, full kitchen, valley and river vistas, basic camp kitchen, firepit and festoon lighting, to really illuminate the dream that this is your everyday life.

the kitchen at River Ranch, Mudgee
You’ll find everything you need from a full kitchen to a fireplace at River Ranch.

Location: Riverlea

10. The Gully

Best for: Cabin romance

This hidden away hut is straight from the set of a rom-com, where the protagonists cosy up under the moon in a clawfoot bath, of course. Hemmed by towering pines and gums, and rustically timber-clad, The Gully  also has strong Hansel and Gretel overtones.

towering pines surrounding The Gully, Mudgee
Be surrounded by towering pines at The Gully.

Inside, however, there’s no wicked witch, just cottage-luxe styling and beautifully restored original features. Stoke the wood-burning fire, enjoy a drink on the porch and make use of the full kitchen.

an outdoor tub at The Gully, Mudgee
Enjoy a drink in the outdoor tub.

If you don’t feel like cooking, grazing boxes and breakfast hampers can be arranged. With no wi-fi, all entertainment will be analogue, but that’s all the better for romance, we think.

the bedroom at The Gully, Mudgee
Cosy up in the cottage-luxe bedroom.

Location: Budgee Budgee

For more inspiration, read our ultimate travel guide to Mudgee before you book.
Lara Picone
Working for many of Australia’s top publications, Lara Picone has had the distinct pleasure of writing, editing and curating content about the finer things in life for more than 15 years. Graduating from Macquarie University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication, her editorial foundation began at Qantas: The Australian Way magazine, before moving on to learn the fast-paced ropes of a weekly magazine at Sunday Magazine and picking up the art of brand curation at donna hay magazine. Pivoting a near-problematic travel lust into a career move by combining it with storytelling and a curious appetite, her next role was as Deputy Editor of SBS Feast magazine and later Online Editor of SBS Food online. She then stepped into her dream job as Editor of Australian Traveller before becoming Online Editor for both International Traveller and Australian Traveller. Now as a freelancer, Lara always has her passport at-the-ready to take flight on assignment for the Australian Traveller team, as well as for publications such as Qantas Magazine, Escape and The Weekend Australian. As ever, her appetite is the first thing she packs.
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The ultimate new summer guide for the Sutherland Shire

    Gemma KaczerepaBy Gemma Kaczerepa
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    Sunshine, sea breezes and sand-speckled locals: the Sutherland Shire is perfect for an idyllic Sydney summer.

    The Sutherland Shire is one of Sydney’s most dynamic regions. Home to an eclectic mix of top-notch eateries and drinking holes, a flourishing arts scene, and striking land and seascapes, it’s a haven for foodies, culture seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

    It’s also an ever-evolving destination with a constant wave of new places to eat and drink, and under-the-radar pockets to explore – many of which are dog-friendly.

    If you’re venturing to this gorgeous part of the world this summer, here’s your guide to what’s new and worth discovering.

    Savour the summer dining scene

    Fred’s After Hours on the sutherland shire
    Pop into Fred’s After Hours.

    The Shire’s buzzing dining scene is one of its biggest drawcards, and many of the region’s culinary highlights can be found in the sun-soaked beachside hub of Cronulla. A bunch of newcomers have recently set up shop, making the area ripe for culinary adventure.

    Homer Rogue Taverna is exactly as its name suggests: a cheeky take on classic Greek food. Expect meze and mains bursting with bold flavours and a wine list packed with standout Greek drops.

    Freds Providore – a Cronulla favourite for casual cafe fare and excellent coffee – is now open late from Thursday to Sunday. Come sundown, it morphs into Fred’s After Hours, serving a refined European-inspired menu, wines, cocktails and a laid-back yet polished vibe.

    Bobbys is a slick destination right on Cronulla Beach, where you can grab a plate of freshly-caught seafood and a summery cocktail while cooling off in the sea breeze.

    And if you’re after a bit of everything, the sprawling and multifaceted Parc Pavilion is a melting pot of dining experiences. It blends a cafe, bistro, bar, Italian restaurant and a host of regular events, all tied together in a cool coastal setting.

    Got a Saturday morning to spare? The Shire Farmers Market in Sutherland is a must-do ritual, letting you (and your four-legged friend) browse fresh produce, flowers and gourmet treats against a backdrop of live music and local chatter.

    Dive into ocean pools

    ocean pool on the sutherland shire
    The ocean pools beckon.

