15 incredible Adelaide Hills Airbnbs to elevate your holiday

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Looking for accommodation in the Adelaide Hills? Make the most out of your escape with a stay in one of these holiday homes that will suit couples looking for a romantic escape, families seeking self-contained accommodation that welcomes kids and groups of friends who want to get out and explore this incredible leafy wine region.

Staying in a holiday home or Airbnb can make holidays more convenient, more memorable and more authentic. These Airbnbs offer some of the best accommodation in the Adelaide Hills: charming, historic cottages; ultra-modern and luxe homes right in the heart of town; sprawling properties with views of undulating landscapes and ample room for children to play. Live like a local for a few days and make one of these incredible Adelaide Hills Airbnbs your base to explore this cool-climate wine region and its charming towns.

Here are 15 of the best Airbnbs in Adelaide Hills to book.

1. Under the Oaks, Hahndorf

Best for: Couples, Romance, Exploring

Located in the quaint German town of Hahndorf, Under the Oaks is a cosy and charming stay for couples. Housed in a former church built in 1858, this stunning property has been meticulously converted into a luxe studio-style stay.

the property exterior of Under the Oaks Airbnb in Hahndorf
Under the Oaks is housed in a former church built in 1858.

The light and airy monochromatic interior features a king four-poster bed at its centre, a full kitchen, laundrette, a dining area, a cosy living area with a fireplace, and a separate bathroom with a claw-foot bath.

A continental breakfast of local goodies is provided and best enjoyed in the leafy sun-dappled backyard.

a bathtub inside Under the Oaks Airbnb in Hahndorf
The vintage interior evokes a heritage feel to it.

2. The Stirling Lakehouse Retreat

Best for: Families, Groups, Exploring

This 20th century cottage  is close to the village of Stirling and directly adjacent to the Heysen Trail walk and Mount Lofty Golf Course, making for the perfect hub to explore the Adelaide Hills with family or friends, a round of golf or a pre- or post-walk retreat.

the property exterior of Lakehouse Retreat
The Stirling Lakehouse Retreat oozes countryside charm.

Boasting views of a private lake and surrounded by century-old gum trees, the three-bedroom cottage sleeps six people, in a king, queen and two single beds, styled with elegant wallpaper and black-out blinds to ensure languid lie-ins. It has a full kitchen and dining area, two bathrooms and a living room with a fireplace.

a pastel green bathroom interior with a mirror at Lakehouse Retreat
This charming cottage is swathed in pastel green.

The charming cottage is surrounded by gardens and has a backyard with a fire pit and barbecue and a front deck that looks out to the lake. Parents will love the amenities for children including a cot, highchair, fireplace screen and games. Local bacon, eggs, bread and other breakfast provisions are provided.

the living room interior with plants at The Stirling Lakehouse Retreat
The Stirling Lakehouse Retreat brings nature in.

3. Pine Cottage, Stirling

Best for: Families, Exploring

Families will love this charming exposed-stone cottage , nestled within gardens close to the town of Stirling. Pine Cottage sleeps five people in two bedrooms, one with a king-sized bed and the other featuring bunks. There’s a cot and highchair available for babies and toddlers and games and books to entertain.

the bathroom and shower at Pine Cottage, Stirling
Pine Cottage has a spacious bath and shower.

It has a full kitchen and dining area, a lounge with a fireplace, a laundry, a gorgeous fully fenced backyard with grass and gardens for kids to play and explore, multiple alfresco dining spaces including a pizza oven, and a firepit under festooned lighting. The town of Stirling is a 10-minute scenic walk, and across the road Patch Kitchen & Garden is open for lunch and dinner.

autumn leaves in Pine Cottage
Base yourself in this charming exposed-stone cottage.

4. Rossini’s Cottage, Crafers West

Best for: Couples, Seclusion

Set on a former apple orchard, this one-bedroom freestone cottage overlooks a scenic valley in Crafers West.

Rossini’s Cottage is decked out in a Scandi-style aesthetic and features a king bed, a kitchen and a fireplace. But outdoors is where the real magic happens.

the kitchen and dining area at Rossini's Cottage
Soak up the Scandi-style aesthetic at Rossini’s Cottage.

Enjoy your coffee with a view of the valley, soothe your muscles in the cedar Japanese infrared sauna and watch as the sun melts while sipping local wine around the fire pit, with the only company of the occasional local roo.

scenic views from the outdoor deck of Rossini's Cottage
Rossini’s Cottage overlooks a scenic valley in Crafers West.

5. Espira, Ashton

Best for: Couples, Seclusion, Wine tasting

Wine lovers will enjoy this special stay at Casa Freschi vineyard. This sleek tiny home is surrounded by vineyards and commands views of the undulating Adelaide Hills beyond.

an aerial view of Espira, Ashton surrounded by vineyards
Be surrounded by an endless expanse of vineyards.

Sleeping two guests, this open-plan stay takes advantage of the scenery with floor-to-ceiling windows. Espira  features a king size bed, a sophisticated kitchenette, a dining table, a bathroom and a fireplace to keep toasty in colder months.

an outdoor bathtub at Espira, Ashton
Soak in your private tub right outside your tiny home.

On the outdoor deck, there’s a tub for languid soaking, a firepit for chilling out under the stars and a barbecue. The hosts eschewed television for Scrabble, chess, and yoga mats, to allow its guests to unwind and connect with each other. Casa Freschi’s cellar door is open Friday to Sundays.

the interior of Espira Airbnb with floor-to-ceiling windows
Espira has floor-to-ceiling windows that offer commanding views of the undulating Adelaide Hills.

6. Tilly’s Cottage, Hahndorf

Best for: Families, Groups, Exploring

Built in 1887, Tilly’s Cottage  has been exquisitely renovated to accommodate eight guests in three bedrooms (with an extra sofa in the lounge area).

a look inside the living room and dining with a fireplace at Tilly's Cottage
Tilly’s Cottage is built with ultra-modern design.

The charming cottage retains its splendid heritage facade, stone features and fireplaces inside, blended with ultra-modern design: think polished concrete floors, a sleek timber and black kitchen and an extension to the back that comprises a large living area, entertaining area and floor-to-ceiling glass.

the bedroom at Tilly's Cottage
There are eight bedrooms inside Tilly’s Cottage.

There’s a combustion fireplace, underfloor heating in the main bathroom and a laundry. Hahndorf is a short stroll away, making this the perfect place for families and groups to base themselves on exploring the old German town and wine region beyond.

the front facade of Tilly's Cottage in Adelaide Hills
This charming heritage cottage is a short stroll away from Hahndorf.

7. Casa Luna Farmstay, Bridgewater

Best for: Seclusion, Couples

Casa Luna  is a sustainable stay located on an organic farm where cows roam and kangaroos graze. The two-person retreat oozes solitude while being just a 3-minute drive from Hahndorf.

the property exterior of Casa Luna
Retreat into a secluded farm stay at Casa Luna.

The farm stay features bespoke interiors with a full kitchen and lounge, a large bathroom with a sauna, and two terraces with a barbecue and a hammock to unwind.

Guests can book in-house massages and yoga sessions while staying here.

a woman in robe at Casa Luna
Casa Luna has a sauna perfect for pampering.

8. The Harriette, Lobethal

Best for: Couples, Exploring, Friends

A short walk from the charming town of Lobethal, this 1920s cottage was formerly used as housing for the managers of the local wool mill, which was renowned for its tartan and check blankets (which you’ll enjoy for use when you stay here).

an outdoor dining setup at The Harriette, Lobethal
Have lunch in the chic outdoor dining setup at The Harriette.

It has been meticulously restored to retain its heritage features including the original fireplaces and high ceilings and accommodates four guests in two bedrooms.

a vintage bed at The Harriette, Lobethal
The Harriette has retained its heritage features.

The styling is vintage luxe with modern comforts such as a kitchen with Smeg appliances, AH Beard mattresses, a spacious bathroom with a rainwater shower and a freestanding tub.

There are many renowned wineries nearby including Shaw and Smith and Tilbrook Estate, while the town of Lobethal is abuzz during the festive season when its buildings are illuminated during the Lobethal Lights festival.

the living room interior of The Harriette, Lobethal
Experience vintage luxe with modern comforts.

9. Broken House, Bridgewater

Best for: Couples, Friends, Dog-friendly

This unique holiday home  is built into the earth in Bridgewater, just minutes from Hahndorf, Stirling and the wineries of the Adelaide Hills. The ultra-modern home is styled in a calming neutral palette and pastels and features two bedrooms, with a king and a queen bed, a bathroom and laundry and a full gourmet kitchen.

a look inside the Broken House Airbnb in Adelaide Hills
Despite the name, Broken House is completely furnished with modern comforts.