    Given its prime coastal positioning, the Shire teems with crystal-clear ocean pools and enclosed bathing spots. Silver Beach Tidal Baths offers a netted
    swimming experience in Botany Bay. Tucked beside a small sandy beach, the tidal baths at Gunnamatta Park are calm and shallow – making them an ideal setting for less confident swimmers.

    Just a hop and a skip away is Shelly Park Ocean Pool, a magical rock pool carved in the ocean. It’s well-suited to young kids and offers sweeping views towards the open sea.

    Experience local arts and culture

    Hazelhurst Arts Centre, Hazel Kitchen & Bar has curated the ultimate picnic experience
    See the art at Hazelhurst Arts Centre, then enjoy a picnic with or without your pooch.

    Hazelhurst Arts Centre in Gymea is elegantly positioned within a lush garden landscape, serving as the Sutherland Shire’s premier destination for arts and culture. This summer, experience the Art on Paper Award 2025 – a celebration of innovation and creativity through the versatile medium of paper.

    Set within the leafy surrounds of Hazelhurst Arts Centre, Hazel Kitchen & Bar has curated the ultimate picnic experience. Think abundant cheese platters, artisan charcuterie boards, fresh OJ and a thoughtfully chosen wine list, all available to take away and enjoy in the art-filled gardens just beyond the restaurant. Best of all, four-legged friends are welcome to join the fun.

    Next, venture south to the artsy village of Bundeena for the monthly Bundeena and Maianbar Art Trail . This self-guided journey through local artists’ studios offers a glimpse into their work and creative spaces.

    Relish the dog-friendly atmosphere

    a dog on Greenhills Dog Beach sutherland shire
    Let the dog off-leash at Greenhills Dog Beach.

    The Sutherland Shire is a bona fide playground for pups and their humans. Find a string of dog-friendly beaches popular with locals, visitors and pups alike. Silver Beach in Kurnell is a peaceful pocket, allowing dogs off-leash without restriction. While Horderns Beach in Bundeena and Greenhills Beach in Cronulla are equally serene and provide off-leash access (be sure to check times and seasonal restrictions before you go).

    If you’re planning to make a weekend of it, book yourself and your pooch into Quest Cronulla . With stylish and spacious pet-friendly accommodation, thoughtful amenities, and a prime location just steps from Cronulla Esplanade and a variety of dog-friendly cafes, it’s the perfect spot to rest after a full day of exploring.

    Get into nature

    Sunrise at Curracurrong Falls and Eagle Rock in the Royal National Park, Sydney.
    Find natural beauty in Royal National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

    You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor escapes: imagine rugged bushwalks, breezy beachside tracks, meandering cycling trails and lookouts galore. The best part? Many of them are perfectly suited to dogs.

    Take your canine to Cronulla Esplanade – the Shire’s version of the famed Bondi to Coogee Walk. This eight-kilometre route takes you past the region’s most picturesque beaches, offering panoramic vistas and an electric energy. It heaves with locals every morning and weekend, getting their steps in with a coffee in one hand and a dog leash in the other.

    If you’re travelling without furry friends, stop by the Royal National Park. You’ll be engulfed in ancient bushland, craggy cliffs, towering rock formations, diverse wildlife and twisting tracks. The Jibbon Loop Track is a highlight, with spectacular views over the sea. Alternatively, the Karloo Track forms a loop that winds through untamed bush, freshwater pools and waterfalls. Re-lace your walking shoes or grab a bike to follow The Bundeena Drive to Marley  Walk  past freshwater pools and creeks, on to scenic beach views of Little Marley Beach.

    Hit up the beautiful beaches

    aerial of cronulla beach and esplanade
    Enjoy postcard-perfect beaches. (Image: Destination NSW)

    The stretch along Cronulla bursts with postcard-perfect beaches, each offering a different flavour. With rolling waves, regular patrol and a steady stream of beachgoers, Cronulla Beach and North Cronulla Beach are buzzy and built for all kinds of swimmers. Elouera Beach is a quieter option, attracting early-morning surfers hoping to catch the perfect wave.

    If you prefer a side of dramatic scenery, visit Wanda or Greenhills – in addition to ocean panoramas, both are backed by towering golden dunes and wild scrub. Looking for something more subdued? Shelly Beach Ocean Pool is a relaxed – yet no less captivating – retreat.

    Start planning your Sutherland Shire summer at visitsutherlandshire.com.au.