It has floor-to-ceiling doors which slide right back to allow the breeze in warmer months. During winter, the underfloor heating keeps the house toasty. The green roof is the perfect spot to enjoy morning yoga and sundowners. Given the design of the home, the property is steep with a lot of stairs, however, pets are allowed to stay.

a modern bedroom with floor-to-ceiling windows
Lay your head in a calming pastel-styled bedroom.

10. Stirling Stone Hideaway

Best for: Couples, Romance, Exploring

Stirling Stone Hideaway  looks like it has been pulled straight from a fairytale. This cute-as-a-button studio-style home sleeps just two guests in a queen bed.

the property exterior of Stirling Stone Hideaway
Stirling Stone Hideaway looks like it came straight from a fairytale.

It has a full kitchen and dining, indoor fireplace, bathroom and laundry, and a leafy backyard with oak trees and a fire pit. Take a short pathway into the villages of Stirling and Crafers or head further afield to taste the bounty of this popular wine region.

sunlight coming through the windows of the living room at Stirling Stone Hideaway
Stay in this charming and well-lit abode.

11. The Coach House, Aldgate

Best for: Couples, Friends, Exploring

This historic stone coach house  has been transformed into double-storey accommodation that can sleep four guests in two bedrooms, both featuring king beds.

the brick-walled Airbnb surrounded by lavender flowers at The Coach House, Aldgate
The Coach House is surrounded by idyllic gardens.

The super cosy stay has a small kitchenette and a full bathroom and is surrounded by idyllic gardens. Algate is in the heart of Adelaide Hills, a short drive from Stirling, Hahndorf and Crafers.

a painting of a woman beside flowers and books at The Coach House, Aldgate
You’ll find aesthetic paintings and artefacts inside the historic stone coach house.

12. Old Brickworks, Lobethal

Best for: Couples, Friends, Exploring

This eclectic stay on a seven-hectare property in Lobethal was formerly home to the Onkaparinga Brick Works. The building was once the mechanical shed, while the original brick kilns still stand next to it. Old Brickworks  is a two-bedroom accommodation, with each bedroom separated by a half wall – so it’s best for a couple or a few friends.

It has a small kitchen, lounge area, wood fire, and a separate bathroom that’s connected to the house via an undercover breezeway. There is a barbecue and firepit outside, where you can relax with a drink or play giant Jenga.

cushioned chairs and a wooden bench at Old Brickworks, Lobethal
Go completely off-grid at Old Brickworks.

The property runs solely off rainwater and there’s no wi-fi available, and it’s home to a Scottish Highlander named Teddy, three sheep, chickens and a dog named Dora. Lobethal is a two-minute drive away and you’ll receive a booklet with tips on how best to spend your time in the area.

the kitchen inside Old Brickworks, Lobethal
There’s an indoor kitchen as well as a barbecue and firepit outside.

13. The House on Soul Hill, Lobethal

Best for: Couples, Romance, Exploring

As its name suggests, a stay at this tiny cabin soothes the soul. Just two minutes’ drive from Lobethal, The House on Soul Hill  is a boutique self-contained getaway featuring a queen bed, kitchenette and living area with fireplace.

a living room with a fireplace at The House on Soul Hill, Adelaide Hills
Snuggle up by the fireplace.

Spend time playing chess over a glass of wine and listening to music on the record player. Outside the large windows, rolling paddocks with grazing cattle, a deck for quiet moments between loved ones, a firepit and an old-school swing tied to a beautiful big gum tree.

outdoor chairs surrounded by greenery at The House on Soul Hill, Adelaide Hills
The surrounding greenery beckons you to reconnect with nature.

A box of seasonal, local provisions is provided so you’re all set for brekkie and cafes and wineries are close by.

picnic with wine at The House on Soul Hill, Adelaide Hills
Settle down on a picnic blanket with wine.

14. Ode to the Orchard, Lenswood

Best for: Friends, Families, Seclusion

Outdoor baths are really having a moment, and the claw-foot tub at Ode to the Orchard  is a beauty that looks over the rolling vineyards and thick hills that surround this six-hectare property.

the view from the outside of the Airbnb property at Ode to the Orchard
Ode to the Orchard offers a relaxing retreat over the rolling vineyards.

Sleeping four people in two bedrooms (with the option to add a cot), this cottage makes for the perfect country escape from its location to its interiors that are charming and chic at once. With front and back porches, guests can capture the sunrise and sunset, explore the property, which is home to cattle and an orchard, and snuggle up at night in the lounge with a fireplace.

the outdoor deck of Ode to the Orchard Airbnb
Unwind on the outdoor deck.

Complete your country escape in the kitchen, which has a wood-fired Aga oven and a recipe with ingredients to make a traditional country apple crumble.

an outdoor tub at Ode to the Orchard
Relax in the tub overlooking scenic landscape.

15. Farm Stay in Mount Torrens

Best for: Families, Groups, Dog-friendly

Set on a sprawling 21-hectare property atop a ridgeline, this house is perfect for larger groups and families, accommodation up to 10 guests in four bedrooms and a media room that can be used for sleeping.

the property exterior of the farm stay at Mount Torrens
This charming farm stay is tucked away on a sprawling 21-hectare property atop a ridgeline.

The two-storey farmhouse also has three bathrooms, a full kitchen, a billiards table, a fireplace, an outdoor pool, an outdoor deck and an upstairs verandah.

a motorbike under the stairs inside the farm stay at Mount Torrens
Head upstairs to the verandah.

With plenty of space, the house can also be used for small celebrations. Dogs are also welcome on the property (with prior notice). Mt Torrens is north of Lobethal and Woodside and a 25-minute drive to Hahndorf.

an outdoor pool at the farm stay in Mount Torrens
The two-storey farmhouse also comes with an outdoor pool for refreshing dips.
Exploring Adelaide Hills? Check out our guide on the region.
Megan Arkinstall
Megan Arkinstall is a freelance travel writer who you’ll often find at the beach, bushwalking or boating with her young family. She loves reliving travel memories through writing, whether that be sipping limoncello in a sun-drenched courtyard of Monterosso or swimming with green turtles in the aquamarine waters of Tropical North Queensland.
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From coast to bush: these are Gippsland’s best hikes

Video credit: Tourism Australia

From coast to mountains, hiking in Gippsland offers a stunning array of landscapes, with trails that take you deep into the region’s heritage.

I step out onto the sand and it cries out underfoot. Kweek! I take another step and there’s another little yelp. Screet! Picking up the pace, the sounds follow me like my shadow, all the way down to the water. It’s obvious how this spot got its name – Squeaky Beach – from the rounded grains of quartz that make the distinctive sounds under pressure.

For many, Wilsons Promontory National Park is the gateway to Gippsland , and the best way to explore it is by walking its network of hiking trails, from coastal gems such as Squeaky Beach through to the bushland, among the wildlife. But it’s still just a taste of what you’ll find on foot in the region.

Venture a bit further into Gippsland and you’ll discover the lakes, the rainforest, and the alpine peaks, each changing with the season and offering summer strolls or winter walks. Just like that squeaky sand, each step along these trails has something to tell you: perhaps a story about an ancient spirit or a pioneering search for fortune.

The best coastal hikes in Gippsland

sunset at Wilsons Promontory National Park
Wilsons Promontory National Park is a sprawling wilderness with many coastal bushland trails. (Image: Mark Watson)

Wilsons Promontory National Park (or ‘The Prom’, as you’ll end up calling it) is an easy three-hour drive from Melbourne, but you might ditch the car when you arrive, with much of the park’s 50,000 hectares accessible only by foot. From the inky water of Tidal River (dyed dark purple by abundant tea trees), I like the easy walks along the coast, among lichen-laden granite boulders, to golden beaches and bays.

a couple on Mount Oberon
Panoramic views from the summit of Mount Oberon. (Image: Everyday Nicky)

The trail to the panoramic views at the summit of Mount Oberon is a bit harder, up steep timber and granite steps, but it’s a popular 6.8-kilometre return. The more remote hikes are found through the open banksia and stringybark woodland of the park’s north, or along the multi-day Southern Circuit , which ranges from about 35 to 52 kilometres, with sunrises and sunsets, kangaroos and cockatoos, and maybe even whales.

a golden sand beach at Wilsons Promontory National Park
Walk ‘The Prom’s’ golden sand beaches. (Image: Tourism Australia/Time Out Australia)

You might also see whales on the George Bass Coastal Walk , even closer to Melbourne on the western edge of Gippsland. This dramatic seven-kilometre trail along the clifftops takes in sweeping views of the wild ocean, occasionally dipping down from grassy green hills to coastal gullies and a secluded beach. It also now links into the Bass Coast Rail Trail for an extra 14 kilometres.

the George Bass Coastal Walk
George Bass Coastal Walk trails for seven kilometres along clifftops. (Image: Visit Victoria/Time Out Australia)

Over at the eastern edge of Gippsland, in Croajingolong National Park, you can wander along the lakeshores beneath koalas and around goannas (I keep my distance since one chased me here!). For those who are even more adventurous, the park is also the starting point for the 100-kilometre Wilderness Coast Walk , usually done over seven days.

the Croajingolong National Park, Gippsland
Wander along the lakeshores in Croajingolong National Park. (Image: Tourism Australia)

The best bush hikes in Gippsland

the Baw Baw National Park
The alpine heath of Baw Baw National Park. (Image: Everyday Nicky)

Deep in the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine at Walhalla, mining guide Richard tells me how this small town in the mountains east of Melbourne boomed when prospectors found gold here in 1862. These days, you’ll find most of the town’s treasure – its heritage – above ground, with the Walhalla Tramline Walk a wonderful way to explore it.

Just seven kilometres long, the walk takes you through decades of Gold Rush history, following the original rail trail from lush bushland to the mining sites, and through the charming village of just 20 residents with its wooden cottages and old shopfronts adorned with turn-of-the-century advertising posters. Blazing a trail where trailblazers once opened up the region, this is also the starting point for the 650-kilometre Australian Alps Walking Track.

Nearby, Baw Baw National Park has walks through gnarled snow gums and alpine heaths that show off the colourful wildflowers in summer and the pristine carpet of white in winter. Several trails are perfect for snowshoes, including a 45-minute route from St Gwinear up to vast views across the Latrobe Valley.

Further up into the mountains, the Toorongo and Amphitheatre Falls Loop Walk is an easy 2.2-kilometre path that serenades you with the sound of flowing water as you pass mossy rocks and tree ferns en route to two sets of waterfalls cascading over boulders in the remote wilderness.

The best cultural hikes in Gippsland

the Mitchell River National Park, Gippsland
Hike the Mitchell River National Park. (Image: Parks Victoria/Grace Lewis)

Across a pool in a natural sandstone amphitheatre, deep within a cave behind a waterfall, it’s said the Nargun has its lair. A fierce creature, half human and half stone, that abducts children and can’t be harmed by boomerangs or spears, the story of the Nargun has been told around the campfires of the local Gunaikurnai people for generations.

As a culturally significant place for women, hikers are asked not to go into the Den of Nargun, but a 3.4-kilometre loop walk leads you through a rainforest gully to the entrance where you can feel the powerful atmosphere here in Mitchell River National Park , along Victoria’s largest remaining wild and free-flowing waterway.

the bee-eaters at Mitchell River National Park
Bee-eaters at Mitchell River National Park. (Image: Parks Victoria/Grace Lewis)

The Den of Nargun is part of the Bataluk Cultural Trail , a series of important traditional Gunaikurnai sites through central Gippsland. Another location is Victoria’s largest cave system, Buchan Caves Reserve, with trails to important archaeological sites of human artefacts up to 18,000 years old. The FJ Wilson Interpreted Walk includes the naturally sculpted white limestone steps of the 400-metre-long Federal Cave, while the Granite Pools Walk goes among tall timber and moss-covered gullies.

the ancient rainforest of Tarra-Bulga National Park
The ancient rainforest of Tarra-Bulga National Park. (Image: Josie Withers)

Also important to the Gunaikurnai people is Tarra-Bulga National Park , known for its ancient myrtle beeches and enormous mountain ash trees. Just 40 minutes return, the Tarra Valley Rainforest Walk offers a taste of this verdant landscape, while the Grand Strzelecki Track takes you deep into the lost world of forest giants on an epic 100-kilometre trail rich with tradition.

A traveller’s checklist

Staying there

the WildernessRetreats in The Prom
Wilderness Retreats in The Prom. (Image: Christian Pearson)

Wilderness Retreats in Wilsons Promontory offers glamping-style tents with luxurious queen beds. Star Hotel is a reconstruction of a Gold Rush-era hotel from 1863 in the heart of heritage Walhalla. Caves House is a historic three-bedroom house with views over the Buchan River.

Eating there

the Carrajung Estate, Gippsland
Enjoy a post-hike lunch at Carrajung Estate. (Image: Everyday Nicky)

Kilcunda General Store serves great coffee and meals of local produce at the George Bass Coastal Walk. Alpine Trout Farm is located near Toorongo Falls in Noojee. Fish for your own lunch and barbecue it with the provided cookware.

Carrajung Estate is a short drive from Tarra-Bulga National Park. The winery’s restaurant offers a seasonal menu of regional ingredients and you can stay at The Lodge.

a seafood feast at Carrajung Estate, Gippsland
The table is set for a seafood feast at the estate.

Video credit: Tourism Australia